Author: Blair GUPPY

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“Putting” Green: A Radical Vision to Transform NYC’s Golf Courses

Blair GUPPY October 22, 2024 No Comments 2139 views

Marine Park Golf Course – Created using Adobe Firefly by Blair Guppy

In the bustling urban jungle of New York City, a proposal is brewing – a vision that transcends the concrete and steel we adore and is known for, ushering in a new era of green innovation. In a city renowned for this architectonic skyline, our focus now shifts to the sprawling green carpets and the public golf courses that dot the landscape. This isn’t just about redesigning the city; it’s about redefining its soul.

A Concrete Jungle with Hidden Green Treasures

New York City, often celebrated for the gritty urban landscape where dreams are made, finds itself at a crossroads. A city known for its towering skyscrapers and iconic landmarks is now presented with an audacious idea – a paradigm shift in how it views and utilizes its 13 publicly owned golf courses. This provocative transformation isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s a response to a growing need for equitable access to green spaces, a call to action inspired by lessons learned during the pandemic.

The Inequity Quandary: Access Denied to Many

Amidst the city’s vibrancy, an unsettling truth persists – the unequal distribution of green spaces. While NYC boasts a high rating for access to green spaces, per capita metrics reveal a shocking contrast to other major North American cities. Analyzing the locations of the 13 golf courses reveals a correlation with neighborhoods where demographics tend to be lower income. Converting these spaces isn’t just a strategic environmental move; it’s a direct benefit to communities that often lack access to quality recreational areas. It’s a commitment to addressing the socio-economic dimensions of green spaces.

The revelations from HUGSI, GeoTab, and Trust For Public Land datasets underscore the challenge. Public golf courses, arguably perceived as exclusive, exacerbate this inequality, situated in areas that are more commonly less accessible, especially for those without private transportation. Marine Park Golf Course, Forest Park Golf Course, Mosholu Golf Course, Bally’s Golf Links at Ferry Point, and Douglaston Golf Course are isolated from public transportation, impeding access and enjoyment for a significant portion of the population. Conversely, golf courses adjacent to or within public preserves or parks, such as Forest Park Golf Course, Mosholu Golf Course, Bally’s Golf Links at Ferry Point, and Dyker Beach Golf Course, present an opportunity to enhance the city’s green infrastructure by seamlessly integrating and aggregating these spaces.

Carbon Footprint: From Fairways to Eco-Friendly Haven

The environmental impact of maintaining golf courses is substantial. Studies suggest an average carbon footprint of 4,277 kg CO2e per hectare per year for golf course maintenance in the Northern USA. The total land coverage of NYC’s public courses spans between 1,500 and 3,500 acres, resulting in an annual carbon footprint ranging from 2,591,936 kg to 14,999,450 kg CO2e. This is a significant contributor to NYC’s carbon footprint and calls for a sustainable, greener alternative.

Additionally, nutrient pollution from fertilizers poses risks to waterways. Golf course fertilizers often contain nitrates and phosphates, contributing to potential annual nitrogen leaching from 3,035 kg to 176,500 kg and phosphorus leaching from 607 kg to 35,300 kg. Conversion presents an opportunity to implement sustainable land management, safeguarding water quality and protecting aquatic ecosystems.

Privilege Paradox: Exclusivity on Green Fairways

Golf courses, historically emblematic of privilege, occupy spaces that could be reimagined for the benefit of all New Yorkers. These privileged pockets of greenery, isolated from public transportation, contribute to a narrative of exclusivity. Transforming them into public parks is more than a shift in land use; it’s a commitment to addressing the stark disparity in recreational opportunities across different income brackets.

Revenue Streams: Turning Green into Gold

Addressing the economic aspect of this transformation is crucial. Beyond the proposed revenue streams, additional innovative ideas emerge:

Public Art Installations and Events: A canvas of creativity, these transformed spaces can host revenue-generating events, bringing communities together through culture and art.
Green Tech Showcases: Dedicated sections can spotlight sustainable technologies, positioning NYC as a leader in green innovation while creating revenue streams.
Green Housing Developments: Repurpose portions for sustainable housing, integrating green building practices and fostering eco-friendly neighborhoods.
Renewable Energy Parks: Transform sections into hubs of clean energy, contributing to the city’s grid while promoting sustainability.
Eco-Tourism and Education Centers: Develop hubs that showcase NYC’s commitment to sustainability, generating revenue while fostering environmental awareness.

Ya-Ting Liu’s Role: Paving the Way for Swift Action

In this transformative journey, the appointment of Ya-Ting Liu as NYC’s First-Ever Chief Public Realm Officer by Mayor Adams is a pivotal development. Liu’s role extends beyond her existing remit. Her leadership can expedite inter and intra-agency coordination, cut through red tape, and navigate bureaucratic complexities to ensure swift and impactful change. Let us seek Liu’s commitment to collaborating on this initiative, shaping a greener, more inclusive future for New York.

Conclusion: Greening Gotham for Generations to Come

This isn’t merely a proposal; it’s a call to action. Imagine a New York where every borough boasts lush, accessible green spaces, where the air is cleaner, and where sustainability and equity converge. It’s a visionary step towards a city where the green treasures, hidden amidst the concrete, become accessible to all. Share this vision, engage in the conversation, and tag @NYCMayorsOffice, @NYCEDC, @vanallenins, @designtrustnyc, @nycplanning, @nycparks, and @YaTingLiuNYC. Let’s turn this radical vision into reality, transforming NYC’s golf courses into urban oases for generations to come.

The Urban Playground: Designing for Joy, Resilience, and Health in Our Cities

Blair GUPPY September 10, 2024 1 Comment 3215 views

Our cities are at a pivotal moment. Climate change, geopolitical unrest, economic volatility, artificial intelligence, and rapid technological advancements are reshaping how we live. The pandemic has intensified these changes, prompting a fundamental rethink of our urban environments. How can we create cities that promote social well-being, ecological balance, and human connection? Social sustainability—emphasizing resilience, play, and health—offers a promising framework.

Play as Resilience

Play is far from frivolous; it’s a cornerstone of human resilience. Cities need spaces that encourage laughter, exploration, and joy. Copenhagen’s Tivoli Gardens exemplifies this with its blend of roller coasters, heritage trees, and vibrant green spaces. This kind of playful urbanism can transform our streets, making communities more resilient and better able to respond to adversity.

Urban resilience involves the capacity of cities to absorb, recover, and prepare for future shocks. Incorporating play into urban design strengthens this capacity by promoting social cohesion and mental well-being. Playful environments encourage social interactions, helping build community networks crucial for collective resilience during crises. This shared joy and connection act as an antidote to isolation and loneliness, fostering a sense of belonging.

Moreover, play is a powerful tool for mental health. Studies have shown that playful activities reduce stress and anxiety, thereby improving mental health. Designing cities with spaces that encourage and facilitate play creates environments that support mental resilience, helping residents cope with the challenges of modern urban life. A playful city is a resilient city, ready to face the future.

Health by Design

Urban design profoundly impacts our physical and mental health. Imagine crosswalks that encourage dancing, parks that purify the air, and staircases designed as exercise machines (these do exist but not sufficiently deployed at the scale). Biophilic design, integrating natural elements into urban environments, is essential for promoting vitality. Singapore’s Park Connector Network demonstrates the effectiveness of weaving green spaces into the city, encouraging physical activity and facilitating mental well-being.

This relationship between the built environment and our health is well-documented. Urban areas with accessible parks and green spaces see lower levels of obesity, heart disease, cancer, neurodegenerative diseases, and type 2 diabetes. Regular physical activity is crucial for preventing these chronic conditions, and thoughtfully designed urban spaces encourage more active lifestyles.

Exposure to nature also reduces symptoms of depression and anxiety, improving mental health. Incorporating natural elements into our built landscapes creates restorative environments that promote mental well-being. Green spaces, water features, and natural materials consistently enhance the mental health of urban residents. Health by design is not a luxury but a necessity for thriving cities. This is our wheelhouse as Landscape Architects and Environmental Psychologists!

Designing for Joy

Our cities can be more than efficient machines; they can be joyful playgrounds. Abandoned lots and buildings, underpasses, and rooftops can be transformed into places of wonder and amusement. Copenhagen’s Cirkelbroen and Konditaget Lüders, China’s Lucky Knot Bridge, and Melbourne’s Hosier Lane exemplify how playful design can reimagine urban spaces, fostering creativity and delight.

Joyful urban design invites people of all ages to engage with their surroundings in new and unexpected ways, increasing physical activity, social interaction, and a stronger sense of community. Transforming mundane urban spaces into areas of delight makes cities more livable and enjoyable for all residents.

The aesthetic appeal of playful design also contributes to the cultural vibrancy of a city. Public art installations, interactive sculptures, and whimsical architectural features become iconic landmarks, attracting tourists and boosting the local economy. Cities that embrace joy and creativity in their design distinguish themselves as vibrant and innovative urban centers.

Economic Benefits of Playful Cities

Integrating play into urban design also brings substantial economic benefits. Vibrant public spaces boost tourism, enhance property values, and stimulate local economies. Playful environments encourage spending and support small businesses, creating a virtuous cycle of economic vitality.

Tourism is a major economic driver for cities with engaging public spaces. Attractions like New York’s Governor’s Island, Vancouver’s Stanley Park, and Havana’s Paseo del Prado draw millions of visitors each year, contributing to the local economy through tourism revenue and job creation. Investment in playful urban design boosts cities’ appeal as destinations, fostering economic growth.

Enhanced property values are another significant benefit. Proximity to parks and green spaces increases property values, making these areas more desirable for residential and commercial development. This leads to higher tax revenues for cities, which can be reinvested in further urban improvements, creating a positive feedback loop of economic and social benefits.

Healthcare savings are also notable. Reductions in the incidence of chronic diseases and mental health disorders lower healthcare costs for individuals and society. Implementing more playful urban spaces generates robust economic benefits through improved public health outcomes.

Community Well-being

Playful urban design strengthens community cohesion, mental health, and social interaction. Engaging in playful activities helps people form bonds and fosters a sense of belonging. Inclusivity in play is crucial. They ensure everyone can participate, promoting equity, diversity, and accessibility. Accessible playgrounds and public spaces make it easy for all abilities to participate, promoting equity and social inclusion, breaking down barriers, and creating more cohesive and supportive communities.

Community cohesion is vital for the social fabric of urban areas. Playful environments create opportunities for residents to interact, building relationships, but more importantly building trust. This social capital is essential for neighborhood resilience and collective well-being, fostering stronger, more connected communities.

Mental health improvements are a direct benefit of increased physical activity and social interaction. Playful activities reduce stress, anxiety, and depression, contributing to better mental health outcomes. Designing cities that encourage play creates supportive environments that enhance the mental well-being of all residents.

Ecological Balance

Green spaces and biophilic design contribute to ecological health by absorbing carbon dioxide, reducing urban heat islands, and providing shade. Playgrounds with natural elements connect children to nature, and community gardens connect people to food, each fostering environmental stewardship.

This ecological balance is essential for truly sustainable urban development; one where our natural, food, and delivery systems are more intimately entwined. Trees and green spaces mitigate the effects of climate change by absorbing carbon dioxide and reducing urban heat islands. Incorporating trees and opportunities for more “wild” nature into urban design goes a long way in creating healthier, more sustainable cities. I

Biophilic design has been sadly mislabeled and associated with form-giving in the world of architecture. Truly biophilic design enhances biodiversity in urban areas. Green roofs, vertical gardens, and wildlife-friendly landscaping provide habitats for birds, insects, and other wildlife, contributing to the ecological health of cities. Sustainable urban design is key to creating resilient and vibrant urban environments. Integrating nature into urban play spaces promotes a deeper connection to the environment among residents. It is this connection that ultimately promotes stewardship of the land and empathy for our natural world.

Functional Playgrounds: Beyond Aesthetics

Playful design isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about functionality. Singapore’s Park Connector Network, an integrated system of green corridors connecting neighborhoods, parks, and waterfronts, promotes physical activity, mental well-being, and ecological balance. Melbourne’s Hosier Lane, a vibrant street art gallery, invites creativity and playfulness, transforming a neglected alley into an outdoor cultural destination.

Functional playgrounds serve multiple purposes. They provide spaces for physical activity, social interaction, and relaxation, contributing to the overall well-being of urban residents. Multi-functional spaces maximizes the positive benefits of these designed environments.

Human-Centric Urban Design

Human-centric design puts people at the heart of urban planning, considering the needs, desires, and well-being of residents. Focusing on the human experience, as well as not at the sake of resiliency planning, will make our cities more livable and enjoyable. The future of urban design lies in creating environments that acknowledge the inner child in all of us. By designing with empathy and creativity, we can shape resilient, inclusive, and vibrant cities.

Imagine a city where building facades encourage climbing, furnishings were instruments, and bridges encourage us to bounce from one side to the other. Urban design should reflect humanity with all its quirks and aspirations. It’s not about sterile efficiency but about celebrating the imperfect, the unexpected, and the delightful – wabi-sabi. Celebrating this leads to engaging and dynamic cities. Cities are also a reflection of ourselves and our values. We have the power to shape this reflection, and create landscapes that embrace play, prioritize health, and honor justice. The future isn’t fixed; it’s a playground waiting to be shaped.

Stair Climber “Push the Button!” / bguppy

Running Track Perimeter / bguppy

“Group Fit” / bguppy

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Images by Blair Guppy / Project: “Park ‘n’ Play” by JAJA Architects / Copenhagen, Denmark

Harmonizing Nature and Design: Acoustic Landscape Architecture for a Sustainable Future

Blair GUPPY August 13, 2024 No Comments 3891 views

“The earth has music for those who listen.” — William Shakespeare

In our fast-paced, urbanized world, where the constant hum of city life often drowns out the subtle symphony of nature, finding ways to integrate human and natural environments is increasingly crucial. Businesses are catching on – ForestLive.com, SoundsRight.earth, WeBelongHere.world, and suggest an untapped niche for the field of Landscape Architecture. Soundscape Ecology stands tall in the pursuit of radical synergy between human-made and nature-grown environments, incorporating music and acoustic design principles into landscape architecture. This innovative practice promises to enhance urban spaces, improve human well-being, and support ecological health by mitigating an increasing divide between human activities and the natural world.

The Challenge of Urban Noise
Recent research highlights the profound impact of urban noise on health and well-being. A study by McAlexander, Gershon, and Neitzel (2015) underscores the pervasive issue of street-level noise in cities, linking it to increased personal exposure and health risks. This research, along with recent developments such as the introduction of noise cameras in New York City (The Guardian, 2023), emphasizes the need for effective solutions to manage urban noise.

In this context, integrating acoustic design principles into landscape architecture offers a novel solution. By leveraging cymatics—the study of sound-induced patterns in physical matter—landscape architects can create environments that harmonize with natural soundscapes, potentially mitigating the negative effects of urban noise and enhancing overall quality of life.

The Impact of Noise on Health
Urban noise has long been recognized as a significant environmental stressor. According to McAlexander et al. (2015), street-level noise contributes to personal exposure and adverse health effects, including stress and cardiovascular issues. The study highlights the need for urban planning strategies that address noise pollution and promote healthier environments.

Recent advances in technology, such as noise cameras, are beginning to address these challenges. The Guardian (2023) reports that New York City has implemented noise cameras to monitor and reduce excessive noise levels, reflecting a growing recognition of the impact of noise pollution on urban health. This development aligns with the need for innovative design approaches that incorporate acoustic principles to create more harmonious urban environments.

Acoustic Design Principles in Landscape Architecture
Integrating acoustic design into landscape architecture involves creating environments that align with and enhance natural soundscapes. This approach not only improves aesthetic and sensory experiences but also addresses the challenges of urban noise pollution. Key findings from recent studies support this integration:

Enhancing Well-being: The research published in ScienceDirect (2024) highlights the positive effects of natural soundscapes on human well-being. Environments designed to reflect natural sound patterns can reduce stress, improve mental health, and foster a sense of tranquility. Acoustic design principles can thus be used to create spaces that mitigate the effects of urban noise and promote well-being.

Supporting Biodiversity: Effective acoustic design can also support urban biodiversity. The study from the International Journal of Advances in Science and Engineering Research (IJANSER) (2024) emphasizes the role of sound in attracting and sustaining wildlife in urban areas. By designing landscapes that mimic natural soundscapes, architects can create environments that enhance habitat connectivity and support diverse species.

Case Studies: Innovations in Acoustic Design
Several projects exemplify the successful integration of acoustic design in landscape architecture, drawing inspiration from art, music, and dance to create harmonious urban spaces.

The High Line, New York: This elevated park integrates soundscapes that complement both urban and natural environments, creating a harmonious space that bridges human and natural systems. The design incorporates elements that resonate with natural rhythms, enhancing both aesthetic appeal and ecological health.
The Eden Project, UK: Known for its biomes and diverse plant species, the Eden Project also integrates acoustic design principles. The project’s design enhances natural soundscapes, supporting human enjoyment and contributing to overall ecological health.
The Artful Garden, Nilsen Landscape Design: Drawing inspiration from art, music, and dance, this garden design incorporates elements that create a multisensory experience. According to Nilsen Landscape Design (2023), the use of sound as a design element can enhance the emotional and sensory connection between people and their environment, promoting a sense of tranquility and well-being.
Designing the Urban Soundscape, The Nature of Cities: This project emphasizes the importance of considering sound in urban design. By incorporating natural soundscapes into city planning, designers can create environments that reduce noise pollution and enhance the quality of urban life (The Nature of Cities, 2013).
Ode to Techno Club, Bureau A: In Zurich, Bureau A designed a space inspired by techno music, integrating sound and architecture in a way that enhances the sensory experience. This project demonstrates how sound can be a powerful design tool, influencing both the aesthetic and functional aspects of a space (Metalocus, 2023).

Challenges and Future Directions
While integrating acoustic design into landscape architecture offers exciting possibilities, several challenges must be addressed:

Balancing Needs: Designing spaces that meet both human and ecological needs requires careful planning. Architects must ensure that acoustic elements enhance rather than disrupt natural habitats and do not contribute to noise pollution.

Technical Limitations: Implementing acoustic design principles involves overcoming technical challenges, such as managing noise levels and ensuring effective soundscapes. Continued research and innovation are needed to address these challenges and improve design practices.

Policy and Regulation: Beyond innovative design, policy plays a crucial role in managing urban noise. Effective zoning laws, noise regulations, and enforcement mechanisms are essential to create environments that support both human health and ecological integrity. Policies that address issues such as helicopter noise in NYC, vehicles exceeding safe decibel levels, and the impact of popular landscapes are critical components of a comprehensive approach to urban noise management.

Public Awareness and Engagement: Raising public awareness about the impact of noise pollution and the benefits of acoustic design is essential. Community engagement in the planning and design process can help ensure that urban spaces meet the needs of residents and support ecological health. Educational campaigns and participatory design workshops can empower communities to advocate for healthier soundscapes.

Technological Innovations: Advances in technology offer new tools for managing urban noise and enhancing acoustic design. From noise cameras to sound-absorbing materials, innovative solutions can help mitigate the impact of noise pollution and create more harmonious environments. Integrating these technologies into landscape architecture requires ongoing research and collaboration across disciplines.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Acoustic Landscape Architecture
The integration of music and acoustic design principles into landscape architecture holds great promise for the future. Alongside the continued deployment and expansion of nature-based solutions, advances in technology and design methods will continue to open new possibilities for creating urban spaces that are both aesthetically pleasing and ecologically regenerative and sustainable. Future projects will likely explore more sophisticated ways to harmonize human and natural systems, enhancing both human experiences and ecological functions.

A Harmonious Future
The integration of music and acoustic design principles into landscape architecture represents a transformative approach to urban planning. By addressing the challenges of urban noise and supporting ecological health, this practice offers a pathway to more harmonious and sustainable urban environments. As we move forward, embracing these innovative practices can lead to spaces that resonate with the rhythms of life itself, enhancing our well-being and fostering a deeper connection with the natural world.

As Shakespeare wisely noted, “The earth has music for those who listen.” It’s time we tune in and harmonize our urban landscapes with the natural world. They have far exceeded a public health hazard. The future of landscape architecture lies not just in creating beautiful spaces but in crafting environments that ‘resonate’ with the natural rhythms of life.

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LEAD IMAGE: Created using Adobe Firefly by Blair Guppy

Author: Blair GUPPY