Crafting space: architectural strategies for education in Appalachia

Abstract

Broadly, Appalachia is a culturally diverse and historically rich place, often portrayed in popular media through lenses of negativity associated with economic decline, ecological devastation, and cultural stagnation. While the region is often neglected by both government and market forces, a more rich cultural investigation is warranted. For example, the state of West Virginia consistently falls below the national average for educational attainment, according to the U.S. Census. It also has a history of underfunded educational programs. Additionally, there has been a decline in the education of skilled workers. My interests are in thinking about education beyond traditional institutional structures to promote Appalachian arts and culture through architectural design. The lack of education, loss of culture, and decline of trades can be remedied by providing effective educational spaces which facilitate experience-based immersive learning. Architecture has the power to make focusing, calming, and inspiring educational facilities through connections to nature and the design of comfortable, flexible environments. This design aims to provide immersive and experiential environments for the purpose of teaching underrepresented traditional Appalachian craft and arts. Educational programs offered include woodworking, art glass, visual arts, fiber/textile arts, folk music, stone carving, ceramics, Appalachian cooking, and foraging. Students have access to workshops, nature trails, culinary facilities, classrooms, outdoor educational spaces, performance spaces, and studios. There is a focus on community within the campus. Programs are interrelated to provide a well-rounded and comprehensive educational experience. The campus’s location in the Appalachian mountains provides a peaceful and beautiful environment with opportunities to learn from nature. The facility is designed to accommodate hands-on learning and apprenticeship-based programs, as opposed to traditional lecture-based programs.