Spurlock Poirier Landscape Architects Receives Two Prestigious Awards for Work on Mercado Del Barrio
Mixed-Use Development Recognized for Sustainability, Contribution to Revitalization of Barrio Logan
San Diego, CA, June 14, 2013 --(PR.com)-- Spurlock Poirier Landscape Architects – a San Diego firm known for its collaborative, ideas-driven approach to urban planning and design – has been honored from both the San Diego Architectural Foundation (SDAF) and the San Diego Section of the American Planning Association (SDAPA) for its visionary work on Mercado del Barrio, a residential and commercial development spanning 6.6 acres in the heart of San Diego’s Barrio Logan.
Spurlock Poirier was recognized with an “Outstanding Planning Project” award from SDAPA, the San Diego chapter of the national organization of people who work together for better-planned communities. The award was presented on April 30 at an event on the UC San Diego campus. On May 4, the Mercado received the 2013 Community Vision Award from the San Diego Architectural Foundation. The Community Vision Award recognizes outstanding urban infill projects, encourages community collaboration and promotes the implementation of sustainable, “smart growth” practices in revitalizing urban areas.
“Mercado del Barrio is reminiscent of my hometown in San Luis Potosi, Mexico,” said Associate Principal Rocio Gertler. “The project is highly adaptable and fits well into the surrounding community.”
Spurlock Poirier, working with Safdie Rabines Architects, conceived of Mercado del Barrio to honor the neighborhood’s rich cultural history, promote the arts and encourage local business. Designed as a neighborhood hub, the mixed-use, transit-oriented development connects Chicano Park to the San Diego Bay and incorporates a large plaza, affordable housing, commercial space, a community center, a Latin grocer, and a multitude of retail options and open spaces.
“The project is instrumental in transforming Barrio Logan into a walkable, green community filled with appealing and convenient retail and residential options,” said Leslee Schaffer, executive director of the SDAF. “The project is an important milestone in the continuing revitalization of San Diego’s urban neighborhoods, and demonstrates our longstanding commitment to sustainable – and livable – urban spaces and landscaping.”
According to Principal Andrew Spurlock, Mercado del Barrio also features an interactive water feature and splash pad, as well as a performance stage and seating. The LEED-certified project includes sustainable measures, such as porous pavers, a bioswale for stormwater collection and treatment, drought tolerant planting and over 100 new shade trees to reduce urban heat island effect.
Local art also plays an important role in the development. Complimenting the powerful murals at the adjacent Chicano Park, Spurlock Poirier and Safdie Rabines collaborated with regional and local artists to integrate new murals and mosaics into the architecture and open spaces.
About Spurlock Poirier Landscape Architects
Spurlock Poirier Landscape Architects provides an innovative, site-conditioned approach to planning and landscape architectural design.
The firm was established by Andrew Spurlock in 1988, and joined by Martin Poirier, who became a partner in 1990. Now known for its collaborative, ideas-driven approach to problem solving, Spurlock Poirier has developed particular skills in the design of places for rich, human experiences in both urban and natural environments. The firm has expertise in planning, parks, urban residential, mixed-use and institutional projects, as well as art in public places.
Both partners have been named fellows of the American Society of Landscape Architects. For more information, visit http://www.sp-land.com.
Spurlock Poirier was recognized with an “Outstanding Planning Project” award from SDAPA, the San Diego chapter of the national organization of people who work together for better-planned communities. The award was presented on April 30 at an event on the UC San Diego campus. On May 4, the Mercado received the 2013 Community Vision Award from the San Diego Architectural Foundation. The Community Vision Award recognizes outstanding urban infill projects, encourages community collaboration and promotes the implementation of sustainable, “smart growth” practices in revitalizing urban areas.
“Mercado del Barrio is reminiscent of my hometown in San Luis Potosi, Mexico,” said Associate Principal Rocio Gertler. “The project is highly adaptable and fits well into the surrounding community.”
Spurlock Poirier, working with Safdie Rabines Architects, conceived of Mercado del Barrio to honor the neighborhood’s rich cultural history, promote the arts and encourage local business. Designed as a neighborhood hub, the mixed-use, transit-oriented development connects Chicano Park to the San Diego Bay and incorporates a large plaza, affordable housing, commercial space, a community center, a Latin grocer, and a multitude of retail options and open spaces.
“The project is instrumental in transforming Barrio Logan into a walkable, green community filled with appealing and convenient retail and residential options,” said Leslee Schaffer, executive director of the SDAF. “The project is an important milestone in the continuing revitalization of San Diego’s urban neighborhoods, and demonstrates our longstanding commitment to sustainable – and livable – urban spaces and landscaping.”
According to Principal Andrew Spurlock, Mercado del Barrio also features an interactive water feature and splash pad, as well as a performance stage and seating. The LEED-certified project includes sustainable measures, such as porous pavers, a bioswale for stormwater collection and treatment, drought tolerant planting and over 100 new shade trees to reduce urban heat island effect.
Local art also plays an important role in the development. Complimenting the powerful murals at the adjacent Chicano Park, Spurlock Poirier and Safdie Rabines collaborated with regional and local artists to integrate new murals and mosaics into the architecture and open spaces.
About Spurlock Poirier Landscape Architects
Spurlock Poirier Landscape Architects provides an innovative, site-conditioned approach to planning and landscape architectural design.
The firm was established by Andrew Spurlock in 1988, and joined by Martin Poirier, who became a partner in 1990. Now known for its collaborative, ideas-driven approach to problem solving, Spurlock Poirier has developed particular skills in the design of places for rich, human experiences in both urban and natural environments. The firm has expertise in planning, parks, urban residential, mixed-use and institutional projects, as well as art in public places.
Both partners have been named fellows of the American Society of Landscape Architects. For more information, visit http://www.sp-land.com.
Contact
Spurlock Poirier
Sandy Young
619-295-7140
sp-land.com/
Sandy Young
619-295-7140
sp-land.com/
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