The Outdoor Living Room

Transforming an ordinary bus stop into a cozy pit stop.

 

The area:

 

 

 

Imagine this on campus-

 

 

 

 

Summary of planned project:

This project will transform the lone bench at the MTS/UCSD shuttle bus stop at Gilman Drive and Myers Drive into an outdoor living room set up which would promote comfort and a thriving social vibe.

 

For two days, the Gilman/Myers bus stop will be transformed into the Gilman/Myers Gazebo complete with high quality rust-resistant and sun fading resistant furniture. The furniture will be arranged in a semi circle to encourage group interaction and attempt to break down the barriers between individuals. The furniture will be arranged in a way so that bus riders will have no choice but to sit in the “Living Room.” To help bus riders pass the time, games such as checkers and Connect Four will be provided to encourage bus riders to communicate with one other.

 

 

Purpose of project:

• Provide more comfortable seating: Currently there is only one small bench available. Despite the fact that they are usually over 15 people waiting for the bus during peak times, the one lonely bench can only fit about 3-4 people at most.

 

• Encourage a social atmosphere for bus riders: Bus riders typically stand awkwardly as they wait for the bus. They are scattered around the grassy area around the bench. By providing extra seating, there are more opportunities for bus riders to be in a comfortable setting that promotes conversations.

 

• Help alleviate the stress of waiting for a bus: Having quick games such as checkers and Connect Four provides a quick social and fun break from everyday life. Also playing games is a way to cut down on the waiting time for the bus. It’s an ideal situation for those who just missed the bus and have to wait longer than usual for the next bus.

 

• Positive Impact:

-    Increase social interactions in a previously non-social daily routine

-    Build connections between students who commute and students who live on campus

-    Coax bus riders to avoid social awkwardness

 

• Negative Impact:

-    Potential vandalism to living room amenities

-    Prohibiting grass from receiving full sunlight

 

 

Supplies list and Budget:

 

 

 

ITEM	APPROX. PRICE	LOCATION
Furniture	$0.00 (Returning all merchandise after use)	Target
Games	$22.38	Target
Bamboo Mat (Area Rug)	$5.00	Facebook MarketPlace
Signs	$5.00	Imprints/Kinkos
Decorations	$20.00	Various
Estimated Total:	$52.38

 

Items in GREEN: Items already purchased

Items in BLACK: Items to be purchased

 

Rough Sketch:

 

 

 

 

 

 

Participants: 

Christine Liou - Third year, Economics Major

Diego Mejia - Third year, Urban Studies and Planning Major