WETLAND REVIVAL CAMP
The selected site, Naval Air Station South Weymouth, is a suburb of Boston. The air base was operated until 1997 and nowadays, part of the site is being re-used for housing and other functions. The research on the site includes analysis of impervious surfaces, wetlands, flow direction, landfill locations and main streams.
The site has a large amount of impervious surface left from the air base. These impervious surfaces limit the rain water infiltration and affect the soil quality. Some parts of these surfaces such as asphalt and concrete, should be removed or re-functioned. The site has a large amount of wetlands consisting of a core and a buffer zone. These wetlands’ connection was disturbed with the taxiways and runways. Additional water can be harvested into the wetlands in order to provide connection. Stream analysis shows that taxiways and runways also cut the continuity, some parts of these surfaces should be removed and streams can be revitalized.
In addition to the analysis, site has a flat topographical characteristics. Cut and fill method can be used to control rainwater, connect wetlands and create more playful topography for the campers.
Project Location: South Weymouth, MA
Project Size: 898,000 sf
Project Type: Educational
Project Year: 2024
Schematic Site Plan
Cut and fill method is proposed to create a more playful landscape and have control over rainwater harvesting strategies. The areas being cut are used to connect the wetlands and the streams while fill areas (hills) help managing the direction of the water runoff. Cut areas will be used for public spaces since they offer visual connection among people, and the fill areas will accommodate the camping cabins and activities that require more privacy.
Tectonic System
Cut and fill method allows to implement earth sheltered construction inside of the hills. Cross Laminated Timber construction system and Glulam are proposed with corrugated metal panel roof structure, blending into the topography.
Three different types of cabin designs are proposed. These types differ by the different variations of the hills. Depending on which direction will the water be directed, the relationship between the hills and cabins change. This difference also allows daylight access from different angles.
Cabin Prototype I
This is the largest cabin type wıth having openings on both east and west side. Together with the hill, it directs rainwater to the south and north. It has structural corrugated metal plates and CLT columns and beam structure.
Cabin Prototype II
This cabin type has a large opening on west façade and complimentary fenestration facing south. It also has structural corrugated metal plates and CLT as a construction material.
Cabin Prototype III
This prototype has opening only on south facade. It has the same structural system as the other prototypes.
Public Building Type
Public building type has the most flexible and open structure since it requires the least privacy. Different than the cabin types, it has Glulam structural system.
Semi-public Building Type
Semi-public building type has some parts under the earth, and it has more flexible and open structure compared to the cabin types due to its privacy factors.
