Framing the Hedge: Weaving Kin and Community

The centrally located, historic neighborhoods of Ramsay and Inglewood revealed a seeping typology and cultural convergences that result in a network of trace entities constricted by rivers, topography, rail, and industrial remnants. Heritage status paired with its isolation has created a unique identity valued within Calgary and spurred investment that will increase residential density and connect the community through a new Light Rail Transit (LRT) line. Gaps in the connection between Ramsay and Inglewood hinder pedestrian flow, and with the projected population increase there is a need to reveal porosity by stitching together these two neighborhoods through common form and redeveloped public spaces. In the master planning phase, we envisioned to create a hedgerow system along proposed pedestrian corridors that weave the community together through a common and historically present type, converging at the future LRT Station between the two communities. The project focuses on the redevelopment of a current public park along the hedgerow, aiming to form a new community gathering space that bridges historic presence and modern development, current residents, and new. This proposed park is uniquely situated between a senior’s residence, historic single-family homes, and proposed multi-family development. These convergences necessitate a public park with a strong directional spine and intergenerational design that can accommodate this community in transition.