Tuesday, September 2, 2008
Phoebe Crisman Wins VSAIA Prize for Design Research and Scholarship
RICHMOND, VA -It is difficult to imagine that a contaminated and neglected peninsula along the Elizabeth River in Chesapeake, Virginia, was a source of inspiration for award-wining research in architecture and design. Phoebe Crisman’s work on three associated projects in this fragile, contaminated ecosystem is the winner of the 2008 Virginia Society of the American Institute of Architects Prize for Design Research and Scholarship.
In 1967, a catastrophic fire released huge quantities of creosote, resulting in high levels of toxins in the soil, ground water and river sediment in an area called Money Point located along the Elizabeth River. Crisman and her collaborators developed urban planning and building strategies designed to help regenerate the ecology of the area and a set of guidelines for sustainable development of the river uplands. Complementing the research and guidelines was the development of the Learning Barge - a floating classroom that provides interactive education for all ages about the area’s ecosystem and the restoration efforts. Referred to as "spectacular collaborations" by lead juror, Cesar Pelli, FAIA, the jury felt that the submission was a good reflection of the integration of architectural design, practice and education. Crisman is an Associate Professor at the University of Virginia and partner in Crisman + Petrus Architects.
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