The proposal for phase IV of Nuevo Amancer was designed to create a project that evokes a sense of unity and interaction within the community.  After observing the existing spaces in the site, I came to realize what kind of spaces would work within this project.  The site is broken into 3 public spaces that interact with each cluster, thus giving each cluster a sense of belonging and unity with the rest of the building.  The main idea is to create courtyards which are defined by the clusters, thus resembling the plazas/courtyards that are seen throughout Mexican architecture. Each unit has a private space that gives them a sense of ownership.  Aside from this the site also contains a daycare and community center that is strategically placed on site. 

With regards to sustainability the main idea was to have cisterns for each cluster of dwellings that could capture the rain.  The captured rain could in turn be used throughout the site.  I calculated the amount of  rain that each rooftop could potentially capture. The main structure would have a wood framing system, which could potentially be pre-fabricated.  The roof would be made out of sips, given the ease of installing this material and its high R-value.  The use of radiant flooring would be a great addition to this project.

Overall I have learned a lot from this course, I have come to realize  how architecture can make a difference in the lives of the less fortunate.  Given my background, this project has been a great experience. This project has given me a sense of direction regarding the type of architecture I would like to purse.  

 “Every time we sit at a table at night or in the morning to enjoy the fruits and grain and vegetables from our good earth, remember that they come from the work of men and women and children who have been exploited for generations…”

Cesar Chavez

Here is the Case Study I looked at, hope it helps. Like you guys might recall this is a proposed low income housing project in New York, lockated near the Hudson River. Its a project by Teddy Cruz and David Deutsch, main goal is to integrate the poor into everyday life. I have also been looking at Rocio Romero, you might have heard of her, she focuses on prefab homes. http://www.rocioromero.com/

This site analyses shows the ecoregion of the Willamette Valley, it shows how the area has changed throughout the years. I have included site diagrams  which show the Willamette Valley at a large scale and have also shown the Woodburn area at a smaller scale. These maps show the existing rivers, wetlands, and large parks that inhabit the area.  Also check this article I found, about the Hispanic Community in Woodburn, Oregon.

As a first generation Mexican-American I have witnessed the many struggles that migrant farmworkers face on a daily basis. As I read through the articles, I couldn’t help but reminisce of my early childhood. Some of the fondest memories I have from my childhood were formed in the labor camp, the low income housing for agricultural workers where I lived. From making long lasting friendships to playing around without a care in the world, the memories are endless. One of the most memorable memories I have are of going to the laundromat, often on rainy days, with my mom. I’m not sure why my mom took me, maybe it had to do with the fact that other kids would be there as well. As the moms did laundry and gossiped during those couple of hours, we kids would roam around the laundry room and claim it as our playground. Occasionally one would hear ten cuidado( be carefull) or bajate de ahi (Get down from there) , always knowing that the moms were looking out for your safety. Aside from the obvious function the laundromats provided, it also acted as a gathering place where people got to know each other.

Today the majority of immigrant works come from Mexico and South America; the majority also work in the agriculture industry. One must take into consideration the adversities most immigrants have to face once they arrive. Many of them still have to find jobs and have to a learn how to speak the language (Kevin 2). Above all they often face harsh treatment from employers which, according to Rafael Hernandez, executive director of the Hispanic American Construction Industry Assn., “One of the challenges that always exists is the treatment of the workers- whether they are union or non-union? There is constant abuse, and many are not getting paid the proper wages” (Kevin 2). With this in mind, I believe it is beneficial in designing a proper space where potential(English) classes could be taught, furthermore educating migrant workers.Designing a daycare would be a great contribution for the migrant farm working community. Taking into account the long hours they work, this would be a great space where kids could be looked after.

Many migrant farm working families like to grow their own crops: corn, tomatoes, peppers, etc. The proper design of a community garden would be very welcoming in a community that works hands-on on a daily basis. When I go home many Latino residents grows their own crops regardless of the space they might obtain. For instance, where you would usually see a fence separating the public from private, vegetable plants start to take the place of a fence. We also need to keep in mind that many of the migrant farmworkers might not have families. In some cases they are young adults. Creating a space where outdoor activities can take place would be great.

I believe that we should design a project that responds to the needs of migrant works but at the same time keep it flexible design. Who knows, twenty years from now it could be a different group working in the agricultural fields.