Developing design strategies that encourage physical activities that promote health and wellbeing of residents within communities in Preston
The thesis topic explores design strategies aimed at fostering physical activities and promoting the health and well-being of residents in communities within Preston. The project commenced with extensive research on Preston and its surroundings, leading to the selection of a site south of Preston, accessible via a pedestrian bridge and route along a tree-lined mound. An intervention was designed for the footbridge, drawing inspiration from the experience of walking through the tree-filled mound, resulting in the use of timber columns and mesh panels with leaf patterns to replicate the play of light. The focus then shifted to the selected site, characterized by natural features such as lakes and woodland. Design strategies were employed to integrate these features into the community design, including preserving and expanding the woodland for walking and cycling areas and leveraging the potential of the water bodies. A master plan was developed to meet the thesis objectives, ensuring consistency with the intervention on the footbridge. In the final stage, attention was devoted to the design of a kayak club along the large lake, intended to serve the community and neighboring areas while encouraging an active lifestyle. The design of the kayak club was harmonized with the earlier intervention and house designs in the community, creating a cohesive and integrated overall vision.
