AIA Virginia
ELA Class of 2020
Portsmouth a resilient evolution
Copyright © 2020 by ELA 2020 All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopying, recording, or other electronic or mechanical methods, without the prior written permission of the publisher, except in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical reviews and certain other noncommercial uses permitted by copyright law. For permission requests, write to the publisher, addressed “Attention: Permissions Coordinator,” at the e-mail or social media address below. ELA 2020: Email: elaportsmouth2020@gmail.com Instagram: @elaclassof2020
We thank AIA Virginia and the following sponsors for making this book a reality.
Lemay Erickson Willcox Architects https://lewarchitects.com/
Dick Gresham
Ionic Dezign Studios https://www.ionicdezigns.com/
Jacobs Engineering Group https://www.jacobs.com/
Andre Marquez Architects https://www.amarchitx.com/
Dills Architects
https://www.dillsarchitects.com/
Clark Nexsen https://www.clarknexsen.com/
Contents
1. Prologue
i. ii. iii. iv.
Introduction ELA 2020 Team Workplan Acknowledgements
2. The Process
p.64
i. Introduction and Investigations ii. The Vision iii. Green Street Crossing iv. High Street Connection v. High Street Landing vi. Signage & Wayfinding a. Masterplan Scale b. Street Scale c. Community Scale vii. The “P” Installation
4. The Studies
p.24
i. Monthly Meetings ii. Community Outreach iii. Site Research
3. The Proposal
p.8
p.170
i. Material Research & Inspiration ii. Flood Mitigation a. Precedent Research iii. Signage & Wayfinding b. Precedent Research
5. Reflections
p.200
6. Index
p.218
Prologue
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Introduction
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he Emerging Leaders in Architecture (ELA) Honors Academy attracts future leaders from architecture firms, local communities, and the profession. It accelerates architects’ growth, provides insight into the practice of architecture, service to society, and community leadership. This year, there were seven intensive, daylong seminars focusing on essential skills such as financial management, presentation and communication skills, negotiation techniques, legal requirements, ethical issues, and community service. The program also included a year-long project with three, dedicated work sessions, all concentrating on a real-world project with a real client so that the participants learn to apply the knowledge and skills from the sessions.” 1 The goal of the Emerging Leaders in Architecture program is to produce a well-rounded class of professionals, all who are at different stages of their new careers. The class was expected to attend all sessions, contribute to the discussions, and participate in the group project.
The Class of 2020 experienced an exceptional year as part of the AIA Virginia ELA Honors Academy. Already anticipating challenges of |9 working in a large group, the class became the first virtual class of the AIA Virginia’s thirteen-year program. The global pandemic prompted the class to adapt to new forms of communication, switching to video calls instead of in-person meetings. The team expected this format for a portion of the project, but little did they know that the first two sessions would be the last before moving to the virtual world. The contents of this document showcase not only the class project, but input from sixteen individuals who sought to help an existing city envision new opportunities for growth. Although there were a number of challenges along the way, the goal was to create a sense of connection between a historic port town and its waterfront. The diversity of backgrounds, ages, and professional experience allowed for a rich collaboration in designing for the community of Portsmouth.
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The Team
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he ELA Class of 2020 is a mixed group of various ages, backgrounds (personally and professionally), and stages in their careers. The group was selected from component nominations by the various AIA Virginia Boards, student nominations from NAAB accredited architecture schools in the state, and additional open applications to fill the sixteen person group. The 2020 Class was able to meet in person for two of the 10 regularly scheduled meetings. The remaining eight meetings were
conducted via video chat due to the Coronavirus that brought forth unexpected challenges in March 2020. All meetings for the project were conducted virtually after the first in-person working session.
Ariana Arenius AIAS, University of Virginia ‘20 & ‘22
Ariana, a recent graduate of the University of Virginia, is pursuing a Masters in Landscape Architecture. She chose to apply for the ELA program as a way to learn more about the practice of architecture beyond school. She’s glad to have this opportunity to speak and connect with people who share the same passion for design. Outside of architecture, she enjoys hiking, baking, and traveling. Paris Casey AIAS, Hampton University ‘21
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Paris is a 4th year Architecture major pursuing her Master’s at Hampton University. She likes to sketch, travel, and eat lots of good food! She applied to be a part of ELA to get a feel for working with professionals in the field that she hopes to join in the near future! She is currently serving as the Vice President of Hampton University’s AIAS chapter and President-Elect of the University’s chapter of Tau Sigma Delta. Christopher Cheng AIAS, Virginia Tech ‘20
Chris is a fresh graduate from Virginia Tech and excited to begin his journey in the world of practice. As a third generation architect, Chris has been surrounded by designers of all ages and is excited to work with a wide range of design professionals and students while participating in the ELA program. In his free time, he enjoys playing basketball, tennis, biking, and hiking. Amanda Ferzoco Associate AIA, Moseley Architects
Amanda is a Project Designer at Moseley Architects in Virginia Beach, VA. She is originally from Massachusetts and came to Virginia to study Architecture at Virginia Tech. Since graduating in 2018, Amanda has worked for Moseley Architects specializing in Higher Education Design, working closely with the colleges and universities in the mid-Atlantic,.
Catherine C. Hendrick AIA, Baskervill
Catherine is a licensed Architect born and raised in Richmond, Virginia and Virginia Tech Hokie. She works for the Corporate and Higher Education Studio at Baskervill. She enjoys spending time outdoors, hiking, rafting, or running with her dog and husband. Her favorite activities include painting, knitting, and baking sourdough bread.
Kenneth Johnston Associate AIA, Hanbury
Kenneth is a Designer at Hanbury in Norfolk VA. The Hershey, Pennsylvania native left home to pursue architecture at Virginia Tech. Following graduation, he lived and worked in Richmond, VA before joining Hanbury last year. One of three triplet brothers, Kenneth attributes his empathy, collaboration, and spirit of teamwork to his family life and experiences playing sports. Kristin L. Jones Associate AIA, Jacobs Engineering
Kristin is an architectural designer for Jacobs in Arlington, Virginia. Born and raised in Southern California, Kristin ventured to Washington, D.C. for college; she is an alumna of Howard University. She is also a member of the National Organization of Minority Architects and serves as the secretary for the DCNOMA chapter. Kristin enjoys reading, traveling and photography. Mert Kansu Associate AIA, LEED AP BD+C, VMDO Architects
Mert is a designer at VMDO Architects. He is originally from Istanbul, Turkey and moved to Virginia to get his M.Arch degree and Urban Design Certificate at UVA. He is interested in design that allows him to research social, cultural and historical aspects of a site. He advocates for equitable and resilient buildings that promote social interaction and diversity.
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Michael Lawson AIA, SFCS, Inc.
Michael is a newly licensed architect working at SFCS in Roanoke, Virginia. He received an undergraduate degree in Music from Elon University, and obtained his graduate degree in Architecture from Virginia Tech. His favorite projects are those that intensify the feeling of place, that are generated by the local culture and customs, where someone just wants to be. James Vidoni Associate AIA, VMDO Architects
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James is a designer at VMDO Architects in Charlottesville, VA. Prior to returning to school for a masters in Architecture, James received an undergraduate degree in Environmental Studies and spent the subsequent 8 years rambling around the country in pursuit of fun. Along the way he worked with craftsman, designers, & architects which inspired him to pursue architecture and continues to influence his designs. Gabriela Orizondo Associate AIA, Clark Nexsen
Gaby is originally from Dominican Republic and moved to Georgia to study Architecture at SCAD (Savannah College of Art and Design). After graduating in 2015 she moved to Virginia to start her professional career. While at Clark Nexsen, she has had the opportunity to work on several market sectors, and today her main focus is in Higher Education Design. After work, she enjoys playing volleyball, hiking, baking, and crafting Allison Powell AIA, Quinn Evans
Allison obtained her undergraduate degree at University of Virginia and her Master’s degree at Tulane University. She designs contemporary learning environments for K-12 and higher education clients. Her experience includes many facilities for K-12 and college and university settings, including academic environments, performing arts facilities, galleries, and libraries.
Zach Robinson Associate AIA, Work Program Architects
Zach was born and raised through high school in Brooklyn, NY. He began studying Architecture at Hampton University in 2010 and received a Masters in Architecture. He focused on designing with consideration to sea level rise. He developed a passion for Urban Design, realizing the opportunity to design for all members of the public. He went on to study Urban Design at The University of Miami, and now works at Work Program Architects Jacob Sherry AIA, LEED AP BD+C, 510 Architects, LLC
Jacob is a licensed Architect working with 510 Architects in Richmond, VA. He grew up in Laurel, Maryland and ventured south in 2008 to study at Virginia Tech. There he received a Bachelor of Architecture and a minor in Music for percussion in 2013, which led him to accept a full-time job in RVA. Outside of design, Jake loves golfing, jiu jitsu, sports, gardening, live music, and frequenting all of the breweries in the greater Richmond area. Matt C. Stevison Associate AIA, LeMay Erickson Willcox Architects
Matt is a Project Manager working with LeMay Erickson Willcox Architects in Reston, VA. Matt grew up in Manassas and attended Virginia Tech where he received B,Arch degree in 2007. After college, Matt has moved to Reston, where he has held multiple jobs in the architecture industry around Northern Virginia and Washington D.C. Matt enjoys skiing and spending time in his cabin in WV. Randa Malkawi AIAS, Virginia Tech WAAC ‘20
Randa is a recent graduate of the Master of Architecture program at Virginia Tech’s Washington- Alexandria Architecture Centre in Alexandria, VA. Her hobbies include rollerblading 3 days a week at 7 am and exploring new coffee shops in Washington, D.C.
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PRE-COVID-19 WORKPLAN
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2/6-7 - Project Kickoff Portsmouth 2/26 - first project call 3/13 - ELA Session in Northern VA - decide on project concept - organize small groups to focus on specific aspects of project 4/17 - ELA Session Charlottesville 5/8 - Class Work Session Portsmouth - possible Stakeholder Workshop with full class 6/12 - ELA Session Portsmouth 7/10 - ELA Session Richmond
8/14 - Class Work Session Portsmouth - finalize design - develop presentation outline 9/11 - ELA Session Roanoke
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10/9 - Stakeholder Presentation Portsomouth
March/April: - Community Engagement - meetings with community leaders - stakeholder workshops - Research / Anaylsis - history of site - review planning documents - case studies
May/June/July: - Design Development (develop more specific goals after we decide on project concept)
Aug/Sept: - develop final graphics - format presentation - plan & divide speaking roles Practice presentation run-through
11/6 - ArchEx Presentation Richmond
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The original schedule, provided by AIA Virginia, kicked off in January with an in-person learning session in Richmond, Virginia. The February session in Portsmouth, Virginia was the second and final session the Class met together in-person. Due to the shortened timeline and distance, the Class scheduled bi-weekly meetings to stay on track with the course of the program.
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COVID-19 WORKPLAN
2/6-7 - Project Kickoff Portsmouth 2/26 - first project call - subsequent calls about every other Monday 3/13 - scheduled ELA Session - canceled due to Covid19
4/17 - ELA Virtual Session Strenthfinder & Professional Practice 5/8 - ELA Virtual Session Community Engagement included class project work session - discuss project concept - organize small groups to focus 6/12 - ELA Virtual Session Working Together 7/10 - ELA Virtual Session Communication
8/14 - Virtual Class Work Session - finalize design - develop presentation outline 9/11 - ELA Virtual Session - presentation rehersal
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1/10 - ELA Opening Session Richmond
10/9 - Stakeholder Presentation
March/April: - Covid breaks out in the US - Transition to virtual sessions - Virtual community engagement - online community surveys - outreach to local stakeholders - social media outreach May/June/July: - Research / Anaylsis - history of site - review planning documents - case studies - Site Selection - Divide into Small / Medium / Large teams for design investigations Aug/Sept: - develop final graphics - format presentation - plan & divide speaking roles Practice presentation run-through
29 - Foresight 2020: YAFCON 10/30 ArchEx Presentation
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The Class broke down the project schedule into three phases: Data Accumulation, Site Programming, and Documentation + Presentation. In addition to regularly scheduled formal sessions, the Class met on a bi-weekly basis throughout the life of the project. Additional sub-group meetings were held to address specific topics as well.
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Acknowledgements
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A
s the Executive Chair of the ELA Class of 2020, my role is to steer the programming in a way that helps the class achieve the best outcome for their project. The position is unique in that I work with my local committee to create the project prompt, and then work with the other steering committees to guide the sessions. Having the most interaction with the class enables me to get a feel for where they are with the project, as well as how the sessions can improve. The AIA Virginia’s ELA program is vital to the profession and the state as it gives young architects
the tools they need to advance their career. There is no better proof of this than seeing where the alumni are now. Many have gone on to be partners in their firms, start their own firm, and leading their local AIA boards. Although that is important, the networking aspect is even more important. ELA plugs you into a wide network of community leaders who are actively working to better society. The program teaches the value of giving back to the community and the profession, and that’s what real leaders do. Chris Warren, AIA
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he AIA Virginia ELA 2020 class has inspired me personally with their resiliency to work through a challenging year unlike no other. They adapted to a virtual setting and provided critical feedback along the way giving the executive and local steering committees the ability to evolve the curriculum throughout the year. Their commitment and passion to work together towards progressing the project faster than any other class to date has been even more impressive. Even confronted with a late site adjustment, the class pivoted quickly meeting the ongoing deadlines without losing the high level of quality to the work. It can be attested to their ability to work through their strengths and weaknesses early in the year, break into smaller working groups, align themselves around common goals and create a rigor to their process. I’m excited to see how our 2020 experience can enhance the ELA program moving forward in ways we never saw possible before the pandemic. Nick Cooper, AIA
T
he ELA program gives young architects and designers the opportunity to gain a better understanding of their own |21 strengths. Through the program, they learn how to use their strengths to become leaders in their firms and communities across the Commonwealth. Throughout the year they attend monthly seminars and work together on a class project. 2020 was quite unusual, but the class responded well, and the steering committee has been impressed with the leadership demonstrated by the group through the year. It’s been a pleasure to watch the group come together and they should all be proud of their project which focused on the City of Portsmouth.
Ian Vaughan, AIA, NOMA
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hen a group of AIA Virginia architects came together proposing an accelerated mentoring program for leaders in architecture, they exemplified the best of what the AIA can be. United by the common goal of better preparing our future leaders, they identified and acted upon an opportunity to improve the future of our profession and the world around us. That group of architects formalized into the first ELA Steering Committee, and their efforts led to the establishment of AIA Virginia’s Emerging Leaders in Architecture Honors Academy, which has developed into one of AIA Virginia’s most influential programs with alumni serving in AIA and firm leadership roles throughout Virginia. Recognizing the importance of working together to realize a common vision, the founding
Steering Committee included a class project as a key element in the ELA curriculum. The project would serve as focal point for applying the concepts and principles learned during the monthly sessions, and following in the footsteps of those that created the program, it would serve to demonstrate the challenges and successes of working together to improve the world in which we live. As an alumnus of the ELA Class of 2011, I am grateful to the architects on that first Steering Committee, and I am proud to serve on the ELA Executive Committee and Steering Committee to carry forward their vision. It has been my honor and privilege to meet and work with many of the recent ELA classes, and I continually feel inspired and confident in the bright future of our profession.
Christopher Kehde, AIA
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The Process
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Monthly Meetings
E
LA is an intensive program of educational sessions structured around presentations, discussions, team exploration, analysis, consensus-building, collaboration, and case study activities. This is all undertaken over the course of a year by a small cadre of participants (16) selected for their potential to be outstanding contributors to the profession and the community. Along with the alumni steering and executive committee, facilitators and mentors who are established leaders in the building, finance, nonprofit, development, university, legal, consulting and design professions and in the community at large develop and deliver the sessions,
designed to provide participants with advanced knowledge and skills related to specific areas of leadership and practice. The program consists of monthly day- long seminars, work sessions, and class project presentations, culminating at a presentation at Architecture Exchange East. The seminars are interactive, drawing on real examples and actively involving participants. Sessions rotate among sites in Roanoke, Charlottesville, Richmond, Alexandria, and Norfolk in conjunction with the firms, schools, and the local AIA component in each area.2
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January //Inheritance & Inspiration A
fter a warm welcome talk, an overview of the year-long program, the expectations of the attendees were presented by Christopher Kehde. The first speaker of the class was Bryan Clark Green, who talked about the emergence of the architecture in the US and abroad. His presentation was an interesting overview of how the profession, as we know it, has evolved throughout history. Brian explored some of the reasons why we have associations for architecture, review boards, and licensure systems. He provided a historical perspective on how European immigrants coming to America as architects, such as Henry Latrobe, have both challenged the preconceived perceptions of architects in United States and fought to improve the standing of the architectural profession.
Kelly O’Keefe led an inspiring discussion on creative thinking, on how generations perceive creativity and touched on valuable life lessons referring to design-thinking, problemsolving, and how to teach yourself to think creatively. His seminar touched on the point that creative fields, including advertising and architecture share not only the requirement for creativity but also a responsibility to the commerce and culture they serve. He shared his professional experiences, such as developing the City of Richmond’s “RVA” logo, and how it helped to establish an identity, bringing the Richmond community together. This in turn provided a refreshed sense of community pride for the city, making it a well-known and respected brand.
Speakers: Christopher Kehde, AIA | Bryan Clark Green, PhD, Hon. AIA | Kelly O’Keefe
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Benjamin Henry Latrobe, by Filippo Costaggini, overlayed with the RVA logo
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February // Class Project Kick-Off I
n this session, the ELA team convened in Portsmouth, Virginia. Many of the team had their first encounter with the City. The project brief pertained to “urban infill & development”, but was left open for interpretation for achieving a thriving resilient downtown. During the multiple speaker sessions the class learned about the city, its geography, history, culture, economy, and social structure. Brian Swets, from the Portsmouth Planning Department and Robert Moore, the Director of the Economic Development Authority for the City approached these topics from vastly different backgrounds. Following the information on Portsmouth, a discussion was held on how to effectively transform underutilized, “leftover spaces” by Nate Lahy, the Director of Planning and Landscape Architecture at MSA. This lecture was especially interesting to the class as a pertinent case study. Mr. Lahy explained the projects he
has been involved in and how they have transformed underutilized spaces and neighborhoods in places nearby, such as Virginia Beach and Norfolk. Georgie Marquez spoke to the class about Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED), which outlined key factors to address safety concerns and create safer and more accessible spaces through design. Next, a thorough Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, & Threats (SWOT) exercise was led by Dick Gresham. This was a strategy for the class to employ during our initial work session the next day, enabling us to find the most critical problems and successes in the City of Portsmouth to help transform it for the better. After the speakers completed their exercises, a walking tour of the Downtown and Olde Towne districts was conducted to aide the class in their work session the following day.
Speakers: Brian Swets, Portsmouth Planning Department | Robert Moore, Director of Economic Development | Nate Lahy, Director of Planning & Landscape Architecture at MSA | Dick Gresham, Former Vice President of E.T. Gresham | Carl Jackson, Portsmouth Transportation Manager | Georgie Marquez & Joel Andre, Andre Marquez Architects
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April // Practicing Professionalism T
he month of March was skipped in the program while the world began to face one of its biggest challenges: COVID-19. The ELA program moved to virtual meetings. Thankfully, the two sessions in January and February had taken place in-person, allowing the team to get to know each others strengths and weaknesses better. This session was very important for teaching the class necessary skills on how to better approach our colleagues, our projects, and our clients. Prior to the class, each professional took a Strength Finders test to evaluate their individual strengths and sent the results in for review. Kahtra Kayton evaluated the results of these Strength Finder tests and reviewed the variety of personalties and professional strengths in the group. These results continued
to be useful in later sessions for prompting creative discussions in small groups with either similar or complimentary strengths. Alison Mullins, a lawyer in the Northern Virginia area, gave a lecture focusing on legal obligations of architects and how designers should approach their work, contracts, and clients in the professional context. The information was especially helpful for understanding an architect’s professional responsibility and contractually how relevant certain wording can be. After reviewing our legal responsibilities, the Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct was reviewed as a reminder of the general obligations architects have to their communities and their profession.
Speakers: Kahtra Kayton | Robert A. Boynton, FAIA, HON. MRAIC, NCARB | Alison R. Mullins
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May // Engaging Communities E
ngaging Communities focused on improving our abilities and widening our lenses on how architects can work with users and communities to achieve successful projects. In small groups, we started brainstorming ideas, producing over 100 new ideas for our final project. During the morning work session, we consolidated the ideas and used them to develop our program. In the afternoon, a lecture by Bruce Wardell explained how he approached designing with under-served communities. Designers, especially in communities that face polarization, poverty, and inequality, are seen as possible threats to these tight knit communities. Bruce gave examples on how they broke through the barriers by elevating the users to a position of decision making. Holding charettes allowed for opportunities
to shape and direct the design. This discussion continued in the following talks, where designers and public officials from different firms around the nation shared their experiences on how they engage users. This session was particularly important for our project because Portsmouth has a large population of people whose needs continue to be neglected. Over time, these communities developed a unique culture that is rooted in collective support and care. We took these lessons and started to think about potential strategies of inclusion and engagement in Portsmouth.
Speakers: Bruce Wardell, AIA | Nick Cooper, AIA | Lisa Adams, NVIDQ, LEED AP ID + C | Divya Nautiyal , AIA Shawn Mulligan , AIA | Ryan Rinn
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A community workshop for Southwood project, BRW Architects3
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June // Working Together T
his month’s session highlighted the importance of working with those inside and outside of the field of architecture. This is an important concept to acknowledge as architects and those in the construction field typically use a specific vocabulary, which tends to alienate others. In many situations, the use of this ‘jargon’ prevents any balance in conversations between the architect and those outside of the field. As design professionals, we are expected to listen, approach, and engage with owners, contractors, stakeholders and people from the community. Elizabeth Reader and Charles Swartz pointed out the importance of treating everyone at the table as collaborators and trying to learn from them as well. The pair shared how their experiences early in life as architects have shaped their decisions throughout their careers. They choose to see problems as
opportunities for new challenges in design. Next, the class broke out into groups based on the Strength Finders results from the prior session. The purpose was to learn more about others’ strengths and how to best utilize those when working together. This exercise helped reveal what specific ways each member of the class could contribute in a large team of designers. Later on, there was a panel discussion about the Vibe district in Virginia Beach, Virginia, which was moderated by Nate Lahy. Additionally, a presentation by Thom White, founder of Work Program Architects reinforced the benefits of working with and for the community. Both of these local projects for Portsmouth had very humble budgets and used “leftover” or temporary spaces by transforming the areas into public amenities, including butterfly gardens, park seating, and show venues.
Speakers: Elizabeth Reader, FAIA | Charles Swartz, FAIA | Kahtra Kayton | Illya Azarof, AIA | Kelly Osburn | Roger Rodriguez | Brian K. Revere | Timothy A. Faulkner | Jeremy Maloney | Kate Pittman | Laura Habr | Nate Lahy | Thom White, AIA
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The Plot, Work Program Architects4
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July // Communicating Effectively C
ommunication is a key skill for establishing connections, especially for architects. Presenting our work to people of a large variety of backgrounds, ages, and cultures are an integral part of our daily tasks. This session was important in testing and learning about our personal, but also collective communication skills. Rebecca Edmunds gave feedback on our writing assignments and pointed out key areas that every designer should keep in mind when creating a persuasive, effective piece of writing. Gaby Suarez talked about how AIA approaches communication and targets their audience. She also presented several terms and contemporary trajectories of how to most effectively reach a desired audience, create arguments, and defend them when necessary.
Michael Chapman, who works at The Martin Agency, viewed and provided feedback on our pecha kucha presentation about Portsmouth. This exercise revealed our strong and weak points, which allowed us to make improvements for our forthcoming presentation to the city and community of Portsmouth.
Speakers: Gaby Suarez, AIA | Rebecca Edmunds, AIA | Michael Chapman, EVP/Chief Growth Officer
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August // Project Working Session T
his session allowed the group to work towards furthering the progress of the class project in the city of Portsmouth. The day was broken into two parts to provide each member the opportunity to engage with multiple aspects of the project. Session One included programming, education, and appreciative inquiry. Session Two included template, presentation, and branding/signage. Each member of the class selected one topic to participate in for each half of the day in order to engage in a holistic capacity with the project and other members. In addition to working through the project, the session served as an opportunity to pin up with the entire cohort, maximizing collaboration and creative discourse. The intent behind structuring the session this way
was to ensure an integrative design process with the hope of generating a cohesive proposal across interests and scales. It was a great opportunity to advance the project and prepare for the upcoming shareholders presentation in September.
Portsmouth Design in full and piece up after
Why doesnt the current ferry terminal work?
What is the elevator pitch?
surface parking vs green space
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Slope up but with grass?
landscape design: consider incorporating existing tree, remove pavers.
action items:
1. board walk & embankment
could the board walk slope up to terminal?
green roof is integrated into the sloping "landscape"
2. vegetation research and proposition
1. Ferry terminal area
VEGETATED AREA
3. Parking lot
Emphasize ferry traffic moving forward: how to work on multiple designs without backtracking
what software? how to work?
Option 2 groups: should we work within current groups to document design?
SAY BRANDING INSTEAD OF REBRANDING
'common language' I think utilizing sustainable measures in each program would tie them together. In addition, it would bridge the scale/impact of our project to the entire city.
restraints: material palette , key concepts, scale, structure
Option 1
GENERALLY CITY IS MONOTE, A POP OF VIBRANCY, SOMEWHERE IN THE DESIGN, TEXT? IMAGES? MATERIALS?
2. Farmers Market / Food Trucks
IMPLEMENT COLOR?
ART? INSTALLATION? HOW TO EFFECTIVELY BRING OTHER REVENUE TO THE CITY WHILE BUILDING A PROJECT?
MARKET + PROMENADE
MURALS?
THINK ABOUT THE ADVERTISEMENT?
A TANGIBLE OBJECT THAT CAN BE BUILT, SIGNAGE, FOR FARMERS MARKET?
TEAK?
WHAT CAN ELA GIVE TO THE CITY, A REAL OBJECT THAT CAN BE REALIZED ON SHORT TERM.
A MINIVERSION OF THE WAYFINDING POSTS? STORABLE, PORTABLE? MOVED AROUND
SOME SORT OF COLOR? VIBRANCY?
SOLAR POWER LIGHT POST, WITH 5G OR TECHNOLOGY INTEGRATION?
GIVE A SENSE OF OWNERSHIP?
CONSTRUCTION OF THE OBJECT COULD BE MADE BY PEOPLE?
SURFACE GRADIENT FROM PERMEABLE TO SOLID SURFACE INDICATING TRANSITION FROM WATERFRONT TO CITY
take away 3: materiality, transition from more heavily vegetated to more permeable hard surface, woonerf as transition point
How is the space being used? Person gets off ferry how do they get to market? Direct vs meander.
3 1
Form - elevation above and below provided different experience. Depressed vs elevated. Permeable to non-permeable.
2
outdoor playrooms
take away:
purpose board walk, access to water
Bioretetion as education tool
purpose grass terrace vs asbuilt concrete terrace
Zones of use:
divide site by quality: slow vs active
ACTION ITEMS:
-3 WIDELY SURFACE APPLICABLE GRADIENT FROM SURFACE USE SAY BRANDING SCALES OF PERMEABLE TO URBAN / COLOR/ FORM CHANGES TRANSITIONAL SOLID SURFACE INSTEAD OF REARCHITECTUAL ACTION. TUNNEL, INDICATING AREA VIBRANCY AS SIDEWALK, ACTIVITY MATERIAL - BRANDING SOLUTION TRANSITION FROM CHANGES WATERFRONT TO ACITVITY FARMERS MARKED
adaptability / flexibility/ resilience
DESIGN INTENT: Bioswale portion provides a connection to nature, acknowledging Portsmouth relation with water, climate change and its unique landscape. Being stretching through the site, it provides a path for users to transition from the downe towne towards the ferry terminal, and gives options for winding down, sitting socializing and learning about the ecosystem of the elizabeth river.
-Indicate "slow and active" areas of the site.
Bio retention as education experience. By providing a mixture of plantings this site would encourage visitors to engage with natural flora and fauna. The site will provide different types of bio retention features based off of type of foot traffic expected. Close to the ferry terminal we will provide direct paths to the adjacent site that frame and area for outdoor “playrooms” that will invite a person to experience different zones of plantings. The two site connected across the woonerf you will experience a material change. The western site is expected to have heavier foot traffic, we purpose an area terraced catchment basin to collect rain waters but also serve as a place for people to gather and be.
-Have a gradual transition in terms of bioretention strategies and materials as the site runs along ferry terminal to the access point of the site.
-acknowledge the context and the massing, providing variety of site experiences along the waterfront
This area will A direct,semi direct introduce a variety and meandering of landscapes and path will provide environments for different options Portsmouth locals for engagement and visitors to with the site. engage with.
FARMERS MARKET JV - stuff
1. ECOLOGY
ADDING TECHNOLOGY IT TO THE OBJECTS TELEPHONE, CHARGING, USB
BIOME HABITAT PROTECT
Education- of local plantlife/ecology Connection- to other bio-retention site as well as nature Water- retention/ diversion/ learning to live with the water instead of avoiding it/fighting against it Pathways- leading people from ferry terminal to/through bioretention areas/rest of site
MARSH
GRASS
OYSTER BEDS
Path: frame site by straight sections
woonerf is part of bioretention serves as transition to connect two sites
elevation change;
purpose grass terrace vs concrete terrace
NARRATIVE:
Inlet more heavily vegatated
CITY
SIGNAGE?
WHAT TO PRODUCE FOR PRESENTATION?
Portsmouth has purposed a park. How is this different?
MERT IDEAS
terraced catchment basin: could be splash pad or other park element
FULL PDF
200810_ELA_Template_Branding
VARIETY OF MATERIALS
SAME WITH THE BENCHES?
The new redesigned RVA map logo with a white border and the streets in grayscale. This is a crisp, accurate map of The Fan District in the city of Richmond, Virginia. On the right side of the letter "R," you can see both lakes at Byrd park and even the little island in the middle. * Millions of ...
take away 2: landscape as connection & connectivity to larger program elements. Reinforce design
A SENSE OF OWNERSHIP, INDIVIDUALITY? CHARACTER?
'RVA Map Logo - City Streets in The Fan District of Richmond, Virginia' Poster by L. E. Woodson
take away: 1. will not offset flooding, but can be used as education tool / experience to the city as an example of sus design, and for citizens to connection with natural habitat of Chesapeake / Elizabeth river.
WHAT QUESTIONS SHOULD WE BE PREPARED FOR?
WHAT IS BRANDING GOING TO PROVIDE THE COMMUNITY?
HAVE MORE LIGHTING
TELEPHONE ACCESS ON THE POSTS?
In theory, a trip to your local farmers' market may sound like a relaxing way to spend a Sunday morning. But once you get there it can be easy to feel stressed out. Don't allow the crazy crowds and exotic produce selections to overwhelm your senses. Here are nine tips to keep in mind when tackling
CHALKBOARDS?, MORE ADAPTABLE?
http://tensileshadeproducts.com/gallery.php
HAVE SPONSORSHIP AREA? FOR BENCHES?
This is a textbox... HAVE CHARGING STATIONS?
Toronto-based Entro has developed a new identity for the revitalized Hamilton Farmers' Market, applying the look and feel of traditional chalkboard signage to newly printed graphics, framed and installed outdoors. The market was originally founded in 1837 at the corner of York and James Streets ...
SIGNAGE COULD HAVE DONATIONS ATTACHED TO IT , PEOPLE CAN GIVE TO THE COMMUNITY IN THIS MANNER
Path: transition of material and elevation
INTEGRATE SIMILAR MATERIALS FROM THE SITE
MURALS/ ART INSTALLATIONS FOR THE TUNNEL?
SPONSORSHIP INCORPORATE VS AREA FOR 2. SOFTMORE LIGHTING HARD BENCHES AND AND SAFETY ENGINEERING OTHERS FEATURES
Form - elevation above and below provided different experience. Depressed vs elevated. Permeable to non-permeable.
materiality tactile materials vs synthetic (transition)
UB_RAS_E...
scale / context:
high activity, urban -CREATING A area, careful use of SENSE OF soft scape, connection with OWNERSHIP context crucial
HOW IS THE CAN WE USE SPACE USED, DESIGNATE, SLOW VS TRANSITIONAL "ACTIVE" AREAS SPACE? OR A AND DESIGN MEANDERING PROVIDING SAFE ACCORDINGLY? SPACE?
SPACES
living-with-water
activity: how activity takes place. multiple ENHANCING surfaces THE VISITORS multiple activity. EXPERIENCE
THROUGH seawall is a EDUCATION, harsh transition, the transition ETC. POSTERS, should be
throughgradual the wayfinding and branding we hope to establish an identity for Portsmouth that is both attractive and practical
Branding as an experience: Approach, ownership and STICHING THE belonging. Through CHARACTER OF different scales, tunnel, PORSTMOUTH 3. sidewalk and individual TOGETHER INFILTRATION signage, we can engage THROUGH THEIMPRESSION residents and visitors in a DESIGN OF MOUND consistent and involved WAYFINDING manner. OBJECTS
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September // Firm Foundations T
he September session focused on the foundation of the practice of architecture. The class was encouraged to complete homework ahead of time by interviewing an individual who understands the responsibilities of managing / owning an architecture firm and discuss topics that would aid in the discussion for the day. Charles “Chuck” Heuer kicked off the discussion with a legal overview presentation called “Did You Get the Owner’s Manual for your Practice?” Chuck reviewed different ownership structures for private practice firms and basic contract law. Next, Kevin Jones spoke with the class about the nuts and bolts of money management in firm ownership. The class went through an exercise for submitting a proposal, pricing a project, as well as running through a basic firm ownership cost scenario.
Later in the day, a panel with Keith Storms, Lynden Garland, Josephine Arbaugh, and Allen Hale reviewed the Business of Architecture and each of their individual experiences in their careers. The panel gave a chance for the class to understand different paths to ownership, leadership, and firm transitions to lead into a discussion reviewing the homework that we were given. After the class portion was complete, the class gave an initial presentation of the project to the ELA Class Leadership and members of the AIA Blue Ridge chapter who had sponsored this class. The presentation was well-received and prompted additional feedback in preparation for the final community presentation the following month.
Speakers: Charles R. Heuer, FAIA, Esquire | Kevin Jones, AIA | D. Keith Storms, AIA | Lynden Garland, AIA | Josephine V. Arbaugh, AIA, NCARB, LEED-AP | Allen Hale, AIA, NCARB, LEED-AP, COO
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October // Values of Good Design T
he final class session in October was a review of the fundamentals of practicing Architecture - The Value of Good Design. In this session, Nick Cooper (Vice Chair of the Class) gave a presentation on the Committee on the Environment (COTE) Design Measures and their framework for design excellence. The class was given an opportunity to review the context of these 10 measures as they pertain to the project in Portsmouth. This created a time for reflection on the decisions that have been made throughout the year. Clay Dills then gave a presentation to the class about reconciling design within the built environment and the evolving values of social and environmental quality.
The Class then spoke with leadership to reflect on the year and review the program. After an insightful discussion, former ELA Alumni joined the discussion to reflect on their own experiences and how ELA has shaped their careers since the program. To finish out the October session, the class organized a presentation for community stakeholders of Portsmouth, ranging from local government officials to business associations and active community members. The presentation was given by several members of the class, explaining in-depth aspects of the work completed throughout the program. The community provided largely positive feedback as a response and were enthusiastic about the methods in which the class implemented ideas that range from large scale to minimalistic with a meaningful impact.
Speakers: Nick Cooper, AIA | Clay Dills, AIA | Andrew Ferrarelli | Raedun de Alba, AIA | Amber Hall, AIA | Macy Carman-Goeke, AIA| ELA Class Members | ELA Leadership
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October // Foresight 2020: YAFCON T
he culmination of the year focused on the ‘final’ presentation to members of the AIA and other vendors interested in hearing “Portsmouth: A Resilient Evolution.” Over seventy-five people joined in on the call, with an actively engaging question and answer session after the forty-five minute presentation. The key elements of the discussion were more focused on introducing the audience to the City of Portsmouth from an outsider’s perspective, since there was an assumption that many of the participating individuals were not as familiar. The presentation was heavily geared towards the architecture compared to prior presentations to the community.
The work was presented with a language that was not too heavily rooted in ‘architect jargon,’ but instead expressed concepts of design and communicated the integration of studies and process work. The overall result was a mixture of applause and commitment from several audience members to help actualize the proposal. The hope is that the City of Portsmouth will gain traction in the area and facilitate the reality of this project, either parts of it or in its entirety.
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The ELA Class shares their work-from-home environments.
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Community Outreach
I
n an effort to strengthen community engagement, classes are encouraged to meet with members of the community and hold workshops and information sessions to best understand the needs of the community. Having a discussion with the community about their needs and aspirations allows for them to guide designers in implementing a collaborative scheme. The ELA Class of 2020 worked with the community of Portsmouth in the midst of the unpredictable climate of COVID-19,
at a stage in the decision-making process of the project that required further direction. A community survey was sent out to Portsmouth and the rest of Hampton Roads to understand the perception of the city. In addition, multiple surveys of residents shared different perspectives from those who call Portsmouth their home.
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In addition to surveys, members of the team engaged in the community by traveling to the Farmer’s Market and interacting with both the customers and the vendors. They reached out to local business owners for their input and engaged with local leadership groups. The goal was to present design ideas that could begin a conversation with those involved, then later receive feedback for adjustments that reflected the voices of the community.
The local Hampton Roads Chapter of the AIA was heavily involved in the mentorship and oversight of the ELA group, providing feedback to the group as well as connecting them with local residents.
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High End Restaurant Salad Bar Sushi Bakery Local Seafood Restaurant Brunch Chain Restaurant Waterfront Restaurants CHIC FIL A Sidewalk Coffees Tearoom
Multiplex Entertainment Family Friendly Play Areas Bowling Theme Park Skating Rink Tourist Attractions Sports Hall Of Fame Nightlife Casino Cultural Events Art District Marketplace Ferris Wheel Public Spaces Local Bands
Portside Parks Waterfront Shops ECO District Landscaping Boardwalk Dog Park Picnic Areas Big Park Waterfront Activities Boat Ramp Outside Piers on the Seawall Move jail Playground Areas Restoration across the City Trails Fix High Outdoor Venue Walkability Water Stage River Views Boardwalk Activities
A majority of survey participants felt that the largest aspects that were missing from the city were parks + outdoor activity areas, as well as shops + retail spaces. People used keywords such as: “Portside, ECO District, Dog Park, Picnic Areas, Waterfront Activities, Boat Ramp, Move jail, Trails, Outdoor Venue, River Views, Walkability” for Parks and Outdoors. For shops and retail they said ”Storefront, Grocery, Pop Up, Small businesses, Village-like, Boutiques and Revitalizing”
Storefront Commercial Spaces Retail Stores Grocery Store More Malls/ Shopping Veterinary High End Grocery Shipping/ Packaging Store Dry Cleaners Pop up Woman’s Clothing Small businessalong Waterfront Vintage/ Antique shops Trader Joe’s Gift Shops Village like Short Pump Dave & Busters Boutiques Big Companies like Whole Foods Or West Elm Revitalizing Little Antique Shops
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Amphitheater Live Theater Indoor Venue Events White Hall like Venue Festival Area Improve Venues Performing Arts Center Movie Theater
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When we asked what the residents’ favorite places were, 21.2% answered Olde Towne, followed by the 12.3% saying Waterfront. This played a significant role in selecting sites for further study. We wanted a design that would enhance what the city already had, while also designing new developments for less popular places in and around Portsmouth.
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To get a better understanding of the reasons why people chose to live in other cities besides Portsmouth, we asked why people travel outside the city. The most common reasons were: “Grocery, Restaurants, Shopping and Retail.� It was clear that our design proposal should either address these issues directly or indirectly by providing these programs in future developments.
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Finally, we asked the participants what factors made the places they visited enjoyable. We also asked what were some of the current problems that made it difficult for residents to travel to Downtown Portsmouth. The three most appealing factors were: “Safety, Cleanliness. Walkability”. Surprisingly, the top answer regarding access to downtown was “ No Issues.” However, that was followed by Tolls and Parking, making apparent that there are issues for people who have to commute by car.
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Site Research
P
ortsmouth is a historic city with a plethora of things to offer. A town established in 1752, the presence of the naval industry carried the city’s global reach. It quickly became a transportation hub with access to a major port and the shipyard. Despite natural disasters, it continues to cultivate a vibrant community surrounding its origins of manufacturing and trade. It has gifted many prominent leaders in politics, music, entertainment and sports. People like Missy Elliot, Wanda
Skyes, Ruth Inge Hardison, LaShawn Merritt, and Mark Hurst once called Portsmouth their home. In our research, we focused on selecting a site where an intervention would be most effective and beneficial to the city and its residents. In addition to the site, the research ranges from existing urban fabric analyses to material studies, all which guided our design proposal. This proposal would respect the history of Portsmouth, while envisioning new contemporary ideals for the city.
Aerial View of Norfolk, Portsmouth and Berkley, Norfolk Co., Va.5
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As we were guided throughout Portsmouth, the walkability of the city impressed us, to say the least. We strolled along the waterfront, walked through Olde Towne, and spent time at several of the vibrant bars and restaurants on High Street. This historic fabric along Green Street, Queen Street, and Court Street reminded us of the city’s rich history. We were inspired by the street art across the city. It revealed how much talent already existed in different pockets, especially in the downtown area.
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There was no doubt that the city had a rich, diverse background and great potential to become a desirable place to live and visit. Portsmouth has the foundations to pursue new opportunities. From our perspective, the city needs resources to express and grow the existing culture. Designing these spaces will present positive impacts on future developments.
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The Proposal
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Introduction & Investigations
A
s architects we initially approached this opportunity to study a city which has constantly been working to improve its development plans and the Downtown and Olde Towne Districts since 1970’s. We looked through numerous masterplans, encompassing both built and unbuilt designs. Our primary goal was to learn from past experiences and decide which approach to move forward with. In addition, we learned about the goals and development of the city over time. From the research we did, we analyzed our site with a more informed lens, looking at program variety, available open spaces and ownership statuses.
The intent of the proposal was not to generate another design to be stored away, but to emphasize smaller steps that could be feasibly implemented. These would eventually lead to larger changes and produce a greater impact on the City. We hope that these ideas can be utilized and realized in a manner that best suits the City.
HOK’s Waterfront Illustration for Portsmouth Masterplan6
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When first studying the city from the aerial perspective, we sought to understand the composition of Portsmouth’s urban plan. Looking at the city through the lens of Kevin Lynch’s The Image of the City analysis, we identified the paths, districts, landmarks, and nodes that make up Portsmouth.
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1977 Masterplan
The City of Portsmouth has invested in multiple masterplanning efforts over the years. The diagrams above and on the following pages highlight the areas of Downtown Portsmouth where changes to development were recommended in each masterplan.
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2006 Masterplan
The 1977 and 2006 planning efforts focus mostly the waterfront, downtown and the High Street area. High street was emphasized in the 1977 masterplan, while subsequent plans expanded on other areas of the city.
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2018 Masterplan
Planning efforts in 2018 and 2019 focused on specific parts of Downtown Portsmouth. The 2018 plan studied the Crawford Gateway at the south east end of Downtown while the 2019 plan reviewed the entire Crawford Corridor.
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2019 Masterplan
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After studying each masterplan individually, all were overlaid together resulting in the diagram above. This study further emphasized the critical nature of the waterfront as a focal point for development, and also revealed a focus on two main intersecting axes of Crawford and High Streets.
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With each masterplan area overlaid in a translucent shade of color, the areas studied in multiple masterplans became apparent and was further highlighted with the yellow outlines. As we began to consider our own project site selection, we aimed to build on the work that began in many of these previous masterplans.
NORCOM CROSSING - I.C. NORCOM HIGH SCHOOL - DISCONNECTED FROM HOUSING - 4 AC OWNED BY EDA - AE FLOOD ZONE 76| EFFINGHAM PALISADE - TERMINATION OF HIGH ST DEVELOPMENT - DISCONNECTED HOUSING - 2.74 AC OWNED BY EDA - X500 FLOOD ZONE
GREEN STREET CROSSING - 633 HIGH ST - 709 HIGH ST - GATEWAY TO HIGH ST - OWNED BY EDA AND FORMER CHURCH DEVASTED BY FIRE - AE FLOOD ZONE HIGH STREET CONNECTION - MAIN EXISTING COMMERCIAL CORRIDOR - FOCUS OF DOWNTOWN ATTRACTIONS & ACTIVITIES - ABUNDANCE OF VACANCY
COUNTY STREET GARAGE - PROPOSED DEMOLITION - AE FLOOD ZONE BMP PARK - PROPOSED DEMOLITION OF JAIL - CONVERT PARKING TO GREEN SPACE - AE FLOOD ZONE
While selecting sites, the team focused on ownership, prominence within the city, location, and food vulnerability. It was important for the team to enhance the existing connections to residents, businesses, and community educational facilities, as well as establish new connections to future cityowned developments. This site research focused our intentions to the core of the Downtown, found along High Street between Effingham Street and the Sea Wall.
PARK VIEW CROSSING - STORAGE CENTER ON HIGH TRAFFIC STREET FRONTAGE - 4.92 AC - AE FLOOD ZONE OLDE TOWNE MEDIAN WAY - VEGETATED MEDIAN TURNS TO PARKED MEDIAN - DISRUPTED URBAN FABRIC - AE FLOOD ZONE
CRAWFORD GATEWAY - SOUTH CORNER OF NEW ENTERTAINMENT PAVILION - BEGINNING OF CRAWFORD BAY TRAIL
MIDDLE STREET GARAGE - FLEA MARKET LOCATION
HIGH STREET LANDING - LEGEND BREWERY - UNDER UTILIZED WATERFRONT - DISRUPTED URBAN FABRIC - CONNECTIVITY TO LATEST MASTER PLAN DEVELOPMENT FOCUS - AE FLOOD ZONE
Flood Risk Legend: AE: Subject to inundation by the 1% annual chance flood event X500: Moderate risk areas within 0.2% annual chance flood plain
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GREEN STREET CROSSING - 633 HIGH ST - 709 HIGH ST - GATEWAY TO HIGH ST - OWNED BY EDA AND FORMER CHURCH DEVASTED BY FIRE - AE FLOOD ZONE
Green Street Crossing, found at the intersection of High St and Green St, is a large mostly vacant lot with parcels owned by both Economic Development and the Zion Baptist Church, which was devastated by a fire years ago. This concrete-ridden site is the first impression of the downtown district when entering by car from Effingham Street. Recognizing the need to beautify this under-utilized site, the city public art commission installed a large mural on the western edge.
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Further development of this site will not only provide much needed green space for the city, but encourage residents & visitor foot traffic further west on High St, supporting further growth of the downtown district beyond Effingham Street.
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HIGH STREET CONNECTION - MAIN EXISTING COMMERCIAL CORRIDOR - FOCUS OF DOWNTOWN ATTRACTIONS & ACTIVITIES - ABUNDANCE OF VACANCY
High Street is the commercial heart of the city. However, it still has limited development and an array of shops, restaurants and other entertainment venues. We propose to develop this connective street as a pedestrian focused street, deprioritizing car access. In many cities around Virginia like Winchester, Charlottesville and D.C., pedestrian streets help attract civilians to the streets, encouraging visitors to feel safer and spend more time shopping, walking, and relaxing.
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The Elizabeth River is a big part of Portsmouth’s character. High Street Landing will provide areas for people to gather, learn, shop, and relax. Apart from this range of activities, the design will present a first look into the city from those coming from the water, and improve the city’s look from across the river.
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HIGH STREET LANDING - LEGEND BREWERY - UNDER UTILIZED WATERFRONT - DISRUPTED URBAN FABRIC - CONNECTIVITY TO LATEST MASTER PLAN DEVELOPMENT FOCUS - AE FLOOD ZONE
The Vision 84|
Designing for a community poses many challenges and opportunities. It is important to us that any proposal embodies four underlying concepts: Sustainability, Community, Connectivity, and Place. Sustainability | Simply providing more green space and less impermeable surfaces. Downtown Portsmouth is full of asphalt, concrete, and brick pavers, making for a hardscapedriven downtown. But beyond just hard and softscapes, we want to focus on holistic ecological strategies by also implementing materials & products that are native to the area and that have proven to be durable and long lasting in marine-like regions such as Portsmouth. Community | A supporting community is the core of a thriving city. Many developments focus on weekend visitors and outside revenue. Our belief is that providing a sense of ownership to public spaces for the existing and future residents can truly solidify these spaces as valuable and safe for everyone, not just a select few. These aren’t just spaces for one group or another. They are designed to be flexible and available for ALL to enjoy. Promoting equity within and watching the visitors organically arrive.
Connectivity | Celebrating the pedestrian experience promotes growth and longevity to a community-oriented city district. The goal is to utilize existing conditions, then layer solutions that increase pedestrian presence without trying to reinvent what came before. The identity of the city can further develop by focusing on the resident, business owner, and visitor experience by foot or bike, rather than only by car or public transit. Place | Providing a destination for local residents & business owners, and in-turn, visitors. The intent is to establish Places, big or small, to give pedestrians a place to stop, enjoy, and embrace where they are. This is what makes designing for the community valuable. Providing a place for lives & activities to grow and adapt. Creating places that support existing activities like Portsmouth’s various festivals, live music, markets, tours, etc. enables future expansion and growth within the community.
Sustainability Community Connectivity Place
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Green/Open Spaces
Primary Streets
Under-utilized Spaces
High Street
Crawford Street
Water Street
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This image displays the existing fabric of the City of Portsmouth, with areas of green space lacking in the downtown corridor. There is a plethora of under utilized spaces, as indicated in red, which are integral to the fabric of the downtown and provide breaks in the activity. These spaces are detrimental along the primary streets and wane development from perpetuating.
Existing Mural Education Space Park Community Center
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Green/Open Spaces
Primary Streets
Under-utilized Spaces
Existing Mural
Education Space
Community Center
Farmers Market
Redesigned Green Areas
Inlet Improvement
Federal Parking
City-Proposed Developments
High Street
Crawford Street Corridor Farmers Market
Water Street Federal Parking
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Concourse
Inlet Improvement This image displays the improvements proposed to the existing fabric of the City of Portsmouth, with the primary focus centering on the High Street corridor and two larger developments along that axis. The intention is to bolster the already existing Downtown and Olde Town shops by improving the pedestrian experience and encourage more foot traffic.
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et
tre
nS
ee Gr
A diagrammatic image of the Green Street Crossing site elements
At the other end of the Downtown corridor from High Street Landing, a mixture of green spaces, community engagement buildings, and a playground are proposed at the Green Street Landing. Past a newly improved High Street corridor, this approach is intended to aid in the public’s engagement with the High Street shops from the main corridor of Effingham Street.
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A diagrammatic image of the High Street Landing site elements
A mixture of proposed improvements to the High Street corridor terminating at the waterfront are intended at High Street Landing. Past a new semipermanent farmer’s market space, as well as improvements at the water’s edge, this approach is intended to aid in the public’s engagement with the waterfront and the connection to the downtown area.
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Green Street Crossing A
s you move down High Street from the waterfront, a visible decline in pedestrian activity and urban development can be seen. If you enter the Downtown district from the opposite direction, from Effingham, you enter into an area that seems very foreign to Portsmouth. How can we define a downtown area and help celebrate this unique urban fabric of High Street? Furthermore, what opportunities along High Street could energize the downtown and create a sustainable, connected, and community-focused downtown corridor? Connecting The Green Crossing, High Street, and High Street Landing sites can help define a true downtown corridor where community and activity intersect to enhance the downtown.
Located at the intersection of High and Green Street, The Green Crossing Site currently is composed of two large vacant lots that offer a break from the seemingly endless brick row houses and storefronts lining High Street. The reuse of this site is critical in stimulating pedestrian foot traffic at the end of the corridor. At 1.6 acres, this is the second largest undeveloped land area in downtown Portsmouth. A large, open green space for relaxation in an urban setting is currently not represented along High Street, but has been indicated as highly desired based on our community outreach feedback.
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H. Edward Whitaker Building Mural Garden
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Green Street Crossing is contextual, drawing from the existing identity of Portsmouth’s Downtown district. Green Street Crossing can be educational, informing the public about the history of Portsmouth through public art, installations, and educational moments. Green Street Crossing can become a community anchor. The intent of the design was to draw from existing influences of the site such as the Zion Baptist Church, the H. Edward Whitaker Educational Building, and a newly proposed three-story Community Center to help further activate this end of the downtown corridor. While walking up High Street, the proposed Community Center blends into the rowhouses that line High Street with a similar character and architectural language. A sense of arrival is created at the High Street entrance to the site by the visual shift along the sidewalk in the large plaza creating an opening in the facades. The community center can bridge across and out into the plaza, offering an event space for outdoor movies, exercise classes, picnics, and soup kitchens... all activities that foster wellness and improve community relations.
Park
Playground
Activity Lawn
Proposed Community Building
Entry Plaza
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Plan view of The Green Street Crossing site
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An overall view of The Green Street Crossing site, looking across High Street
Introducing new sidewalk materials, colorful seating, and signage draws pedestrians off the High Street corridor into the park. Bold new signage will help to create interest and tie into the cohesive improved image of the downtown corridor and beyond. The openness of the lawn helps further define Green Street Crossing as it activates the site for a multitude of activities and creates a destination for residents and visitors of Portsmouth.
Two paths wrap around the main lawn. One path pulls the pedestrian further into the site towards the playground area, and the other leads to the mural garden. In the garden, a visitor can relax, contemplate, and educate themselves on the Battle of Craney Island that saved Norfolk and Portsmouth from British invasion in 1812. This existing mural is a great example of why the space at Green Street Crossing should be reused to tell the history of Portsmouth.
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A view of the colorful proposed seating options and murals on the backside of the Whitaker Education center
An old parking lot is reused to create a playground for the community with seating nearby for parents to watch their children.
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The visitor’s approach to the site from High Street, with seating and public art on full display.
Walking further into the site, murals on the back side of the existing Whitaker Education Center can aid in bringing local history and culture to Portsmouth. Beside the center an old parking lot is reused to create a playground for the community. The playground at Green Street Crossing can help encourage young families to visit the downtown and help retain those with children to enjoy the area by offering a place to play and relax. Green Street Crossing creates a space where community relationships, education and activity intersect and energize the downtown corridor.
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A view of the playground for the community and murals on the site.
Another view of the playground for the community and murals on the site.
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A bird’s-eye view of the High Street Corridor looking from the Green Street Crossing site down the High Street Corridor, with the High Street Landing and waterfront in the background.
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High Street Connection
H
igh Street serves as a center for activity in Portsmouth and a pathway to the city for residents and visitors to get from Destination A to Destination B. To make this area cohesively thrive, the strategy is to celebrate the pedestrian experience in order to connect all of the various uses of this street (churches, restaurants, businesses, retail, apartments, homes, etc.).
Foot traffic is what keeps this kind of downtown thriving, not necessarily vehicular traffic. The existing streetscape allows for a congested barrier of vehicles and relatively narrow sidewalks, creating a claustrophobic pedestrian experience that prevents walking or gathering. Without a specific lot to develop, a sense of place can still be established through various scales of interventions amongst the busy streetscape.
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An example of small scale intervention that achieves this pedestrianforward goal is a Parklet. A Parklet is a small semi-permanent structure that fits within the dimensions of a parallel parking space. This strategy is prepared for immediate implementation to provide an area for relaxing along the busy street. It also encourages beautification of the streetscape while simultaneously breaking up the monotony of the opaque barrier of cars. Parklets can be of various designs, specifically supporting adjacent buildings by allowing the much desired pedestrian presence along the storefront.
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Use of materials, such as weathered wood and oxidized steel, reminiscent of the historic shipyards & ironclads, is a subtle way to engrain Portsmouth’s rich history into construction of the ‘new.’ The parklet can also provide unique opportunities for native plantings for a softer urban environment while giving back to the local ecosystem. These parklets are small examples of giving part of the busy street back to the people. They also bring unique ways of incorporating additional public art projects, community sponsorship, as well as more outdoor seating for a denser pedestrian presence throughout the downtown district.
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As the pedestrian becomes more integrated into the landscape of High Street, the car traffic is deferred North and South of the main commercial corridor to Queen & King Streets. Parking, still a necessity for this area, can be relegated, nearby but on the backside of these establishments. This keeps the storefronts of High St at the forefront of activity rather than a parked vehicle.
By redirecting cars away from this corridor, High Street is established as a fully pedestrian space. Providing various hard & soft scapes that blend the lines between the former vehicle road to a meandering sidewalk. This High Street Connection Way extends the sense of place beyond the roughly 10ft existing sidewalk in front of the storefronts. Cross connections between the north & south sides of High Street are now endless and navigated through strategically placed signage and infrastructure to suit the community’s needs.
High Street with vegetation repositioned and integrated into the sidewalk at the northern side of the street. Green space, pedestrians, and vehicles interwoven with purposeful materials to slow the pace of traffic and enhance the pedestrian experience.
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A view of the future High Street. Solely a pedestrian way, vehicles are redirected in the downtown district to alternate parallel streets North or South of High Street.
The existing condition of High Street. Vast hardscapes and a central median divide traffic to encourage a higher rate of travel and further separates the pedestrian from the north & south sides of the street.
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High Street Landing
A
t the eastern end of High Street at the waterfront, the pedestrian arrives at the river’s edge. Identified as one of the key areas for improvement, this area currently consists of hard surfaces like asphalt and concrete. One of the goals in the design is to increase the amount of native plantings, bringing local wildlife to the area. A key takeaway from the design is that much of the existing trees would remain. High Street already has such
potential to become a more lively pedestrian zone from Effingham Street to Crawford Street. Adding a strong walkable connection from Green Street Crossing to the waterfront at High Street Landing would set up the downtown area for an incredible pedestrian experience. Between Crawford and Water Street, High Street would continue the pedestrian level experience.
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High St.
Pedestrian Street Market
Water St.
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An aerial view of the High Street Landing Site showcases the proposed farmer’s market. Seating areas, food trucks, pedestrian circulation, market stalls with integrated parking, and a drive aisle are programmed around a more pedestrian friendly and park-like High Street. Pedestrian crossings are incorporated at multiple locations demarcated by different paving patterns.
Concourse / Activity Space
Vegetated Terrace Oyster Beds
Pavilion
Boat Dock
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High Street Landing Site Aerial
The paving of the site is at grade and various traffic calming measures have been included to prioritize the pedestrian experience over the automobile. This at grade paving and plaza like experience continues across Water street and connects the Market with the High Street landing site.
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A view across the corridor to the farmer’s market with seating provided to
T
hese renderings serve to illustrate the pedestrian experience as one approaches the market site from High Street moving towards High Street Landing. The rhythm of new farmer’s market stalls on the left (North) side of the street creates a language of architecture that speaks to the larger waterfront pavilion visible in the distance. The market stall structures would allow for the farmers market to have a permanent home, and for other vendors to set up smaller temporary tents or tables to share their product. By reconfiguring the existing divided two-way traffic pattern on high street more area is given to market functions as well as pedestrian circulation. A one-way drive aisle with
traffic calming measures provides vehicular circulation. The sidewalk area to the south of High St. has also been expanded to include a food truck staging area and outdoor seating. Integrated plantings and permeable pavers provide enhanced stormwater management and create a verdant pedestrian experience. The collected stormwater is then distributed under Water St. and deposited in the inlet. Information posts, benches, signage elements, and street furniture have been included that would be used down the High St. Corridor to the Green St. site creating a shared design language that connects the two locations like book ends.
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A view of the pedestrian walk behind the farmer’s market.
A view of the farmer’s market from the street.
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The inlet at high street landing exists as an epicenter for the downtown district. This unique site opens up to the water inviting boats to dock and citizens to gather. Our group recognized early in our design that this site had incredible potential. As the design progressed we looked beyond this site to the larger corridor and realized how well this site worked as a destination, and arrival and departure point in conjunction with the Green St. Crossing site, as bookends to the high street corridor. It is a place, not to be quickly passed through but a place for people to congregate and build meaningful community connections.
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Street level view looking over the water walk and edge of the pedestrian way.
View looking from the end of the farmer’s market and High Street across Water Street to the landing and terraced water’s edge.
At the North of the site, a grand concourse connects back to the market across water street through a system of decorative paving. The open concourse provides a central pedestrian promenade that encourages foot traffic from the Market and downtown areas out to the waterfront and sculptural pavilion.
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Overhead view of the vegetated terrace and water walk, as well as shaded pergola.
A view looking across the ferry inlet towards the terraced water’s edge and pergola.
The pavilion, located on the peninsula of the inlet, provides a visual marker both as a capstone to the high street corridor, as well as establishing a point of reference for downtown Portsmouth when arriving by boat.
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A view looking back towards Portsmouth from the water, with the pavilion and ferry inlet in the foreground.
The new pavilion and terraced water’s edge improvements are in the foreground, along with the sculptural “P”.
T
he large waterfront pavilion is situated on the site to provide a dramatic endpoint to the High Street Corridor. The structure of the pavilion consists of bent wood beams and joists supported on columns with a transparent membrane sheathing the roof. The bent beams and skeletal nature of the design both reference historic wooden ship building techniques. Under the pavilion, a small flat roof structure is located that provides amenities such as a snack bar and restrooms. The floor of the pavilion is raised above the surrounding plaza. A ramp and stairs provide access to this elevated area where outdoor seating is located. This space will serve as both a waiting area as well as a vantage point for residents and visitors to observe the waterfront. Decorative planters with seating, which are adjacent to the pavilion, surround a splash area. The tip of the pavilion will retain the flag pole and plinth, but the surrounding
hardscape has been changed to a lawn populated with interactive games and public art. Across the site and out over the |119 water, the connection from the existing terminus of High street to the waterfront fully comes into view. The pavilion serves as a vocal point to draw people into the site by boat, the concourse then encourages pedestrian traffic through the High Street landing site, across Water Street, through the High Street Market, and finally back into the existing High Street Corridor. A series of spaces are created by linking the main downtown commercial corridor with the waterfront through this design, that will drive business traffic as well as provide areas for various outdoor activities for residents and visitors to Portsmouth alike.
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The existing waterfront concrete terrace provides the base for a new planter assembly lush with native plants descending to an oyster bed at the river’s edge. These plants native to Portsmouth’s river ecosystem will capture and filter storm water before re-entering the river. Each level of the terrace drains in the next, allowing storm water to naturally filter down. The terrace will decrease the amount of hard surfaces along the river and provide a place for plants to flourish. The oyster beds which lie between the boardwalk and the terrace provide a second habitat. There is a history of oyster farming on the Elizabeth River and at one time parts of the river were leased to farmers. Over time, the value of oysters was recognized to be greater than monetary. Oysters are great at filtering and cleaning water. Providing beds at the base of the terrace will act as a secondary storm water filtration system. These beds will not only treat water from the plaza above but will clean water
from the Elizabeth River, serving to increase the river’s water quality. Additionally, they serve to create a unique urban environment at the landing. One that has an ecological history tied to the region. The terrace aims to increase biodiversity along Portsmouth’s promenade, the board walk reaches over the river’s edge and will enhance the pedestrian connection to the river. The alignment provides a direct axial connection from the High Street overlook toward the ferry landing. The boardwalk is experienced at different levels allowing a visitor to sit on a bench at the street grade or descend to the lower level which extends out over the river providing a viewing area of the oyster beds as well as boat access. The Elizabeth River Project and Chesapeake Bay Foundation provided inspiration and best practices for sustainable landscape strategies.
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Street level view looking over the vegetated terrace and water walk.
A view from the pedestrian walking docks over the oyster beds looking
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a. b.
c. d.
e. f.
a. As Built
b. Levee
c. Sloped
d. Wall
e. Cribbing
f. Lifting
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Combined Approach
The existing terrace located on our site is concrete with likely many feet of concrete beneath the surface. We sought to find a solution to provide a vegetated terrace on top of this concrete base that would also help to capture and release water during large storm events. These studies look to understand the effects of building up on this surface.
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Oyster Beds
Looking at this cross section you can see the layered storm water management that is being proposed. Steel pylons, driven into the river bed, provide support the boardwalk as well as create a below water retaining system to protect and secure the oyster beds. The weathered steel also creates a visual language that speaks to Portsmouth’s maritime history and the adjacency of the Naval Shipyard across the river.
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Steel Pylons Boardwalk
Crushed Stone Earth Drainage Mat
Existing Concrete Terrace
The short steel sections fasted to the existing concrete will provide the structural support to allow for several feet of crushed stone, earth, and integrated drainage to be built up on the existing concrete ledge. During heavy storm events or flooding these basins will help to absorb, hold, and filter excess water as it is slowly deposited back into the river.
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A view of the existing Ferry Harbor looking inland along High Street, with improvements to the terraced bank, a large pavilion for shaded respite, and a shaded pergola. The end of the High Street Corridor with a proposed Farmer’s Market encourages the pedestrian to enter the Downtown area.
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Signage & Wayfinding
Masterplan Scale
B
ased on feedback from the public, one of the most important factors deterring people away from Portsmouth is access to the city. This access is prohibited by the current tolls for the downtown tunnels. Downtown Portsmouth struggles to distinguish itself from other cities in the area because it lacks a level of attraction and opportunities that can be found elsewhere. Given the limited amount of funds the city can invest in re-branding strategies, this strategy has been designed to be
implemented at multiple scales and phases. The largest scale will analyze the current conditions of the tunnels, then address strategies to implement wayfinding. These means reveal the character of the city and generate revenue sources in the form of advertisement panels. The smallest scale provides an accessible and attractive set of public furniture and signage in Old Towne. These efforts focus on ways to compliment the design efforts at the waterfront and help build the brand of Portsmouth.
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Effingham Olde Towne
US-460 ALT
Green Street Crossing High Street Pavilion
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The wayfinding and branding strategy starts on the US-460 ALT as a high traffic roadway, Effingham, High, Crawford and Water as medium traffic, and County and London streets as low traffic roadways. Depending on the funds at a given time, the approaches in the following pages can be scaled up to embrace different aspects of the city.
Crawford Water High Street Landing
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Current Conditions
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T
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he transportation system, specifically the tunnels, that connects Portsmouth to the rest of Virginia is crucial, yet problematic for various reasons. They are perceived as a financial burden to the citizens and a deterrent for outsiders. Restructuring the tunnels can improve this first point of contact people meet when arriving to the city. By using durable materials and simple
Proposed Tunnel - Longitudinal Section
Proposed Tunnel - Longitudinal Section
construction methods, the tunnels can provide new benefits. The high information-beams will present wayfinding to the cities’ key locations. It will also feature walls that highlight amenities and provide advertising spaces to establish a continuous flow of income to the city.
Proposed Tunnel - Cross Section
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Standard Portsmouth Tunnel - Current
Standard Portsmouth Tunnel - Proposed
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Signage & Wayfinding
Street Scale
P
ortsmouth’s extensive history reveals itself to people as they learn about and experience the city. It has a material language consisting of brick and stone, which largely is evident in the pavements and buildings throughout the area. The naval presence has also brought numerous dedicated officers, ship builders and workers to live here. The design of these public elements is intended to complement the existing material palette of Portsmouth. This connection allows the city to create effective and accessible wayfinding. In addition to furniture, signage can
be utilized as a medium for sharing the history of Portsmouth. A key element in the proposed wayfinding is a series of informational posts, which will provide key details about the location, relative landmarks, and progress updates related to resiliency efforts, education, and new developments. The wayfinding intends to provide tactile reading areas for disabled citizens, as well as opportunities for sponsorship display for those who contribute to the development of the furniture and wayfinding structures.
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Information posts
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Seating
Model Portsmouth Street - Axonometric View
Trash receptacle
Memorial & Sponsor Curb Stone Light Post Art Installation |141
Model Portsmouth Street - Axonometric View
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Current range of Signage in Portsmouth
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Area map
Portsmouth climatic resiliency information Educational information with tactile text
Wayfinding Post - Front View
Direction arrows
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Oxidized steel
Sponsor area
Granite base
Wayfinding Post - Back View
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Wayfinding Post Options- Side View
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Wayfinding Post Options - Side View
Side banner
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Lighting Post - Front View
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Lighting Post - Side View
Backrest option
Oxidized Steel
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Bench With Backrest - Side / Front View
Stabilized white oak seat
Side access for wheelchair
Accessible Height
Bench Without Backrest - Front View
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Tactile reading panel
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Trash / Recycling Receptacle - Front View
Accessible height
Oxidized steel
Trash / Recycling Receptacle - Side View
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Signage & Wayfinding
Community Scale
A
ny wayfinding, signage or branding effort will not be successful without active community support and engagement. The following studies and proposals relate to objects that can be manufactured efficiently using minimal funds. Portsmouth has a strong and historic population employed in the naval sector. This community consists of people who have knowledge of working with steel. On the other hand, it
is quite noticeable that the city has a vibrant market, waterfront, and historic downtown area. By bringing forth the stronger, existing aspects of the city together, there are opportunities for collaboration amongst different groups of people. These communities, including those who work with steel and contribute to the process, witness a new type of contribution to the city through this experience.
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A couple at the Portsmouth Olde Towne Farmers Market with their PPEs7
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Unemployment rates in Portsmouth City, VA
Portsmouth’s unemployment rate has steadily declined since 2010. Before COVID19, the unemployment rate was 3.8%. Due to the ongoing pandemic, the employment rate has increased to 10.8%, as of October 2020. There are several steel and metal fabricators in the city of Portsmouth that could benefit from the fabrication of the art installation as part of the wayfinding efforts. The presence of the Naval Shipyard in Norfolk, the oldest shipyard in the U.S., plays an important role in the identity of the residents of Portsmouth.
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As one of the top employers in the Hampton Roads area, the Norfolk Naval Shipyard trains many residents in welding and forging. These qualifications prove to be essential in the implementation of the proposed public art. By using local materials, this offers an opportunity for people to give back to the city in a meaningful way.
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Workers of Norfold Naval Shipyard8
Our hope is to engage residents, many who are trained in various specialized fields, in the execution of our public art and wayfinding ideas. Who knows Portsmouth the best? The people who call it their home. Their involvement is significant in the process of establishing a sense of place and belonging.
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Workers of Norfold Naval Shipyard9
By having the residents and the rest of the city contribute to the production and construction of these wayfinding elements, this may restore a sense of ownership and pride over the city. In the short term, it can act as a small source of income. Additionally, their involvement can promote care and protection of these public installation. If people can identify them as their own, rather than neglecting them, it could change perceptions about city property.
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Modular Signage used as a handheld sign
A modular signage provides residents a medium to express themselves in a flexible and a unique way. These steel boards, coated with removable paint, provides a canvas for vendors to write what they have in stock, for shops to promote their latest products, or for the city to temporarily display news and announcements.
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Foldable/Modular design provides multiple opportunity for uses
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Uses of modular signage range from partitions, product racks to handheld and attached signs.
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This scene shows a range of permutations of the modular signage piece. It can fold, attach, and stack. This allows the sign to be made into a box to display produce. It can also be shaped into a temporary partition that provides a writing surface while also indicating a form of privacy.
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The “P” Installation
A
nother important aspect in establishing a strong sense of identity with the city is the effectiveness in communicating everyone’s voices, their ideas and visions for their home. Our proposal includes a prototype of an art installation designated for different locations throughout the city. A symbol such as this foreground multiple uses and responses. It can prompt agreeability amongst a group of people, a reminder of this existent unity. It can be used in promoting tourism in the city, bringing potential revenue from tourist activities that are typically attracted by novel art pieces. Taking inspiration from the surrounding naval culture, a P shape
can be created by welded, oxidized steel. This object serves as an empty canvas for multiple applications. One application can showcase important names from Portsmouth. These names can be cut out from the steel object, reflecting their shadow and light on different surface. As the sun’s position changes throughout the day, the resultant shadows create dynamic figures on the ground. The scale of the object provides a tangible opportunity for people to observe and engage with it. Whether it is looking at it up close to read the names or standing further back to see the overall P form, there are multiple ways to experience the installation.
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Important figures of Portsmouth are cut out of the object
The cut-out names cast their shadow on the ground
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The abstract nature of the object creates an opportunity to create a variety of options
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The “P� provides multiple points of interest and interaction for the citizens
The shadow of the installation changes shape as sun rises and sets
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Different iterations can be placed on various sites throughout the city
Another iteration presents a more intricate construction method. Thinner slices of the letter shift front and back to exaggerate the light and shadow play. While this physically creates a “lighter� character, it also represents the multilayered, complex history and ever-growing culture of Portsmouth.
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The Studies
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Material Palette & Inspiration
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We wanted the intention of the project to be rooted in the parameters of the city, not drawn from an outside context . Materials seen in the proposal are familiar to Portsmouth. Oxidized steel, granite, weathered white oak formalize the tectonic language of the project. Plants such as Saltwater Grass, Switch Grass and River Oats are not only native to the site, but can tolerate salt-water conditions, thus maintaining stability and reducing runoff.
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Flood Mitigation
T
he city of Portsmouth is situated at the shores of Elizabeth River. This urban watershed is almost 90% developed, which creates a strain on the wildlife and health of the water. As natural habitats continue to disappear, the river loses its vitality and degrades over time. The Hampton Roads area is listed as one of the most at risk areas for sea level rise on the East CoaStreet In addition to the development of this watershed, sea level rise threatens the existing wildlife and wetlands.
Sustainable practices form strategies in order to help preserve and protect habitats, but are often not well understood or adapted by public. 10 This study presents how an urban site in Portsmouth’s waterfront can be used as a tool for teaching future generations about the use of design to address these temporal effects. Design can reduce, mitigate, and rehabilitate environments as a result of climate change.
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The boat dock at the City of Portsmouth
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2050 projection: A screenshot of the 2050 projection of sea level in Norfolk, Virginia. VIMS’ Sea-Level Report Cards provide similar interactive projections for 32 U.S. coastal localities from Maine to Alaska. 11
The data collected by various national organizations present the imminent of Elizabeth River. Although people may consider sea level rise and climate change as separate issues, data shows multiple levels of connectedness when addressing potential solutions. This data, in the context of Norfolk, estimates more than a 2 feet rise from 2020 to 2050.
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John Bruno, It’s not climate change, it’s ocean change!, Climate Shifts, July 12, 201012
Scale: 2,257 40m 40m
200ft 200ft
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High
Low Flood Hazard Zones13
Legend
erability / Risk
Infrastructure
Shoreline Management
Tools
Natural Resources
How To
No scenario shown for year: 2040 2030
As we look at different data on Portsmouth, they reveal another alarming condition. The predicted flood risks tend to show most casualties effecting socially-vulnerable populations in the city. This raises another concern that designers need to take into account while addressing environmental needs. Any intervention should serve the public good and propose initiatives for social equity, as well as mediate and restore the environment. 2040
2050
2060
2070
2080
2090
2100
Scale: 2,257 40m 40m
200ft 200ft
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High
Low Social Vulnerability Score14
Legend
sk
030
Infrastructure
Shoreline Management
Tools
Natural Resources
How To
No scenario shown for year: 2040 2040
2050
2060
2070
2080
2090
2100
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Precedent Research Flood Mitigation
DE Urbanisten - Water Square Benthemplein, NL15 |181
The design aims to change the perception of water storage infrastructure by integrating it into a neighborhood. It utilizes flood retention strategies to create activities where communities can flourish.
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The project contains three basins that collect rainwater. Only one of these is a deep basin designed to be flooded when there is a consistent, high amount of rainfall. The rainwater that is collected flows into an underground filtration system, where it seeps back into the ground water and reduces runoff.
SCAPE Studio - China Basin Park , CA 184|
In response to the 1906 earthquake, this project gives back to nature and the communities by enhancing the existing biodiversity and creating an intertidal landscape. A recreational lawn and beach provides people to gather, walk, exercise along the 500 mile regional trail. The trail meanders through the site, unifying the elements of the overall design.
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SCAPE Studio - Ohio Creek Watershed Project 186|
“The overall goals of the project include 1) designing the coastal community of the future, 2) creating economic opportunity by advancing efforts to grow existing and new industry sectors, and 3) advancing initiatives to connect communities, deconcentrate poverty, and strengthen neighborhoods.�16
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The project includes a new park for the neighborhoods of Chesterfield Heights and Grandy Village. Design interventions focus on reducing flood risk and implementing green infrastructure along the perimeter of the space.
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Signage & Wayfinding
P
ortsmouth displays a rich and vibrant culture cherished by many of its residents. However, the growth of the city has remained stagnant in its growth. Based on these existing studies, branding efforts for Portsmouth should focus on building upon the foundations of the culture, rather than trying to envision the cities’ image entirely. These branding and wayfinding studies draw upon the existing materials of the city. It also proposes an inclusive and collective
representation. With this approach, the goal is to return ownership to the people and reestablish a sense of place via the neighborhoods, streets, avenues throughout Portsmouth. This overall scope showcases its unique characteristics to visitors and reflects the livelihood of its residents.
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The Commodore theatre on High Street17
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Precedent Research:
Signage & Wayfinding
Studio Binocular - Adelaide City Wayfinding |191
“...signage strategy provides a flexible and resilient information system which can accommodate future city developments. It created a consistent citywide framework to guide the development of signage for future projects and precincts. The project is widely recognized as a crucial step in creating an accessible city and connecting Adelaide’s communities.”18
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PFP, Disseny - Barcelona History Museum 194|
The subtle rhythm and tone of corten plates blend in with the historic site and allows the graphical design to shine. Cut out markers at the top of each post mark the location and the type of historic intereStreet19
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Herman Kuijer - MARSTUNNEL 196|
“The gradation of light and color across both the marstunnel and kostverloren underpasses mimics the movement of nearby water, subtly changing in hue as time passes.�20
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“The artist sees the light works as a metaphor for life and the interplay between chance and order.�
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Kuijer says: “my task was to create a sustainable work to allow people to pass safely through and also experience the aesthetic quality of the light. improving the public domain is a continuous challenge in the Netherlands.�
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Reflections
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“Tudor Barn” by Nate Lahy | Orbis Landscape Architecture
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LA program has been definitely an unforgettable experience for me. Facing grand challenges of social unrest, a pandemic and an 202| economical recession has definitely made our work more challenging. But it goes without saying that it also fueled our passion for doing good, by designing equitable, healthy and resilient urban places. I believe the challenges has also brought us closer together. Even though we weren’t able to get together in-person, our common struggles has helped us support each other in many ways that weren’t all premised by the program when we started. The sessions, speakers and the our group meetings have helped me learn who I am as a professional, and improved myself as a person through our more informal communication as a group throughout the year. I do not remember being a part of such a large group of people who were all driven, talented and most importantly passionate about the work that they were doing before.
I would not have guessed the world be in quarantine, nor our country in a political, social turmoil as I write these sentences. I also would not have guessed I would get so much from a program that was mostly focused on improving our leadership skills. Not only I have furthered in my career, as I started working on my licensure, I have also widened my network of colleagues. This led me into getting involved with AIA’s YAF, and gave me a passion to get take more responsibility in the professional community, outside of just my office. Hopeful that our work encourages our stakeholders, local governments and the people of Portsmouth, I believe that good design can only do so much on its own. With a community and soul strong as one Portsmouth has, there is no doubt the right design interventions will kickstart the city into becoming an envy of the nation, if not the world.
Mert Kansu Assoc. AIA, LEED AP BD+C
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he year 2020 will certainly be memorable for a multitude of reasons, but the ELA Program and the relationships built in this time of uncertainty will stand out in my memory for years to come. Considering the adaptations made to carry out a meaningful learning program, the AIA of Virginia and the leadership team of the ELA were critical in creating a successful learning opportunity - in light of pandemics, civil unrest, and a recession to rival the 2008 crisis. We were able to engage the community while developing a project to support their current and future growth in a meaningful way utilizing tools such as social media. We bonded over Zoom sessions, had a group chat over text to keep up to date on day-to-day happenings, sent countless emails, and followed each other on social media to grow closer. The most interesting part about the impact COVID had on our group is that in some ways, it may have helped us grow closer by keeping us
in quarantine. The goal for this document and the work that we have completed would be to become a catalyst for meaningful and cohesive |203 change in the City of Portsmouth, and to support the goals of the residents and business owners. We were so thankful to hear such positive feedback when we presented to the City, hearing that they felt they had been heard, and were open to our ideas. I would recommend those considering the ELA Program as a positive way to immerse yourself in becoming more involved in your local AIA chapter and generating meaningful relationships with people of all ages across the state within your professional field. I will miss the day-long Zoom sessions, now that all is said and done! I look forward to continuing to dive into ways to implement meaningful change in our communities through design.
Catherine Carlisle Hendrick AIA
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LA 2020 was filled challenge, fun, and inspiration. I am honored to have worked and learned along side this esteemed group. Each individual came with their own set of skills, ideas, and leadership to form an everlasting bond. We battled through various unexpected obstacles this 204| year but never lost sight of our eventual goals. I applied to ELA in 2019 with the intention of building new relationships and furthering the growth of my career. I came out of this year humbled and encouraged for the future of the Architecture profession, especially in the state of Virginia. It was inspiring to hear from various professionals outside of the industry and how they use design to better shape their lifestyle. Through the various interactions amongst my classmates as well as the speakers & steering committees, I was truly inspired every step of the way for what this profession can do for our ever-evolving society.
no matter how big or small. I can confidently say that we achieved that this year in Portsmouth, and encouraged me beyond the class to continue demanding these principles in future endeavors. Thank you to all of our advisors and the City of Portsmouth for believing in our vision. I’m truly proud of our work during these quick nine months and hope to see this proposal implemented one day. If anything, inspire the great community of Portsmouth to demand the city’s effort for a more holistic equitable future. I look forward to further involvement with ELA and to help guide future classes betterment of the communities throughout Virginia.
At the beginning of the year, I set the intention to use my skills & connections to make the community, city, and world a better place, Jacob Sherry, AIA, LEED AP BD+C
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oming into 2020, no one could have imagined the challenges that were ahead. I looked forward to the opportunity to collaborate with a group of dynamic individuals in a way that would add to my personal and professional development. The first session in Richmond at the AIA Virginia headquarters, meeting my colleagues solidified my belief that this would be a positive experience. During our two-day session in Portsmouth, Virginia, we had the opportunity to learn the city our project was taking place in, as well as get to know each other. Going to Portsmouth, Virginia for our project laid the groundwork for the months ahead. Little did we know that February session would be our last in-person meeting. As the pandemic unfolded, we figured out how to live, thrive, and excel in a virtual world for our ELA project. Working on a group project can be challenging, but fortunately with a group of sixteen leaders, everyone was well-positioned to fulfill their role and ultimately create an awardcaliber project. In our monthly sessions, I learned about the different strengths’ leaders can have and this
was critical in understanding how to utilize individual assets to achieve shared success. Throughout our sessions, we heard from various speakers who provoked us to think outside of the box and remain innovative with our thoughts as we worked through our project. Each month we discovered new thoughts |205 and theories that could be applied to architecture, design, and life. Growing and learning with some of the most influential professionals and students was a great experience. ELA was a bright light in this 2020 tunnel. The time difference made a strong cup coffee essential! I would like to thank everyone who made this 2020 ELA class possible including but not limited to the speakers, champions, steering committee, the support of my company Jacobs and most importantly my 2020 cohort; you were all incredible. I am grateful to have had this experience and know, that as I progress through my career, I will always look fondly upon ELA, this project, and the experience I gained with this group of stellar individuals.
Kristin Jones, Associate AIA, NOMA
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fter receiving the exciting news that I had been accepted to be a part of the ELA class of 2020, I was looking forward to our first 206| session in January. During that session I met an amazing group of talented professionals that truly made an impact in my professional career. The steering committee was truly inspirational and encouraging since day one and the 15 other members of the class are the most talented and hardworking group of young professionals I have had the experience and opportunity to work with. As leaders we learned to acknowledge our strengths and weaknesses, as well as those of the rest of the team. Even during challenging times this team was able to exceed expectations and demonstrate a holistic and varied approach to what became our project. This year-long program has taught me that the goals of our profession must be attained by a diverse team that bring different qualities, experiences and ideas to the table. It is also a testament
of the hard work and dedication of this group. I feel so blessed to have had the opportunity to meet such an amazing group of people. Everyone was an integral member of this amazing project and I hope you learned from me as much as I did from you. I look forward to continuing this relationship and I hope that we get a chance to collaborate again at some point in our careers. Thank you all!
Gabriela Orizondo Assoc. AIA
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eing a member of the 2020 ELA class has been one of the high points of my career thus far. Coming into the program I had heard some good things from others who were in previous classes but I did not fully appreciate the full breadth of what I would experience and learn from the seminars as well as the group project we would undertake. It was an honor to get to know and work with such an outstanding group of fellow young Architects and designers. Although we faced many unforeseen logistical challenges caused by Covid 19, we were able to come together to learn and develop a significant project for the City of Portsmouth that has been well received by both the city and our peers in the profession. The ELA program has provided me the ability to continue to learn and grow as a leader. It has also given me the chance to make connections with other likeminded people in the profession and build relationships I look forward to maintaining for years to come. Matt C, Stevinson Assoc. AIA
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hen I was applying for ELA, I spoke to those at my firm who had gone through the program in years past, asking them what 208| to expect. Their range of answers showed that I couldn’t really go into ELA with set expectations, and that my colleagues and I in the program would be the drivers of what we got out of it. With that in mind I prepared to work with the group to find common goals and bring a bit of our own personality and style to the project. This was a challenge not only due to the pandemic and virtual collaboration, but also due to the goal of bringing 16 creative individuals together to do something special in a city. It was hard to get everyone on the same page!
need to be able to bring it all back around into one grand idea. I think this aspect was the most rewarding for me, as it put our leadership skills to the test and demonstrated the value of collaboration in a time where personto-person contact was so limited. We were able to work virtually and utilize those technologies to our advantage, and it made our project successful in ways we never could have expected when starting out.
I saw a lot of growth in how we faced this challenge of taking 16 amazing ideas and putting it all together in a cohesive design. Architects need to be good at hearing what everyone involved is proposing, and then they Michael Lawson AIA
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eing a part of the ELA Class of 2020 has been quite the experience! When I first found out I was accepted into the program, I was honored and excited to join this group of 16 young leaders and challenge myself to grow professionally. While we learned a great deal in the sessions that covered everything from communication skills to practice management, it was through the class project where we were truly challenged to implement and grow our teamwork and leadership skills. Completing a project with 16 designers is a challenge in itself, but completing a project with 16 emerging leaders in the middle of a pandemic is quite another! I am extremely proud (and to be honest a little surprised!) at how successfully our group was able to synthesize the ideas of 16 individuals to create an incredibly cohesive final design for the City of Portsmouth.
everyone has different strengths (even among leaders!). A successful team is one that is able to utilize each person’s unique strength to better the |209 team. I am so happy to have met all these amazing Architects (and future Architects!) this year. Thank you each for inspiring me and reminding me why our profession is so critical. I look forward to building on the relationships that have been developed this year, and I can’t wait to see all the amazing things this group will accomplish in the future!
This experience has taught me that is crucial to listen to every voice, but also important to understand that Allison Powell AIA
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hrough this ELA project, I learned many key things that I will take with me as I continue in my architectural journey. I learned that it takes a team of dedicated and passionate individuals to create better spaces for communities to flourish in. We spent the past year getting to know each other while simultaneously getting to know the city of Portsmouth and it’s beautiful characteristics; and as this journey ends and we continue to walk our separate ways, I know that I’ll take with me many valuable lessons learned and unforgettable experiences. Thanks ELA class of 2019- 2020. Till we meet again,
Randa Malkawi Assoc. AIA
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articipating in ELA this year has been an incredible experience that has helped to reveal a lot about who I am and why I chose this profession. Through the lectures, presentations, and assignments, I was able to redefine my understanding not only of what it meant to be a leader but, even more so, what it meant to be an effective one. Acknowledging the growth that I have seen in myself this year- from finishing Graduate School online to taking my first steps into my professional career- would not be complete without acknowledging the role that ELA has played in my development. I have discovered just what kind of leader I am, in both my strengths and my weaknesses, which has led me to establish a new confidence as I transition into the professional world.
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mongst the chaos of 2020battling systemic racial injustice, a global pandemic, and general uncertainty about the future- one had to be vigilant in both detecting and participating in the positivity and
growth that the year had to offer. Accordingly, the group of people that I was fortunate enough to work with practiced resiliency and |211 determination at every obstacle set before us in order to accomplish our goal. Our 2020 class of ELA never faltered and remained passionate and focused- developing a project with a genuine intent to revitalize Portsmouth and expose its charm to the world. Above all else, I’m proud of us and all that we have accomplished together in the last year and will carry these connections with me as I matriculate through my career.
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would like to thank our mentors, the AIA, YAF, and all of the speakers and leaders who helped pave the way for the success of the program and ultimately, the success of our project. We couldn’t have done this without the involvement of the citizens of Portsmouth and the city leaders and I hope that both parties see themselves within the design of the project as it was realized through their love for their city. Paris Casey AIAS
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hen I first heard about the ELA program, I had just started my last year in the undergraduate program at UVA. I was studying abroad in Barcelona at the time. I remember desperately trying to complete my application for the ELA Class of 2020, not really knowing what to expect. At some point, I doubted if it was a smart decision to juggle more commitments during my final semester of undergrad. On the day of the first session, I anxiously arrived in Richmond carrying forth a lot of the initial uncertainty I had prior to being accepted. Aside from the usual niceties and awkward moments, the session ended with us all connected in some way or another. The energy only grew moving into the February session and it was then I no longer felt uncertain about the decision to join ELA.
not just in the field of architecture, to work with 15 unique, kind-hearted, passionate leaders, it was a year filled with immense professional and personal growth. It’s hard to give a list of everything that can fully encapsulate the opportunities and values of ELA. To all the students, this program has taught me about the field of architecture in ways schools are not be able to. One of the reasons I joined was to utilize ELA as a resource for transitioning into the workplace. Although things didn’t go the way they planned, I am better prepared and equipped for when I do enter the field as a new designer. To my fellow classmates, it was amazing to work alongside such dedicated and thoughtful people like yourselves. Wishing you only the best as we move forward as emerging leaders!
Little did any of us expect for 2020 to turn out the way it did. Despite the hardships of adapting to a virtual world, this was an experience I will cherish for the rest of my career. To hear from countless professionals, Ariana Arenius AIAS
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ooking back on our year of ELA 2020. I am incredibly proud of the work this group achieved unified with purpose and mission. In the beginning my reasoning for joining ELA was narrowly focused. I was mostly interested meeting other designers from around the state. Seeing other offices, and understanding what the profession looked like statewide. What I got out of the program was so much more than that. We started as a group of strangers who had to learn to work together, remotely. Over the coarse of months of meetings, team calls, and whats app messages. We became a team and we developed friendships. We lived through a pretty nutty year together. And in the end, we created a beautiful project that was more for the city of Portsmouth than for us. I feel very fortunate to have gotten to meet and work with this incredible group and I look forward to seeing where they go in their careers in the years to come. James Vidoni Assoc. AIA.
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t has been a privilege to be selected as a member of the 16 participants of the 2020 ELA class, an honor to work with proud Portsmouth residents, and an invaluable lesson learned on the journey to presenting our project. When we first met, we were able to meet with a few people in Portsmouth; some lived and worked there but many just worked there. They were honest about their feelings towards Portsmouth and offered great insight to what values of Portsmouth should be emphasized. From the beginning, we knew it was prudent to conduct a broader search. Shortly after we circulated our survey, our nation went in to lock down and this was the first time the team had the chance to grow stronger. We had to pivot and work on synthesizing the information that we gathered through the survey. Some of us were able to still have a conversation with local citizens; our local advisor suggested we reach out to the Portsmouth Farmers Market Director, Terry Umberger. Once our
advisor, Ian Vaughan introduced us, it was clear that this group was committed to an event unique to Olde Towne. They hadn’t missed hosting a Farmer’s Market in over 10 years worth of Saturdays! We looked forward to hosting the Farmers Market on land at the end of High Street, Portsmouth’s most famous strip. “If, at any point in your life, or your grandchildren’s lives -- You go to that site and it will be a parking lot. There won’t be a farmer’s market there.” we were told from Portsmouth’s Planning Department Manager. So we pivoted again and our team got even stronger. We looked towards the right-of-way as a blank canvas and found enough area for several aspects that were previously on the “parking lot”. We were able to place an intervention at another end of HIgh Street as well. And make a suggestion towards future Investment in Public Art, Signage, and an iconic Visitor’s Center.
Overall it was an actual demonstration of the benefits of listening, synthesizing information, and making adaptations based on constraints. Additionally, our ELA Class was able to receive instruction from incredible guest lecturers monthly. We also had homework that was, in combination with our instruction, matched up with our project timeline. I think we grew stronger after learning our Clifton Strengths. These were a few things that each of us inherently do well based on the results of a quiz. Personally, I am a futuristic learner with analytical focus based on responsibility. Sounds pretty much like me, I think.
incredibly proud and I look forward to seeing this project continue to be talked of in Portsmouth. |215
In total, I learned a lot about myself and how to focus my career development. That would not have been possible without the support of my incredible teammates, mentors, and friends from Portsmouth. Thanks to everybody’s support, Portsmouth has a progressive plan for their main street’s development. That makes me Zachary Robinson Associate AIA
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articipating in the 2020 Emerging Leaders in Architecture program has been an invaluable experience amidst a bizarre year. It has been an honor and a privilege to be selected as one of the 16 members of the class, a class that showcases a wide variety of skills, interests, and personalities. As a recent graduate, the lessons learned during each session have reaffirmed my passion for design and opened my eyes to not only the vast array of opportunity the profession offers, but more so its depth of impact. In school, the focus is often predominantly on the ‘design’ and not on its ‘why’ and where that ‘why’ is derived from. However, the ELA project created a unique opportunity for the class to engage with the residents of Portsmouth, to communicate, collaborate, and build towards a resilient future. The foundation of the project was built from the envisioned positive impact, drawing our attention towards gaining a true understanding of what the ‘why’ would/should be.
The ELA program has accelerated my understanding of the profession and the overall value of collaboration across experience levels and disciplines. Everyone has something valuable to bring to the table and listening to every voice whether it be a resident, student, or working professional is vital to any project that seeks to be meaningful and impactful. I am beyond grateful to everyone who made this opportunity available to aspiring architects like myself, and I cannot wait to share what I have learned with my colleagues as I progress through my career.
Chris Cheng
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Index
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Endnotes 1 Leadership education. (2020). Retrieved August 10, 2020, from https:// www.aia.org/pages/81841-leadership-education-for-architects-andemer 2 R, G. (2020). Emerging Leaders in Architecture. Retrieved October 19, 2020, from https://www.aiava.org/ professional-development/emerging-professionals/emerging-leadersin-architecture/ 3 220| hB. (2017). Resident-Led Redevelopment. Retrieved October 19, 2020, from https://brw-architects.com/ resident-led-redevelopment 4 W. (2014). THE PLOT I + II. Retrieved October 19, 2020, from https:// wparch.com/projects/civic/theplot-i-ii/ 5 Augustus, A. (1840). Bird’s eye view of Norfolk, Portsmouth and Berkley, Norfolk Co., Va. Retrieved October 19, 2020, from https://www.loc.gov/ resource/g3884n.pm009590/?r=0.392%2C0.196%2C1.005%2C0.592% 2C0 6 HOK (September 22, 2009), Downtown Masterplan and Waterfront Strategy, Retrieved From https:// www.portsmouthva.gov/DocumentCenter/View/2741/DowntownMaster-Plan-and-Waterfront-Stategy-2009 7 Farmers Market, P. (2020). Portsmouth Olde Towne Farmers Market. Retrieved October 20, 2020, from https://www.facebook.com/pg/ Portsmouth-Olde-Towne-Farmers-Market-106639089426039/ photos/?tab=album
8 N. (2020). Norfolk Naval Shipyard (NNSY). Retrieved October 20, 2020, from https://www.facebook.com/ NorfolkNavalShipyard1/photos/pcb.1 0154630033032799/10154630028197 799/?type=3 9 N. (2020). Norfolk Naval Shipyard (NNSY). Retrieved October 20, 2020, from https://www.facebook.com/ NorfolkNavalShipyard1/photos/pcb.1 0154630033032799/10154630028197 799/?type=3 10 Elizabeth River Project, January 28, 2016 Twentieth Anniversary Watershed Action Plan for the Elizabeth River, https://elizabethriver.org/ sites/default/files/Watershed%20 Action%20Plan%20web%202016.pdf 11 Malmquist, D. (2020, February 04). Sea-level report cards: 2019 data adds to trend in acceleration. Retrieved October 19, 2020, from https://www.wm.edu/news/stories/2020/sea-level-report-cards2019-data-adds-to-trend-in-acceleration.php 12 Shah, A. (2014). Climate Change Affects Biodiversity. Retrieved October 19, 2020, from https://www.globalissues.org/article/172/climatechange-affects-biodiversity 13 A. (2020). Adapt VA Interactive Map. Retrieved October 20, 2020, from http://cmap2.vims.edu/AdaptVA/ adaptVA_viewer.html 14 A. (2020). Adapt VA Interactive Map. Retrieved October 20, 2020, from http://cmap2.vims.edu/AdaptVA/ adaptVA_viewer.html
15 D. (2013). Water Square Benthemplein. Retrieved October 20, 2020, from http://www.urbanisten.nl/ wp/?portfolio=waterplein-benthemplein 16 S. (2019). Ohio Creek Watershed Resilience Project. Retrieved October 20, 2020, from https://www. scapestudio.com/projects/ohiocreek-watershed/ 17 Commodore Theatre. (n.d.). Retrieved October 20, 2020, from http://cinematreasures.org/theaters/1600/ photos/158913 18 S. (n.d.). Adelaide City Wayfinding “ Studio Binocular. Retrieved October 20, 2020, from https://www.studiobinocular.com/projects/adelaide/ 19 P. (2003). Pfp, disseny. Retrieved October 20, 2020, from http://www. pfpdisseny.com/portfolio/puntsdinteres-historic/ 20 Kuijer, H. (2015). 2015   Zutphen / Marstunnel. Retrieved October 20, 2020, from https://www.hermankuijer.com/projecten/zutphen--marstunnel
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The AIA Virginia Emerging Leaders in Architecture Class of 2020 was tasked with the opportunity to consider opportunities in Portsmouth’s Downtown to encourage a thriving, resilient, and equitable district. The efforts of the sixteen person group over the period of a year are reflected within, and provide different scales of time and design to address the development plans which have been proposed by the City, as well as new ideas from the class while respecting the existing City and surrounding residents.