Re-Emerging Past
Juror summary: provides a lucid narrative advocating planning solutions for the future based on historical mixed-use forms from the past that are often illegal under current zoning regulations.
The modern, auto oriented, urban centers of Long Island are in crisis. Box retailers, changing economic winds and shifting populous are putting increasing stress on those areas that remain.
My concept involves re-thinking how urban planning is conducted within the next decade. Long Island has a rich and colorful history, reflected in the numerous historic structures. This should be accentuated as a focal point. Thousands of tourists each year flock to this destination. It is time to begin to play on that theme. Urban planners need not look very far. Their inspiration is all around them, within the very landscape of their homes, villages, and cities. My concept is to re-institute a policy of traditional Vernacular style building.
Roadway enhancements and mixed-use development, complete with street front retail, and affordable housing above, will both create desirable areas, slow down busy throughways, and re-invigorate flailing urban centers.
As part of my design, two case studies have been presented, but the concept is applicable to any hamlet, village, town or city. Stony Brook, selected for its small hamlet charm, and Smithtown, for its location on a busy road, both demonstrate the versatility of my concept.
By placing the retail and people at the forefront of the street, it invokes a friendly interaction between pedestrians, bicyclists, and motorists alike. This harmony will certainly create a pleasant atmosphere, enhancing those areas like never before.
Key themes: cultural capital and tourism, infill development, walkability, vernacular architecture
Collaborators: Ryan Hayward