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whitney trailhead prototype
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The Whitney Trailhead Prototype is an opportunity to replace an outdated and inadequate trailhead structure for the Mt. Whitney trail with a more comprehensive and informative interpretive center. It will inform and inspire visitors at different levels. In addition to serving the fundamental function of an interpretive center for the trail, the structure will reveal a unique and sensitive relationship between architecture and nature. Furthermore, the project will establish a relationship between the College of Environmental Design at UC Berkeley and the National Forest Service for future collaborations. |
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As a continuation of our investigations in Prof. Mark Anderson's graduate design studio dealing with the Inyo National Forest, the Whitney Trailhead Prototype is a synthesis of our understanding of the methods and the materials necessary to sustain a meaningful backcountry experience. The project will be an intensive design and build process combining UC Berkeley graduate students and Prof. Mark Anderson. Prefabricated offsite, the structure will be designed and built in a manner that significantly reduces negative environmental impact while enhancing the Whitney Trailhead site. Another benefit of prefabrication is the possibility of producing multiple trailhead structures based on the initial design and using them throughout the National Forest system. |
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We will begin by working closely with the Forest Service to develop a design direction and a more thorough understanding of the proposed site. Once a direction has been established, the team will spend three weeks designing and detailing the trailhead structure. Once the design is finalized, materials will be ordered to begin building. A significant amount of fabrication will occur in the UC Berkeley Shop and then be delivered to the Whitney Trailhead for any additional site specific construction. It is our hope that this project will lead to opportunities for other student teams to build structures for other sites in the National Forest System. |
