Vegetation Orientation
[Franklin Park : Boston, MA]

Franklin Park is challenging to navigate. This project asks how redesigning circulation can bring clarity to disorientating areas of the park, a clarity that is embedded in the site and integrated with existing conditions. The result is a wayfinding plan defined by vegetation. Research on plant species such as the 'invasive' Japanese Knotweed, Gray Birch and Grass become the defining elements for three distinct ways. These ways are designed with a sensitivity for  temporal change over the course of a day, season and decade. Throughout designing, questions emerged: What is the responsibility of a second-generation park designer, to eradicate or adapt to invasive species (after Frederick Law Olmsted, who was believed to have introduced the species)? Can the dying canopy support new plant growth? How can existing conditions be reframed to better support the evolving needs of a community?

Hand drawing and texture making became the primary representation of organic subjects and the project overall.  

Link: Harvard University GSD: Student Projects

Harvard University GSD: Landscape Architecture Core Studio II
Instructor: Emily Wettstein