Problem Description:

This studio explored building in an ecotone, between the built and natural environment of an oasis on the edge of a desert. The program under investigation was a Water Museum to be located in City Creek Canyon. The museum’s location, in a canyon that delivers water to the desert valley from alpine mountain snow runoff, recognizes City Creek’s importance in the development of Salt Lake City. The museum's role is to not only inform the public, regarding water use and policy, but to celebrate water in every form. Ultimately, the museum’s purpose is to carry water to its rightful place in consciousness.

Through a series of charette assignments, precedent research studies, readings, films, class discussions and guest lectures, three main aspects of water were explored: physical/environmental, cultural/historical and spiritual/ritual. The explorations were intended to coincide with, inform and inspire the design process.

The water museum was conceived by Stephen Goldsmith, former Salt Lake City Planning Director, who acted as client/critic for the studio. Richard Fernau, Laura Hartman and Verl Adams were the studio instructors.