YUnion Ave. Community Garden Pro Bono Project
In 2002 I volunteered for a community garden revitalization project in Pico Union, one of the most challenged communities near Downtown Los Angeles. Originally established as an educational garden for adjacent primary school, the garden had been in disuse for a few years due to funding cutbacks and school program change. Then a group of local individuals began a revitalization project which Peter Aeschbacher, a former classmate of mine, and I joined to help design and construction work. During the construction phase many local residents, highschoolers, and our young architect friends joined us to help. The old chain link fence was replaced with a one made of redwood rail & wire mesh to give friendlier look. A 10 ft tall entry arch was added to enhance the garden's presence on the street. A 20ft diameter brick patio was built as multi purpose space for various activities for the community.
Design Collaborators: Peter Aeschbacher, Lisa Cole
slide show