Project Description:
In the INNERnet Connection Project, students explored aspects of modern labor and industrial era history, learning space design, and progressive work spaces, with a focus on humans’ relationship to technology. Using our own campus as our laboratory, students created data collection tools about stress, anxiety, and our learning spaces. We then developed beta version experiences to address student and staff needs related to coping in a high-stress, high-”noise” society by creating opportunities to de-stress and reconnect. Based in beta-users’ feedback, the scale models and concept boards and statements are proposals for dream installations at High Tech High. We will be sharing our findings with school and student leaders in hopes to integrate solutions that holistically address our community’s learning and wellness needs.I worked in a group who focused on gardening as our de-stressing point. From there I worked with Anais on both the concept board/statement and the scale model. We were tasked to create a dream version of our greenhouse we would eventually want on campus.
Concept Statement:
Unum Garden at High Tech High is a space meant to allow the students and staff a part of the High Tech community unwind and take a breather from the stresses of everyday studies and work. The garden is meant to promote being with nature, getting outside, and taking time to relax. The space will be located on the west side of the High Tech High roof. The garden will be accessible by an elevator that is just on the outside of the building. All students and staff are welcome to either plant and grow their own fruits, vegetables, herbs or flowers, or simply use it as a place to sit, relax, and escape the sometimes hectic school environment. As you walk out of the glass elevator, you are welcomed to a vibrant garden just under a wooden trellis, laced in greenery and wrapped in twinkling lights. Just on the right hand side, there is an indoor greenhouse with a small balcony. People are welcomed to sit or garden in the greenhouse, or outdoors. The outdoor area is a bright but somewhat shaded, calm and private space. When you enter the greenhouse, you step onto a walkway lined with stones that are painted by High Tech students. Along the path, there are several large planters, each with different fruits and vegetables. On the sides and the back of the greenhouse there are benches, tables and chairs that are a light stained wood, matching the planters. The flooring of the greenhouse will be dirt with some concrete sections. In the back corner, there is a spiral staircase, leading up to the second floor of the greenhouse. This floor, with stained glass all around it, will also have a balcony, and more seating. The Unum Garden is a private and welcoming space, meant to accommodate everyone and their needs to simply take some time to destress with the essence of nature.