Above are some of the 3D images we did for a competition to present ideas for updating the main plaza in Belluno, Italy. All of them were captured from one 3D model created with Vectorworks.
Our goal was to make a plan that would enhance the commercial activities in the center of Belluno and at the same time to provide a plaza free of traffic and available for a large variety of activities. We felt that the success of the downtown businesses is vital to having a strong and healthy central area of Belluno. Without that the old towns die. Architects tend to think that people should park away from the center so it can be preserved, and walk to their destinations. But the reality is that most people will sooner get in their cars and drive to the shopping areas that are convenient. And without the income generated from downtown businesses and the continuing flow of people in and out of the city the city center withers and dies. But we also considered that the plaza is a great asset and must be enhanced. We designated some areas for particular activities and provided a new tribute to those who died there. The concept is the thing that is important. If a final design is done that can actually be built much might change from what we proposed, however, I believe that our idea to provide a safe plaza separated from traffic while at the same time enhancing the traffic flow around the plaza is the best solution for everyone.
