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About
Riva
Wang
Interior Design
- Gu - About Water
Solution
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Study local species through interactive design at Prospect Park
2. Space Design
3. Process
Green Oasis
Frequent visits to Prospect Park have become a cherished routine for me. On sunny days, armed with a book, blanket, and some snacks, I head to the open lawn for a laid-back time. Watching others enjoy the park got me thinking – how much do we know about its history and the life it harbors?
This curiosity led me to delve into Prospect Park's past, discovering that it's been a home for countless species since 1867. Crafted by the renowned landscape architects Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux, the same visionary pair behind Central Park's design, Prospect Park encompasses 585 acres of transformed terrain. Their shared conviction was that a pastoral oasis could bring a civilizing influence to an expanding metropolis. As I explored each species, I was struck by the interconnected web of life in the park. Unexpectedly, Red-tailed hawks and chipmunks, typically rare in city parks, thrive in Prospect Park. Contrary to assumptions, these diverse species find a unique home in the heart of the city, challenging our preconceptions about urban wildlifeThis realization inspired me to enhance the park experience by blending its history with its natural inhabitants.
The iconic Endale Arch at the park's entrance, steeped in 150 years of history, became the focal point. I envisioned transforming the entry into an engaging learning experience. The result was a meditative space with colors and patterns inspired by the park's nature. Hanging interactive panels invite visitors to guess the next species based on hints, offering a hidden bookmark as a reward for correct answers.
Moving further into the park, the carved arches reveal stories of different tree species. Visitors receive notifications on their phones, guiding them to a website with detailed information about each tree. This fusion of craftsmanship and technology aims to make learning about the park's natural elements both fun and interactive.
The goal is simple – to help visitors understand and appreciate the park's diverse species. By infusing enjoyment and meditation into the experience, I hope to convey the message that, as we enjoy the park, we're sharing it with a myriad of other living beings. My wish is that, leaving the park, visitors carry not only memories of its beauty but also a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness of nature, fostering a sense of responsibility for our shared planet.