As news spreads about this wonderful addition, we have received some great questions. They are listed below. Please don’t hesitate to send us an email if you have additional questions.
“How does the structure provide shade?”
The design shown is a preliminary rendering that does not include a removable tensile (fabric) covering of the stage area. Later design images will show this critical and adjustable part. The fins or slats attached to the outer frame of the structure will also provide varying degrees of filtered light to constant shade as the day passes. The shade level will be more substantial in the inner ends of the structure where you will find built-in bench seating. Seating along the perimeter of the structure will also be shady at various times of the day. Tree plantings will contribute additional shade and cooling to the area. It is good to keep in mind that the structure is multi-purpose (functional and artistic) while allowing high-visibility through the structure to other areas of the park. This design/build studio is a fluid process and as such elements of the structure will evolve as we receive more feedback.
Why is the stage placed where it is?
Won’t people be potentially walking in front of the performance?
Why not move it back closer to the trees?
• A performance area or stage has been in the DCP master plan, in that location, for at least 3 years
• The stage needs to be connected to the path for ADA compliance
• We want to minimize the amount of impervious surface. Joining the performance area to the sidewalk also allows the sidewalk to be incorporated into the performance area if needed.
• Because the sidewalk is in front of the stage, people may end up walking in front of the performance, however, it is important to the park to make the structure ADA compliant. Once a performance starts we think most passer-bys will choose to walk around just because Durham-ites are nice.
When will construction begin?
We anticipate starting construction in July. It should be noted that the “Design Studio” is a Summer project of NCSU Department of Design. The students, who are participating in this project, by designing and building this structure, must complete it by the end of the summer semester. Using this approach provides an unprecedented value to the project. If built commercially, the project cost would be more then double our budgeted $30,000.
