Testing Ground, 2017
M.Arch Studio, led by Hennie Reynders and Mejay Gula
Based in Washington Park, this project combines communal architecture, researching patterns of disinvestment, and public presentation.
The process involved speaking with leaders of art and business in Washington Park, researching the history and methods of systemic racism in Chicago, and conducting resident interviews to ask what they felt they needed near their homes and workplaces.
The design acts as an incubator, allowing for flexible space-making that gestates evolving programs until they are ready to find permanent spaces.
During the final presentation, community members who were pivotal in the research and ideation were invited to engage in a panel discussion.
Others in M.Arch Studio
Final illustration
Plan
Design intention diagram
App-based spatial function
Community panel invitation