Baxley

New Adventure Parts III,IV,V,VI,VII

Good Evening Challengers!

So I have been busy and slow these last few days, but that wont prohibit me from unfurling my adventure! Each day also brought forth more paradigms of Landscape Urban Architecture.

Starting with the day Steven left; we took transportation with assurance to the airport and made our farewells. Besides waiting all morning for my packages to arrive, the day was just emotional, and lazy. On a better note, I got to officially have an interaction with my roommate, when I returned, seeing he so generously lifted my copious amount of weighty packages to my room.

The next day, I went directly to find a bike! And after trying Cambridge Used Bicycles, Broadway Bicycle School,  Hub Bicycles, and a numerous amount of disappointing phone calls to other stores who may sell used bicycles, I found Awesome. Holy Spokes Bicycles, owned by a young man caring for his grandfather with great enjoyment, in a small garage on a side street next to a park. Not only was he helpful, and directive, but he was entertaining. He very openly discussed the smaller issues of the other stores, and brought light into his one on one partnership he has with his buyers. Stop by, and read a review i will write shortly. You will get to see this yourself. HE showed me all the bikes he had, and what he could do with my requests. It is like a presentation to a client for a project, you give them what they are looking for, as you elaborate your own part.

Although it took me a full day to return back to his bike shop and a quick stop at Target, I did end up buying the bike i chose in the morning. All in all, I like it. Actually, the freedom of riding wherever i want, has made this a great investment.

That was all of Tuesday. On that same day, I came across a very unique inlet. This was a section of the river directed inwards, encompassed by a surrounding park/pathway. This pathway was adjacent to a shopping mall. One would never be able to tell unless they opened the doors. It looked like a corporate building, with a nice landscape design outside. As I am used to shopping malls being there own entity, this one functioned vibrantly and melded with the outdoor landscape. (maybe at least for summer).

Also, I did run into a little community garden near the bicycle shop! I was beautiful. I almost called and got in line for a plot! Only 10$ a year! And it fit so nicely in this area. I walked through and spoke with a person harvesting. Landscape Urbanism at its best!

On wednesday, I spent a good portion of it going to the Harvard Financial Aid asking questions about my future! So far, so good.As I exited the building and walked through Harvard yard again, I cam across a hole. In this hole was a tree. Obviously the architecture of the basement was built around it, exposing a submerged greenspace. I have seen this before, but this was just great; a tree top lined evenly with the ground i walk. Within a few hours I met up with an old friend from undergraduate. He is doing well with his wife, and all of us are new to the area. They have their own adventure brewing too. I met him at the Cambridge Public Library and got to see not only modern architecture acting cohesively with adjacent gothic revival Harvard buildings, but see landscape as a free space embracing the urban and void. Then another quick run to Whole Foods. Faster this time.

On Thursday, I made an attempt to catch a bus to New York City. Lets just say after being told something terrible will happen, delay, cancellation, and crowding, I did not go. Disappointed I made my way home and made other plans. I went to see the Horrible Bosses movie to make my day better at the Davis Square I enjoyed so much. Rode my bike there! I enjoyed the culture at night after the movie, divulged on some vegan ice cream (fresh mojito) and had great conversations with my friend in NYC who were expecting me to be there.

And Today. I woke up late, went to find the GLBT resource center on Harvard campus. I did not find this basement they are located in, but did indeed stumble upon the Harvard Main Widener Library. A nice addition to the Harvard yard. Finally felt like I was at an Ivy league!

After a long sweaty day (impudent heat wave!), I went to the Harvard Film Archive’s opening night of films Directed by Joseph L. Mankiewicz. I got to see The Barefoot Contessa. This film has Humphrey Bogart, and Ava Gardener. Classic. Very comparable to La Dolce Vita.

Well, I hope you have enjoyed my first week. After this i will be scarce and minor in my life details, and more involved in landscape architecture and design. I am almost finished with a chapter in a book I read excerpts from a couple years ago. “Landscape Urbanism”… Edited by one of my Harvard GSD advisors.

Charles Waldhiem. http://www.gsd.harvard.edu/people/faculty/waldheim/

Ciao!

Before I left, Steven took me to the week’s re-opening of the re-designed Friendship fountain. Not an intense pivotal piece of landscape architecture in history, but a necessary mention. It was originally designed in the 70s if i may say so, But obviously the intensity of program and use has drastically shifted, and the space needed remodeling, to be cordial. From what I could understand at night, the pathways and circulation were widened, and modified into a slope, instead of large terraced steps. The fountain itself was cleaned and revamped with powerfully displayed patriotic colors and melodies. (hence the fourth of july). http://jaxfountain.com/

Before I left, Steven took me to the week’s re-opening of the re-designed Friendship fountain. Not an intense pivotal piece of landscape architecture in history, but a necessary mention. It was originally designed in the 70s if i may say so, But obviously the intensity of program and use has drastically shifted, and the space needed remodeling, to be cordial.

From what I could understand at night, the pathways and circulation were widened, and modified into a slope, instead of large terraced steps. The fountain itself was cleaned and revamped with powerfully displayed patriotic colors and melodies. (hence the fourth of july).

http://jaxfountain.com/

New Adventure Part II

Good Evening Challengers,

So I am now finishing day 5, so I will cordially unveil day 2 and then do the last 3 days as one part. (to be confusing).

ON my second day, Steven and I decided to wake up and head directly to Whole Foods Prospect Street. We walked there and saw the “more” run down part of Somerville, such as less family friendly, less bike friendly, and less landscape to enjoy. But as we approached the Whole Foods we become more awed, and found the location to be quite welcoming. It was around this area i was hoping to find an apt, but I like where I am now. After gathering a sufficient amount of food to fix my dearth situation, we caught the bus back to the House. This time we really got to see the “slow” part of MBTA buses. IT was late and we had frozen food thawing. But thankfully our journey ended and we waited a few minutes before charting back out. Catching the bus to our next adventure, we went on our search for a bike. I found this Great Antique Shop that in the basement, sells old vintage bikes refurbished for use on the road or whichever you choose. After spending a good deal of time down in the basement, I was placated knowing whetere or not I spend a large samount or a little sum, I found a place I can go to. After departing that store, we walked to Lechmere Statoin down the road. This is the last stop or the green line. Our intention was to ride that into downtown and find a vegan dinner there, or switch to red line and make it to central, making almost a “U” shape. Little did we know that the green line was shut down for the three last stops, hence we took a shuttle. Boston rush hour on a tiny full bus shuttle over the river… bad idea. But it was bound to happen.

As we made it to central square, Steven and I took our time ti explore the Central Square of Cambridge, and eat at River Gods. A hip, mollified atmosphere, that is conducive to nostalgia and vagarious settings. They had an awesome wrap, I consumed it in my appentency, and forgot to take an image. To end the evening, Steven and I rode the Red line all the way to Davis Square and found it to be the most low key, appealing square in the Greater Boston Area. It is a robust, exciting square with very bohemian restaurants and allure. As we were mesmerized by the awesomeness, we missed our bus and stayed a little longer to listen to the band in the distance, and talk about the square’s potential for living arrangements. (Not to mention an awesome live/film theatre).

That evening Steven and I went to bed early, anticipating the next unavoidable day.

Not much to see in the landscape other than the infrastructure about the Squares in relation to the neighborhood and how each one caters to the amenities of the culture.

Enjoy contenders!

New Adventure Part I

Arrive JAX Airport 430am… with three boxes one large duffel bag, two carry-on and one back pack. Leaving Jacksonville Airport 625am. Then arrive in Boston 1015am, and be picked up (by car) by my sweet roommate Noel and ride to my new place in Somerville. 1130am. Spend my first day just walking around the area and go to a bike shop (ATA Bicycle- Only newer models) and walked to harvard square, and had dinner at Veggie Planet! (Awesome exquisite ambiance and service. NOT TO MENTION VEGAN!) Steven got Tofu Spinach Crumble on Pizza, and I got the Thai Peanut Curry with Coconut rice on pizza!

Saw the infamous statue from “the social Network movie” again and took a picture. then made my 25 walk back to the house (testing the possible inevitable winter walk). Finally fell asleep by 1130pm. What a day.

What am I to do for a BICYCLE challengers? (Old new..costco target?)

In the meantime, this “first day”, in Landscape architecture, consisted of the way the streets are set up. Each street has its own neighborhood feel, with each yard being subject to the inhabiting residents. Very unique way of the architecture forming a bond to the landscape, such as a hill or a slope. More to come.

Ciao,

Brennan

Last day in Jacksonville, best day to reminisce. After four months of living in Genoa, this movie brought back great memories. Now onto my newest adventure. Wish me luck challengers!

Last day in Jacksonville, best day to reminisce. After four months of living in Genoa, this movie brought back great memories. Now onto my newest adventure. Wish me luck challengers!

Early Morning challengers,

Most people react quite befuddled without hesitation, when I mention to them I am attending Harvard for Landscape Architecture. This topic of choice seems to have been  a very difficult one to explain for two reasons. One being peoples’ unnecessary but innocent idea as to what this “invisible profession” is. The other being its very very close and supportive limb “landscaping”, being a more relative term and profession for almost all.

Right now, it is difficult to ascertain the direct idea of landscape architecture. I can briefly say a general description (thanks to wiki): Landscape architecture is the design of outdoor and public spaces to achieve environmental, socio-behavioral, and/or aesthetic outcomes. It involves the systematic investigation of existing social, ecological, and geological conditions and processes in the landscape, and the design of interventions that will produce the desired outcome. The scope of the profession includes: urban design; site planning; town or urban planning; environmental restoration; parks and recreation planning; visual resource management; green infrastructure planning and provision; and private estate and residence landscape master planning and design; all at varying scales of design, planning and management.

The images i have shown are modern (Prairie Crossing: Jones and Jones- Bridge classic and modern) and historical (Central Park: Fredrick Law Olmsted- Father o American Landscape Architecture) landscape architecture with large fluctuations between these mediums and others. For those of you who are following, I will be posting examples of landscape architects over the next few weeks, both theoreticians and practitioners.

As the night is now closing, I will be completing this exposition tomorrow. Enjoy your researching!

Ciao,

Brennan

Speculation & Veracity

Afternoon my fellow propitious challengers,

Today started off sleepy, but I had a pressing urgency to fulfill. I had to grapple the inevitable platforms of choice today. And without vacillation, I made resolutions and conclusions. Basically, today I had to reject the schools who most generously admitted me to their program, and come face to face with the reality of the situations.

It has been a rather paradoxical summer, not only dealing with my present life, but my future academic considerations. For example, I submitted my applications to Five schools, in the United States. Four extra International schools, I flaked out on, due to respect of my recommended and money. These four schools I did not apply to but wish I could have to learn:

University of British Columbia Vancouver: Masters of Landscape Architecture Advanced Placement.

University of Toronto: Masters of Landscape Architecture Second Professional Degree

Switzerland Federal Institute of Technology: Landscape and Architecture Post Graduate Studies

Architectural Association of London: Masters of Art in Landscape Urbanism.

It was not too long after that hard decision to give up my international student status dream, to submit to my other National Schools. This List, in order of preference has the admission offer for each~~ which when we think about it, seems intriguing?

University of California Berkeley: Masters of Landscape Architecture II and Environmental Planning: Rejected via self made phone call, and delayed email (last to hear).

University of Pennsylvania PennDesign: Masters of Landscape Architecture II (second Professional degree): Accepted via website with commendable Scholarship.

Harvard University Graduate School of Design: Masters of Landscape Architecture II (post Professional Degree): Accepted via email with generous grant.

University of Colorado Denver: Masters of Landscape II and Architecture dual degree: Accepted via department chair phone call with warming scholarship and amiable communication.

I was most shocked that my first response from a Graduate program came from Harvard. This was not even my first choice. I was actually going out on a limb to apply there. It was in my favor to apply to Berkeley, but interestingly enough THAT was the only school I was not granted acceptance. (hmm). More and more everyday after I submitted my application to Harvard and Berkeley (first to submit) I felt i wasted time and money. There are curve balls in life. I am not saddened by the results, but more saddened being so graciously accepted and sought out, that I had to choose one. 

In addition to the overwhelming and jovial news about my dreams to pursue a graduate degree (with no money lol), I did apply for summer internships. It is somewhat comical to think about. After being accepted to the most recognized and highly ranked programs in the country/world, that everything else seemed almost like a given. Never once did I believe I would be completely satisfied, but it was very easy to fall back and realize, well huh, I wonder. I did feel a large boost of ego when I received my acceptances, and felt enlightened that I would be granted somewhat a chance to enter an internship. But thus far, what we create is truly a reflection of our affection.

Summer Internships:

EDSA: Rejected

(Jacksonville) Flagg Design: Reviewed, but not considered.

(Jacksonville) Genesis Design: Considered, never contacted.

Jones and Jones: No Position Available

Stantec Consulting Services: Rejected

Offices of James Burnett: Rejected

JJR: Rejected

Norris Design: Never contacted by notification date.

Awaiting: Verzone Woods (rejected once last year, and was notified once of no positions before summer)

All I can say is keep your hopes high and never expect something that you have no control over. It is an eye for an eye to be honest. As I am happy with what I have been given so far, I will not let this slow me down. Enough of my positivity and preaching. Truth is: Its all about what happens happens, and the experiences we are surrounded with.

Ciao ragazzi!

Brennan

Evening Challengers!

It has been a rough couple of days, for I was in deep contemplation about my future. As I move forward with my current decision, I will be making great changes here and there. This includes changes to my environment, setting, company, and comfort. That is by far the most exciting part of this adventure: ability to be flexible and adaptable to the ongoing changes and challenges of life. I see the past and present, and fathom the future. It is with will and determination I will succeed and become more knowledgeable of my surroundings (first photo) and be a part of the culture that envelopes me.

Leaving my home in Jacksonville (second photo), my current retail job, and the familiar landscape has never been more electrifying. The fresh and the frayed, the preceding and the prospects.

…Now to find an apartment!

Ciao,

Brennan

Afternoon challengers, A quick update, i was just recently admitted to the Masters of Landscape Architecture post professional degree at Harvard Graduate School of Design (received this package about two weeks ago). I literally just returned from Boston yesterday after attending the open house. Blown away by the University and the the program, my new adventure starts. Having received my Bachelors in the Professional Degree of Landscape Architecture, I am now eligible for being a candidate for the Masters Degree. Satisfied and shocked, Harvard GSD seems like my new experience to help me grow in many aspects and disciplines. I will attach a copy of what I am expected to do in the masters level, and continue to post my progress and growth.

Afternoon challengers,

A quick update, i was just recently admitted to the Masters of Landscape Architecture post professional degree at Harvard Graduate School of Design (received this package about two weeks ago). I literally just returned from Boston yesterday after attending the open house. Blown away by the University and the the program, my new adventure starts. Having received my Bachelors in the Professional Degree of Landscape Architecture, I am now eligible for being a candidate for the Masters Degree. Satisfied and shocked, Harvard GSD seems like my new experience to help me grow in many aspects and disciplines. I will attach a copy of what I am expected to do in the masters level, and continue to post my progress and growth.

Good evening Challengers: With pride, I would like to invite you all to follow me through my adventures, tribulations, paradigms, enigmas and edifying exploits. As this is my first and inaugural post, I entertain my familiars by addressing them as “Challengers of the Unknown”. This is a direct song title from a very fabulous and influential band, (The New Pornographers), as well as a very optimistic and promising line meant to give powerful advancement for all my peers and friends who follow. I hope to grow from this experience, and hope to influence others who wish to read. It is my dedication in life, to make sure we get the best of each others experience, and culture, for it has everything to do with who we are as people. I would like to dedicate these blogs, under all my work, future aspirations, and breath of enlightenment to everyone who has influenced me. (Which means every person I have met.) Ciao. Brennan

Good evening Challengers:

With pride, I would like to invite you all to follow me through my adventures, tribulations, paradigms, enigmas and edifying exploits. As this is my first and inaugural post, I entertain my familiars by addressing them as “Challengers of the Unknown”. This is a direct song title from a very fabulous and influential band, (The New Pornographers), as well as a very optimistic and promising line meant to give powerful advancement for all my peers and friends who follow.

I hope to grow from this experience, and hope to influence others who wish to read. It is my dedication in life, to make sure we get the best of each others experience, and culture, for it has everything to do with who we are as people.

I would like to dedicate these blogs, under all my work, future aspirations, and breath of enlightenment to everyone who has influenced me. (Which means every person I have met.)

Ciao.

Brennan