The Water Garden is an innovative project addressing the recurring issues of flooding and wastewater discharge in Hitchcock, Texas, near a Dollar General. By merging a recycling plant with a wetland park, the design proposes a self-sustaining cycle that benefits both the built environment and the ecosystem. Water collected from the site is treated within the building, where waste is separated into organic matter and plastic. Organic waste is transformed into compost to enrich the wetland park, while the plastic is repurposed into basic seating elements, aligning with the studio’s theme of "holding still."
The building is strategically elevated through dredging to manage flood risks, with terraced grounds channeling water flow toward the wetland. These terraces double as nurseries for native plant species, which are later transplanted into the park. The building itself combines heavy industrial materials on the lower levels, such as concrete for machinery spaces, with lighter, sustainable materials like plywood on the upper floors, ensuring an environmentally conscious design. Sliding doors and expansive windows allow natural ventilation and light, while the terraces are positioned to optimize sunlight exposure for plants. An ecosystem corridor runs through the center, allowing seamless movement for both flora and fauna, reinforcing the project's commitment to ecological balance.
