Upon visiting the site, we noticed that there was a declining slope as we moved towards the East. From the sites highest point to its lowest, the elevation change is approximately 75 feet. We also noticed that the site has many views out into the surrounding landscape of open fields because of its position on the hill adjacent to the existing seed-bank. This is especially true looking off to the North East and directly East. We also acknowledged the existing seed-bank as a place which our design could incorporate the already established gardens and green space.

Using the notes taken at the site, there were three things that our group focused on. The first was returning the seed bank to the ground which was something that one of the stakeholders had mentioned they would like to see happen in the future. The second was to give back to “Mother” Earth everything taken away from her in the form of rooftop gardens and occupied rooftops. The third was to create a space where all three generations from elders to children can co-exist and learn from each other. With these three ideals in mind, we allowed them to create a foundation which we would use to create a project that took advantage of the sites conditions and could be enjoyed by all, no matter their age.

The project is an attempt to put all of the program spaces requested on one site. The building is about 15,000 square feet and, we believe, accomplishes the three parameters mentioned above. There are 4 sections of the project separated by a walking path that is 10 feet wide and circulates through, over, and under the spaces in the project. The four sections are allocated to the reception area, intergenerational interaction area, wellness center, and residences (permanent and temporary). All of this combines to create a closely knit community under one roof.