An alley you’d want to walk through
My Role:
Design, Research, and Strategy
Focus
Experience Design, Spatial Design, Sustainable Design, Systems Design, Interaction Design, Social Design, Prototyping
Revitalizing Downtown Madison
Downtown Madison, like many urban centers, faced significant challenges in the wake of the pandemic. The shift to remote work emptied offices, reduced public transit usage, and decreased foot traffic. Small businesses struggled to stay afloat, and many closed their doors for good. With fewer events and tourists, Downtown Madison risked losing its identity as a vibrant hub. Recognizing this urgent need for revitalization, Downtown Madison Inc. stepped in, determined to restore the heart of the city and ensure it remains a safe and inviting space for all.
The struggles of a forgotten space
Among the areas needing attention is Hawthorne Court, a neglected alley that serves as a shortcut linking bustling State Street to University Avenue. Despite its strategic location, the alley's imposing design and rising crime rates have tarnished its reputation, making it feel unsafe for residents and visitors alike. With a proposed new development nearby featuring residential units, retail spaces, and an intermodal bus station, Hawthorne Court presents a unique opportunity to evolve into a vibrant, welcoming space that enriches the community rather than diminishes it.
A new proposal near Hawthorne Court aims to revitalize the area as a vibrant community space
Researching community needs
To better understand how to improve Hawthorne Court, research was conducted to identify what local users wanted from the space. The findings from the research are presented below and highlight the key elements essential for creating safer public spaces where people feel comfortable and engaged.
🌿Greenery🌿
“I wish there were more trees here.”
💡Lighting💡
“The space seems dark and dingy.”
👫Community👫
“An inclusive space fosters community.”
Our innovative design solution
To better understand how to improve Hawthorne Court, research was conducted to identify what local users wanted from the space. The findings from the research are presented below and highlight the key elements essential for creating safer public spaces where people feel comfortable and engaged.
In response to community feedback, we crafted a design that reimagines Hawthorne Court as a vibrant gathering place. The final concept includes:
- Piezoelectric Tiles: These innovative tiles generate energy as people walk over them, illuminating the alley while powering nearby businesses.
- Biomorphic Lighting: Inspired by nature, leaf-shaped lights enhance safety and create a calming atmosphere in the urban environment.
- Interactive Art: Curved LED screens will showcase rotating artwork from local artists, turning the alley into a lively cultural hub.
To bring this vision to life, we built a physical prototype using colorful acrylic sheets to represent the piezoelectric tiles and LED screens. This prototype offers a tangible glimpse of how Hawthorne Court can evolve into a dynamic community space.
Current state of Hawthorne Court
Proposed intervention
Impact on the community
Piezopath has the potential to transform Hawthorne Court into a landmark that fosters community engagement. By collaborating with local businesses, artists, and community leaders, we aim to enhance the neighborhood, increase foot traffic, and support local commerce. The technology behind the piezoelectric tiles and interactive screens not only reduces energy costs but also opens up new revenue opportunities. Future initiatives, such as Bluetooth-enabled apps and energy tracking, will further boost user engagement and create a replicable model for sustainable urban spaces in other cities. Through these efforts, Downtown Madison can reclaim its identity as a lively hub that reflects the spirit of its community while ensuring safety and accessibility for all.