In a bold initiative blending sustainability, community engagement, and innovative architecture, Allford Hall Monaghan Morris (AHMM) transformed a previously vacant site in Oklahoma City into a picturesque neighborhood known as Squirrel Park. Utilizing 16 repurposed shipping containers, AHMM crafted four single-family homes that are not just residences but symbols of ecological consciousness and social responsibility.
Breathing New Life into a Neglected Space
Once dubbed “a magnet for crime”, the site that is now Squirrel Park underwent a profound transformation, driven by a vision to repurpose an area that had long been overlooked. The project, completed in 2018 and costing $1.1 million, not only revitalized a blighted neighborhood but also embodied a commitment to community-centric development. The client, who has roots in the local restaurant industry known for employing formerly incarcerated individuals, instilled a philosophy of giving back into the project’s design principles.
Designing for Sustainability
Sustainability was a cornerstone of the Squirrel Park project. AHMM’s innovative use of shipping containers as building blocks is not only a practical solution but also a step towards reducing the carbon footprint typically associated with new constructions. Each of these containers was modified to provide both durability and flexibility, serving as the perfect shells for the new homes.
The design team meticulously maintained ten existing trees and introduced native landscaping to manage rainwater runoff, promoting a resilient ecosystem. The layout was thoughtfully planned, incorporating a central green space that features a fountain and benches, creating an inviting atmosphere for residents and their visitors.
A New Approach to Urban Living
Squirrel Park embraces the concept of a small-scale, intimate community. The arrangements of the homes foster privacy while facilitating social interaction. The streetscape includes a shared entrance that leads to a cobblestone pathway, allowing residents easy access to the communal green areas. AHMM’s design reflects a traditional neighborhood typology, with a strong focus on blending public and private spaces.
Each home is positioned to face the central park area, angled in a way that enhances privacy for the residents while still forming a cohesive unit. This architectural choice allows the homes to create a micro-neighborhood feel, encouraging interaction among neighbors.
Architectural Innovation and Interior Design
The homes in Squirrel Park feature a unique architectural design, consisting of two shipping containers on the bottom floor accommodating living areas and kitchens, while two additional containers on the upper level house the bedrooms and a shared bathroom. The second floor cantilevers out, creating dynamic outdoor living spaces with covered porches and balconies, effectively merging indoor and outdoor environments.
AHMM utilized advanced insulation techniques for energy efficiency, incorporating closed-cell spray foam between the internal and external layers, which significantly reduces heating and cooling costs. Design elements like large double-glazed windows optimize natural light and promote cross-ventilation, further enhancing the livability of the space.
Emphasizing Community and Outdoor Living
An evident hallmark of Squirrel Park is the emphasis on outdoor living and community engagement. Shared porches, communal spaces, and even the design layout of the homes encourage residents to interact and form bonds. The inclusion of porch swings and strategic outdoor areas enhances the sense of community and invites relaxation and socialization among residents.
Moreover, space for future installations, such as solar panels, hints at the project’s ongoing commitment to sustainability. Each facet of the design— from the choice of materials to the overall layout— demonstrates a forward-thinking approach to modern urban living.
Conclusion: A Model for Future Developments
Squirrel Park in Oklahoma City stands as a testament to how thoughtful design can effect meaningful change in communities. By leveraging sustainability, innovative use of materials, and a focus on human connection, AHMM has created more than just homes; they have fostered a vibrant community that nurtures its residents and respects its environment.
The successful transformation of this site illustrates a scalable model for future urban development, showcasing how architecture can play a pivotal role in addressing social issues while maintaining ecological integrity. As cities grapple with challenges of sustainability and community cohesion, Squirrel Park shines as a beacon of hope — a reminder that spaces previously marked by neglect can flourish into thriving hubs of life and community.
