Concept Statement

The formation of the final conceptual design is a compilation of many different ideas incorporated into one forming a desirable and functional space. I combined the importance of the historical reference by celebrating Dusable's life and accomplishments while incorporating an educational and recreational site important to present day society. The site has one very important problematic issue and this is the thorium contamination. These sites are often times turned into recreational sites and function with no risk to humans. One new and upcoming solution is using phytoremediation. Phytoremediation is the process where certain plants are implemented into a site to remove contamination from the soil and groundwater. Different species remove specific contaminants, and heavy research is still being done, but common landscape vegetation like willow and poplar species are proving beneficial at other contaminated sites. The three acres on the lake site would be the perfect place for experimentation and research to take place, and these are designated on the base map. A new bioengineered coastline would also be implemented in with the phytoremediation, and these areas on the site would be for viewing and educational purposes only. Restoring natural coastlines has proven more economical on other sites. A research grant from any one of the nearby universities could fund the site reducing cost for the city of Chicago to build the park and maintain it. The remaining areas of the site would have to be detoxified accordingly to be safe for use.

The northwest corner of the site is home to a new science/visitor center for anyone to utilize, and learn about phytoremediation and bioengineered coastlines. Adjacent Navy Pier and Children's Museum attracts busloads of children and visitors every day, and this science center would provide a new perspective on history, and how we deal with the mistakes of the past and learn from them. The new pedestrian bridge cascading over Ogden slip can access the building. In theory this would also be part of a new re routed LakeShore Path connecting to the site. The visitor’s center provides an air conditioned or heated rest area providing refreshments and seating for weary athletes. The large tower on the building extends up to LakeShore drive making an otherwise unnoticed site recognizable and becomes a focal point. Access into the site would also be from underneath Lake Shore drive and from the bridge tower on the south end of the site.

A large mound area extends up to LakeShore drive to act as a sound barrier for most of the western edge of the site allowing a more sublime environment. A large lawn area can be used during special events, and overflow from navy pier crowding during special events. The approximate 300 foot terraced lawn area can be used for seating and is directed toward Navy Pier for events like fireworks, and allowing for something other than hardscape for seating. The lawn is part of the axis pointing out into the harbor and is anchored on the plaza extending out into the harbor. The two large gazebo pergola market areas frame the best view from the site out onto the lake. The plaza pier has two appendages extending out to form boardwalks out over the water making the site larger and marking its importance. These would be used for vendors to set up booths for an outdoor market. The boardwalk area on the east edge would be for boat access and docking. Underneath the large pergola allows shaded areas for vendors, and the gazebo would be used as a rest area. The marketplace is important because it allows different cultures to come together and sell their crafts and goods. The entire market place would become a melting pot of cultures exchanging conversation and providing income at the same time. It provides incentive for people of different backgrounds to interact together and function as a new smaller community if even for only a couple days a week.

The last conceptual idea progressed into two separate sunken gardens that celebrate Dusable and his cultural background. The gardens are four feet lower than the surrounding boardwalk and phytoremediation site providing a microclimate with some protection from lake effect winds. The garden on the east side is symbolic of Dusable’s journey and life in general. The curvy path allows the visitor to choose his own path, and the garden contains mounds with adorning vibrant sculptural pieces placed on them. One path leads up the mound to a small gathering space with a peaceful fountain and wonderful view of the surrounding context. The other path leads to a mysterious tunnel through the mound where artistic renderings are the backdrop on the tunnel walls. The tunnel is similar to the one on the adjacent riverwalk just south of the site across the Chicago River, but this one tells the story of Dusable and his importance in Chicago’s history. The pathway leads up onto the boardwalk into a larger plaza area where tables could be set up in summer for relaxation and congregation.

The remaining sunken garden contains characteristics of French culture and important African cultural elements that have been carried throughout the world. A large promenade extends through the garden and is encompassed by large vibrant colored rings that change in size exhibiting the idea of rhythm. Towards the end of the walk the rings separate and streams of water connect the loop emphasizing the rhythm of the walk. Rhythm and the use of vibrant bright colors are cultural characteristics of ancient Africa that have remained important for hundreds of years and are celebrated and appreciated in this garden. The vibrant colors extend as cultural elements into the other garden. The French influence is seen in the plantings with the spiral topiary plants creating small square spaces that are just one piece of the overall garden. The fluid motion and sound of cascading water is and important part of the north edge of the garden extending the idea of rhythm in a different form throughout the garden. This garden leads up to the bridge tower that is surrounded by small shaded plaza area.

Katie Pentecost
katie20@mindspring.com

NEXT ARTIST

ARTIST MAIN LIST

HOME