The concept for House Finch Habitat is to create a sense of seclusion near populated areas of the park. Moeur Park is used throughout the community for its hiking and biking trails, as well as the archaeological site, and with the additon of the House Finch Habitat, it will be a place for all visitors to rest in a tranquil environment. The trails are designed to wind through the property, like the bounce in the flight of the House Finch. The vegetation adds to the natural beauty without disrupting it by using native plants. These plants will provide a lush environment in certain areas that will provide shelter for visitors, food and habitats for the areas insects and animals, as well as beauty for the community. The House Finch Habitat will also serve to educate visitors with discreet plaques placed throughout, that will tell about the history, wildlife, and vegetation facts and encourage more people to visit – potentially transforming a natural habitat into a destination location for generations to come.
• To create a habitat that is secluded, but also near the populated areas of the park.
• Close enough to the trails to be inviting, but does not harm the nearby paths.
• Use the space for viewing and educational purposes.
• Be on the flat ground, but near mountains for a scenic view.
FinchWing North-South Elevation
The pavilion cuts into the east side of the wash and stands just above the west side.
Located inside the pavilion are a variety of benches and a table to learn more and observe the House Finch.
East-West Elevation
Fountain in the site cools down both humans and animals in the area.
Pathway is eight feet wide allowing all types of people to enter and move through the site.
Site Plan Drawings 1” = 200’ scale Opportunities and Constraints:
• The site is located on the East side of the park. Allowing access from both the Lizard and Loma trail. • The site is in close range to a playground and parking lot. • With the pavillion being on top of a wash, it creates more of a challenge to design it efficient and sustainable. • The observation area provides scenic views of the mountains and Tempe skyline. • Noise disrubtion is a big concern due to the four roads and air path above.
1” = 40’ scale 1/8” = 1’-0” Scale. The building took its shape after a modernized verion of a House Finch’s wing.
The Pathway winds through the site and acts as a ramp from the pavilion to the trail.
Pathways are made up of stone, cut and found from around Moeur Park
Carpodacus mexicanus (House Finch) The House Finch has an average height of twelve centimeters and a weight of sixteen grams. The finch likes to perch in tall suburban areas. The males are red on the top of the head and chest. The females are grey on the head and chest. They consume berries, seeds, and grains.
Site Materials
Fouquieria splendens
(Ocitillo) They have small, two inch leaves and dense clusters of red flowers.The Ocotillo grows from twelve to fifteen feet tall and prefers to live in open, rocky desert soil.
Cylindropuntia fulgida
(Jumping Cholla) Birds enjoy this plant for nesting purposes. Grows around ten to twelve feet tall. Blooms orange flowers. Lives in hot climates.
Carnegiea gigantea
(Saguaro) Grows only in Arizona. With branches high above the ground, it provides a great habitat, as well as food for the birds. Saguaros can grow up to forty feet tall.
ALA 225: Fall 2015 Design Fundamentals III
Parkinsonia microphylla
(Foothill Palo Verde) Has green bark and yellow flowers. The tree has small leaves and is multi-trunked. Requires very little water.
Natural Stone
Concrete
Wood
Student: Audrey Newlen Instructor: James Coffman