A BUS SHELTER FOR CONCORDIA'S LOYOLA CAMPUS
CONCEPT
"Rooted" proposes an extension to the existing structure. The defining characteristic of the proposed addition is a series of wide pre-cast concrete columns that reference the South-West façade of the Vanier Library. The heaviness of the columns balances the lightness of the current shelter. Furthermore, the columns seem to be emerging from the ground with strong roots beneath them. The idea is too build something new that seems as if it has always been there in the past, and will always be there in the future. Concordia University and its students take pride in the fact that they encourage sustainability and environmentally friendly practices. In that tradition, a proposed green roof will be placed on top of the shelter. The roof brings life to the concrete and will inspire users of the shelter to create more green spaces in their environment, whether it be at home, at school or at work. In the spirit of going green, solar panels will be placed on the hipped roof of the current shelter, providing enough electricity to light the entire structure. The electricity produced by the panels will be counted and represented in a $ amount. Electricity is often taken for granted and seeing how much it actually cost will encourage users to reduce their footprint. The proposed addition preserves green space by responding to the street and acts as a sound barrier encouraging students to study outside. Most importantly, the bus shelter will be able to accommodate 5 times more people during peak hours of the winter semester. Finally, in between the columns, large windows allow the students to experience there exterior surroundings whilst still being protected from the elements. The proposed design works its way around the trees respecting its environment, a trait that will hopefully be passed on to its users.
COMMUNITY CONSULTATION
Speaking with the future users of the shelter confirmed existing assessments and exposed new problems that had to be addressed in the design process. Overwhelmingly, one issue was consistently mentioned, they were tired of waiting out in the cold. They needed much more room to accommodate all of the students during peak hours. The line was said to go all the way back to the entrance of the Vanier Library. One student raised the issue that it was really important that the bus shelter had proper drainage, he was tired of stepping in puddles. Many people simply wanted more room to sit down. Their frustration with waiting for the bus could be summed up in five words: "Make the wait more bearable". Although many students simply wanted to be left alone while they waited for the bus, some wanted an activity to help pass the time. An interesting idea was to have water soluble crayons available to draw on the windows. Another was to have an integrated bar, nothing like a cold beer. In the end, the experience brought new found awareness and sensitivity to new issues that helped guide the design process. Hopefully, the wait will be more bearable.
(Competitor's text)
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- Presentation Panel
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- Plan
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- Elevation
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