A few months ago, a group of us at ADG decided we needed a little challenge in our life. (As if work isn’t already enough of one…). Summer was just starting and it sounded like a fun activity. Well fun for architects and designers, anyway. Paul Suttles took charge and accepted the role of team leader eagerly. Let’s pick his brain.
ADG: What was the deciding factor in signing up for this competition?
Paul: To take advantage of a design opportunity. I think it is important for young designers to maintain a keen sensibility for creative thinking outside the constraints of professional projects. Competitions provide a perfect platform for employees to discover design strategies (on our terms) that can be picked apart and woven into professional projects, whether it be implementing the latest architectural software or adding steps to the creative process.
ADG: What was the biggest design challenge you faced?
Paul: Working the site into a free-flowing green area for the community, while implementing a strong community base for the surrounding neighborhoods. We wanted the design to be a hub for community organizations/interaction, and I think we achieved that with creative circulation patterns throughout the site.
ADG: What were the main points you wanted to make through your design?
Paul: We wanted the design to be an ‘event’. We wanted to show the versatility of a rain screen acting as a shading device, hurricane protection, and rain water collection system. The rain screen acts as a scupper system to channel and move water throughout the site, creating interesting locations where occupants can visually/physically connect with the natural systems unique to New Orleans, as well as leading you through the site to other organizing ‘events’.
ADG: Did you make them all?
Paul: I think so…..
ADG: What score would you give the final product?
Paul: 7.5 out of 10. Only because we needed more time, or better time management……
ADG: Do you see yourself entering another competition in the future?
Paul: Definitely yes! There is an ongoing debate between some of my designer colleagues and I, about whether or not competitions are a good or bad thing. The argument being competitions don’t serve as a good judge of true architecture, because the sponsors push their own agenda, and pick the winner that best suites their needs. I see it as an opportunity to branch out and engage in design discussions with other designers about issues not typically discussed unless given the platform.
