Locomotion: A Cinematic Approach

Abstract

The landscape is not static, but perceived dynamically and should be designed for the unique sorts of movement that occur. Within the site of Carpinteria, California's Amtrak train station lies an opportunity to maximize public space through an investigation of those in motion at this place of convergence, including cars, busses, pedestrians, skateboarders, bicyclists, and trains. A cinematic process of design allows for exploration of distinct character movements and resulting unique perceptions of the site in terms of scale, rhythm, texture, color, and perceived desire or needs. These stories are then sculpted onto the land, recording physically threads of speed, moments of pause, and elements of fascination. The "new" station is presented as a movie, unveiling a landscape perceived and created dynamically through the eyes of those in motion.