Student Concepts for Dunbar's Future

From big ideas to reality, the Industrial Design and Architecture students are embracing the ideation phase of their projects. The Architecture students are tasked with designing a resilience hub for the Dunbar community, while the Industrial Design students are creating products and systems that will support the hub and strengthen community pride and culture. A resilience hub is a safe, accessible space that serves both everyday needs and critical demands during times of crisis. These hubs provide power, shelter, emergency resources, and food. They also foster community connection, build social resilience, and promote autonomy for neighborhoods and residents. Students are exploring a wide range of ideas for the hub, including community composting, improved bus stops, a chicken coop system, and modular dividers that adapt for emergency use and other functions.

The initial concepts are being rapidly tested and refined by thinking through sketching. For both disciplines, the process of quickly putting ideas onto paper (or digital canvas) is crucial for translating abstract concepts into tangible forms. This loose, dynamic approach allows students to communicate complex structural and product ideas instantly to their peers and mentors, receiving fast feedback that drives iteration. Whether illustrating the placement of a new system or detailing the joints of a divider, sketching is not about creating a final image, it’s about visual problem-solving, ensuring their designs are practical, culturally resonant, and truly meet the resilience needs of the Dunbar community.

On the architecture side, our studio has shifted gears from research into design development, moving from broad concepts to testing real spatial strategies. Students are organizing their programs and sharpening ideas rooted in the history and identity of the Dunbar community. Last week, we had critiques at Focal studio, which gave us the push we needed to refine and challenge our design moves as we prepare for mid reviews. The projects are branching out in exciting directions, with some tackling food access, others reimagining spaces for gathering and cultural exchange. The energy in the studio is high, and we're all looking forward to sharing our progress and seeing what we can collectively bring to life.