Willie “Woo Woo” Wong Playground receives 2022 Urban Design Commendation from AIA San Francisco

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The jury praised this project for transforming the neighborhood and providing necessary new and safe public space for the interaction of families and children. Great effort was taken to create welcoming and meaningful community hub with a strong connection to the rich history of Chinatown, considering the community and catering to multi-generational use. The project is an extraordinary response to its complicated existing context that integrates well with the hilly urban site and separates its uses appropriately while also connecting them through a cohesive design.

Ideas

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Democratic Public Space

ideas

In ancient Greek cities, the agora brought people together in the same space for daily life, including commerce, politics, and social interaction. This was at a time when the European idea of democracy, or “people power” was conceived. There is a direct relationship between people sharing space with one another and caring about one another. Inclusive public space that brings together diverse people from all walks of life is more important than ever for sustaining democracy.

Places

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Willie “Woo Woo” Wong Playground

parks/public space

Willie ‘Woo Woo’ Wong Playground is one of Chinatown’s few historic, significant outdoor spaces. As the only park in the neighborhood for active outdoor recreation, it is used by Chinatown residents of all ages. As one of the nation’s most densely populated urban areas, this renovation of an historical public open space is immensely important.