CATALPA

Catalpa is a conceptual study for a climate-adapted urban development network. The proposal takes its name from the Catalpa tree, a weedy species prevalent throughout Philadelphia and commonly viewed as a nuisance due to its organic refuse, aggressive propagation and ability to thrive in harsh environments. This model views the species through a proactive lens — physical resiliency, safe haven from the weather, dual-pollination (continual energy harvesting), locally available resource — as an analogy for developing the vacant lots and building shells that also fill the city. Catalpa examines how this replicable model can transform from a multigenerational resource center during “Ordinary Times” of clear skies and functioning infrastructure to a community ark during periods of “Disrupted Times” of increasingly extreme weather events. The study focuses on our ability to inventively transform neglected systems into cooperative opportunities for a regenerative future.