ECOTONE
Location: San Antonio
Type: Urban Ecology Center Fall 2024
Size : 297,840 sqft.
Ecotone is a transformative adaptive reuse proposal that reimagines an abandoned school as an urban ecological center and public park. Rooted in sustainability and community engagement, the design bridges the built and natural environmen, an “ecotone” where people, nature, and education intersect. By preserving the existing structure and layering new ecological functions, the project creates spaces for environmental learning, social gathering, and ecological restoration. It honors the site’s past while positioning it as a catalyst for a more resilient and connected urban future.
Mary Huppertz Elementary School, established in 1921, stood as a cornerstone of the San Antonio community for nearly a century. The school adapted to numerous educational reforms and evolving community needs, serving generations of students.The mid-20th century saw the school flourish, with robust participation in community activities and educational programs. However, as the years progressed into the late 20th and early 21st centuries, the school faced challenges, including fluctuating enrollment and shifting demographics, which began to strain its resources.
shifting population patterns emergence of alternative educational options
Woodlawn Heights exhibits a high degree of car dependency, which is a common characteristic in many suburban and urban areas in Texas. Public transportation options are relatively limited, which forces many residents to rely on personal vehicles for their daily commute.
The total population in the 78228 area code is approximately 57,172 people. There are around 19,636 households in this area, with an average household size of about 2.8 persons per household
