INTRODUCTION
In many ways blessed by the proximity of water, Sandusky, Ohio is still one of many mid-sized American “rust belt” cities immobilized by the shift in employment trends and downturn in the economy. On the surface, as with water, Sandusky is not what it seems to be. Once a thriving city with a strong manufacturing base, oil found a different home and took prosperity with it. Regenerative measures need to be taken at all levels. In Sandusky, the interplay of the natural and built environment is significant, with its unique city plan and beautiful Sandusky Bay shaping the character of the community. A thoughtful and critical analysis of the downtown area could lead to design recommendations for buildings that are catalysts for fostering the prosperity of fostering the prosperity of Sandusky. Adaptation will be a tool for collective impact for the greater community in the public, private and institutional sectors. A building representative of these values will be the culmination of the values and principles of sustainability.
courtesy of Honglin Li
PROJECT STATEMENT
Adaptive reuse was the theme of this project, bringing a new life to the city of Sandusky, OH. The goal for Sandusky is ultimately to increase the scope of Sandusky, in its needs, its efforts in regrowth and life knowledge. The program proposed for this renovation is a communication center for residents of the city and for visitors as well. The old site is to be offered as a service to the city with a layered approach meaning to have a beneficial effect on multiple levels of community. Doing so will hopefully have a large and positive impact on the city of Sandusky.
In order for this to be accomplished both sustainability and production were implemented. Creating a self-sustaining urban block that created a public space for the city and provided both the exchange ideas and services for the community. The hope is to have different installment throughout the city to further this concept. The program aims to provide all city residents with activities that can appeal to everyone and will encourage more people to come downtown to enjoy these amenities.
courtesy of Honglin Li
PROJECT GOALS
Conduct research and analysis in full spectrum, allowing for regenerative goals and strategies to become a significant factor in building design.Allow the writings, based on critical reflections of writers and theoreticians to influence the values principles, and process of the designer.
Use program as a design tool to manifest the values and principles of sustainable design.
Explore the dialogue between new and old, man and nature as means of understanding and positioning our roles as designers. Explore the possibilities of climate, context and character as the generators of intent, strategies and tactics in the design process.Use sun, wind and light to make architectural space, form, and detail, while at the same time responding to their innate abilities to passively heat, cool, and light.
courtesy of Honglin Li
PROJECT CREDITS
Name: Honglin Li
School: Kent State University
Grade: Undergraduate 4th Year
Adviser: Charles Harker
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