Project Overview:
Located in the Strip district in Pittsburgh, PA, this project deals with the renewal and attempt to reinvigorate the heart of Pittsburgh through kinetic flows. The community is brought together by the waterfront and sustainable methods are practiced to encourage healthy living and revival of the environmental state of Pittsburgh.
Climate
Ranking number 1 in the United States for densest particle pollution as well and greatest amount of nitrogen dioxide and over 40% radon in the Monongahela river, the pollution problem in Pittsburgh is severe and requires immediate attention. With a high percentage of rainfall every year, the sewage system of Pittsburgh is outdated and only contributes to the deterioration of the water quality of the Allegheny, Monongahela, and Ohio river, the strip district being the corner stone of where the three rivers meet. For this project, we thought it would be critical to address the water pollution problem and find out a way to stop the contamination of the rivers without having to destroy the existing combined sewage system.
The Strip district is at the heart of Pittsburgh, surrounded by local restaurants, theaters, markets, and also the convention center. The produce terminal which is an important part of Pittsburgh's history and early morning bustle, sits about 500 feet from the Allegheny river. The site is currently an empty plot of land that is not cared for due to the coverage from the produce terminal and nearby factory. However the site allows for many opportunities, including an easy view from the bridge, close access to the strip market, and ample parking.
Form Finding
Using grasshopper, we studied different ways to create a form that best represents water purification and flow. We used detractor points to spread apart flowing lines depicting water movement. In order to create an occupiable space based off of the form finding studies we did in 2D, we added a perspective such as water retention and purification, adding another dimension to our geometry. We then overlaid this onto our material.
Awareness
The restaurant lies at the heart of the waterfront. The geometry overlay provided us an opportunity to allow a view into the space beneath the structure. There is also an opportunity to spread awareness about slow foods, water purification, as well as community growth. Gardens will integrate with the restaurant to provide fresh produce and visibility to the things we eat. People outside the space can interact with the people inside the space, as well as with the surrounding culture of the strip district.
