The Mutant Colony

Urban Presentation Sheet (Artwork), 33.1 inches x 46.8 inches, 2024 

Ahmed Inzamam Chowdhury, Master of Environmental Design, Environmental Design, Year 1 

Artwork Description: University District in Calgary is known for being the first community in Alberta to receive LEED-ND platinum status. The area consists of parks, recreational facilities, housing, public amenities, and other attractions for the public(1). Central Commons Park is one of the public spaces with three acres of land (2) and several features for spending time with family and friends. The corridor leads visitors into the park's heart, while the corridor culminates in the fireplace surrounded by pathways. The challenge of establishing access to the north of Central Commons Park of the University District was effectively resolved through the strategic design of the access corridor, incorporating a unique design structure. This solution aligns with the concept of 'in-between architecture’, which can be identified as a method for problem-solving if we visualize it from different aspects. The core program of the intervention incorporates a shelter for the public, space for social gatherings, outdoor entertainment, preparation space for surrounding buildings, observation points, space for student interaction and socialization, opportunity for co-creation and placemaking, scope for expansion, space for relaxing, and space for playful environment for children. The idea is that each of the boxes/modules of the structure can be interpreted as a group of cells of a body, exhibiting diverse characteristics within the colony while connected as part of the whole structure. Hence the term used for the project 'The Mutant Colony'. The dimensions of each grid are 4m x4m, with 14 grids on each floor, two floors in total. Primary materials are steel and fabric (polyester) for shading or partition. Stairs incorporated for vertical circulation and access to observation points. Several viewpoints are added to provide different experiences. Interactive places for children and student space are proposed for the engagement of locals. The structure can be visualized as enhancing the experience of the pedestrians and people walking by and energizing them through the in-between space. Local stakeholders of the project include Local/ Community Residents of the University District, The City of Calgary, the University of Calgary Properties Group Ltd. (UCPG), urban designers & engineers, builders/construction workers, and the students of the University of Calgary. The project's projected completion may include 12 weeks, with the first four weeks involving design idea initiation and finalization. Documents may be submitted between weeks 5 and 8, and construction and placemaking will take place in the remaining weeks. Project risks may be related to financial constraints, construction delays, or even visual connection issues in the urban environment, all of which have a mitigation strategy associated with it. 

Artist's Bio:  Ahmed Inzamam Chowdhury is a graduate student at the University of Calgary pursuing a Master's in Environmental Design with a focus on flood-resilient coastal settlements. He actively contributed to his university community as a teaching assistant and holds voluntary roles as CRO and awards committee member within the Graduate Students' Association. In addition to his passion for serving the community, he has published a paper on teaching pedagogy in urban design studios, outlining the learning experience during the pandemic. Outside of academia, Inzamam enjoys sketching, photography, traveling, and sports. These interests fuel his creativity and enrich his understanding of diverse environments and cultures. 

Artist's statement: My design work is fueled by a passion for blending functionality with minimalism. My inspiration stems from a deep desire to contribute to the community and address real-world issues like climate change. While simplicity is at the core of my approach, I try to draw my design ideas from nature. By honing my observation skills, I aim to capture nature's offerings and translate this knowledge into tangible designs that promote a better environment. 

Artist's contact info: ahmedinzamamchowdhury@gmail.com