Observatory
My observatory is in direct response to this health crisis. Sitting at the intersection of 135th street and Malcolm X Boulevard.
This structure is at a critical convergence. At one end is the Harlem Hospital Center for Neurology and at the other is St. John’s Pentecostal church. This structure would serve as supplementary to the hospital and the church. Where neither institution is capable of effectively responding to this health crisis.
Adjacent to the observatory is public housing and the city street scape. This structure further sits on top of existing retail space. What results of this site is that society, science, religion, and medicine are not only in communication but are unified through the observatory.
As for function, my observatory will provide various resources to the Harlem community. There are two main spaces connected by a central meeting space. On the left resides first aid health response.
On the other side represents the clinics. On either side of the clinics are outdoor pavilions. The central meeting space allows for fluid circulation.
In terms of materiality, the lower level is constructed in brick. Brick serves as part of the grid, the materiality of the city. In contrast, the roof is made of glass, representative of the future.
My structure engages and constantly reminds the viewers of their surroundings. Activating the community to become more involved. Moreover, this structure not only intersects but imposes and defines a new street.
What I proposed is not just a health clinic but a haven. A structure that not only provides but protects people mentally, physically, and spiritually. It bridges the past, present, and future.
Project Status : Completed Project Year: Fall 2020 Studio : Advanced Architectural Design I Professor: Joeb Moore
