For Conceptual Use Only
Seven Generations Architecture and Engineering in collaboration with WBK Engineering to participate in a community project competition to transform the Village of North Aurora’s silo into a destination for the community to enjoy. The concept created an icon, anchored by the silo, integrated into a park site setting with activity as a centerpiece. The vision begins with the transformation of a visual liability into a community icon fostering activity, sense of place for the community with respect for the culture, ecology, and heritage of the site.
The center of the concept revolves around the existing concrete grain silo. We envision a transformation of the silo into a distinctive and recognizable architectural icon that will help establish a North Aurora “brand.” The vertical mass of the silo is articulated with the addition of relatively simple architectural features including window and awning elements. An external observation deck is located approximately one third of the height of the silo and facilitates a zip line station crossing the Fox River. An internal staircase extends to the top of the silo to an internal observatory deck with unmatched vistas of the Fox River and opportunities for viewing wildlife and bird-watching.
Directly adjacent to the silo, a one-story curved food and beverage concession building enhanced with an open play area, seating area, and water feature. The concessions and seating areas offer a respite for bicyclists, fishermen, walkers and families wanting to picnic by the river. The commercial aspect of this area is balanced with incorporation of native stone, landscape, and plant materials into the site with public education plaques on topics including wildlife, plants, watershed, and geologic information.
The center of the concept revolves around the existing concrete grain silo. We envision a transformation of the silo into a distinctive and recognizable architectural icon that will help establish a North Aurora “brand.” The vertical mass of the silo is articulated with the addition of relatively simple architectural features including window and awning elements. An external observation deck is located approximately one third of the height of the silo and facilitates a zip line station crossing the Fox River. An internal staircase extends to the top of the silo to an internal observatory deck with unmatched vistas of the Fox River and opportunities for viewing wildlife and bird-watching.
Directly adjacent to the silo, a one-story curved food and beverage concession building enhanced with an open play area, seating area, and water feature. The concessions and seating areas offer a respite for bicyclists, fishermen, walkers and families wanting to picnic by the river. The commercial aspect of this area is balanced with incorporation of native stone, landscape, and plant materials into the site with public education plaques on topics including wildlife, plants, watershed, and geologic information.