Over the past few months, SITU and OMA partnered on a semester-long project titled “Design It” at The Urban Assembly Unison School in Clinton Hill, Brooklyn. The course sought to bring architectural education and concepts to sixth grade students as part of Citizen Schools – an organization that partners with middle schools to expand the learning day by promoting student achievement and re-imagining education outside of the classroom. Working closely with Citizen School teachers and staff, SITU and OMA led students through an urban design “apprenticeship” to transform an existing bus stop in their Brooklyn neighborhood. Over the course of the semester, the students learned about the fundamentals of site analysis, drawing techniques, and model building. The apprenticeship culminated in a final project presented to teachers and family at SITU’s DUMBO offices.

Students striking a pose with their new stylish hats after a visit to Vinnie’s styles – a clothing and sneaker store near the Fulton Street site – which inspired and influenced their design.

Students presenting their research and site analysis.

Students presenting their work at SITU Studio’s office

Closeup of the “Mall of Jammin’ Sneakers” model created by students