Clemson University Creative Inquiry students win international award

Published: April 21, 2011

These steps that let pedestrians more easily reach the Student Organic Farm were designed by students as part of a Creative Inquiry project. image by: Clemson University

By Sidney Nimmons

CLEMSON — An architecture Creative Inquiry project that focused on designs for the Clemson University Student Organic Farm was honored in an international design competition, Structures for Inclusion 2011, for a project called STEPS to Connectivity and Accessibility. The competition was sponsored by Social Economic Environmental Design (SEED).

STEPS is a design-and-build project of the Student Organic Farm. However, a collaboration between the Creative Inquiry program, the Community Research and Design Center, Studio SOUTH and the Student Organic Farm provided funding to pursue the award.

The project focused on asset-based design and highlighted the importance of a sustainable community infrastructure, local food and economic impact. STEPS also promotes community connectivity and accessibility. The project included steps that enable pedestrians to more easily reach the farm.

“Certainly this is an award for all at Clemson and was only possible due to the commitment the university has exhibited toward the Creative Inquiry program, sustainability and collaboration,” said associate professor of architecture Daniel Harding, director of the Community Research and Design Center. “I realize this is a small and humble award; however, the ideals behind this work are very big.”

Twelve awards were given to recipients around the globe. The Student Organic Farm project will be published with other winners and was featured at the Structures for Inclusion Conference held in Chicago.

END

Creative Inquiry
Creative Inquiry is a unique program that gives Clemson University undergraduate students the opportunity to work on research projects that span disciplines and multiple semesters. Students work in teams with faculty mentors, take ownership of their projects and take the risks necessary to solve problems and get answers. Creative Inquiry participants develop critical thinking skills, learn to solve problems and hone their communication and presentation skills. For more information, go to www.clemson.edu/ci.