Abstract This research attempts to analyze the importance of a Public Park and the social responsibility as the lung and center of life and activities that provide people the tools to find their role and place within the community. The research also attempts to find out how the local identity influences the success of the such Public Park, as the diversity of customs and cultures, could present potential challenges in accommodating everyone in an environment that would make each individual feel included, part of, and even with a certain pride of belonging to a place versus disrespected and excluded. The proposal for an Inclusive Public park would attempt to offer sustainable solutions, and is validated by research into five parks around the world that had attempted to include the needs and interests of the different ages throughout the human life, as well as to ensure accessible routes and alternatives on each case. However, the research related to the identity of place and culture is analyzed locally in observance of the uniqueness of San Antonio, TX.

1. “Mental Notes for an Inclusive Park”
-a Cultural Park with local identity-
Master Project Proposal By: Claudia Rendón Padilla
University of Texas at San Antonio May 05, 2017

2. 1
CONTENT
Chapter 1 Page
Abstract ………………………………………………………….……………………… 3
Chapter 2
Landscape Scale and Cultural Identity ………………………….…….……………. 4
San Antonio Symbols …………………………………...…………………………….. 8
Chapter 3
Precedents
Reynosa Cultural Park …….………………………………………………….. 23
Morgan Wonderland …...……………………………………………………… 29
Cultural Park Valparaiso …………………………………………….………... 32
Yanaguana Park ………………………………………………………………… 35
Marseille Skatepark …....……………………………………..………………… 40
Playgrounds for the Elderly …………..………………………………………. 42

3. 2
Chapter 4
Program and Location ………………………………………………………………... 45
Proposed Site ...…….…….…..……….………………………………………... 46
Economical Impact ……………………………………..……………………… 48
Conceptual Program ………………………………….………………..………. 49
● Playgrounds for Big Kids ……………………………………..…. 50
● Playground for Young Teens …..……………………………….. 51
● Playground for Toddlers ………………..………..………………. 52
● Playground for Seniors …..……………………...………………. 53
● Fitting Center and Skatepark for Young Ad …………………….. 54
● The Museum …………………..……………………….…………. 55
● Classrooms for children and adult ………………...……………. 56
● Library …………………..………………………………….………. 57
● Administrative Offices …………………..……………..…………. 58
● Auditorium …………………..…………………………..…………. 59
● Maintenance Shop …………………..……………………….…… 60
Chapter 5
Annotated Bibliography …………………………………………………………..……. 61

4. 3
CHAPTER 1
Abstract
This research attempts to analyze the importance of a Public Park and the social responsibility as
the lung and center of life and activities that provide people the tools to find their role and place
within the community. The research also attempts to find out how the local identity influences the
success of the such Public Park, as the diversity of customs and cultures, could present potential
challenges in accommodating everyone in an environment that would make each individual feel
included, part of, and even with a certain pride of belonging to a place versus disrespected and
excluded.
The proposal for an Inclusive Public park would attempt to offer sustainable solutions, and is
validated by research into five parks around the world that had attempted to include the needs and
interests of the different ages throughout the human life, as well as to ensure accessible routes
and alternatives on each case. However, the research related to the identity of place and culture,
is analyzed locally in observance of the uniqueness of San Antonio, TX.

5. 4
CHAPTER 2
Landscape Scale and Cultural Identity
The streets of San Antonio Downtown in some cases have names of places from Europe, while
others have names of places from Mexico. It is evident the strong presence of various cultures
currently settled in San Antonio, cultures that at some point in time, when first migrated to the new
world in search for a better life, they brought with them their customs, culture, and their places as
the sense of something that belonged to them, or they were familiar with.
That gesture is something that helped them to establish the grid that they were capable to exist on,
as a desperate resource that their minds were looking for to not to feel disoriented or lost in the
middle of nowhere, especially when in the presence of new environments, new lives, like
immigrants are forced to experience, which is what formed this melting pot in San Antonio.
Architecture and public urban spaces, have a powerful influence in the community by providing a
place where respect and identity is found, as they are supposed to help the individual to integrate
them to the community by supporting the role everyone has in it.

6. 5
Then creations that give identity to a place typically happen when a commission to an artist
requires taking a daily, common, and local object to place it in an open public space as a symbol
or message of a concept. It would almost fall into creating Folk art when trying to express those
ideas thru public murals or by designing specific playground equipment that somehow reflects how
the locals see the world there, but when those common object are brought to a larger scale, feels
different because of the change of scale from pedestrian to open urban spaces, and also how well
is representing that specific activity, daily life object, profession or whatever is common for the
locals, creating that necessary ambience, which will bring to the person’s memory certain
signification within their soul, establishing those necessary boundaries that the mind needs to exist
in a certain place by evoking in their brains a nice image as a result of that atmosphere, so that
makes it successful for both, the individual and the communal urban spaces 1
.
From a more tolerant way of learning from the landscape the architect must have a non-chip-on-
the-shoulder point of view, architects really need to try to enhance the environment and urban
spaces by learning what is there rather than eliminate it in order to create something new. Take for
1
Summarized and interpreted to San Antonio location from McCarter, R., & Pallasmaa, J. (2012). Understanding architecture: A primer on
architecture as experience. London; New York, NY; Phaeton Press Limited. pp. 403-407

7. 6
instance what happens with Folk Art when reinterpreted by the artist creating Fine Art inspired by
folk art, in other words, is part of the learning process to look backward in order to go forward, and
judgment should be hold until the end so all the different points of view can be learned, but mainly
the right values of judgment can be applied to the actual subject, such as the cultural identity of a
place vs. the morality of commercial advertising or the artistic values of a specific object vs. the
impact created at the urban spaces due to the large scale of that object.
Through time, architects had had no problem relabeling the ways architecture keeps transforming
as the new trends of materials or constructive methods occur, however, there’s been some sort of
resistance in acknowledging the existing, commercial architecture at the scale of the highway.
Pop artist instead have helped a little bit this process of learning to see from a different perspective
the elements involved in public spaces at a large scale which create the commercial vernacular
architecture, very different from the traditional pedestrian scale spaces, such as those experienced
in a classic Italian piazza, either way, architecture is interpreted and understood as spaces, main
difference that distinguishes architecture from literature, painting or other artistic expressions.
There’s a moment that architecture starts mixing styles and media, integrating new elements and
symbols on purpose as to convey a message. Some may say that the overlapping of disciplines
may decrease the architectural values, but the meaning gets stronger, especially when the

8. 7
integration of those elements has to do with art, which has been traditionally well accepted,
although those elements typically had to accept a secondary role in the whole context, as they
were mainly used to reinforce the architectural message, not their own, as they were never larger
than the architecture itself, always discreet signs or seldom art pieces on the buildings.
Inner-city and the new development spaces should be looked at in a more understanding and less
judgmental way in order to allow a more congruent development of Architectural urban spaces, so
civic and cultural improvements can happen in the communities as a result of the common effort,
not just the architect’s, making evident the importance of applying popular symbols and art, which
often become more interesting as a formal artistic expression, as means of reinforcement of a new
architecture of communication over space, visible from the highway, dominant over architecture
and landscape and ready for high speeds, big spaces and complex programs, which become not
only essential as symbols of local identity, but as a signs of guidance and understanding of the
dangerous and sinuous maze of the urban spaces, offering a sense of orientation and persuasive
connection with the context to the modern driver 2
.
2
Summarized and Interpreted from Rattenbury, K., & Hardingham, S. (2007). Robert venturi and denise scott brown: Learning from las
vegas. New York;Abingdon [England];: Routledge. p.p. 3 - 13

9. 8
San Antonio Symbols discovered after the “Puro” Symposium
“A city the size of San Antonio with all its cultural layers is so much more than one term could describe, but yet,
Puro exemplifies something that belongs to all of us; an expression; attitude; a cultural sensibility; betterment;
collective accomplishments; something precious the city is dearly holding on to,” ...
“It means something to everyone with multiple layers and multiple understandings, but its duality also allows for
individual interpretations. For some, it is reflected in rituals, art, tastes, values, aesthetics, and a certain sense of
authenticity,” UTSA architecture professor Antonio Petrov says in a prepared statement 3.
The symposium, "Puro - On the Edge of Future" was spearheaded by Antonio Petrov, an assistant architecture,
construction and planning professor at the University of Texas at San Antonio. Petrov and his students helped
facilitate recent public discussions on envisioning the future of the Broadway corridor.
With several UTSA graduate students watching, Petrov and the speakers provided their thoughts on how the term
"puro" reflects layers of San Antonio's history, culture, economy, philosophies and how it even influences other
things such as the physical environment, especially with the city's growth 4.
3
“Puro Symposium” Aims to explore a loaded word. San Antonio Current. Accessed on May 2, 2017. Retrieved from
http://www.sacurrent.com/ArtSlut/archives/2017/02/13/puro-symposium-aims-to-explore-a-loaded-word
4
Symposium explores the definition of “Puro”. NowCastSA. Accessed on May 2, 2017. Retrieved from
http://nowcastsa.com/blogs/symposium-explores-definition-puro

10. 9
5
At the “Puro” Symposium that occurred on February 21, 2017 at “The Brick” Blue Star Arts
Complex, observations and reflexions were generated on concepts like “authentic”, “local identity”,
“ownership of the Puro term”, that could be sensitive to some sectors of the community, while for
other could be even offensive, so in an attempt to understand from a different perspective and far
away from the typical stereotypes a step back was taken by the audience and panelists to re-think
and define a position in relationship to the subject, which is one of the main objectives of this
research, to find an authentic local identity for the Cultural Inclusive Park to be proposed.
5
Antonio Petrov, at the “Puro” Symposium. February 21, 2017. Photograph by Claudia R. Padilla.

11. 10
Although they were 12 panelists sharing their thoughts, the following are the relevant points taken
from their lectures to nurture this research:
Luis Muñoz, he stranded defending his ideology against the “cool City of Austin”, so is that a
manifestation of an attitude that is indicative of “Puro”?
6
Claudia Guerra, talking about identity and authenticity, throws the question hard to this research
of what would be the shape and colors this park should have? Especially if what she pointed that
“Puro”, not always fits in the laws and code compliance standards of the city, and still “someone is
allowing it to be there”...
6
Luis Muñoz, at the “Puro” Symposium. February 21, 2017. Photograph and observations by Claudia R. Padilla.

12. 11
7
Siboney, as to “who is deciding what gets approved or not?”, because if one decides on one
theme or shape vs. another, and it doesn’t “please” the approver, although it fits the program or
community needs and culture or style, then what would be the future of the project?
8
7
Claudia Guerra, at the “Puro” Symposium. February 21, 2017. Photograph and observations by Claudia R. Padilla.
8
Siboney Diaz-Sanchez, at the “Puro” Symposium. February 21, 2017. Photograph and observations by Claudia R. Padilla.

13. 12
Denise Richter has a point that is worth to pay attention to, “make the neat urban spaces
walkable”, so they can be enjoyed, in fact, that it the new push for all the urban spaces, not only in
San Antonio, but globally.
9
Bill Fitz, as a sculptor, with his lights, well appreciated something that I actually grew up with,
“color”, as all the color that I see in San Antonio, irrefutably comes from the Mexican culture, I
really appreciate that.
9
Denise Richter, at the “Puro” Symposium. February 21, 2017. Photograph and observations by Claudia R. Padilla.

14. 13
10
Cruz Ortiz, .... He has a point when questioning the “authentic” vs. the “fake”, so at the end of the
day, what is it going to be if all is about interpretation? that’s an interesting thing to explore.
11
10
Bill Fitz, at the “Puro” Symposium. February 21, 2017. Photograph and observations by Claudia R. Padilla.
11
Cruz Ortiz, at the “Puro” Symposium. February 21, 2017. Photograph and observations by Claudia R. Padilla.

15. 14
So now the research jumps into the streets of San Antonio in trying to find the local symbols that
give the city its iconic identity.

16. 15
1. Big Texas Swimming Pool at Fiesta Texas, because they are proud of their territory
12
2. Big Cowboy Boots at North Star Mall, because they have served as some of the most iconic
symbols of the City. The location is "strategic", as it one of the first images that tourists
perceive from the City due to the proximity with the airport.
13
12
Six Flags Water Park. Accessed on May 3, 2017. Retrieved from https://www.sixflags.com/fiestatexas/attractions/water-park-rides
13
North Star Mall Boots. Accessed on May 3, 2017. Retrieved from https://www.google.com/maps/@29.5203495,-
98.494473,3a,75y,170.77h,91.76t/data=!3m6!1e1!3m4!1siqj-7v7nFJIeTNfqGPgnJA!2e0!7i13312!8i6656?hl=en&authuser=0

17. 16
3. Tool Yard (City Facility), because this town is mainly a hard working area, with several
military bases where they maintain and repair their equipment and and industrial area in
development.
14
4. Hyundai Ingram Indian, as this is a typical area of “indian and cowboys”, something that has
always sale to the tourism, and movies industries.
15
14
Tool Yard. Accessed on May 3, 2017. Retrieved from https://www.google.com/maps/@29.5331564,-
98.4003368,3a,60y,302.05h,82.15t/data=!3m6!1e1!3m4!1sYoU-Bl-3PSZhaIrDCmoMJQ!2e0!7i13312!8i6656?hl=en&authuser=0
15
Red McCombs Indian. Accessed on May 3, 2017. Retrieved from https://www.google.com/maps/@29.4890516,-
98.5798185,3a,75y,143.45h,93.91t/data=!3m6!1e1!3m4!1st8JTn0LBKgqqBprhGitPBA!2e0!7i13312!8i6656?hl=en&authuser=0

18. 17
5. Big Beer Can at The Pearl, as a representation that not only hispanic culture makes this area
unique, but also other ethnic groups, such as the German people bringing in the breweries
into town.
16
6. Missions Baseball Mascot, “Puffy Taco”, a typical local meal became the mascot!
17
16
The Pearl can. Accessed on May 3, 2017. Retrieved from https://www.google.com/maps/@29.4439295,-
98.4779183,3a,60y,242.8h,91.6t/data=!3m6!1e1!3m4!1sv0hMz0QclpN6q_ZKgkMTog!2e0!7i13312!8i6656?hl=en&authuser=0
17
Puffy Taco Mascot. Accessed on May 3, 2017. Retrieved from http://www.sanantoniomag.com/SAM/April-2014/Missions-
Accomplished/

19. 18
7. Big Veladora at Guadalupe Cultural Center, “always faithful to the Virgin, that big of a
feeling”!
18
8. “Papel Picado” at Centro de las Artes facade, something that represents how festive the
people is around San Antonio.
19
18
Guadalupe Cultural Center. Accessed May 3, 2017. Retrieved from https://www.google.com/maps/@29.4184416,-
98.5149127,3a,75y,357.45h,92.68t/data=!3m6!1e1!3m4!1swu4SND-
_v2wQyvCCvQMX0g!2e0!7i13312!8i6656!6m1!1e1?hl=en&authuser=0
19
Centro de las Artes. March 8, 2017. Photograph by Claudia R. Padilla.

20. 19
9. “F.I.S.H.” - Art by Donald Lipski under the bridge at the River Museum Reach. It is the
monumental art that always becomes iconic.
20
10. “Big Flower” - La Villita hall roof, nothing else could represent the sensibility of the San
Antonian people to the local natural beauty.
21
20
F.I.S.H. Public Art by Donald Lipski. Accessed May 3, 2017. Retrieved from
http://www.donaldlipski.net/fish/ptghom1m69ctw6zfjcxh3yi7ediiea
21
La Villita. Accessed May 3, 2017. Retrieved from https://www.google.com/maps/@29.4222846,-
98.4882093,350m/data=!3m1!1e3?hl=en&authuser=0

21. 20
11. “Big Yellow Roses City” - at the Hotels downtown, shows how almost any motive,
becomes a big “excuse” to attract people to the city, after all, that’s why they’re trying to
make it unique
22
12. “Big Angel” protecting kid - Christus Santa Rosa Children’s Hospital, taking care of a
hispanic boy, as the majority of people lookslike in this area
23
22
“Yellow Roses”. Accessed May 3, 2017. Retrieved from http://www.dianasphotogems.com/keyword/art/
23
Christus Santa Rosa Hospital. March 8, 2017. Photograph by Claudia R. Padilla

22. 21
13. Kallison’s Western Wear Store Cowboy, it relates with the same concept of the
previous “Indian”
24
14. San Fernando Cathedral illuminated, shows really great how this culture has all these
beautiful colors permeated in their culture.
24
Kallison’s Cowboy. Accessed May 3, 2017. Retrieved from https://www.google.com/maps/@29.4231912,-
98.4948891,3a,75y,257.91h,91.62t/data=!3m6!1e1!3m4!1spKG2shtE9Fet4Zxu-_ZPOQ!2e0!7i13312!8i6656?hl=en&authuser=0

23. 22
25
15. Mission San Juan illuminated, the colors bring back life even if is currently part of the
past, as is still important to grasp the joy that those provoke.
16.
26
25
San Fernando Cathedral. Accessed May 3, 2017. Retrieved from http://www.mainplaza.org/san-antoniothe-saga/
26
Mission San Juan. Accessed May 3, 2017. Retrieved from http://flickriver.com/photos/copazetic/29542829281/

24. 23
CHAPTER 3
Precedents
1. Reynosa Cultural Park
27
The Reynosa Cultural Park is an ecological park and a center to promote Art and
Culture, located in the city of Reynosa, Tamaulipas, Mexico. The strategic location is
ideal for the dissemination of art and culture between this border city in northern
Mexico and the neighboring state of Texas, US.
27
Cultural Park Reynosa, front view, accessed May 2, 2017. Retrieved from http://www.mexicoescultura.com/

25. 24
It is the most important cultural center of the state of Tamaulipas and one of the most
important in the north of that country. The park is managed by the Tamaulipeco
Institute for Culture and the Arts (ITCA), so the activities that take place are cultural
concerts, plays, visual art exhibits, cinema, conferences and promotion of cultural
events in general 28.
29
The Cultural Park Reynosa is in a space of 40 hectares, which is the lagoon La
Escondida, has 13,200 m2 of construction. On July 9, 2009, the official presentation of
28
Summarized from Wikipedia, accessed on May 2, 2017. Retrieved from https://es.wikipedia.org/wiki/Parque_Cultural_Reynosa
29
Cultural Park Reynosa, Map, accessed May 2, 2017. Retrieved from http://www.ontheroadin.com/wp-
content/uploads/2015/10/Reynosa-Map-1.jpg

26. 25
the architectural project of this cultural space took place. On November 24, 2009, the
foundation stone of the Art and Culture Center was installed and on August 17, 2010,
the inauguration took place. This facility counts with the following spaces:
Main Theater
For the expression of all artistic disciplines such as theater, cinematography,
dance, opera, concerts. It has the highest technology in theatrical mechanics,
audio, and lighting for 1146 spectators in seats with excellent optics, Panoptic
and acoustic.
30
30
Cultural Park Reynosa, Main Theatre, accessed May 2, 2017. Retrieved from http://idea-cubica.blogspot.com/2011/03/proyecto-
38.html

27. 26
Experimental Theater
For the presentation and promotion of artistic groups that require greater intimacy
in their presentations. Due to its characteristics, it is possible to easily modify the
size and position of the stage, as well as the quantity and distribution of the 200
seats.
Exhibition gallery
Large space destined to expose large plastic works with a total extension of 852
m2 with lighting designed especially for the space.
31
31
Cultural Park Reynosa, Visual Arts Gallery, accessed May 2, 2017. Retrieved from http://www.elmanana.com/llegafestinvisualalpcr-
2965848.html

28. 27
Conventions room
Indoors place destined for the celebration of conferences conventions or
symposiums counts front access and of service to facilitate the entrance of
materials and furnishings.
Main lobby
It is an area of 2,042 m2 that communicates the various spaces inside the Center
and can also be used for exhibitions, informal meetings or presentations.
32
32
Cultural Park Reynosa, Main vestibule, accessed May 2, 2017. Retrieved from
http://www.ultimasnoticiasenred.com.mx/sociales/cultura/inauguran-exposicion-la-cuera-icono-de-tamaulipas-en-el-parque-cultural-
reynosa/

29. 28
Parking lot
There are surrounding roads that provide parking for up to 400 vehicles, as well
as 8 spaces for people with different abilities.
Health services
There are two large bathrooms for ladies and gentlemen, in the basement area
with access by both fixed stairs and elevators with special facilities for people
with different capacities 33
.
34
33
General Data, Cultural Park Reynosa, accessed on May 2, 2017. Retrieved from
http://sic.gob.mx/ficha.php?table=centro_cultural&table_id=2657
34
Cultural Park Reynosa, Community Activities, accessed May 2, 2017. Retrieved from http://laexpresion.com.mx/destaca-el-turismo-de-
reuniones-en-tamaulipas/

30. 29
2. Morgan Wonderland
This 25 acres’ park is located in San Antonio, TX, USA. It was built on a property
where used to be the Longhorn Quarry and construction took slightly over a year. The
inspiration to build this park is born from Morgan Hartman, whose parents, Gordon,
and Maggie Hartman, got touched and concerned when noticing her own daughter was
being rejected by “normal” kids that wouldn’t want to interact with her, a kid with special
needs. This experience led them to create a foundation to pursue the construction of
Morgan’s Wonderland, an Inclusive Park, which actually is not only designed for those
with special needs, but is a place where those who don’t have special needs, can also
enjoy quality time, making this place a true inclusive park.
35
35
“The Wonder Squad”. Accessed May 3, 2017. Retrieved from http://themeparks.lovetoknow.com/theme-amusement-parks/morgans-
wonderland

31. 30
The success of this $34 million park has reach over 50 states from US and 65
countries from all over the world, so far, they have in their records over 1 million
guests. Gordon Hartman is inspired to continue this important labor, so his next
project was an expansion to include an ultra-accessible tropically themed aquatic park
that everyone can enjoy, Inspiration Island, which also has inspired the invention of a
wheelchair that has zero electronic components, so it can be submerged in the water
features. At the same time, he opened the STAR Soccer Complex, which led to the
creation of the San Antonio Scorpions soccer team and helped support the expenses
of Morgan’s Wonderland, a 75 acre facility and helped to open the CRIT USA, a rehab
center next door, the Academy, a school for kids with special needs and the only one
in Texas accredited as such. All working together has helped the area to become a
destination focusing in entertainment, sports, recreational activities, special events and
education.
36
36
Morgan’s Wonderland map. Accessed May 3, 2017. Retrieved
http://www.morganswonderland.com/images/ParkInfo/ParkMap/ParkMap2016.jpg

32. 31
The grand opening was on April 10, 2010 and at the time was the world’s first theme
park designed for those with special needs. All the park is 100% is wheelchair
accessible and beside the different areas of entertainment, featured a central piece of
art by Doug Roper, inspired by Morgan’s life, it is a symbol of children experiencing
unrestricted play, in spite of physical limitations 37
.
38
37
Accessed on May 2, 2017. Retrieved and summarized from http://www.morganswonderland.com/park-info/about-morgans-wonderland
38
“Taking Flight”, sculpture by Doug Roper. Accessed May 3, 2017. Retrieved from http://www.dougroper.com/

33. 32
3. Cultural Park Valparaiso
This park is in Valparaiso, Chile and was opened on 2011. The project is the result of a
re-adaptation of an old jail into an integrated open space. To achieve the required
objectives of the park, to respect the play of light and shadows projected by the
architectural shapes and, to create spaces to integrate the community members,
introducing them to cultural activities, few major steps were taken.
39
First step was to cut horizontally the perimeter wall, clear adjacent construction that
grew up around the building and was not originally part of it, helping at the same time
the revitalization of the landscape, guard walkways, handrails, security shelters, were
removed, leaving the structure “clean”, to where it would evoke more the atmosphere
of a cloister than a prison.
39
Valparaiso Cultural Park. Accessed May 3, 2017. Retrieved from
http://www.domusweb.it/en/architecture/2013/05/21/hlps_valparaa_soculturalpark.html

34. 33
Second step was to work on the landscape by rescuing the concept of the old
neighboring walkways around the park. This is a very important element as it marks
the obvious paths thru its materials and the strategic layout, which is intentionally
designed to connect the neighborhood, which includes a historical area, and the
internal and cultural activities.
40
41
Third step was the creation of the urban space that would help the connection between
the two adjacent neighborhoods and the cultural park. For the architect it was
important "an urban multipurpose plateau" is determined, "establishing a new relation
with the lower park and Valparaíso's harbor, geographic context and the sea." 42
40
Valparaiso Cultural Park. Accessed on May 3, 2017. Retrieved from http://parquecultural.cl/parque/arquitectura/
41
Circus activities, Valparaiso Cultural Park. Accessed on May 3, 2017. Retrieved from http://parquecultural.cl/parque/parque-cultural/
42
Accessed and summarized May 3, 2017. Retrieved from
http://www.domusweb.it/en/architecture/2013/05/21/hlps_valparaa_soculturalpark.html

35. 34
It counts with a museum located in a building that used to be the powder gun storage
in colonial times. This building, although it is in the same property, never was part of
the prison, the building resisted nature and time ware as was abandoned for almost
200 years until it got rehabilitated as museum to be part of the Cultural Park.
43
The project ended up as a harmonious set of buildings that facilitate all kinds of cultural
and community activities. The park has a large and equipped theater, visual arts room
and a terrace from which people can appreciate the Bay of Valparaiso. This is a great
example of the “recycling architecture”, “landscape architecture” & “contemporary
architecture” trends 44
.
43
Museo de Sitio, Valparaíso, Chile. Accessed May 3, 2017. Retrieved from http://parquecultural.cl/parque/museo-de-sitio/
44
Summarized and accessed May 3, 2017. Retrieved from http://parquecultural.cl/parque/parque-cultural/

36. 35
4. Yanaguana Park
This park is part of the Hemisfair complex, located in Downtown San Antonio, TX,
USA. Is the result of a long process of planning that involved several local
governmental institutions, public art community and commissions, as well as
volunteers from neighboring establishments and schools. All these different parties
participating is just the reflection of how politically, historically, and economically
sensitive is anything related to that location, as it has a direct and strong impact to the
local Community Redevelopment and Economic Revitalization.
45
45
Schematic Design. Yanaguana Park. Accessed on May 3, 2017. Retrieved from http://hemisfair.org/wp-
content/uploads/2015/08/13_10-25_PlayEscape-SchematicDesignPlan.pdf

37. 36
The intention of the park is to welcome everyone, disregarding age, or physical
challenges, to a place where recreational and cultural activities can be enjoyed by the
community in an outdoor setting, but with natural and shaded areas. Since it is in a
corner lot, and adjacent to important buildings, such as the Convention Center, and
other museums, the park was planned to have multiple convenient access points.
46
46
Program Memo. Yanaguana Park. Accessed May 3, 2017. Retrieved from http://hemisfair.org/wp-
content/uploads/2015/08/PlayEscapeSchematicDesignProgramMemo13-11-13.pdf

38. 37
47
It is a 4.1-acre garden and playground that includes public art produced by local artists,
following the lines of the utilitarian creations. The six-part “PLAY Theatre” series
includes a table that teaches people how to build kites and a giant jeweled panther and
swan, along with a long wavy and colorful bench where parents and different parties
can wait.
48
47
Panther at Yanaguana Park. April 30, 2017. Photograph by Claudia R. Padilla.
48
Public art / bench at Yanaguana Park. April 30, 2017. Photograph by Claudia R. Padilla

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Opening was a huge success back on October 2, 2016 and it includes numerous green
places for picnics and other relaxing activities like the giant chess and checkers
boards, although they are few displayed on regular size at table level dispersed
through the park.
49
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Relaxing features at Yanaguana Park. April 30, 2017. All 3 Photographs by Claudia R. Padilla

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The dominant feature of the garden is the different playground equipment for climbing
along the stations, swinging and a sand play area where guests can dig and make
works of art in the sand. It also has a “Splash Pad” for people to play in as water jets
spurt out of the ground alongside pretty lights 50
.
51
50
“Yanaguana Park opens…”. MySA article accessed May 3, 2017. Retrieved from
http://www.mysanantonio.com/news/local/article/Yanaguana-Garden-to-open-next-weekend-at-6530241.php
51
Playground equipment at Yanaguana Park. April 30, 2017. All 3 Photographs by Claudia R. Padilla

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5. Marseille Skatepark
On the beach of Plage Du Prado in Marseille you will find skatepark Du Prado, more
commonly known as Marseille Skatepark. Is an old-school gem with two huge perks
and It's free. The setup is perfect. There are a hundred lines, a few killer hips, bowls,
and fast steel coping everywhere. Plus, it sits on one of the most scenic coastlines in
the world and has lights that stay on all night.
52
An urban skatepark that is as well known for its graffiti art work as for its iconic layout.
The setup is perfect. There are a hundred lines, a few killer hips, bowls, and fast steel
coping everywhere. In addition, it sits on one of the most scenic coastlines in the world,
52
Skatepark bowl at Marseille Skatepark. Accessed April 18, 2017. Retrieved from http://www.complex.com/sports/2013/08/25-best-
skateparks-in-the-world/marseille-skatepark-bowl-marseille

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and has floodlights that allow all-hours skating. As France’s largest and best outdoor
skatepark, with a strong history, it attracts skaters from all over Europe who come to
skate the various painted bowls and vert ramps and soak up the unique atmosphere 53
.
54
Skateparks are a great place to observe the interaction of a human being trying to
leave the restrictions of childhood into trying to explore their own limits, which could be
somewhat dangerous for others that have learned that already or are in the process of.
In other words, makes evident the need of planning these spaces separated from
younger kids or older peoples’ areas, but without diminishing the functionality and
aesthetics of the central intention, attending teens and younger adults.
53
“10 most Iconic Skate spots in the world’. Accessed April 18, 2017. Retrieved from https://mpora.com/fitness/cooler-magazine-x-trailfit-
bored-gym-go-forest-adventure-workout-weekend-2
54
Public Competition at Marseille Skatepark. Accessed April 18, 2017. Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A79MXt5zMCg

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6. Playgrounds for Elderly
The question lately among planners and designers is whether future parks need to be
designed to be inter-generational, or designed specifically for the elderly. Two
academics and a landscape architect argued the research shows seniors do better
when they are around all age groups, but they need specific things to feel safe and
comfortable in parks and other open spaces. If they don't have them, they are far less
likely to venture into these places 55
.
56
55
“What Do Seniors Need in Parks?”. Accessed April 20, 2017. Retrieved from
http://www.smartcitiesdive.com/ex/sustainablecitiescollective/what-do-seniors-need-parks/1070996/
56
Playground for Seniors. Accessed April 20, 2017. Retrieved from http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2015/06/04/playgrounds-for-
seniors_n_7452270.html

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In Spain, they’re often with their grandparents. But these days the older folks aren’t just
sitting around feeding squirrels. They’re playing too. And exercising. On hundreds of
specially designed outdoor circuits for the elderly. Each time a new park opens here,
Lappset physical therapist Paz Vidal shows up to explain how each station works.
They’re not overly complicated. But Paz said the seniors generally need a walk-
through. And encouragement. These parks aren’t just about getting winded. They’re
designed for the mind too. A few of the stations are in fact games, where you match
colors, or shapes, or numbers. Analysts estimate that 40 to 45 percent of the
population in Spain will be retirees by 2050. Spending a few bucks on parks to keep
that population alert and healthy, the thinking goes, could save a lot in expensive
health care costs 57
.
58
57
“Playgrounds are a Big hit…”. Accessed April 20, 2017. Retrieved from https://www.pri.org/stories/2014-04-01/playgrounds-are-big-hit-
spains-elder-set
58
“Lappset’s Tero Ylinenpää on Spain’s Senior Play Park Boom”. Accessed April 20, 2017. Retrieved from
https://blooloop.com/features/lappsets-tero-ylinenpaa-on-spains-senior-play-park-boom/

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Galveston County Parks & Cultural Services opened the “Motion Wellness System”,
the first playground of it's kind in Texas on Thursday, August 14, 2014. This system is
used for focused training on balance & coordination and has activities to support
ordinary daily life. The system offers a safe approach for older adults to improve and
maintain their mobility, flexibility and balance skills. This safe approach will encourage
independence and can be used as a fall prevention assessment and training tool 59
.
60 61
Although their budget is smaller, other countries, such as India have already started to
pay attention to this issue. Senior citizen feel thankful of being taken in consideration
and emphasize the benefits of keeping their bodies and minds active in some manner,
even if it looks like a minimal activity, they feel better of being out there than stuck at
home.
59
“Motion Wellness System”. Galveston Senior Park. Accessed April 20, 2017. Retrieved from
http://www.galvestoncountytx.gov/ps/Pages/default.aspx
60
“Texas playground help seniors give them a lift”. Accessed April 20, 2017. Retrieved from
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jfq8FXAnwEk
61
Senior Citizen park at India. Accessed April 20, 2017. Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xp_fP4ucLrs

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CHAPTER 4
Program & Location
Since parks should be a place where old friends meet and new friends are made, it is evident the
importance of understanding how parks help strengthen the soul of each person by connecting
them to their place and culture. Therefore, the proposed Inclusive and Cultural Park will include
specific areas for each age group, with small to none interference between areas. Must have all
basic services and facilities to serve the public in a dignifying manner. It should be a beautiful
urban green inviting place for all to gather, connect, recharge and enjoy art, culture, and
entertainment. It should also be comfortable, adequate, welcoming, fully accessible, and viable,
public and fun. It is important that works for both small and large events, programmed or
spontaneous activities, and could function or in parts.
Among the activities that would be important to ensure for this Inclusive and Cultural park are
eating, exercising, attending an event, or relaxing, but the important thing is that should be safe
whether is a day or a night activity. Each feature should achieve a high standard of environmental,
social, and economic sustainability. They all should offer a variety of experiences that flow
together: from a large lawn to smaller gardens and courtyards; from vibrant boulevards to
peacefully shaded pathways, so the city’s history and confluence of local and international cultures
get expressed not only by the park design, but through events, performances, and art.
Shops, restaurants, and cultural destinations on the ground floor of buildings will attract users and
enhance the park experience even when there are no organized events 62
.
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Inspired by the Hemisfair park guidelines. Accessed March 31, 2017. Retrieved from http://hemisfair.org/about/design-statement/

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1. Proposed Site
An ideal place for the proposed Inclusive and Cultural Park could be where new
residential and economic revitalization needs to be addressed, especially at places that
are behind in the education and infrastructure aspects. The Proposed Site is located
between, México City and Toluca, two major cities, between La Marquesa and the
Salazar Lagoon.
63 64
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Estado de Mexico map. Accessed May 3, 2017. Retrieved from
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Estado_de_M%C3%A9xico_en_M%C3%A9xico.svg
64
La Marquesa map. Accessed May 3, 2017. Retrieved from https://es.slideshare.net/alyaesro/accesibilidad-en-la-la-marquesa

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La Marquesa, Mexico. April 15, 1992. Photographs by Claudia R. Padilla.

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2. Economical Impact
If we were to take as example the economical impact generated by the redevelopment
of the Hemisfair parks, and compare it to a place like La Marquesa, Mexico, and based
in the fact that it is already a traditional touristic place, we could expect a similar
projection, which was seven times the original investment, 3700 indirect and induced
jobs, 6000 jobs during construction and 2000 new jobs once completion of the whole
project is achieved. They also expect .
66
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Hemisfair Economic Impact. Accessed May 3, 2017. Retrieved from http://hemisfair.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/Economic-
Impact-2016-10-12-FINAL.pdf

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3. Conceptual Program
Following all the previous considerations and analysis of the different parks around the
world attempting to accomplish the same guidelines and intentions of this research, the
following concept was developed for the Inclusive and Cultural Park.
67
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“Gliptoteca Nacional”. Planta de Conjunto. June 19, 1992. Original drawings and Concept by Claudia R. Padilla. Credits for the inserted
images are offered as they are explained in detail further.

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● Playground for Big Kids
Has to be adequate for kids ranging between 6 to 11 years old. This age range needs
plenty of space to run fast and climbing, sliding and balance features that are at
medium height as they are still not very conscientious of the dangerous situations.
68 69
70
68
Toddlers playground floor plan. Accessed May 4, 2017. Retrieved from http://www.bluegrassplaygrounds.com/currentsale-bg0009.html
69
Big kids play structure2. Accessed May 4, 2017. Retrieved from https://www.americanparkscompany.com/dawn-to-dusk

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● Playground for Young teens
It needs to offer the same features of the Big kid’s playground, but adding height and
slightly more daring features. All should be at a larger scale, as their bodies have
started to grow and intensive amounts of energy and excitement are displayed
specially when interacting socially with their peers.
71 72
73
70
Big kids playground floor plan. Accessed May 4, 2017. Retrieved from http://www.aaastateofplay.com/natural-wilderness-playground-
structure/
71
Young teens Playground floor plan. Accessed May 4, 2017. Retrieved from https://www.cedarworks.com/product/detail/serendipity_311
72
Teens play structure. Accessed May 4, 2017. Retrieved from http://www.littlegatherer.com/tags/spots-and-dots

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● Playground for Toddlers & Accessible playgrounds
This type of playground is low in height and has simple motor skills tasks. It must be
accessible for parents at all time as this is an age where much help is still needed as
they are totally unaware of danger or how things work.
74 75 76
73
Teens Playground equipment. Accessed May 4, 2017. Retrieved from http://www.mobiliariosurbanos.com/english/wp-
content/uploads/interactive_playground_equipment.pdf
74
Toddler playground. Accessed May 4, 2017. Retrieved from http://www.mobiliariosurbanos.com/english/wp-content/uploads/catalogo-
resumen-mobipark-10.2015.pdf
75
Nicole playground floor plan. Accessed May 4, 2017. Retrieved from https://www.pinterest.com/pin/395613148489677615/
76
Accessible playground. Accessed May 4, 2017. Retrieved from http://www.mobiliariosurbanos.com/english/wp-
content/uploads/catalogo-resumen-mobipark-10.2015.pdf

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● Playground for Seniors
This is a new concept responding a neglected need of attending the physical and
mental need of the senior citizens. The equipment needs to be big and wide enough
for them, make them feel safe on it and around it, and feature low impact, balance, and
motor skills activities. Sometimes they include simple board games like activities to
stimulate the mind.
77 78
79
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Seniors Playground floor plan. Accessed May 4, 2017. Retrieved from https://www.cedarworks.com/product/detail/serendipity_536
78
Seniors at playground. Accessed May 4, 2017. Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GjlBV_usQrQ
79
Seniors playground. Accessed May 4, 2017. Retrieved from http://lakewoodpulse.com/2016/08/07/a-playground-for-seniors-coming-to-
manchester-township/

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● Fitting Center and Skatepark for Young Adults
High impact features is what goes in this type of area. Speed and freedom of
movement should be the dominant atmosphere.
80 81
82
80
Teens playground floor plan. Accessed May 4, 2017. Retrieved from https://www.kingssutton.org/news/articles/2013/01/19/plans-
finalised-new-play-equipment-rec/#.WQvAZdLyuUk
81
Skatepark bowl at Lake Cunningham California Skatepark. Accessed April 18, 2017. Retrieved from
http://www.complex.com/sports/2013/08/25-best-skateparks-in-the-world/marseille-skatepark-bowl-marseille
82
Fitting Center. Accessed May 4, 2017. Retrieved from http://www.mobiliariosurbanos.com/english/wp-
content/uploads/Trip_TRAININGBOX_A4Es-Ing-Fr.pdf

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● The Museum
This museum is the gate to the entire Inclusive and Cultural Park. It should have a
cafeteria, public restrooms, gift shop and six galleries. The idea is to be able to display
permanent collections, temporary exhibits, traveling exhibitions, have special displays
for children, and blind people, as they can still touch special items designated for that
purpose. All spaces should be accessible and should have projection smaller areas.
83
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Gliptoteca Nacional”. Museo. June 19, 1992. Drawings and Concept by Claudia R. Padilla

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● Classrooms for kids and adults
This a very useful area for parks and cultural centers, as they can be used for
workshops, lectures, and activities in relationship with the museum exhibit, planned
outdoor public events or community volunteering. It should have restrooms and an
outdoor area in case the activity requires to be on open spaces, but still under a
canopy to protect from sun or rain.
84
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“Gliptoteca Nacional”. Salones y talleres para niños y adultos. June 19, 1992. Drawings and Concept by Claudia R. Padilla

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● Library
A library is always important as is the best way to cultivate cultural habits, learn new
things and preserve the history of the area. Another important aspect of this library is
the research spaces, where special collections are reserved for those with higher
training and interests. Of course, an enclosed children’s room should be provided
aside from the normal setup. Restrooms in each floor and 100 % accessibility is
necessary.
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“Gliptoteca Nacional”. Biblioteca. June 19, 1992. Drawings and Concept by Claudia R. Padilla

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● Administrative Offices
Essential spaces for the smooth functioning and development of the Inclusive Cultural
Park should be accommodated here, which would be considered the brain of the entire
Complex. Not only will house secretaries and managers, but also coordinators of
activities, volunteer’s area, meeting spaces, public relations rooms, office storage, and
external agencies spots. This could be considered the brain of all
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“Gliptoteca Nacional”. Oficinas. June 19, 1992. Drawings and Concept by Claudia R. Padilla

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● Auditorium
This is a much-needed area, as one of the most attractive activities are escenic
performances. It could also be a venue for a children or adult workshop that requires a
stage. Typically, these kinds of activities are the one’s generating the most income for
the facility.
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“Gliptoteca Nacional”. Auditorio. June 19, 1992. Drawings and Concept by Claudia R. Padilla

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● Maintenance Shops
Four essential shops are depicted here, all related with the complex maintenance,
(specializing on the typical trades of electricity, plumbing and mechanics), except one,
which is designed for the restoration and conservation of the museum’s collections.
They should have also an area where workers can take a break or lunch.
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“Gliptoteca Nacional”. Talleres de Mantenimiento. June 19, 1992. Drawings and Concept by Claudia R. Padilla

62. 61
CHAPTER 5
Annotated Bibliography
GENERAL INFO SUMMARY
McCarter, R., & Pallasmaa, J. (2012). Understanding
architecture: A primer on architecture as experience.
London;New York, NY;: Phaidon Press Limited.
. Intended both as an introductory text for students and
professionals in the field as well as an accessible read for
the public, Understanding Architecture addresses the basic
principles of architecture. The volume is organized in 12
series of chapters based on a key architectural theme -
including space, time, matter, gravity, light, silence, dwelling,
ritual, memory, landscape, and place. Each chapter begins
with an introductory essay, and includes a wide variety of
historical examples from around the world, followed by in-
depth analysis of 6 key buildings that further exemplify the
theme of that chapter. The chapter talking about Place, is
the relevant one for this research.
Rattenbury, K., & Hardingham, S. (2007). Robert
venturi and denise scott brown: Learning from las
vegas. New York;Abingdon [England];: Routledge.
The Superscript Series revisits some of the most influential
architectural projects of the recent past and examines their
impact on the way we think and design today. Based on live
studio debates between protagonists and critics, the books
describe, explore and criticize these major projects.
This second book in the unprecedented series examines
Robert Venturi and Denise Scott Brown's infamous book
which overturned the barriers separating high architecture
from the commercial architecture of the Strip.
In Robert Venturi and Denise Scott Brown: Learning from
Las Vegas you can hear the couple's project description,
see the drawings and join in the crit.

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Between Planning and Heritage: Cultural Parks and
National Heritage Areas
By: Pablo Alonso González, Alfredo Macías Vázquez
European Spatial Research and Policy, 12 / 2014,
Volume 21, Issue 2
The number of cultural parks and heritage areas is
increasing in Europe and the United States. Those are
spreading over other areas where the economic sectors
related to tourism and leisure gain weight. Heritage areas or
parks are heterogeneous initiatives that place cultural
heritage at the heart of spatial planning policy and economic
development, aiming at the reinvention of large territories
and local community participation in planning. Their
relevance stems from their potential influence on the
territorial configuration of broad regions and their impact
upon the articulation of traditional protected areas.
Notwithstanding this, they have attracted scant academic
attention so far.
Rendón Garduño, Claudia Adriana. (2001). Gliptoteca
Nacional: A Museum for only Sculptures. México D. F.;
México; Editorial Gernika.
This is the thesis that Claudia A. Rendón Garduño
developed to obtain her title and license as an Architect. It
analyzes a museum for only sculptures, adding to the exhibit
galleries supportive areas and buildings to facilitate the
needs of the sculptural exhibits. Important aspect of
accessibility, culture and education are explored with this
project, especially that the context is of a third world country
and several years ago, when code enforcement and different
disabilities were not the priority in anybody’s thinking.
Outdoor spaces are also considered as part of the exhibits,
as monumental format could be installed there. This
previous research is very useful as a foundation to this
current effort, as the concept has been evolving to include
the past and the present circumstances and technologies.
This dissertation was the very first to be done thru
videoconference, between the UNAM campus at Mexico City
and the UNAM campus at San Antonio, TX, and was
recorded officially as such in the local magazine.

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Tourist behavior in Hakka Cultural Parks Simon Wang
1 , Chih-Yung Tsai 1, 2 * and Ying-Chien Chu 1
1Department of Tourism and Leisure, National Penghu
University, Penghu Hsien, Taiwan. 2No.300, Liu-Ho
Rd., Makung City, Penghu County, Taiwan, R.O.C.
In recent years, the culture industry has been a popular topic
for international research and discussion, influencing the
social and economic development policies of advanced
countries. Both government and private sectors must
consider the changing trends of globalized and localized
industries to actively promote culture industry development
and combine human and economic perspectives to create
high value-added products and services. The analytical
results of this study indicate that revisit intention was
associated with recreational satisfaction. Furthermore,
recreational satisfaction was associated with leisure
benefits. Culture parks must be able to provide locations and
services for tourists to relax and get away from life's
pressures. Once this is accomplished, tourists' recreational
satisfaction and revisit intention increase and the principle of
sustainable management can be achieved.
Langen, S., & Elliott, F. (2015). Outdoor art:
Extraordinary sculpture parks and art in nature.
Munich;London;New York;: Prestel.
Artists and art collectors are creating outdoor spaces in
order to display sculpture and art that is both transformative
and powerful. This book is filled with breathtaking
photographs of 25 of these spaces from throughout the
world - many of which are not open to the public. Captured
in brilliant colour, these spaces are populated by works that
both enhance and are enhanced by the landscape: rolling
hills, mountain lakes, shaded canyons and empty deserts.
Each park's concept is based on a unique theme or idea and
some of these spaces invite contemplation both spiritual and
scientific, while others blend horticultural elements with
manmade objects. As large-scale works grow in popularity,
these collections - built and designed by entrepreneurs,
landscape architects, environmentalists, artists, and garden
experts - demonstrate the endless possibilities of displaying
art in nature's realm.