Sacred Space: Design with Collaborative Meaning for Community

Abstract

The history of human society has developed closely with religious thought and traditions associated with the supernatural, the divine, and the extraordinary. In a modern consumerist society, the opportunity the role the greater plays in public space can be a rich context for consideration. This practicum explores that idea in two sections. In the first part, the history of sacred space in varying traditions is analyzed to inform the design decisions involved in creating such a public space. The separation of the sacred from the ordinary and the boundaries that divide them are reviewed. Physical manifestations of the sacred, as well as the act of sacralization are investigated. As cultures develop amid a complex series of interactions, the futility of imposing a fabricated meaning upon a neighborhood has been well recognized. The neighborhood’s participation is essential in generating worth. Authenticity of meaning cannot be designed for immediate acceptance; rather it must be cultivated within a community. In the second part, a template is proposed for a local suburban community and its visitors to foster significance in a public environment. Dequindre park, Eckstein park, and Denton park have been designed as a network of public spaces and trails along the Red Run, a creek running through Warren, Michigan. This creek is part of the Clinton river watershed, and feeds into Lake St. Clair. As a trail connects public areas along the creek, a structure of themes is reinforced throughout the passage. Areas of play, spaces of reflection, and procession of experience unite to emphasize a connection with the greater. The goal of this project is to contribute forms that emphasizes substance beyond the conventional, and offers people the opportunity to develop their own value of experience. Rather than force a narrow scope of specific metaphors into programmatic elements, a variety of traditions, ideas, and forms are evaluated for appropriateness in a public forum. Abstraction of symbolism is pursued to retain broad public appeal. Showcasing stormwater management in an aesthetically compelling way is employed to utilize awareness of actions and responsibilities as a strong asset for promoting a sense of ownership. Advocating mindfulness of surroundings and experience is a key design objective.