Phone Interview with Pavilion of the Two Sisters architect, Peter Trapolin

“The year 1991 was when the Botanical Gardens were built. There was a movement in the mid 1980’s where people became environmentally conscious due to the price of oil. At that time, you had to wait in long lines to get gas and because of this, there was a spark in interest in the use of solar energy, so the Conservatory was built. The original name for the Pavilion of the Two Sisters was City Park Educational Pavilion. It was meant to be multi-purposeful for horticulture and fundraising activities. Originally, it was designed to accommodate educational functions. It’s well insulated, but there is no real sustainability features. As of right now, the facility completely supports itself by the rent they get when they lease it out for weddings. City Park does not receive funds from the city or state. They have to raise funds for themselves. Botanical Gardens would be a huge money making facility for City Park, however City Park needs help”.

Precedent 5- ARF Tony La Russa's Animal Rescue Foundation

Location: Walnut Creek, California

Architect: The 1%: Strengthening Nonprofits through Design

Principal in Charge: Tony La Russa

Overall square footage: 37, 700 sq. ft.

Physical Parameters:
Context: ARF opened in June 2003 and has become a community center where ARF is able to rescue, treat, and adopt more animals who would otherwise be put to death. “The catalyst for ARF came in May of 1990 during a baseball game between the Oakland Athletics and the New York Yankees when a stray cat wandered onto the playing field. Terrified by the roar of the crowd, the frightened feline dashed about, eluding umpires and players. Tony, then the Manager of the Oakland A's, coaxed the cat into the dugout, secured its safety for the remainder of the game, then took responsibility for placing it with a local shelter. To his dismay, Tony discovered there was not a single No-Kill facility in the East Bay region of the San Francisco Bay Area. When Tony learned the cat would be euthanized, he and his wife, Elaine, named her "Evie" and found a home for her. His experience with this cat was the genesis for the founding of ARF, a No-Kill organization dedicated to bringing people and animals together to enrich each other's lives.” (www.arf.net)

Site Location: It is situated on a prominent corner in Walnut Creek, California at 2890 Mitchell Drive. The ARF campus is bringing people and animals together in a family oriented park like setting. The facility consists of two buildings, totaling 37,700 sq. ft.


Concept For Project: ARF saves dogs and cats who have fun out of time at public shelters and brings people and animals together to enrich each other’s lives. ARF strives to create a world where every loving dog and cat has a home, where every lonely person has a companion animal, and where children learn to care.

Special Factors or challenges: When circumstances arise that leave an adopter unable to keep their animal; ARF will assist the owner in finding a new home. Because ARF is a no kill organization and is fully supported by donations (because they are non-profit), they can only accept a limited amount of animals to the shelter based on their financial capabilities at that time.


List of all the spaces:

Entry: ARF’s facility serves as a community center, as well as a national model, providing a resource for people of all ages to enjoy positive interactions with animals. In addition, the donor wall prominently lists and honors leading contributors to ARF’s capital campaign. To the left is the Virginia Pitchford Main Entry which leads to the Dean and Margaret Lesher Foundation Multi use hall, a community gathering spot for adoption fairs, educational exhibits, social events, and school tours.




Dog and Cat Condos: ARF’s animals relax in a homelike setting, making them more adoptable and able to thrive in their new homes.
Lynn and Dolores McCoskey Spay/Newter clinic: With the capacity to alter thousands of animals a year, ART’s state of the art clinic helps break the cycle of companion animal overpopulation in the community.
Learning Center: The learning center at ARG is the first interactive museum connected to a private adoption center designed to educate children about animal companions. This guided experience brings children through a pint sized veterinary office, an age appropriate pet supply shop and to “Walk in My Pays” a creative play stage where children experience what it’s like to be a dog or a cat in a human world.
Summary: I came across this organization because ARF is not only a nonprofit, but is one that deals with animals. The floorplan of the facility has helped me in designing my space that is allocated for the rescued dogs at Spirit Gardens along with the spaces used for the interaction with humans.

Precedent 4- Arizona Cancer Center

The Peter and Paula Fasseas Cancer Clinic
Location: Tucson, Arizona

Architect: Co Architects (Dennis McFadden

Principal in Charge: James Simeo

Overall square footage: 82,000 sq. ft.

Total Construction Cost: $21,435,000



Environmental Influences: The rugged natural beauty of Tucson, Arizona has driven this design. The science and art of healing have converged; medicine and technology are integrated with a healing environment closely linked to nature.

Physical Parameters:
Context: Initially founded in 1976 as a Division of the University of Arizona’s College of Medicine, the Arizona Cancer Center currently stands as Center of Excellence in the Arizona Health Sciences Center. It provides outpatient exam and infusion treatment services to patients in a convenient accessible facility. The cancer center is the first phase o a 17 acre site that will be developed in increments to house other services of the medical center.

Special Factors or Challenges: By providing access to gardens, trees, and mountain views, the design is deinstitutionalized and removed from an acute care hospital setting.

List of all spaces and design: “The healing gardens are an integral part of the new center and provide an atmosphere that’s conductive to an outstanding quality of life-a setting in which cancer patients can feel they have a great chance of being cured,” says Cancer Center Director David Alperts. The healing gardens replicate elements of the native landscape and are organized around a creek bed that runs through the site-a desert “wash” which supply the garden’s native trees, plants and flowers with water. All of the exam and infusion treatment spaces are provided with a window that looks out to the gardens. All elements of the building’s design relate to the natural landscape. Exterior and interior finishes are natural materials made from natural products, such as stone and wood. Trellises and covered entries provide shade. The color palate is neutral earth tones. Interior spaces are washed with soft, indirect light.




Summary: I love the way that Arizona Cancer Center shares some of the same goals as Spirit Gardens hopes to achieve; healing through nature and raising the quality of life of the patients staying there.

Precedent 3- Green Chimneys

Location: 400 Doansburg Road, Box 719 Brewster, NY 10509-0719

Architect: Perkins Eastman Architects PC

Principal in Charge: Aaron B. Schwarz

Interior Designer: Perkins Eastman Architects PC

Engineer: Severud Associates, Insite Engineering, and Gerard Associates

Overall square footage: 27,500 square feet

Total Construction Cost: $6.1 million

Environmental Influences: Green Chimney’s residential treatment center is located on a 150 acre farm in Putnam County, New York providing an ideal environment for a nature based therapeutic and educational program.

Physical Parameters:
Context: With the financial backing of S. Bernard Ross, M.D., a 75 acre dairy farm in the Town of Patterson, Putnam County, New York, was purchased by a widow of the New York State Senator Ward Tolbert on October 27, 1947. The farm, in the Town of Patterson, Putnam County, NY was to operate as a boarding and day school and summer camp for children between the ages of 3-6 where children could interact with farm animals. The property has since expanded to nearly 200 acres with an additional 350 acres at Clearpool Education Center. The name Green


Chimneys Farm for Little Folk was changed to Green Chimneys School for Little Folk to better describe the program.
Concept for Project: Green Chimneys is the nationally renowned, nonprofit organization with a mission of restoring possibilities and creating futures for children with emotional, behavioral, social and learning challenges through educational, therapeutic and outreach services, while providing care for animals and nature, thereby promoting a philosophy of dignity and worth for all living things.

Special Factors or Challenges: As new programs were being offered in the 80’s, the school and agency experienced four years of deficits, the result of program expenses and delay in funding for new programs. A lesson learned was that it is difficult to add new programs without start-up money and reserves.




List of all Spaces:
Green Chimneys School: The administrative building is centrally located, with classroom buildings on either side. A covered walkway connects the three buildings, creating a "front porch" for a central green. The buildings are solidly built, a necessary requirement for the education and care of 150 middle-school-aged, high energy children. Two classroom buildings are housed under the two-story barrel roof portions of the building, flanking shared resources including library, science rooms, and flexible project rooms.
Green Chimneys School provides residential, social, and educational services for emotionally disturbed children on a 150-acre farm. Its philosophy is predicated on the belief that given the responsibilities of caring for animals, troubled children can regain self-respect, and learn to trust and love.
The architect designed three new academic structures for the school, and made renovations to existing buildings on the rural residential campus. The scale and massing of the buildings fit within the context of the surrounding farm, which is composed of small residential and barn buildings.
-Woodshop, Classrooms, library, pool, kitchen, playground, lab rooms, outdoor gardens, farm, kenneling, gym, etc.
Residential Treatment Facility: David Hall, the Green Chimneys is a 14 bed psychiatric residential treatment facility on the grounds of the Green Chimneys Brewster Campus.
-Bedrooms, Game Room, Kitchen, Living room, Dining room

Summary: The aspects that I have drawn from this organization was not so much the interior design part of it, but the information gathered in regards to the animal assisted therapy activities and the fact that they are a non-profit organization. The main difference between Spirit Gardens and Green Chimneys is that they focus on children with disabilities and Spirit Gardens focuses on adults with Cancer, but both are intended to heal in other ways rather than medically. The residential treatment facility has helped me with square footage amounts and the design for my residential space.

Precedent 2- Wellington Ronald McDonald House

1. Reception
A light, bright reception area will provide a warm and secure welcome for new families. It will include a separate area for new families to check in, and a waiting area for guests.

2. Donor wall
A large feature of the reception area will be a donor wall to recognize major donors and key supporters. The wall is being created by Weta Workshop.

3. Administration offices and staff apartment
Our administration offices and an apartment for staff or volunteers will be located behind the main reception area. We operate a 24-hour service to ensure staff or volunteers are always available.

4. Underground parking, storage and utilities
The basement will provide 17 car parks and a large storage area for the generous donations of food, cleaning and other general household products we receive. A walk-in chiller and freezer will be housed here, as will a rubbish and plant room.



1. Communal and commercial kitchen and dining room
A large, communal self-catering kitchen with 8 workstations so that families have the room to cook their meals – providing them with some normality. The kitchen will include personal pantry, fridge and freezer space for each family to store their food. A communal pantry and fridge will give families access to donated food. Volunteers will use a small commercial kitchen to prepare shared family meals.

2. Five lounges
Two family lounges on the first floor, the largest just under 80 sqm, will let families relax and be together with a TV area on one side and lounges on the other. Another family lounge will be on the third floor. A childfree parents’ lounge provides a quiet sanctuary for parents, and a ‘kids only’ games lounge offers a distraction for sick children and their siblings.

3. Outdoor and Children’s play area
Families will be able to relax, dine and barbeque while children play in a private outdoor area.



1. Gym
A gym is the most requested new facility. Parents spend many hours beside their
child’s hospital bed and would like the opportunity to exercise. It’s also a great way to relieve stress and contribute to the wellbeing of worried parents. A small gym will be located on the second floor.

2. Four self-contained apartments
The apartments have been designed to meet the extra special needs of some families. For example:
- Families of children with compromised immune systems. These children can leave the hospital environment but can’t mix with other people.
- Families facing the imminent death of their child. These families need space and privacy to allow them to come to terms with their situation and grieve.
- Parents facing a lengthy stay in the House. These families need a change of environment to boost their spirits.

3. Thirty ensuite bedrooms
These homely rooms will be of varying sizes to cater for different sized families. Rooms will sleep single parents, three to four people or large families of up to five.

Precedent 1-The House That Love Built, New Orleans Ronald McDonald House

Overall square footage: approximately 6,000 square feet

When families have traveled many miles to receive specialized medical care, looking for temporary accommodations in an unfamiliar place only adds to their stress and anxiety. The Ronald McDonald House not only offers them a place to stay, but a built-in support system where families help each other. Together, they face and overcome some of the most trying times in their lives.
The Ronald McDonald House provides a "home-away-from-home" for families of seriously ill children receiving treatment at area hospitals. On average, 85 families stay at the house each month. The New Orleans, Ronald McDonald House opened in December 1983 with the help of the New Orleans Saints. Originally built at the turn of the last century, the New Orleans Ronald McDonald House is located in historic Mid City. The new Orleans McDonald House has 8 staff members: a full time Executive Director, Administrative assistant, Administrative Manager, Housekeeper, two part managers to cover nights, weekends, and holidays, two part time van drivers and a volunteer coordinator. The staff also relies heavily on assistance from volunteers. Guests at the house are asked to donate 10 dollars per night, but the actual cost is about 60 per family, per night. More than 18,000 families have been served since the house opened in 1983.



Location: 4403 Canal Street New Orleans, Louisiana 70119-5946



List of all spaces:

1. 15 bedrooms
2. Large kitchen
3. Dining Room
4. Two Laundry areas
5. Toy Room
6. Two Dens
7. Outside Patio area


Summary: I am attracted to this organization because of its homey quality and that it has a lot about it that I will incorporate in my organization such as how it is run, the fact that there is one isolation room for sick children, how it stands tall in the non-profit world, and typical room sizes.

Opinions on City Park

“What do you think City Park’s strength are?”

• Beautiful open green space, live oaks, garden, WPA historical works
• Greenery, stadium 2 golf courses, stables, Christmas lights, art
• original design (esp. both south side) lush, centrally located
• The variety of offerings! Plus the potential for more activities
• Green space, museum, sculpture garden, amusements, diversity!
• Green space, trees, open space, space away from noise
• It’s history, natural beauty, size, location, open space
• The location of the park is its biggest strength
• Variety of spaces and ease of access from various parts of the city
• The physical size in an urban area
• The beauty of nature, trees, bayou
• Accessibility to people
“What are City Park’s weaknesses?”

• LACK OF PUBLIC FUNDING!! As a result, there is poor maintenance, understaffed, unqualified workers, neglected trees, lagoons and gardens.
• Lack of maintenance and grooming
• Litter, lack of financial support
• Most people do not know that City Park receives no funds from the city
“What are City Park’s opportunities?”

• With funding and good leadership, we could become one of the best urban parks
• To be a showcase facility to New Orleans and surrounding area
• Biking, jogging trails, dog park facility, increase public donations
• Access to city, skate park/dog park/adoption facility
• Create more specialized activity that generates money to fund free areas
• A chance to open up to all regardless of economic affluence
• Partnership with SPCA, regional cooperation with surrounding parishes


“Threats for City Park?”

• Apathy, lack of funding, no future plans- plan and JUST DO IT!
• Lack of maintenance causing less usage, crime, etc.
• Perception that City Park is used only by N.O residents, poor economy, crime in city
• Crime and neglect

“Concerns?”

• I am concerned that without public funding the park will deteriorate beyond repair
• Park currently serves as a marginal attraction and needs to be resource for all users and attraction to more
• Politics
• Appearance, mowing, safety
• I’m concerned you will lose your autonomy by seeking tax dollars
• We need more physical activity for aggregate numbers of people
• Lack of security and overall supervision
• Vandalism and people who do not appreciate the value and beauty of the park
•

Satisfaction with City Park

Existing Circulation

Conceptual Plan

Proposed Land Use

Extant Historic Elements

City Park Existing Land Usage

Summary Statement

In conclusion, Spirit Gardens Cancer Healing Retreat will demonstrate new ways to heal besides just relying on countless medical treatments. It will be a convenient and comfortable place to stay for adults during hospital treatment phases with many on site amenities, such as animal assisted therapy through mainly dogs, cooking and baking classes in the kitchen, classes such as yoga or tai chi, painting and drawing in the activity wing or just relaxing in the reading and lounge areas and of course enjoying the breath taking gardens surrounding Spirit Gardens. Not only will guests be able to partake in these amenities, but will have easy access to everything City Park and New Orleans has to offer. Guests staying at Spirit Gardens will be able to enjoy their beautiful gardens, but a portion will still be open to the public to help create revenue for this non-profit organization. The dense, green, oak tree, and gardens infused surroundings the property will help make this retreat feel like a secluded get away, although it is located right in mid city New Orleans.
The address is on Victory Avenue in City Park in New Orleans, Louisiana near the New Orleans Museum of Art. The retreat will encompass all four buildings on site; the Pavilion of the Two Sisters and connecting Gift Shop, the Conservatory of the Two Sisters, Lath House, and the Garden Study Center and will take full advantage of the existing Gardens surrounding these facilities. Further research and focus will be on altering and enhancing the construction documents of the Conservatory and the Lath House to allow for this organization to be possible.

The proposal represents a common agreement between client and designer. Should the design be altered after this date, price agreements will be altered to suit.

Designer
Julia Brodsky

Concept

In this economy, there are countless victims of Cancer needed to seek out treatments sometimes at medical institutions around the world, but in this economy and with health insurance not at its best, it can be hard for people to find a suitable and home like get away during these stressful times when trying to find a place to stay during treatment phases. Instead of being forced to stay in either an uncomfortable place or spend countless sums of money for hospital stays, Spirit Gardens will be transformed into a welcoming and relaxing non-profit spiritual healing retreat through a main use of Animal Assisted Therapy for Cancer victims. The property will be a great place for people seeking out treatments at local hospitals, to get away from their stresses and worries, and act as a retreat for them to heal their heart and soul. This non-profit organization will help bring a sense of a community to New Orleans, and lower the crime level throughout the historic City Park. Through the use of animal assisted therapy and having dog kennels on site, Spirit Gardens will not only be a place for humans to be healed, but for dogs from the local area to be saved. The facilities will be designed using the very unique aspects and symbolisms in butterflies that will further help encourage healing through the patients. The space will preserve the character and historic quality of the former Botanical Gardens, but will be a new and needed addition to become a safe harbor in New Orleans, Louisiana.

Economic Factors

Being that Spirit Gardens is a 501(c) 3 certified non-profit organization, the facilities will be receiving grants and donations to keep the facilities up and running. The heavier costs will be used to keep the Animal Assisted Therapy Center in the best shape possible to keep from any harmful diseases from spreading from dog to dog on site. Also, the Residential area will have special attention for the spaces temporarily inhabited in from the patients to keep them healthy and a feeling of being at home. In beginning stages of development, many of the assets acquired will be used in the re-design of the existing conservatory greenhouses to mimic the Victorian exterior of the existing Pavilion Center to allow for a different usage of that space needed for Spirit Gardens be developed.

Technical needs

Security System: Control for those entering all buildings on site, video surveillance

Telecommunication: telephone outlets, data outlets, fax lines, computer terminals, printers, internet access

Biophysical needs

HVAC: for all systems, heating and cooling throughout all four on site building structures, energy efficient power, in the AAT Center, each kenneling system will have its own HVAC per animal

Automatic sprinkler systems

Smoke and Heat Detectors: automatic fire detection system

Plumbing system: keeping with current plumbing with green efficiency in mind

Electrical system: for any added electrical power needed

Illumination: use of natural daylight, glass domed aviary will use maximum amount of daylight, energy efficient fluorescents will be used in kenneling areas

Sanitary and Safety precautions for dinging areas, guest rooms, and AAT Center

American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) AAT, AAA, and RA Policies

Laws Governing AAA, AAT, and RA Programs
Most states allow animals in long term healthcare facilities and other institutions, with some restrictions. Animals are usually not allowed in food preparation and serving rooms or in areas where sterile conditions are maintained. Health certificates for animals may be required. Program organizers should check with state and local officials for specific regulations.
Liability
Most institutions should be able to include an AAA, AAT, or RA program as one of their operational programs without additional insurance riders. Individuals providing AAA, AAT, or RA programs for these institutions should be able to obtain protection for their work under their existing individual or agency personal insurance policy. They may also be covered under the institution's insurance policy as a welcomed visitor. In all cases, the institution, agency, therapist, and volunteers should consult their respective insurance agents to ensure adequate protection.
Getting Started
An AAA, AAT, or RA program should be implemented only after there has been adequate advance preparation and discussion by everyone involved. Program organizers should be familiar with AAA, AAT, and RA concepts, available animal certification methods and programs, and national, state, and local laws pertaining to use of animals in facilities. Good communication among all individuals involved is essential. Roles of participants must be clearly defined and basic standards must be established to protect human and animal health, ensure the safety of participants, manage associated risks, and appropriately allocate program resources.3 Workload for program and facility staff must be appropriately and carefully managed, and adequate training must be provided. Participants must understand and respect principles of confidentiality. All AAA, AAT, and RA programs should include a veterinarian as a key participant so the health and well being of humans and animals involved are protected.

Illustrated Code Compliance

Institutional occupancy-health care or unrestrained facility-congregate care facilities which means to come together in a group, or gather people or animals into a group
Certain types of care facilities can be considered a Residential occupancy in most codes if the number of people receiving care is between 5 and 16.

The NFPA101 determines the difference based on the kind of care being provided, whether medical or personal care.

I.C.C- International building code: R-4 Residential, Care and Assisted Living Facilities O.L > 5 <_ 16

S.B.C.C-Standard Building Code: R-4 Residential, Care and Assisted Living Facilities

Table 1003.1-Minimum occupant load
-Institution: Resident housing areas=120 gross (Area per occupant (sq ft))

Table 1004-Travel Distance, Dead end length, exit and means of egress width
-Group R:Max travel distance to exit (usprk.)=200 (sprk)=250
Max dead end corridor length= 20 to the 8th feet
Egress Width per person served= 0.2 to the 12th inches
Minimun Corridor Aisle width= 44 to the 5,10th inches

Historic Districts

What is an historic district?
An historic district is a defined, geographical area designated for its cultural, social, economic, political and/or architectural significance.
What types of historic districts exist in New Orleans?
There are two different types of historic districts in the City of New Orleans - National Register districts and locally designated districts. Currently, there are seventeen National Register districts and twelve local districts. Boundaries of the National Register Districts and of the local districts often overlap.
Historic districts on the National Register of Historic Places are selected and administered by the State Historic Preservation Office in Baton Rouge, LA. Property owners within the National Register Districts may avail themselves of financial savings in the form of federal tax credits if the property is used for an income producing purpose. However, the only protection provided by the National Register designation is limited control over federally funded projects. Restoration tax credits and environmental review processes for National Register Districts are administered by the State Historic Preservation Office, in Baton Rouge, LA.
The New Orleans City Council designates local historic districts which are administered by local historic district commissions. Local historic districts protect the buildings and neighborhoods of New Orleans by providing regulations for changes to the exterior of all buildings within the local historic districts, reviewing new construction, demolition requests, and citing owners for "demolition by neglect."
Who regulates these local historic districts?
The New Orleans Historic District Landmarks Commission (NO HDLC) has jurisdiction over the eight residential local historic districts. This commission has 15 members, one member from each local district and seven at-large members. The Mayor, with the approval of the City Council, appoints all members. Members serve a four-year term and can be reappointed. The commission meets on the second Tuesday of each month.
The Central Business District Historic District Landmarks Commission (CBD HDLC) has jurisdiction over the four downtown local historic districts. This commission has eleven members appointed by the Mayor with the approval of the City Council. These members must be property owners or have their principal place of work within the Central Business District. This commission meets the first Tuesday of each month.
Each commission has an Architectural Review Committee composed of volunteer licensed architects, experienced in the field of preservation, commission members and the HDLC staff.
These two commissions share the same staff and their office is located at 830 Julia Street.

Codes/Controls

Building Applies statewide
Model Code: International Building Code, 2006
Amendment: LA Uniform Construction Code (Title 40, Part IV-A.)
Integrated Code: NA
Custom Code: NA
International Building Code, 2006
Chapter 3: Use and Occupancy Classification
Chapter 5: General Building Heights and Areas
Chapter 7: Fire-resistance-rated Construction
Chapter 8: Interior Finishes
Chapter 9: Fire Protection Systems
Chapter 10: Means of Egress
Chapter 11: Accessibility
Chapter 12: Interior Environment
Chapter 13: Energy Efficiency
Chapter 14: Exterior Walls
Chapter 15: Roof Assemblies and Rooftop Structures
Chapter 16: Structural Design
Chapter 17: Structural Tests and Special Inspections
Chapter 19: Concrete
Chapter 20: Aluminum
Chapter 21: Masonry
Chapter 22: Steel
Chapter 24: Glass and Glazing
Chapter 25: Gypsum Board and Plaster
Chapter 26: Plastic
Chapter 27: Electrical
Chapter 28: Mechanical Systems
Chapter 29: Plumbing Systems
Chapter 30: Elevators and Conveying Systems
Chapter 33: Safeguards During Construction
Chapter 34: Existing Structures
Chapter 35: Referenced Standards


Residential Applies statewide
Model Code: International Residential Code, 2006
Amendment: LA Uniform Construction Code (Title 40, Part IV-A.)
Integrated Code: NA
Custom Code: NA
International Residential Code, 2006
Chapter 3: Building Planning
Chapter 4: Foundations
Chapter 5: Floors
Chapter 7: Wall Covering
Chapter 9: Roof Assemblies
Chapter 10: Chimneys and Fireplaces
Chapter 11: Energy Efficiency
Chapter 12: Mechanical Administration
Chapter 13: General Mechanical System Requirements
Chapter 14: Heating and Cooling Equipment
Chapter 25: Plumbing Administration
Chapter 26: General Plumbing Requirements
Chapter 27: Plumbing Fixtures
Chapter 28: Water Heaters
Chapter 29: Water Supply and Distribution
Chapter 30: Sanitary Drainage
Chapter 33: General Requirements
Chapter 34: Electrical Definitions

Mechanical Applies statewide
Model Code: International Mechanical Code, 2006
Amendment: LA Uniform Construction Code (Title 40, Part IV-A.)
Integrated Code: NA
Custom Code: NA
Chapter 4: Ventilation
Chapter 5: Exhaust Systems
Chapter 6: Duct Systems
Chapter 7: Combustion Air
Chapter 9: Specific Appliances, Fireplaces and Solid Fuel burning Equipment
Chapter 10: Boilers, Water Heaters and Pressure Vessels
Plumbing Applies statewide
Model Code: PHCC National Standard Plumbing Code, 1994
Amendment: LA Sanitary Code/Part XIV. Plumbing
Integrated Code: NA
Custom Code: NA

Electrical Applies statewide
Model Code: NFPA 70: National Electrical Code, 2008
Amendment: LA Uniform Construction Code (Title 40, Part IV-A.)
Integrated Code: NA
Custom Code: NA
Chapter 1: General
Chapter 2: Wiring and Protection
Chapter 3: Wiring Methods and Materials
Chapter 4: Equipment for General Use
Chapter 5: Special Occupancies
Chapter 6: Special Equipment
Chapter 7: Special Conditions
Chapter 8: Communications Systems

Fire Prevention Applies statewide to the extent that it does not conflict with the Life Safety Code
Model Code: NFPA 1: Uniform Fire Code, 1997
Amendment: LA Uniform Fire Prevention Code (Title 40, 1587.7)
Integrated Code: NA
Custom Code: NA

Life Safety Applies statewide
Model Code: NFPA 101: Life Safety Code, 2006
Amendment: NA
Integrated Code: NA
Custom Code: NA
Chapter 6: Classification of Occupancy and Hazard of Contents
Chapter 7: Means of Egress
Chapter 8: Features of Fire Protection
Chapter 9: Building Service and Fire Protection Equipment
Chapter 10: Interior Finish, Contents, and Furnishings
Chapter 11: Special Structures and High-Rise Buildings

Existing Building Applies statewide
Model Code: International Existing Building Code, 2006
Amendment: LA Uniform Construction Code (Title 40, Part IV-A.)
Integrated Code: NA
Custom Code: NA
Chapter 3: Prescriptive Compliance Method
Chapter 5: Repairs
Chapter 6: Alterations - Level 1
Chapter 7: Alterations - Level 2
Chapter 8: Alterations - Level 3
Chapter 9: Change of Occupancy

Accessibility
Model Code: ADA Accessibility Guidelines for Buildings and Facilities (ADAAG), 2002
Amendment: NA
Integrated Code: NA
Custom Code: NA
Chapter 4: Accessible Elements and Spaces
Chapter 5: Restaurants and Cafeterias
Chapter 6: Medical Care Facilities
Chapter 7: Business
Chapter 8: Libraries
Chapter:15: Recreation Facilities

Block Diagrams

Bubble Diagrams

Spacial Requirements continued

Domed Aviary/Activity Wing (Existing Left Wing of Conservatory)

Central Glass Dome
Purpose: To act as a symbolic meaning as the “spirit” of Spirit Gardens that holds butterflies in a contained central glass aviary, a space for remembrance of Cancer victims, a space to sit and enjoy the aviary, an entry for guests and public to either go to the activity area to the left, or go to play rooms and the obedience training area to the right for the Animal Assisted Therapy Center
Adjacencies: front desk for activity wing, front desk for AAT Center, entrance/exit to surrounding gardens
Needs: Live butterflies, necessary aviary equipment, seating, gallery space lighting

Front Desk of Activity Wing
Purpose: To greet guests coming to use the facilities, show them around
Adjacencies: Washrooms, central glass dome, employee office/janitorial space, storage
Needs: Desk, chairs, lighting

Employee/Janitorial Space
Purpose: Place employee private space, storage for employee things, store cleaning supplies, used for janitorial workers
Adjacencies: Front desk of Activity room, cleaning station, men’s/women’s washroom, Fitness/Multipurpose room
Needs: Tables, chairs, kitchenette, lighting

Cleaning Station
Purpose: To provide easy access for users of the space to clean items used during any such activity being attended
Adjacencies: storage space, fitness/multipurpose studio room, men’s/women’s washroom
Needs: Easy cleanable custom tabletop with sinks and cabinets and bins, lighting

Men’s/Women’s Washroom
Purpose: To allow users of the space to have a close and clean facility to use during activity events.
Adjacencies: Cleaning station, Activity room front desk, fitness/multipurpose studio room, storage space
Needs: Restroom utilities, locker space, changing area, mirrors, lighting

Storage
Purpose: To provide space for the storage of equipment needed for the activities held at Spirit Gardens
Adjacencies: Men’s/Women’s washroom, fitness/multipurpose studio room

Fitness/Multipurpose Studio Room
Purpose: A space provided for guests to use for activities offered. Some activities may include yoga classes, tai chi, painting and drawing, dancing, etc.
Adjacencies: Men’s/Women’s washroom, cleaning station, outdoor/indoor space, storage
Needs: Hardwood flooring, mirrors, podium, lighting

Outdoor/Indoor Space
Purpose: A space directly connected with the fitness/multipurpose room that lets in the outdoors easily when necessary for better ventilation and with the purpose to connect with the soothing and healing qualities that nature has to offer.
Adjacencies: Fitness/multipurpose studio room, cleaning station, storage
Needs: Opening mechanism to the outside in the Fitness/Multipurpose Studio Room

Animal Rescue/Assisted Therapy Center (existing right wing of Conservatory)

Multipurpose Training/People Connect Area
Purpose: A space provided for the dogs kenneled at Spirit Gardens and the guests to use for obedience training classes, seminars, and activities having to do with animal assisted therapy
Adjacencies: Front desk, cleaning station, public restrooms
Needs: hard water resistant flooring, benches, tables, chairs, sections, lighting

Front Desk
Purpose: To greet and to show guests the facilities. It is also a place to file and organize files and documents.
Adjacencies: Multipurpose training/people connect center, employee/office space/public restrooms
Needs: desk, chairs, internet access, computers, fax lines, lighting

Cleaning Station
Purpose: To provide an open cleaning area for guests to sanitize during programs with animals
Adjacencies: Multipurpose training/people connect area, storage, public restrooms
Needs: A custom countertop with sinks, cabinets, lighting

Employee/Office Space
Purpose: Office spaces available for the volunteer program coordinator and the director of operations as well as a small break area for volunteer and staff
Adjacencies: Front desk, public restrooms, storage
Needs: desks, tables, chairs, file cabinets, internet access, computers, fax lines, lighting

Public Restrooms
Purpose: ADA accessible area for guests and workers at the AAT Center
Adjacencies: Front Desk, Multipurpose training/people connect area, employee/office space

Storage
Purpose: A room that can hold items needed for training classes, empty space for foldable tables and chairs and any equipment needed for services provided to guests
Adjacencies: Multipurpose training/people connect area, cleaning station

Animal Rescue/Assisted Therapy Center (existing Garden Study Center)

Dog Kennels
Purpose: To have a place for dogs needed homes to be saved and taken in to become AAT and RA dogs for Spirit Gardens
Adjacencies: Storage/Prep Room, Janitorial Space
Needs: ceiled cement flooring, individual HVAC vents, fluorescent lighting, emergency sinks, kennel facilities

Storage/Prep Room
Purpose: Place to store food, cleaning supplies, treats, toys, equipment, stainless steel sinks, and racks
Adjacencies: Dog kennels, janitorial space

Janitorial Space
Purpose: Space provided for cleaning supplies to keep facilities in tact and sanitary
Adjacencies: Storage/Prep room, dog kennels

Animal Rescue/Assisted Therapy Center (existing Lath House)

Grooming Facility
Purpose: A facility provided for the dogs at Spirit Gardens and the guests to use to clean the animals as an animal assisted therapy activity to help invoke bonding between man and dog
Adjacencies: Janitorial/cleaning area, spay and neuter room
Needs: Dryers, crates, tubs, sinks, shelving, grooming tables, and lighting

Heard Health Kennels
Purpose: A small space for incoming dogs coming to Spirit Gardens to stay in for the first few nights to help against any sickness or disease spreading throughout the facility
Adjacencies: Spay and Neuter room, janitorial space, storage
Needs: Half size kennels, HVAC vents, fluorescent lighting

Spay and Neuter Room
Purpose: To help against the breeding of any unwanted animals that is used for every dog that comes into Spirit Gardens
Adjacencies: Grooming facility, restrooms, heard health kennels
Needs: desk, chairs, tabletop, cabinet space, lighting

Office/Break Lounge
Purpose: Available space for employees and volunteers to use for appointment setting and planning. Also office space available for evaluation of animals being brought to Spirit Gardens as well as space for meetings regarding the interest and donations for the Animal Assisted Therapy Center
Adjacencies: restrooms, storage, janitorial space
Needs: lockers, tables, chairs, sink space, internet accessibility

Restrooms
Purpose: Available for users of the space
Adjacencies: Front desk, office/break lounge, janitorial/cleaning area

Storage
Purpose: Area available to store equipment, paperwork, documents, for the grooming facility
Adjacencies: Grooming facility, office/break lounge, heard health kennels

Janitorial/Cleaning Area
Purpose: Space needed to keep the facilities cleaning and up and running
Adjacencies: Restrooms, office/break lounge, grooming facility

Spacial Requirements

Entrance Lobby

Welcoming Desk
Purpose: Greet guest, check-in, sign paperwork, give guests an overview of Spirit Gardens
Adjacencies: Living Room/Seating area, bathrooms, offices, entrance to Residential living quarters, Gardens
Needs: lighting, desk, chairs, computer with internet access, shelving

Living Room/Sitting Area/Fireplace
Purpose: Give a “homey” setting and casual first impression of Spirit Gardens, a place to sit for family members waiting, dropping off, or picking up patients, a relaxing hang out space
Adjacencies: Welcoming Desk, bathrooms, offices, entrance, walking Corridor, gardens
Needs: Chairs, Sofa, Coffee Tables, Fireplace, Book Shelving, Lighting

Office Space
Purpose: Space for Executive Director of Spirit Gardens as well as space for other employee officials
Adjacencies: Welcoming desk, living room, sitting area, bathrooms, entrance to residential units, walking corridor
Needs: Desks, chairs, filing cabinets, computers with internet access, lighting

Entry Bathrooms
Purpose: ADA accessible units available to the public interested in Spirit Gardens and on annual events in the Gardens, as well as patients and guests of patients and employees
Adjacencies: Welcoming desk, living room/seating area, office space, entry to residential units, walking corridor


Main Residential House

Guest Rooms
Purpose: A personal retreat much like a small apartment available for patients with Cancer to come to during treatments at local hospitals and stay at
for the time being that each patient’s treatments lasts. Also, to create a home like and relaxing place for resting
Adjacencies: Kitchen, dining seating, socializing area, reading/lounge area, entry/exit to entrance lobby
Needs: Beds, nightstands, dressers, chairs, desks, televisions, phones, bathrooms, kitchenettes, sofas, shelving

Laundry/Cleaning Room
Purpose: A space provided on site for guests to have bedding, clothes, etc. to be washed and cleaned.
Adjacencies: Socializing area, reading/lounge, guest rooms, community bathrooms, kitchen, janitorial closet
Needs: sinks, washers and dryers, storage for cleaning supplies, lighting

Kitchen
Purpose: Large enough to accommodate baking/cooking classes for the guests, prepare meals for guests, storage of food and supplies
Adjacencies: Indoor and outdoor dining seating, community bathrooms, employee/janitorial space, socializing area, reading lounge, guest rooms
Needs: sinks, ovens, refrigerators, microwaves, stoves, grills, preparation areas, work surfaces, storage, space for classes

Dining Seating
Purpose: Place for guests to eat either inside or outside
Adjacencies: Kitchen, Janitorial Space, community bathrooms
Needs: tables, chairs, lighting

Socializing Area
Purpose: to spend time with families, get to know the other guests staying at Spirit Gardens, a relaxing space away from guest rooms, place to use for enjoyment
Adjacencies: Kitchen, community bathrooms, laundry/cleaning area
Needs: Chairs, sofas, tables, television, lighting

Community Restrooms
Purpose: for easy access to a restroom for staff, visitors, patients away from their rooms, and is ADA accessible
Adjacencies: Kitchen, socializing area, laundry/cleaning room, employee/janitorial space, and reading lounge
Employee/Janitorial Space
Purpose: Break room for employees, storage facilities for employees things, store cleaning supplies, used for janitorial workers
Adjacencies: Community restrooms, dining seating, kitchen, laundry/cleaning room, socializing area, reading lounge
Needs: Tables, chairs, storage, television, kitchen appliances, lighting

Reading Lounge
Purpose: To provide a quiet space of relaxation for guests and patients to spend time in, a place to have more private time in with family and friends
Adjacencies: Guest rooms, community bathrooms
Needs: Book shelving, sofas, chairs, tables, piano, fireplace, lighting

Physical Requirements

Entrance Lobby: 1674 square feet:
Welcoming Desk: 200 square feet
Living Room Sitting Area/Fireplace: 499 square feet
Bathrooms: 294 square feet
Electrical: 25square feet
Storage: 100 square feet
Office Space: 150 square feet
Corridor: 252 square feet
Main Residential House: 7726 square feet: 5870
Guest Rooms: 3000 square feet (up to 12 guests permitted)
Guest Room 1: (Isolation room) 300 square feet
Guest Room 2: 300 square feet
Guest Room 3: 350 square feet
Guest Room 4: 350 square feet
Guest Room 5: 400 square feet
Guest Room 6: 400 square feet
Guest Room 7: 450 square feet
Guest Room 8: 450 square feet
Laundry/Cleaning Room: 400 square feet
Kitchen: 500 square feet (at 30 sq. ft. per person)
Dining Seating: (total of 650 sq. ft.)
Outdoor Seating: 400 square feet
Indoor Seating: 250 square feet
Socializing Area: 200 square feet
Community Restrooms: 120 square feet
Storage: 400 square feet
Electrical: 25 square feet
Mechanical: 50 square feet
Employee/Janitorial spaces: 350 square feet
Reading/Lounge Area: 400 square feet
Domed Aviary/ Activity Wing: 5364 square feet
Central Glass Dome: 1503 square feet
Butterfly Aviary: 650 square feet
Seating: 150 square feet
Left Wing: 1952 square feet
Front Desk: 50 square feet
Employee/Janitorial Space: 150 square feet
Cleaning Station: 100 square feet
Men’s Washroom: 125 square feet
Women’s Washroom: 150 square feet
Storage: 200 square feet
Fitness Multi-purpose Studio Room: 800 square feet
Outdoor/Indoor Space: 200 square feet
Animal Rescue/Assisted Therapy Center
Right Wing (Former Right Conservatory): 1909 square feet
Multipurpose Training/People Connect Area: 1100 square feet
Front Desk: 50 square feet
Cleaning Station: 75 square feet
Employee/Office Space: 250 square feet
Public Restrooms: 60 square feet each (2 bathrooms total)
Storage: 100 square feet
On-Site Kennels (Existing Garden Study Center): 1777 square feet
Dog Kennels: (15 rooms at 30 square feet each): 750 square feet
Storage/Prep Room: 300 square feet
Electrical: 25 square feet
Janitorial: 100 square feet
Multi-Use Hall (Existing Lath House): 2225 square feet
Grooming Facility: 700 square feet
Herd Health Kennels: 300 square feet
Spay and Neuter Room: 150 square feet
Office/Break Lounge: 300 square feet
Restroom: 60 square feet (2 bathrooms total)
Storage: 300 square feet
Janitorial/Cleaning Area: 250 square feet

Functions

Current Function

Today Spirit Gardens is named, The Botanical Gardens and currently functions mainly as a destination spot for weddings and banquets. It currently hosts a part of public events such as Celebration in the Oaks every year during the Christmas season, which brings in a major source of revenue for City Park due to its’ tourist and family oriented appeal for the City of New Orleans. The garden contains over 2,000 varieties of plants from all over the world, and also have the nation’s largest collection of mature live oaks. The site contains the Conservatory of the Two Sisters, several theme gardens containing aquatics, ornamental trees and shrubs, perennials, and the new New Orleans Historic Train Garden. The Garden also holds the Pavilion of the Two Sisters, the Garden Study Center, and the Lath House.

Proposed Function

I propose to turn this property into a non-profit spiritual healing retreat for victims of Cancer. Spirit Gardens will be a retreat that does not focus on the medical treatments for Cancer victims, but rather focuses attention on healing the heart and soul through other means, such as cooking, yoga, painting, but mostly through spending time around dogs and horses using Animal Assisted Therapy. This will be a place for them to come “home” to and stay for amounts of time based on patient to patient and will be a relaxing place to get away from everyday struggles and issues. The property is located in the middle of New Orleans, however taken aback from the urbanized feel due to its’ surrounding gardens, ponds and green space. This would be a great additive for the city of New Orleans because it would not only help their image of being a crime infested community to a safe retreat destination spot, but also house a still much needed dog kenneling facility for dogs without homes. Though the facility will only hold a relatively small amount of dogs, these dogs will be used for a special purpose in which they will be either individually paired up with patients staying in Spirit Gardens to assist in their healing processes and/or be adopted out to the public on specified adoption days. Spirit Gardens also wants to create such bonds with the dogs to the patients and families in the hopes of the dogs be taken home with them if they have the means and their health to do so, in other words; both saving one another.

Users

Users of Spirit Gardens will include the patients, generous volunteer instructors on rotation for exercise classes such as yoga and tai chi, painting, drawing, cooking, and gardening, as well as a volunteer wellness staff such as caretakers, counselors, and spiritual guidance from a Chaplain or Clergy who will help with the patients and families staying at Spirit Gardens. There will also be volunteers for obedience training, and animal assisted therapy practitioners. A small paid staff will consist of a trained RN, on site veterinarian, and security and administrative personnel will be necessary to keep Spirit Gardens afloat. Salaries will be covered by Spirit Garden’s operating expenses budget. The domed aviary and animal assisted therapy center will be open to the public to furthermore create revenue for Spirit Gardens and the public will be permitted to adopt pets that are housed here to help save as many dogs as possible. The main entrances are located right off Victory Avenue where quests will be dropped off or picked up at the residential lobby. Employees and volunteers will use the same entrance as the patients, but will also have access to the side entry gate further down Victory Ave. closer to the activity and AAT Center, for convenient access to the facilities. Patients staying in the residential guest rooms will have access to the facilities running in the residential area at all times such as the dining facility, lounge rooms, and surrounding gardens. Guests will be welcomed as if they are in their own homes where each room will have amenities such as a bathroom and a private seating area so they can have their own personalized space. The dining area will have an outdoor seating area as well as an indoor if the weather is bad. To get to their rooms, guests will walk through the front gates and be escorted through the corridor into the former Pavilion, where they will be shown to their rooms. Patients are free to wander the garden trails in and around the former Botanical Gardens, and participate in any of the activities provided by Spirit Gardens. Guests will however, have limited access to the animal assisted therapy Center and activity wings, where they are permitted only during running hours. Families of patients will be allowed to participate in activities such as cooking, yoga, tai chi, AAT activities, etc. when alongside their family member. On specified days, when the AAT and Activity Center are not being used by the patients, the public are, for a small fee, be allowed in to take classes or adopt available dogs. Patients will not be permitted to keep their cars on site during their stay but will have access to private vans that will provide rides to requested areas and in and around Spiritual Gardens as well. They can either follow specified paths through the gardens, and walk leisurely from the residence house to the activity and AAT Center, or they can be driven by cart or bus down Victory Ave to and from the side entry gate if needed. Spirit Gardens will work closely with the City Park Horse Stables, where services will be provided for the guest to be close with the horses to even further execute AAT on the patients using horses. The stables are just a short drive away from the gardens, and will be provided to the guests at specified times. The Gardens will also work closely with the local SPCA, where they will get the majority of their dogs, that already have been screened where they will decide whether or not they are safe to be used as AAT dogs with the patients.

Client

Paul Soniat is the founding director of the New Orleans Botanical Garden (NOBG) and Celebration in the Oaks in City Park. He overseas volunteer and educational programs, strengthening plant collections, managing finance and fund raising efforts and developing a master plan for the Garden. For the past 23 years, he has been directing the efforts to turn an old forgotten garden into one of the country’s premier Botanical Gardens. Following the destruction from hurricane Katrina in August 2005, Paul, along with a team of volunteers and donors, began a painstaking restoration of the NOBG. In just over six months, on March 4, 2006, the Botanical Garden reopened to the public becoming an encouraging symbol of hope for a city in recovery. Soniat is also a self-taught piano player and gifted composer. He has composed multiple CD’s that reflect New Orleans traditional style of music. He also introduced the very popular “Thursdays at Twilight” concert series at the Botanical Garden.

Garden Study Center Existing Conditions

This facility comprises 1,620 sq. ft. and is equipped with audio-visual facilities. The building also includes a smaller meeting room, kitchen and restroom. It accommodates 100 guests for auditorium style seating, 60 guests for seated dinners or luncheons, and 50 to 75 guests for cocktail parties

Existing Floorplan of the Garden Study Center

Existing Conditions of the Lath House

The Lath house is located next to the Garden Study Center and is used primarily for the Garden’s horticultural workshops and demonstrations. It occupies approximately 2,400 sq. ft. and the main room is 30’ X 42’. It has a translucent bronze, tin roof, open lath sides, and a stained and scored concrete floor. The Lath House in conjunction with the Garden Study Center accommodates approximately 175 guests for a cocktail party.

Lath House Existing Floorplan

Conservatory of the Two Sisters Existing Interior

Phase one of the Conservatory of the Two Sisters has opened to the public. Originally constructed in the 1930’s, the Conservatory has been renovated into a state of the art showcase of plants. Each wing holds exhibitions for living fossils and the other holds a Tropical Rainforest. The living fossil exhibit showcases a variety of prehistoric plant life from throughout the world. The Rainforest features plants from the moist regions of the world. The sound system and the state of the art climate control system allow visitors to experience the feeling of a true tropical rainforest

Conservatory of the Two Sisters Existing Exterior

The glass dome reflects the architectural style of the Pavilion of the Two Sisters at the opposite end of the garden’s main axis. Serving as the reception and orientation area for visitors entering the Conservatory, it provides a preview of the exotic plant life that awaits them.

Existing Floorplan of The Conservatory of the Two Sisters

Pavilion of the Two Sisters Elevations

Gift Shop Existing Conditions

Pavilion of the Two Sisters Existing Interior Conditions

With Cool slate floors below and a Mario Villa designed palm frond chandelier above, the Pavilion measures 100 feet long and 60 feet wide. The climate controlled main room is 87 feet long and 60 feet wide and is capable of accommodation 200 to 400 guests for a cocktail reception, a seated dinner for 300 or theater-style.