The Traces of Time - Landscape Design

About the Project

The designated site is situated in proximity to the East Gate of Nanjing Forestry University. It lies to the west of Building 9 of the College of Engineering, adjacent to Lockin Village Phase II on the eastern side. Furthermore, it is in close proximity to Nan Da Shan Apartments and the Landscape Experimental Center of Nanjing Forestry University.

Presently, the site presents as a verdant expanse with a gently undulating topography, sandwiched between roads that exhibit varying inclinations on either flank. The northern and southern aspects of the roadways exhibit an elevation of approximately 7 meters, resulting in a complex range of height differentials. The site encompasses a grassy incline that ascends at its center and slopes gently towards its peripheries, showcasing disparities in elevation ranging from 0 to 3 meters. Portions of the incline are characterized by steep gradients, while others adopt a more gradual slope.

Within the existing site, several mature tall trees grace the landscape, offering an aesthetically pleasing aspect that could be partially retained. The original linear floral beds, herbaceous plants, and shrubbery can be refurbished and reconfigured, attaining a harmonious equilibrium between heritage preservation and revitalization efforts.

Starting the Project

The primary challenge inherent in this project revolves around addressing the distinctive and unconventional topography of the site. Positioned on a slope and boasting a notable incline itself, the site is further enriched by the presence of several mature and towering trees that encapsulate the cultural heritage of the campus. While the option to level the land and commence anew existed, a decision was reached to fashion the design while cherishing the site's original attributes. The shade provided by American walnut and triangle maple trees witnessed Professor Lu's exposition of the curriculum to successive cohorts of landscape architecture students.

With an utmost reverence for the site's innate characteristics, the design process was initiated, cognizant of the encompassing traffic patterns and pedestrian movements. This entailed refining the layout of transportation and integrating functional precincts. The culminating plan crystallized in the following manner.

Ultimately, the project was presented through a handcrafted group collaboration, and subsequently, I embarked on crafting an electronic rendition of the same.

Results Presentation

Summary

In the perpetual hustle of life, individuals often find themselves engaged in ceaseless activities, yet it's all too common that these undertakings lack profound significance. Time speeds by, leaving behind a sense of insignificance in its wake. Amidst this whirlwind, the ground they stand upon, once graced by poets, traversed by galloping horses, stirred by dust, and adorned with falling leaves, goes unnoticed. Could it be that recording these fleeting moments is a way to tether the past across the passage of time, inviting it into the present? So, if your schedule permits, how about taking a leisurely stroll here? By doing so, you might sense a thread of connection weaving through time itself.

As part of this assignment, I found myself redrawing countless A2 sheets of paper, yet somehow, the perfect aerial perspective still eluded me. As I proceeded to translate these sketches into a digital format, the intricacies of the site's undulating terrain posed numerous challenges throughout the modeling process. Regardless, I find myself relatively content with the final rendition, and on a personal note, I've developed a fondness for this particular design.