The NC chapter of NOMA (National Organization for Minority Architects) recently held its 5th Annual Project Pipeline summer camp. The week-long experience (orchestrated by our own Marisa along with a handful of dedicated volunteers) provided 6th - 12th grade students the opportunity to learn the fundamentals of architecture and design. After being held virtually the past few years, it was especially exciting for the camp to be in person this year!
This process-driven camp allows students to work both individually and collaboratively to address community-focused issues using creativity and design. Throughout the week mentors took students through a variety of lessons and activities to experience the design process, taking them from the creative concept all the way to designing and building a physical model of their project.
The mission for the students this year was to design a Wetland Observatory & Educational Center for the Panther Branch Township. A project that is near and dear to us as we’ve partnered with the JLBC Community Alliance for a feasibility study to preserve and enhance 10 acres of wetlands in the Panther Branch community. Once completed the site will provide educational and recreational amenities to the rapidly growing southern region of Wake County.
It was great seeing the students engaging with each other as well as the mentors and volunteers to bring their ideas to fruition. On the final afternoon, time was set aside for the students to present their models to their parents, fellow students, and mentors. As parents and family members began to arrive the students were buzzing with presentation preparation, and when the time came each student proudly shared their model - while also fielding questions on their design process following their presentation.
Swipe to see fun moments from this fantastic event!
