Akron, better known as the “Rubber City” for its history of tire production in North America. We are carrying out a project with the aim of generating transformation in the central area, to change the current model of urban planning and the way of life of the residents.

The interesting natural process of obtaining rubber has been the source of inspiration for this urban intervention, located in the central area of ​​the city of Akron. Through geometric patterns, the project seeks to generate a carpet of color that is linked to the history of the city and the use of the material to manufacture tires.

CONTEXT

For nearly 200 years, Akron, Ohio, has been the birthplace of ideas, systems, products and inventions that have had an unequivocally positive impact on the world and its citizens.

Strategically resolved, Akron's geographic location has been leveraged throughout its history, from waterways, highway systems, and air transportation. Likewise, its identity has become a fertile landscape of inspiration and creation. Ideas have always flourished, bringing substantial improvements and advancements to every facet of Akron's community's production.

Today, Downtown Akron is working strategically to make downtown more attractive to people.

Based on the urban characteristics and user analysis developed by Gehl Architects, an intervention plan has been developed that includes the construction of leisure infrastructure, improved lighting, the expansion of cultural offerings for young people and the implementation of artistic interventions that help activate squares and other public spaces.

Our intervention is an opportunity to create a more human and welcoming downtown and to highlight Akron's identity from a creative perspective.

PROJECT

The word "rubber" comes from the Taino word "cauchu", which means "weeping tree". This concept comes from the process of extracting latex through incisions in the trunk of rubber trees, from which this precious liquid slowly flows.

The inspiring geometric shapes that the first rubber tappers traced on the bark of these trees remind us that there is a fascinating beauty if we explore the roots of the manufacturing processes that today form part of the inseparable history of our cities.

These shapes represent the origin of a great city and we believe they can be a powerful identity to help Akron look to the future.

The pattern adapts to the shape of the square, invading the entire space with playful overlays of color. It is an abstract design that engages with the adjacent buildings and streets in a new way.

These simple triangular prisms are arranged in the pattern created by the floor design, creating a surprising urban labyrinth. The installation aims to confront the viewer with a new architecture and contribute to changing the perspective of the city centre towards an exciting place full of spaces for leisure and creativity.

COLLABORATIVE PROCESS

Throughout the process, we have had a lot of commitment from residents across the city, but especially from the students at the STEM school, located right on the square they cross every day on their way to school. We designed several activities and workshops with the students, to design models of the square and proposals for the distribution of the prism, as well as to look for suitable words that we could use. It was a good excuse to present the project to them and create a feeling of empowerment in them.