A class i'm taking this semester is called "The Art and Ecology of Landscape Detail". Basically, taking that cool looking design and figuring out how it can be built. One of the best parts of it is that we're actually working on a project which will actually be built on the U of M Campus and right in front of a portion of Rapson Hall. (To be more specific, between Rapson Hall and Mechanical Engineering.)

The plan is to create a more engaging public space that includes land form and seating as well as more space for parking bikes as the current bike racks are always parked to capacity. We're trying to be as sustainable as possible with this project by re-using materials already on site, preserving existing trees and keeping all runoff on site. We plan to use a permeable paver system. These pavers allow water to infiltrate through the brick joints and down through the gravel sub-base and back into the soil to recharge the water table below.

These pavers are becoming more and more prevalent as cities begin to require new construction to keep all water run-off on their site to reduce the amount of water entering the underground storm water pipes.

Also, the Deans Reception at the College of Design is coming up on February 25th, looking forward to hopefully seeing you all there and answering any questions you might have!

Take care,
Eric