Rainscape
Creating a Community Field House with Sustainable Rainwater Integration
January 2024 to May 2024
Site: Ann Arbor
Instructor: Salam Rida
Individual Studio Work
The studio task is to design a field house incorporating a specified program, an indoor soccer field. The project also requires a thorough analysis of the surrounding site conditions and the community it serves, ensuring the design responds to both environmental and social contexts. Located near the Huron River, this project reimagines the fieldhouse as a sustainable and community-focused space. Rainwater collection and utilization are central to the design, transforming the structure into a dynamic hub for environmental engagement.
In Ann Arbor, the RiverSafe Project, a community-led initiative, aims to protect the waters of the Huron River and increase rainwater infiltration across Washtenaw County. Building on this local effort, a rain garden in the design becomes more than just an aesthetic feature; it serves as a vital environmental tool. The garden strengthens the connection between architecture and nature, while actively contributing to the preservation of the Huron River ecosystem and supporting the community’s values of conservation and sustainability.
A community sauna is also intergrated, using grey water for storing heat as a circular economy approach. The rain garden, acting as a centerpiece, offers hands-on environmental education and encourages a deeper appreciation for Ann Arbor resident’s sustainable living.
Field House
This map highlights the educational institutions and sports facilities in Ann Arbor, serving a wide range of age groups and fostering community engagement. The proposed soccer field house aims to provide a multifunctional space that supports both athletic pursuits and community interaction, enhancing the city’s overall infrastructure.
Map of Educational Institutions and Sports Facilities in Ann Arbor
Water Collections
The RiverSafe Program educates residents on reducing stormwater pollution through simple, everyday practices.
After a storm, stormwater may take various pathways after leaving urban property. Rainwater harvesting systems like rain barrels and rain gardens can help capture stormwater, reducing runoff and supporting water conservation.
The RiverSafe Homes program in Washtenaw County helps residents reduce water pollution by providing tips on protecting water quality through everyday actions. Community efforts like installing rain barrels and creating rain gardens also contribute to increasing rainwater infiltration and preserving the Huron River ecosystem.
The layout of the building is designed to serve both athletic and community needs. It includes a indoor soccer field for players of all ages, providing a space for recreation. Additionally, a public sauna is integrated, offering relaxation for both athletes and community members. A café invites social interaction, creating a welcoming environment for visitors, while an accessible ramp ensures that the entire facility is inclusive and easy to navigate for everyone.
Plan
Diagram of Water Collections
The collected rainwater is recycled within the building, serving multiple functions beyond providing grey water for restrooms. It is used to irrigate the indoor soccer field’s turf and to assist in insulating the sauna, enhancing both sustainability and functionality.
During the drier winter months, the garden transforms into a flexible activity platform, providing space for community gatherings and events. Throughout the year, it remains an active and dynamic feature, blurring the boundaries between inside and outside, and bringing the essence of the outdoors into the heart of the building.
Renders
As a community activity center, the design serves Ann Arbor’s diverse population while reflecting the city’s commitment to sustainability and protecting the Huron River. It provides inclusive spaces for recreation and social interaction, while features like the rain garden and water reuse systems align with Ann Arbor’s environmental values and ecological goals.