Portfolio: Old Town Waterfront

Old Town Waterfront was a recent competition submission for the redesign of a 4.3 acre park within the historic district of Alexandria, Virginia. The parks concept is derived from the actual wind rose of the site, which is a graphic tool used by meteorologists to give a succinct view of how wind speed and direction are typically distributed at a particular location.

This form serves 2 purposes: it provides a safe, functional solution that addresses the lack of public docking space along the Potomac River and also allows the integration of a riparian buffer which filters site generated stormwater runoff before it reaches the river. This marsh buffer provides a transition between terrestrial and aquatic systems, while restoring ecosystem functions. Both large and small species of fish, amphibians, reptiles, birds and mammals, as well as numerous invertebrates are dependent on marshes such as this one for food and nesting habitat. The design provides a platform for natural process to occur and people to experience them.