Cooler Districts: Cooling Mixed-use Districts through Waving Nature and Built Environment

Hazel O’Neil

At this scale, innovative planning and design strategies have been employed to create a mixed-use district that effectively addresses the challenges and recommendations outlined in the design brief. The following solutions have been implemented to tackle specific issues:

Heat Mitigation: To combat extreme heat and establish a more enjoyable outdoor environment, this proposal incorporates three primary design techniques. Firstly, the architectural design is tailored specifically for desert environments, incorporating contiguous gray spaces. Secondly, public spaces are strategically covered by a combination of tree canopies and building shades. Thirdly, wind corridors are evenly distributed throughout the site to facilitate natural ventilation. Additionally, shade structures and water cooling spots are installed at regular intervals of every 5-10 minutes of walking distance.

Mobility: The design aims to foster a car-free environment by leveraging an extended light rail line, shared micro-mobility infrastructure, and an enhanced walkable design. Furthermore, designated pickup and dropoff zones for ride-hailing services are conveniently located near building entrances, enhancing accessibility for residents and visitors.

Landscape and Resilient: The district integrates landscape resources primarily along the Salt River, both visually and functionally. The inclusion of visually appealing design elements and various programs enhances the overall landscape experience. Additionally, flood walls and relevant infrastructure are installed to safeguard the district from potential flooding events.