Posters in Probation Resource Hubs, Credit: Omotayo Ikuomenisan
We might look to government to solve the problems facing our city, but three different projects featured in Cooper Hewitt convey just how effective the work of citizens are in improving the future of America. Inventive design has the power to transform a room, a building and entire communities and in turn, change lives for the better. Through creativity and ingenuity, impressive solutions to challenging issues facing American cities are designed by everyday people.
Probation Resource Hubs were created for the New York City Department of Probation from 2011 to 2013. Biber Architects designed this with collaboration of School of Visual Arts students, Nontraditional Employment for Women and others. Before this project, the waiting rooms for nearly 26,000 people sentenced to probation were dull and dismal. Probation clients would be waiting for hours in these bleak rooms with nothing worthwhile to do to pass the time. The Department of Probation was completely transformed into Resource Hubs. Inspiring posters and bright colors made the waiting rooms more appealing. Probationers were encouraged to spend their time waiting by writing and many were hired as writing apprentices. The staff now work face-to-face with the people they are supervising. The wait went from hours to 20 minutes. A few changes to the room made a tremendous change in the lives of so many people entering the Department of Probation.
NYC Department of Probation Before Project – Omotayo Ikuomenisan
Probation Resource Hubs – Omotayo Ikuomenisan
In 2009, Fresh Moves Mobile Markets traveled throughout neighborhoods in the South and West Side of Chicago. Tyrue Jones, Growing Power and Architecture for Humanity Chicago were involved in the creation and design of Fresh Moves. Using decommissioned buses, they made mobile farm stands that distribute affordable locally grown produce. This is part of the city’s efforts to completely get rid of food deserts and health disparities, and increase access to healthy food in these underserved neighborhoods. Fresh Moves makes stops and provides health and wellness outreach at clinics, schools and parks. Its eye catching appearance and design has contributed to its success in getting citizens to eat healthier.
Fresh Moves Mobile Markets – Omotayo Ikuomenisan
New York City has significant disparities in access to healthy food and diet-related diseases. It is simply not enough to build grocery stores in food deserts. Some families are unable to afford healthy produce or are unaware of the better food choices available to them. The Fresh Moves Mobile Markets can be introduced to the boroughs as a way to address this issue. However, there may not be space for a giant transit bus in front of a school or in a park. Large food carts or other vehicles could be used instead. Communities can be involved in farming the produce locally. The mobile farm stands could then inform neighborhoods of the health benefits and provide underserved neighborhoods with affordable food.
Outside In Outreach Center in Portland, Oregon was designed by Clark/Kjos Architects and Bramare with graphic design by Mayer/Reed. This community health clinic is one of the first of its kind, providing free healthcare and services for homeless youths. The design hoped to attract and welcome estranged youth to a safe space. The center’s garden and mural convey that this is a place where these youths can be accepted and creative. The animated and unique architecture truly supports Outside In’s purpose.
Outside In Outreach Center – Omotayo Ikuomenisan
