The vernacular will act to bridge the gap between the segregated spaces and represent the stability and safety of southside Syracuse. These ceremonial spaces must be welcoming and allow for a sense of familiarity; members will reunite to pursue their religious or political beliefs and create a new sense of community.

 

The project began by studying the surrounding context and vernacular which we found to be mostly American foursquare and victorian housing. We chose to study the current vernacular not only because of its abundance in the immediate surrounding and also much of America but also because we wanted to design a community center that is familiar and comforting to the residents of this community. Therefore, we studied the formal aspects of these housing types and examined what is essential and what can be built upon to improve this style.