October 29, 2010

By: Rudy B. from New York, NY
Comments: 11

Posted By: Rudy Blanco
On: 8/13/2010 11:57:05 AM

So, in our building, there are a total of 5 schools. As I completed my first year in June, I realized that there exists a courtyard type space/area in the middle of our school building-- the are is encased within the structure of the building itself. Due to the fact that there are so many different population of students in our building, putting the area to use might prove to be hard. As I was digesting what we learned in New Orleans, during the Design conference-- I realized it would be a good idea to connect with student leaders and faculty from the different schools to come up with a potential project or use for that area. My idea was as follows: 1. Put together a campus council -- including of student council members from all of the schools that would represent the students from all schools 2. Have the students design or redesign a potential concept for the space and how it could be put to good use 3. By following the steps of the design process students will be able to take advantage of an already existing space and conduct research within their respective schools to find out why it is not being used and how we can work around that so as to get it up and running. If this is managed correctly, the students can work together and establish a strong design team for the actual building as well as develop connections within the different schools. This might even lead to better relations between the schools' students, faculty and staff.

Posted By: Beth Bessinger
On: 8/14/2010 7:22:25 PM

Rudy, I feel that that valuable common space should NOT be unused! There are many things that could be done with that space and you have come up with a great plan to get the kids involved. If the problem is that there are too many different groups of students who want to use the space and "getting along" may be a problem, alternating days my be a solution. The space may also be used as strictly a garden/art-scape area for viewing from windows. Some large student-made sculptures and planted areas may be just the ticket for a viewing experience, that way, everyone feels a common experience in the development and viewing pleasure. research some student sculpture gardens at various colleges and school and with the talent I am sure your students have, something cool can be done! Best wishes for the new school year guy!

Posted By: Alicia Reeves
On: 8/15/2010 2:52:52 PM

Beth and Rudy, I completely agree with you both. 1) I feel that a common space is an amazing opportunity for the students from all schools and populations to become friends, share ideas, visit, etc. 2) The design process and collaboration between schools is a necessary event that must occur before anything is done. Remember that this may take months to do and that this year may be the designing of the common area and the actual implementation may be next year. Good Luck and let me know how it goes!