FRUZSINA SPEDER
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Water Scape

Collaboration with Jessica Zundelevich, Ayla Shalboub and Suji Lee

Water Scape is an innovative educational facility engaging various generations in the sensorial experience of water. The relationship of natural and artificial water sources, the collection and circulation of water defines the spatial layout both of the interior and exterior spaces. Water flow is the connecting element of the cistern infrastructure, the plaza, the fountains, and the pavilion design. As Water Scape is located in the Alphabet City neighborhood of Manhattan, one of the most hazardous flood zones, hence environmental responsibility is a crucial aspect of the exterior design. The three education tenants incorporated in the project are: 1.Connection; Aiming to connect nature and human, varying ages and spaces. 2.Independence; the empowerment of youth by constructing scale specific spaces and activities. 3.Observation; observing phenomena, behavior and oneself.

Exploring the relationships between physical design (interior space, form and material), human behavior (sensorial response and activity) and site context (location and phenomenon) in terms of human inhabitant and their perception informs the design concept of Water Scape.