5th Year - Advanced Integrated Studio - Peter Anderson
As part of the Makerspoint project, our class took a trip to Greenville, California to explore and connect with the town and community that had been affected by the Dixie fire of 2021. We engaged directly with the town's community members allowing us to gain valuable insights into their vision for the town's future and how we could create a new community center.
Makerpoint transcends the notion of a mere building. The concept goes beyond brick and mortar—it aims to create an entity that becomes an integral part of its environment, generated and sustained by the locals, for the locals. The proposal involves the creation of a land trust owned and operated by Greenville. This trust would provide the community with dedicated spaces where they can share knowledge, utilize tools, and take charge of their own rebuilding efforts.
The first phase of the project lies within the Makers Space; a vibrant hub of creativity and innovation. This space will not only provide the necessary tools and equipment but will also foster a collaborative and inclusive environment where the people of Greenville can come together to explore their talents and passions. Equipped with essential tools like CNC routers, laser cutters, woodworking equipment and 3D printers this space would foster innovation and creativity. By empowering the community with access to the Makerspace, the project itself takes on a life of its own, driven by the collective aspirations and talents of the locals.
Crucially, the materials used in the construction of this project are sourced from Greenville itself. The wood that will be transformed into the magnificent Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT) panels and Glu-Lam beams. All sourced locally, reflecting the rich natural resources of the region. The manufacturing process takes place in a local mill, further strengthening the connection between the project and the community. As the construction materials are brought to the Makers Space, the locals themselves become an integral part of the process. Through a specialized machine, the boards are meticulously glued together, transforming them into solid structures that embody the spirit of Greenville. This process not only showcases the skills and craftsmanship of the local residents but also contributes to the sustainability and economic growth of the community.
Incorporating the “warehouse” typology into Makerspoint kept the space open with no interference. Makerspoint achieved this by lining the columns to the interior edges. The Glulam columns are manufactured on-site within the Maker’s Space and are then anchored into the foundation. The CLT panels are then manufactured on site, cut to length and finally lifted into place using a boom lift.
The second phase of the project encompasses various elements that enrich the lives of the locals. The social hall, the coffee bar, the community kitchen, the office spaces, and the residential housing units—all these components seamlessly integrate within the fabric of Greenville. They become extensions of the community, serving as gathering places for social interaction, collaboration, and personal growth. These multipurpose spaces would showcase the creations from the Makers Space and serve as a venue for community events, movie screenings, and gaming activities. The goal is to foster social interaction and provide learning opportunities for all.
Makerspoint seeks to empower the community of Greenville. By embracing this vision, Greenville can foster a vibrant, inclusive, and innovative environment for its residents. Makerspoint is a testament to the power of local collaboration and collective vision. By actively involving the people of Greenville in the creation and sustenance of their own environment, Makerspoint fosters a sense of ownership, pride, and community engagement. This project is more than a building; it becomes a living entity, shaped and nurtured by the very individuals it serves.
