This project seeks to transform the Arena Green Park in San Jose into an iconic landmark for the city. The park, best know as the confluence point between the Guadalupe River and the Los Gatos Creek, was an important area for Native Americans who inhabited the region. This project takes its formal inspiration from the art of basketry, an important art form for Native Americans. With its spiraling ascending paths, the project connects today’s innovation and technology, with the people, culture, and history of San Jose, thus creating an important connection between the park’s past and present.
From W Santa Clara St, on the south-east corner of the park, a ramp welcomes visitor traveling from downtown, one of the most transited paths today, to the two eastern spirals. After visiting the two summits, visitors can cross along a vegetated bridge which allows for views across the Guadalupe River and the confluence point to the west side of the park. On the west, two other spirals anchor the park on its north-west corner to future urban developments. Closer to the SAP Center, on the south west corner of the site, a new stepped plaza connects to the existing five skaters’ sculptures, while the fourth of the spiral towers allows for views of what is now the most active corner of the site. The proposal’s unique planning which occupies arena green East and West, is designed to be easily phased.
These ascending spiraling paths are sloped at a 1:20 incline, designed to be wheelchair accessible without the need for steps or mechanical devices. Lighting on the spirals will be limited to a thin line along the edge of the spiral using green light, the least disruptive to the natural habitat and only illuminated during special events. From the highway as well as throughout the city, the tallest spiral 130’ in height, will stand out as an iconic marker for the millions of people who will visit each year.
At the base the project takes inspiration from the local topography-- sites such as the Alumn Rock hills, and Coyote creek trails-- occupiable hills allow visitors to sit beneath the shade of the spiraling structures and enjoy a performance in the park while looking over the park's open esplanade. Ascending from the base, spiraling paths generate more than 1.5 miles of new elevated walkways which graze the canopies of existing trees. The walkways' generous size would be host to native plants an will increase the habitat of local birds. Some regions of the park will serve as local community gardens where locals can even plant and tend to their own gardens. The paths culminate in 4 exciting summits with iconic views of the city and the park.
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