A Garden Grows: From Pennsylvania to Fordham

Institute for International Humanitarian Affairs, Refugee and Immigrant Fund, Fordham University Visual Arts

Nicholas Eliades - RIF Community Meeting Space

Preliminary Rendering of Meeting Space

Maria told me that many of the people who come to the RIF meetings are shaken by their experience and may feel uneasy in social settings, either feeling too exposed to engage in conversation, or even cornered to the point where they don't feel safe.  My design is an attempt to create a space that is both private and open.  

I used ropes to define the edges of the space, and left gaps between each to allow for some visual escape.  I designed a wooden trestle system, which will be the foundation for some indoor ivy.  My intention is to convey earthliness through these materials, in order to match the personality of both the RIF and Grange.  

The space is just over 14' by 14', so around 200 sq. ft.  It should be able to comfortably seat anything from 10 to 20 people.  I left it intentionally small to serve as a location for private meetings, but I am considering having the ropes moveable to expand the space when needed.  I will be adding furniture, ivy, and other details.

Critiques/suggestions are welcome!