“Patchwork Philly” celebrates the neighborhood’s diversity and layered history as a patchwork quilt, each piece unique, yet stitched together through shared culture, collaboration, and care. 

The project honors the rich cultural fabric of North Philadelphia, particularly its Latino and African American heritage, while empowering youth to see themselves as vital “pieces” in the evolving story of their community.​ Drawing from the neighborhood’s long traditions of public art, storytelling, and cultural pride. To create a vibrant, inclusive environment where youth feel both seen and connected. 

Each “patch” represents a distinct activity, age group, or cultural expression, that all are visually and spatially connected by a continuous “thread” of movement and transparency. The architecture becomes a symbol of unity within diversity, where individual experiences strengthen collective identity.

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This project designs co-housing and community spaces that serve youth by actively fostering positive youth development, cultural pride, and intergenerational connections. Situated next to schools and the public library, the site functions as a hub for learning, growth, and community engagement, bridging housing with educational and cultural resources. 

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By creating safe, inclusive, and opportunity-rich environments, the design empowers young people to develop socially, build new skills, explore personal interests, and engage meaningfully with the broader community, ultimately promoting health, equity, and long-term well-being.

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PROGRAMS USED: Revit, Enscape, Photoshop