Yutong Zhao & Lily Zhao
Bridge Library
The project site is located in the West Garfield Park neighborhood of Chicago, it is one of the most dangerous neighborhoods in Chicago with the highest crime rate. The race with the largest proportion in the neighborhood is black or African American, and the level of education is mostly high school and below. At the same time, this neighborhood is also a gathering place for many small and medium gangs. Therefore, this tiny library will serve as an existence linking major gangs and surrounding residents mentally and physically in the form of a bridge. The library itself is composed of two parts. The first part is the four interior programs located on the lower level of the bridge: study room, meeting room, lecture room and library collection room. The second part is a public outdoor rooftop for people to gather. The upper and lower parts are connected by ramps, stairs, and a watchtower.
Art Statement
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Color brings beauty to the world. In the process of civilization, human’s pursuit of beauty evokes their inspiration to apply color in architecture. Color adds infinite charm to architecture by conveying the accumulations of the natural environment and culture. When I was growing up, I lived in different cities and countries. My life experiences offered me opportunities to explore the relations of architecture, culture, and city. I often seek opportunities to explore how color informs the architecture under the particular culture of a place. I applied my understanding of multiple elements to my projects, such as color, culture, atmosphere, and so on. Each city and region has its special environment and culture and I believe architecture should have meaningful communications with its circumstances.