I am particularly interested in the role
of landscape architecture within a broad context and in large scale
settings. My goal is to create campus, resort, and other large scale
master plans in national and international settings. I believe the
unique training and insights of Landscape Architects are critical at
the global scale. Design solutions are increasingly complex and must
be ecologically responsible, culturally sensitive, and economically
sustainable to succeed. I intend to create spaces which support
people emotionally and economically, and which facilitate an
increased awareness of their environment. On a practical level
success requires we understand and work with the cultural and
governmental influences which directly impact the design process. I
expect my past experiences with legal, political, and community
issues to provide insight for my work with other professionals
toward integrated solutions to the complex issues in these
projects.
My Masters Report is to prepare a
Master Plan for an 1100 hectare Environmental Estate on the outer
island of Palawan, the Philippines. I pursued this project in order
to prepare for international work of this type. The Estate is
located on the Sulu Sea, near the city of Puerto Princesa, Palawan.
It was designated by the Philippine government for study,
preservation, and education about ecological issues. Palawan is a
National Geographic ecological “Hot Spot” of the world. The site has
protected Mangrove forests, wetlands, a large river, experimental
farms, rain forest, and protected coral beds. Study here will impact
ecological knowledge throughout the world. Cultural history includes
its use as an experimental “Prison without Bars” for many years, and
earlier colonial occupation. An abandoned colonial church and
several historical markers will be preserved.
Three distinct site functions were
defined: an Environmental Study and Education Center; a Sustainable
Tourism Center; and Preservation/Conservation areas. These areas
will be integrated in function and design, and incorporate
ecological and cultural sensitivity throughout. Economically the
site must contribute to the success of the Palawan people, and
provide meaningful work without harming local culture or social
structure. I spent two weeks in Palawan studying the physical,
cultural, environmental and social influences on my design.
Successful integration of these multiple influences offers a unique
opportunity to solve design and planning challenges. My solutions
may provide insight for other projects which seek to balance
ecological study, visitor usage, and preservation on one site.
I am collaborating with the Mayor,
government officials, and local professionals to assess the site and
determine its needs and constraints. The Tejido Ordering System
provides a foundation for analysis, as well as criteria for
evaluation of the success or failure of design solutions. The
Ordering System is woven throughout the project. It is expected that
the final Master Plan will be used for financial development, and as
a framework for staged growth.
I am honored to design this project and
hope to make significant contributions to the field of Landscape
Architecture. I believe in the value of what we produce. Thank you
for considering my application for a Tejido Fellowship.
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