SEED
Norman, Oklahoma
35.205717° , -97.436114°
Studio: Graduate Architectural Design IV
Professor: Alan Moring & Shakil Shimul
Typology: Mixed-Use Agricultural
Construction: Mass Timber
Conceptualization
SEED seamlessly integrates Oklahoma's cultural ethos with the University's Lead On initiative, catalyzing a transformation of the Duck Pond into a beacon of revitalization and resilience. Drawing inspiration from Oklahoma's agrarian legacy, the revitalized Duck Pond emerges as an agricultural innovation hub, dedicated to fostering self-sufficiency and sustainability. This innovative endeavor honors the region's farming heritage while championing the welfare of local wildlife and nurturing new cultivation endeavors.
Organic features such as Sunken Paths and raised beds create a dynamic space for immersive farming experiences, fostering a vibrant farm-to-table ecosystem. Here, students, faculty, and community members alike can engage in hands-on learning about resilient practices and partake in the bountiful harvests born from our collective efforts.
Utilizing geometries reminiscent of the natural surroundings, the concept seamlessly integrates users into the environment. By nestling into the site and intertwining with the landscape, it cultivates a profound and primal connection to the land. Skewed boxes guide views and create captivating overlaps that respond dynamically to the nearby stream. These intentional overlaps form inviting nooks, stimulating curiosity and reflection, fostering internal growth in harmony with the external rejuvenation of the land. Symbolizing pillars of self-reliance and sustainability, the mounds of growth embody the resilience inherent in human nature while seamlessly integrating with the rich tapestry of local heritage.
