The Rippling Rose aims to create a supportive work environment to foster future entrepreneurship skills. It is the catalyst that drops into Franklinton’s pond, engaging and empowering the community both inward and outwards. It balances open and enclosed space, allowing for refuge and focus with social and public connection. Glass plays a role in transparency, revealing the individual’s process and role in the product. One feels like they can grow here as it is safe and explorative. A transparent terranean garden rests at the center, the space rippling out in repetitive organic and soft forms. Therapeutic horticulture will aid in mental and emotional healing through the connection to nature. A skylight, centered in the garden, a symbol of hope and a source of warmth. The space incorporates biophilic elements to promote healing.
Within the retail area, one has the option to create their own bouquet. On the center curved wall, pots of loose flowers await collection. Customers can grab whatever vase they like from the shelves and arrange on the designated work surface. Some flowers are sourced directly from the interior garden.
Context
This project is based within the Columbus neighborhood of Franklinton. An area that is only a ten minute drive from my college campus, Ohio State University. It is the area where I worked at the doggy daycare, AllPaws, while in school. It is also an area that is starting to be redeveloped by outside investors when historically the residents were not invested in. Upon looking into Franklinton demographics, I was shocked to learn the frequent drug and sex crime reports. To better understand the disheartening statistics, I chose to investigate the cycle of prostitution that exists in Franklinton and the current resources available.
I learned of many organizations supporting these women in various facets such as nutrition, healthcare, hygiene, and shelter. Because basic needs are assisted through these programs, I wanted to create a program that allows them to learn and grow within an accommodating and supportive environment, once they've taken the initial steps to break the cycle. Typically, addiction is a factor in that journey, so horticulture therapy is integrated within the program.
Building
This project is adaptive reuse.
640 W Broad St, Columbus, OH
Design Development
For the complete, in Depth Process and continued updates follow the link below to my site dedicated to my Capstone work.
