Enhancing Engagement While Preserving Serenity
Enhancing Brooklyn’s Naval Cemetery Landscape
63 Williamsburg St W, Brooklyn, NY 11249
Brief
The goal of this project is to enhance visitor engagement and improve the overall experience at the Naval Cemetery Landscape (NCL), part of the Brooklyn Greenway.
By introducing interactive and informative design elements, we aim to make NCL more welcoming, engaging, and educational while preserving its sacred and commemorative nature.
Background
The Naval Cemetery Landscape is a serene green space, officially recognized as a Monarch Waystation and home to various native species like bees and butterflies. While it offers rich ecological and cultural value, the entrance's "cemetery" sign and high steps can feel uninviting. Through our research and surveys, we found that visitors often miss key ecological features and seasonal highlights due to limited information and interaction points.
Research Question
How can we make the Naval Cemetery Landscape more interactive, so it becomes the first choice for the neighborhood to enjoy and explore?
Research Methods
DATA COLLECTED
SOLUTIOn
Our design aims to attract visitors and extend their stay by improving access to information and enhancing interactive experiences.
LOOP STRUCTURE
We plan to add observation points and informational boards throughout the site, providing detailed insights about plants, bees, and other ecological elements.
For insects
sketch
For plants
ENTRANCE
We designed an interactive display board and educational stations to make information accessible, engaging, and helpful for both staff and visitors.
Audience
First-Time Visitors
Often unfamiliar with NCL, interactive maps can highlight key features like ecology and wildlife, encouraging exploration.
Regular Visitors
Local residents or nature enthusiasts seeking fresh experiences can enjoy informational boards and observation points for plant and bee knowledge.
Families and Community Members
NCL offers educational value for families, with boards featuring simple ecology facts and games, plus seasonal activities using adjustable magnets to boost engagement.