Question 7

Q: Embracing international flair is a hallmark of your work. Could you share an instance where cultural diversity inspired a design approach, resulting in a solution that resonated deeply with the local community while also pushing boundaries?

A: One recent example is the conceptual design we have developed for the Historic Depot Plaza in Fresno, which seeks to activate a currently vacant area in front of the existing Depot building as an open space for the community before the new High-Speed Train Station gets constructed. Drawing from extensive and interactive input from the communty and stakeholders, as well as international and national examples of similar places, we developed a design that includes some flexibility in terms of uses and plaza features to ensure that the space will meet the needs of the community. In order to create an attractive plaza that will integrate the Depot and its possible outdoor dining or event spaces, the necessary vehicular access is limited to loading and emergency vehicles. This approach requires some non-standard solutions such movable bollards, pavement materials, and vehicular areas that read as part of the plaza - pretty much like a shared street concept that has been successful in other countries. Similarly, the new HSR Station will have generous public plazas with priority access to public transit, taxis, rideshare services, bikes, and pedestrians