Murrey Hill, Montpelier VT
Located in Montpelier, Vermont, Murrey Hill is a community development seeking to expand its existing community space. Nestled between their pool and tennis courts existed a blank slate, with a sloped hill and a semi-flat section. The goal was to provide a place for the community to unite and add play features for younger generations.
Murrey Hill planned to expand the grassed flat area by shifting tennis courts further away from the pool. Existing conditions included wet areas around and on the hill, a need for a fence around the pool and around the courts, and many, many deer.
Schematic Plan
This community space was designed to do just that, orient around community for many generations. Patio space and ramp connected deck levels with sun sails allow older generations to safely navigate a space dominated by wet grasses. Natural play, which includes features such as a slide built into the hillside, a willow tunnel, and multi-level surfaces for exploration, allows for co-play for children. Gathering points such as the fire pit, outdoor dining, and swing benches create nooks and crannies and open spaces for people to find comfort. Mediating deer presence is an issue many Vermont residents battle; my solution for this site specifically was to strategically place deer-resistant plantings along the perimeter of the site.
