Submission #13 CLOSE
Associated Engineering Ltd. Entry #2 (Calgary)
Public space within the City is the most important aspect for bringing together all components of sustainable development and public space is becoming truly the outdoor living room for the community. Pedestrian bridges within park space, therefore, are more than a means of moving from one location to another but become destinations in themselves.
The pods attached to the bridge combine seating, a glass bottom deck to allow direct vision of the water and a west side orientation so that the view of the downtown can be appreciated. Comfortable resort style muskoka chairs are provided for optimum comfort with cup holders in the arms. Seating is semi-circular to allow for groups to enjoy conversation and friendship while the individual pods allow for people to choose their favorite space, whether in sun or shade, and be on their on their own if they so wish to read a book, call a friend, listen to the water and unwind enjoying nature around them.
Between the spans, where the pathways come together, is a major plaza space which can be used for social, park gatherings, organized events, a place to see and be seen and a place to relax. Each part of the public square has special uses which will appeal to all, as well as to visitors to the City as a tourist destination.
The solar tower included in this project can provide an appropriate symbol for the twenty-first century. Although, its size and inclination should provide a unique character which will identify it anywhere, a number of other features have been added with a twenty-first century flair to ensure that the tower will have an identity of its own. It is proposed that the side of the tower, facing downtown, be provided with flood lights using LED technology and a changing colour lighting which will reflect in the river to provide a distinctive symbol at night. Closer up, the origin of the spotlighting will be extended to grade in a circular area, which being lit both day and night, will provide the character of a traditional camp fire which has seating placed around it so that people up close can enjoy the lighting as well.
