PROJECT DESCRIPTION

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This project, commissioned by the Cook County Forest Preserves—an ecologically diverse group of open spaces in one of the most densely populated counties in the US—aims to commemorate the preserves’ centennial and help the region envision alternative possibilities for the future. To develop the project, we worked with a team of architects, naturalists, curators, and engineers to develop new models for preserve interpretation that go beyond conventional “show and tell” signage.

To accomplish these goals, we installed interpretive elements, including serial metal signs, stone benches and tables, metal bridge railings, and stone disks at multiple locations within each forest preserve. These elements draw visitors’ attention to natural themes of land, sky, and water, while serving as experiments in interpreting these special sites’ unique topography. Large stone tables contain topographic and trail maps; bridges span swamps while including information about the adjacent habitat; stone benches and disks provide information about ecosystems; and bent metal signs announce each interpretive node. By design, the materials and forms are experiential and secondary to nature—prompting both curiosity and reflection. Combining social innovation, typographic craft, and material experimentation, the interpretive trails aim to support local ecologies and economies and improve the human experience.

 

PROJECT INFORMATION

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Entry Type: Single Entry

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Channel: Immersive

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Primary Role of the Designer: Designer as change agent

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Client Relationship: Unknown (NA) / Other (if other, please explain) NA

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Intention of the Project: Unknown (NA) / Other (if other, please explain) NA

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Development Budget: Confidential / Not available

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Production/Execution Budget: Confidential / Not Available

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Source of Funding: Nonprofit/NGO/trust fund

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CREDIT INFORMATION

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Creative Director: Cheryl Towler Weese

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Art Director:

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Designers: Hillary Geller; J. Brad Sturm; Tuan Pham

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Other Credits: Openlands - Non-profit partner; Wheeler Kearns Architects - Architect; Lisa Roberts - Curator; Dan Kircher - Chief landscape architect, Forest Preserves of Cook County; Dan Wheeler - Principal, Wheeler Kearns Architects; Linda Masters - Creative consultant and project manager, Openlands; Tom Rossiter - Photographer

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