INTERWOVEN: Community-Driven Space in South Baltimore

Highlights

Project Title: INTERWOVEN

Client: Baybrook Alliance and Brooklyn community
Designer / Creator: The Urban Conga
Collaborator: The Brooklyn neighborhood
Website: https://www.theurbanconga.com/

Social: @theurbanconga
Year Installed: June 2024
Location: 3560 3rd St, Baltimore, MD 21225
Project Size: 600 sqft

Nestled in the heart of Garrett Park, South Baltimore, the INTERWOVEN project stands as a testament to the power of community-driven design. Crafted by The Urban Conga, this space isn’t just about architecture—it’s about healing, reflection, and fostering a sense of togetherness in a neighborhood often marred by adversity. Let’s take a closer look at this remarkable initiative that blends urban design, public art, and community spirit.

Community-Centric Design

INTERWOVEN is more than a physical space; it’s a communal haven designed by the people, for the people. From the onset, The Urban Conga involved the Brooklyn neighborhood residents in every step of the design process. Workshops and community feedback sessions were held to gather stories, hopes, and concerns, which directly shaped the final design. This participatory approach ensured that the space genuinely reflects the community’s identity and needs. The result is a space that feels owned and cherished by its residents, providing them with a platform to share, dream, and heal.

Architectural Highlights

At the heart of INTERWOVEN are four stepped seating structures, each strategically oriented to highlight different views of the neighborhood and city. These structures are more than just seating—they are conversation starters. Each one features prompts like “What do you dream?” and “What do you feel?”, inviting visitors to engage in reflective and meaningful dialogue. The seating also directs attention to areas affected by pollution, subtly raising awareness about the environmental challenges facing the neighborhood.

The use of dichroic portals at varying heights adds a reflective and inclusive element, allowing people of all ages and abilities to experience the space uniquely. These portals not only enhance the aesthetic appeal but also serve as metaphors for reflection and perspective.

Sustainable and Inclusive Materials

Sustainability is a core principle of INTERWOVEN. The structures are made from fully recyclable aluminum, ensuring that the project leaves a minimal environmental footprint. The ground mural, which features interweaving geometric shapes, is painted with a sustainable two-component epoxy coating that provides UV protection. This thoughtful use of materials ensures that the space is not only beautiful and functional but also environmentally responsible.

Moreover, the design respects the existing site by incorporating the original pergola into the new structure. This approach minimizes disruption and preserves the site’s historical elements, blending the old with the new in a seamless manner.

A Space for Reflection and Play

INTERWOVEN is designed to be an open-ended, programmable space. It can host a variety of community activities such as meetings, dance classes, birthday parties, and movie nights. The open central area, coupled with the playful ground mural, encourages spontaneous play and imagination, catering to both young and old. The space invites residents to explore what they see, hear, feel, and dream, fostering a sense of wonder and connection.

Perched atop a hill with a panoramic view of Baltimore, INTERWOVEN provides a vantage point for residents to reflect on their surroundings—the good and the bad. It serves as a daily reminder of the community’s resilience and the collective effort to create a brighter future.

Conclusion

The INTERWOVEN project in South Baltimore is a shining example of how thoughtful, community-centered design can transform a space. By addressing both the physical and emotional needs of the residents, The Urban Conga has created a place that goes beyond architecture. INTERWOVEN is a sanctuary for reflection, a hub for community activities, and a symbol of hope and resilience in the face of adversity. It’s a powerful reminder that when a community comes together, they can create something truly beautiful and transformative.