I hope the jury will spend an adequate amount of time to carefully go through all the 963 proposals and not only the 47 selected ones by CCP.
54. Urban Confluence - CCP 47: General Comment Form
Hello, I am a professor of architecture and the comment here is focusing on the 47 recommended proposals. Now, while there is definitely design value in most of these proposals, the larger question is whether they are "unique" or "original" and representative of the unique city of San Jose and Silicon Valley. If we distill what the city of San Jose or Silicon Valley represents, it is not related to parks, nature, or even sustainability, it is technology and innovation. With this in mind, I think the proposals are unfortunately not adequate and are similar to many icons across the world. Currently there is a giant circular park being constructed in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Also two large rings interlocking near the city center. You can google images of Riyadh circle park. But also elsewhere, for instance in Aarhus, Denmark with the "infinite bridge" or "Aros" The fact that there were so many submissions that are similarly using a circular or "mobius" geometry gives us clue that it is "common" and being proposed in many cities. It would be unfortunate to create an icon that can be mistaken for others. Even "Apple Park" or the "Gasholder Park" which are more local. Also, the vertical or standing circle is reminiscent of the "London Eye". It is hard to think of a unique icon when it can be confused or even judged as similar to another icon.In general, the concept of elevated parks are being done across the world. The highline in NY, "the tide" in london, or the "Yanweizhou Park" in China. When you are asking for a "new" icon, many of the designs, although attractive, are happening across the world. Again, when people think of Silicon Valley or San Jose, they dont think "park", they think "technology" and "innovation".
55. Urban Confluence #0311 "The Infinity Ring"
This is really the only entry that inspired me since it seems to encompass the very ideals of being a true icon with timeless qualities that none of the other entries seem to capture. Until I came across this entry, I was about to say that perhaps the contest should run for another year to get some more inspirational designs that would capture the qualities that make for a world class icon. The timeless beauty of the Infinity Ring is that it appears to be floating in the air as if it was some type of futuristic spacecraft from another advanced civilization. Because of the enormous size & scale of this design, it will stand out for all to see when visitors come to downtown San Jose. They will at once be in awe by the beautiful simplicity of design & the sheer elegance in which it is executed. Like the Statue of Liberty in New York, it clearly seems to project what an iconic symbol should be about. When looking at the Infinity Ring from the angle where it looks like a giant heart with the hot air balloon floating in the middle, it seems to say, "Welcome to San Jose!" From that perspective, it looks inviting & welcoming to all visitors who happen to see this symbol from the perspective of the giant heart. I believe if it is built here in downtown San Jose, it will be recognized as the 21st century equivalent of New York's Statue of Liberty, for the west coast. Because of the beauty, elegance & relative simplicity of design, I believe it will receive national & international recognition as one of the world's greatest works of public art. I believe that the Infinite Ring if built will become the single most treasured development in the city of San Jose.The beauty of the Infinity Ring is that it shows off many different perspectives & points of view depending upon where & what angle you view this from. I like that fact that it is so expansive covering the entirety of the arena green area & not really encumbering the ground floor of the greens since most of the structure will be well above ground thereby allowing the arena greens to remain a spacious place for visitors to roam about.The Infinity Ring symbolizes our great technological prowess here in Silicon Valley while simultaneously showing the world that we also embrace humanvalues of charity, hope, kindness & love for all humanity. I believe that it will truly become one of the most famous & impressive landmarks ever built in the U.S. & will attract hundreds of thousands of visitors to downtown San Jose each & every year going forward once it is built.The beauty of this design also is that it allows the general public to go inside the ring & walk around the entire perimeter while taking in some breathtaking views of the Santa Clara Valley surrounded by the Mt. Hamilton range in the East & the Santa Cruz mountain range to the West. I also see the great potential in the design which seems to offer a phenomenal LED light show at night which would further attract thousands more to our downtown. Finally, the Infinity Ring is very aspirational in that it says that we should embrace the future with an open mind & a big heart which the mathematical infinity symbol seems to imply since the universe has almost infinite possibilities where anything may be possible as long as we have an open mind. Overall, a brilliant concept & a truly beautiful work of art that should be built here in San Jose, a city that has been forever searching for a distinct identity to separate itself from our city to the North, San Francisco. I hope we don't pass on this once in a lifetime opportunity since it ultimately will get built by some other city that recognizes that this is a truly great iconic symbol for the 21st century.
56. Urban Confluence #1037 "Eureka Statue and Arts Project"
I think this is the most interesting, rational and original solution.
57. Urban Confluence #1037 "Eureka Statue and Arts Project"
At first glimpse the project seemed reminiscent of ancient statues and sites which blessed the world of antiquity. After a closer look I was astounded by the modernity and innovation of the structure. This project brings the wonders of old into the modern world. This project will be an iconic site and in my opinion can become the face of San Jose.
58. Urban Confluence #0268 "Wings of San Jose"
Supernatural Skypark is visually stunning. I appreciate that it is eco-friendly and that the lighting system takes into account wildlife. My one worry is safety! I don't see guardrails.
59. Urban Confluence #1037 "Eureka Statue and Arts Project"
The project is excellent. The idea is very interesting and beautiful. The sculpture is stunning and planted in this place. I wish the author to bring his project to life. artist MANOLE
60. Urban Confluence - CCP 47: General Comment Form
So impressive! What wonderful concepts and designs
61. Urban Confluence - CCP 47: General Comment Form
I think by allowing non experts to pre-select these 47 projects you have overlooked or given unfair advantage to other nicer much better considered projects. I entered this competition with the understanding that an EXPERT jury would be voting on projects, because they would be able to identify the serious projects with a good understanding of structure, urban context, cultural and site considerations that many of these selections do not have. I am frankly extremely disappointed by a lot of the pre-selections because as an accomplished architect myself, I do not think a lot of these projects are very good proposals, and I see you have overlooked many much better projects. Some of these projects are to similar to other well known existing projects, Bayterek Tower, YAP 2012 by HKN, LAX theme building. I trusted that the expert jury would have been able to identify the projects that are structurally impossible, that are copies of older existing projects. If projects like Constellations, or Binary tree, were to win, this would be a huge disappointment to the architecture and artist community as a whole who entered the competition in good faith. You needed to allow the expert panel do a pre-selection, and then have the CCP and the community voice their opinion on those finalists selected!
62. Urban Confluence #1052 "Kinetic Obelisk"
Instantly one of my favorites. The lighting at night is amazing! imagine coming out of a game or Diridon station and seeing the beautiful light show on display. Or taking your kids to the park and watch as the look on in awe. This Icon is spot on what San Jose needs to stand out from a branding standpoint. I love the story behind the shape celebrating the women's form, which could also lend the to structure celebrating women. Would be really incredible to hear the world's most influential women from around the world giving speeches under a form celebrating their very form. Speeches by Silvia Mendez, Mexican-Puerto Rican civil rights activist, Nancy Pelosi, the highest-ranking congresswoman in U.S history, Sonia Sotomayor, the first Mexican and Latina on the Supreme Court, the list and opportunity goes on. I trust that your team is looking for not only the wow factor but for something that the Icon can keep on giving to the world through the lens of the San Joses multi-faceted community. Too many times San Jose has missed out on these opportunities to stand out through no fault of our own but this time let's spend the money to build an Icon that gives back. Thank you for your time and for giving San Jose a vouce, we all look forward to our future Icon.
63. Urban Confluence #0084 "The Forum"
The Forum is by far one of the top 3 definitely. It is Awe-inspiring, majestic, beautifully simplistic and functionally useful for the community. What can I say "Bravo" The Wings also in my top 3 very iconic and grand. The fact that is would be the largest all wood structure is very appealing.My last of my top 3 picks is Two Rivers-One point is very impressive, Iconic and classic all in one.Honorable mention to The Anti-Gravity Arch & Sky Dome
64. Urban Confluence #0167 "San Jose Waterfall"
Converge is not interactive enough. Statues and structures are boring on their own.
65. Urban Confluence - CCP 47: General Comment Form
After reviewing all of the projects, it seems there were quite a few circle-philes and physicists specializing in Mobius Strips on the committee. These projects are not in the best interest of those in San Jose, the indigenous population, and being true to expressing the reality of San Jose and its citizens.
66. Urban Confluence - CCP 47: General Comment Form
There are some very good submissions. While there is more elimination to be done, I would encourage a monument without a lot of moving pieces, a ton of technology, or some other "tricks" that will be costly to maintain throughout the it's life and will likely become obsolete in a decade. I would also encourage staying with a classic theme - something the entire city would be proud of over a very long period of time. Thank you
67. Urban Confluence #1037 "Eureka Statue and Arts Project"
This project is different by its warmth and humanity both in form and content. Therefore, I choose Eureka.
68. Urban Confluence - CCP 47: General Comment Form
I was surprised to see how many similarities there were between some of these. Those similarities affected my response. The three that stood out were;1. The Bear2. The Caterpillar3. Waterfall BridgeMy concern with Waterfall bridge is the expenses to keep it beautiful and the impact of a dilapidated version. The Caterpillar bridge is aesthetically incredible. If shiny, it would stand out but may impact airport. The Bear is my favorite. As a California native, I love the Bear. It could be viewed as the heart of our beautiful state, providing that connection to our environment that ties into how Native Americans view nature. "We are the land." It could honor the State's past and be a beacon for its future.
69. Urban Confluence #0421 "Super Natural SkyPark"
This project really embodies the major problem we all face as humanity in the world, the shortage of trees. Humans have lost their touch with nature so to be able to stand next to one of these towers and understand how big and powerful trees can be can be inspiring and invoke change. The LED screens all over the towers really can capture the futuristic essence of Silicon Valley as it is the city of tomorrow. So to have a powerful structure in Silicon Valley will only make the city stronger and more understood in society. The capability to also change the display on the LED screens to show case any major event could be possible. Or even videos. For example the Black Lives Matter movement is huge and to be able to change the screens to display support can really show case what Silicon Valley stands for, or what it doesn’t stand for. This project is timeless and would receive maximum attention and visitors if built. And the common areas of the park and upstairs can be areas of not only enjoyment and experience, but to be able to discuss crucial ideas which the towers showcase. The towers can act as conversation starters, however starting the conversation in the right direction to be meaningful and productive.
70. Urban Confluence - CCP 47: General Comment Form
My favorite was #302 (Batch 5)
71. Urban Confluence #0243 "The Caterpillar"
If there is museum competition, I am sure there will be better designs.
72. Urban Confluence - CCP 47: General Comment Form
All 47 are extremely impressive. No question about that. However, it seems there is not one selected whose design and presentation hasn't been submitted by what apparently has to be a professional architect. So much for the "idea person" without those skills having any chance or as much sway as the professional.Good luck. And Stay safe. I'll be sure to visit your town and the final structure when it's done and we're all safe to travel again.
73. Urban Confluence - CCP 47: General Comment Form
Graphics are fun, dome is very inviting, but wish they utilized more of the site.
76. Urban Confluence #1037 "Eureka Statue and Arts Project"
Beautiful project of park - a lot of green and nice and interesting Eureka Statue that is suitable to the environment.
77. Urban Confluence #0292 "Infinity Garden"
I vote for this one! It has a beautiful industrial mix with nature, emphasizing our continuing environmental focus in the world.. can be used as a public space and is large and iconic all at the same time.
78. Urban Confluence - CCP 47: General Comment Form
A great entry - unique in its design and I like the idea that it will provide a large amount of public shade to the park below. One of the most generous things a building can do is provide shade on a hot day (and most do not do so very well). Great idea to get up in the air, really visionary, a cool destination, simultaneously futuristic but also seems timeless. A few of the other entries I have to say appear a little cynical - San Jose already has one Apple Campus.
79. Urban Confluence - CCP 47: General Comment Form
I like variants 0132, 0370 and 0500.
80. Urban Confluence - CCP 47: General Comment Form
I’m very interested in the idea of Silicon Valley/San Jose as the hotbed of innovation. But looking at these 47 proposal, I am deeply disappointed and further concern of the direction where „creative people“ are taking.All of these design are mediocre, you can find these kind of cheap shape-oriented design everywhere on any image/ design platform e.g. pinterest,... with little to no efforts. The one I like the most among these is proposal number 0964. But it is not that good of a design work, in comparision, it is nowhere near the status of the great landmarks that were built before around the world. But at least the 0964 has good intention and seems like they at least care about what the building will do to the community and to San Jose image. At least it will not be a waste of precious building materials if built. I hope there are better works somewhere among nearly 1000 proposal, something that suits the great spirit that Silicon Valley has promoted. I truly hope the outcome of the competition will be something better than all of these childish 47 proposals combine.
81. Urban Confluence #0311 "The Infinity Ring"
Very slick, the theatres are interesting!
82. Urban Confluence #0509 "The Confluence Tower"
The project seems both aspirational and feasible (the submission actually shows structure). Also I appreciate all the different opportunities that the project brings to the table and seems to be one of the only submissions that takes the local society and history into the equation. The design is sensitive to many of the pressing matters of our time while also creating a USABLE monument that serves the community.
83. Urban Confluence - CCP 47: General Comment Form
wow, I actually wanna cry seeing this...
84. Urban Confluence #0998 "I Am The Bear"
I love this sculpture! I think everyone can enjoy it. I also like that it changes at night with images from the day. The combination of technology with the bear is appropriate for Silicon Valley. My son who is 9 years thinks it is the best one too. So it appeals to many age groups. I teach middle schools kids. I think they would like it also. By far the best choice! I don’t like any of the Boring others. They will not attach visitors.
85. Urban Confluence #1037 "Eureka Statue and Arts Project"
All right! I like the idea and logo of the Eureka project!
86. Urban Confluence #0421 "Super Natural SkyPark"
This project is monumental, unique and ingenious. Using the metaphor of the redwood forest in a completely man-made application seems strangely appropriate for this park when surrounded by a sea of "tech" companies and ethos. It's a park on steroids...and truly super-natural. If built, this project would definitely attract world-wide attention. Hope it wins.
87. Urban Confluence #0998 "I Am The Bear"
Can we vote too? I like this one, it's somewhat practical and says we are California
88. Urban Confluence - CCP 47: General Comment Form
After looking at all projects, there are a few number of projects are much better quality than many projects included in CCP recommendations. It would be very crucial not to miss any good designs. Hope Jurors to have more time to find them in detail and to choose the final designs to offer communities a meaningful landmark to represent true nature of Silicon Valley; the city that inspires, motivates and encourages new adventurers. Silicon Valley deserves the best.
89. Urban Confluence - CCP 47: General Comment Form
Hi, I'm a long time resident of the area. Thank you for this undertaking, building something San Jose and surrounding communities can be proud of. My vote goes to The Cloud Digital Art Museum, and the Tower of Gaia. Both designs are very unique and instantly recognizable, which is a must for an iconic landmark. The idea of the the cloud and its dual meaning is especially apt for the capital of Silicon Valley. The structure itself should be interactive, a structure visitors can enter or ascend, to maximize impression and meaningful use. To be a true world class landmark, its scale needs to be sufficiently impressive, and have enough verticality to stand out and be visible from a distance (think postcards, from various distances and angles).The green space surrounding the structure should allow for outdoor events, such as festivals, farmers markets, and live music to become a hub for the local community, vitalizing the area and increase foot traffic. Thank you for reviewing my comment.
90. Urban Confluence - CCP 47: General Comment Form
The CCP seemed to have a real preference for circles, bridges, and corner landform schemes. It's like they were hedging their bets by trying to choose them all. Aren't the scaffolding required for the construction of some of these schemes and the foundations needed to support them going to wreak havoc across the whole site? Was there no feeling for the gardeners and landscapers who will have to install and maintain all the landscape of the hanging garden schemes? Too many are under scaled tilted knock-offs of the St. Louis Arch or The Vessel or the various works of Calatrava. Sorry kids, Saarinen did it first and better than you ever will. Or you should just hire Heatherwick or Calatrava and get it over with already. The CCP clearly missed a lot of better versions of these different schemes and ones that actually showed something resembling actual design innovation. That they couldn't come up with a full 50 schemes shows their bias or timidity is showing. I can only imagine how the dynamics of a committee with 34 people on it must have played out. Disappointed. I hope the final jury has the energy and wherewithal to look more closely and more critically at all of the schemes.
91. Urban Confluence #0500 "The Ring at Unity Park"
Fabulous Design! - I love the inspirational references - so symbolic of history - past present and future.
92. Urban Confluence - CCP 47: General Comment Form
I'm relieved to see the entire set of finalist entries. Somewhere I saw a survey that asked folks to pick among six of these, unfortunately not the best of this selection. I so sincerely hope that the final selection is better than existing public art in San Jose, which is hopelessly derivative and, with perhaps a single exception, second rate. (Robert Graham's 'Plumed Serpent,' aka 'Quetzalcoatl,' was scaled down when San Jose officials declared the original to be "too expensive." The resulting sculpture, which looks like either a pile of discarded tires or a pile of something else, is a first rate sculptural show of disrespect for the City and, frankly, San Jose deserved what it got.) I can only pray that the 2020 art committee reviewing these 47 works is more savvy, and aesthetically and culturally smart, than the 1990's committee.
93. Urban Confluence #1037 "Eureka Statue and Arts Project"
this project stands out for is its simplicity, coziness and disposes to peace.organically appears in the landscape, beautiful space solution of the sculptureand all of the art objects.
94. Urban Confluence #1037 "Eureka Statue and Arts Project"
A lots of cute and beautiful ideas, connecting science, art and nature. Very interesting and beautiful design. I want to walk and spent time at this park!!
95. Urban Confluence #1037 "Eureka Statue and Arts Project"
I am impressed by the intention to satisfy the various interests of people. In the "Eureka" project, this is expressed by the distribution of different functions across different objects, which works well in the structure of the city park.
96. Urban Confluence #1037 "Eureka Statue and Arts Project"
I like the strong classical background seen through the innovative vision of the artist.
97. Urban Confluence #1037 "Eureka Statue and Arts Project"
A wonderful statue, makes me think and seems to fit the landscape.