The Beauty of Community

AS488 Professor Shahnaz Aly Architectural Science Department Ogden College of Science and Engineering Western Kentucky University Savannah Whitt Olivia Coffey Sam Lynch The Beauty of Community The purpose of this research was to show that architecture can create a sense of community. Our projects are located in small towns and provide residents a place to gather and connect with one another. We introduced a rock-climbing gym to an outdoorsy community in Utah, created an animal sanctuary in a rural town in Kentucky, and provided a refuge for children in Belize. Our common goal was to fulfill the need for community in a small town. In creating spaces where people could gather, we took into consideration the importance of sustainable features. Our buildings were designed to avoid negative impact on the environment and incorporated recycled materials, solar energy, and gray water systems. We had a common objective of making the surrounding environment better than it initially was, and it was successful. Along with a sustainable approach, our designs are welcoming and inviting through the use of simplistic but contemporary forms and materials. We integrated natural lighting by using floor to ceiling windows as well as skylights. Along with natural lighting to create a modern design, a neutral palette of colors with an occasional splash of color formed an integral part of the design solution. We wanted our designs to conform with their surroundings and bring an essence of unity to their overall environment. Overall, we were successful in creating a space for the community to gather. The designs will be incredibly beneficial to their environments in both sustainability and human connection, exemplifying what it is to feel connected