4. Invasive Species: A project for memorizing Ellis Island
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Vertical Garden of Invasive Species: A Living Archive
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Antoine Lavoisier
"Nothing is lost, everything transforms."
This project transforms Ellis Island into a vertical garden that celebrates the resilience and adaptability of invasive species, reimagining their role as symbols of cultural and natural exchange. Inspired by the seeds brought by immigrants, the design integrates structural optimization and environmental systems, such as ropes and sprinklers, to create a self-sustaining, translucent ecosystem. Positioned as a bridge between two islands, the project harmonizes with the Statue of Liberty, emphasizing growth, diversity, and coexistence.
The garden unfolds across three vertical layers: pools at the base, immersive middle gardens, and elevated viewing stands. Each platform serves as an archive for a specific family of invasive species, inviting visitors to explore and reflect on their histories and transformations. This dynamic space offers a poetic metaphor for the immigrant experience, blending nature and culture to create a vibrant sanctuary where people, like birds, can wander and play, celebrating the beauty of interconnectedness and growth.