Layers of Skin, Scales of Segregation focuses on the fundamental issues within Syracuse’s 15th ward through the context of skin, the central factor to injustice. Using a series of tools, including a texture atlas as well as methods of layering, compiling and cutting, the final intervention seeks to address issues of fragmentation and segregation within the site, through physical and visual means.
Aiming to stitch together both sides of the site as a result of the separation invoked by the I-81, Jackson St acts as a central spine, with the I-81 no longer present. Working as a pedestrian promenade, a series of programmatic nodes are strategically placed along its intersections and a more curvilinear pathway connects them by undulating across the spine. Colour plays a pivotal role within the project, emanating visual and sensory cues to those that travel along its path. With a gradient shifting from yellow to purple, the colours signify programmatic shifts as well as symbolic, historical, and cultural associations. Major programmatic elements include a cooperative grocery store, a café, a performance space, a greenhouse/bio-dome, a community center, a historical remembrance and memorial space, and finally, a library. Undulations in the curvilinear path work in tandem with the nodes. A strict drop in elevation upon encountering the memorial space brings people in and amplifies its effects. A slight raise in elevation within the central communal spaces and main entrance to help elevate their importance.
Universal design too, was a crucial aspect in providing an inclusive and equitable space for all. This was achieved through the implementation of benches, railings, light poles, and ground supergraphics in order to aid those with sensory or physical impairments, as well as considering children and elders.
Through all of this, a new layer of skin was created and applied to the body of pioneer homes, in hopes that this begin the healing process in mending the fractured relationships of the site and its history; a new skin that glows with hope.
Work completed alongside Veronica Mars and Shaan Lakshmanan .
Extended Section Demonstrating Shifting Ground Plane
The project was informed by the following explorative collages and models.
Abrasion
Avulsion
Graft
Laceration
Texture Atlas of Syracuse's 15th Ward.
