Ecosa Institute News

Architect/educator Tom Hahn joins Ecosa

As of the beginning of 2008 Tom Hahn joined the Ecosa Institute as an Assistant Director. His background and experience will be a tremendous asset for the Institute. Tom has not only taught in the architecture department of Arizona State University and has been a leader in green/sustainable design and building but has also owned a professional construction company. SolSource architecture - a design build company gained a reputation for taking on challenging projects and expanding the range of materials and techniques in the construction industry. His knowedge will broaden the ability of the Institute to offer a wider range of experiences to our students. Tom is known for his commitment to sustainable design and has produced an outstanding body of architectural work. Tom will also be managing the architectural work that is part of the Institute’s agreement with the Ecosa Design Studio. To learn more about Tom and his experience download his resume.

Ecosa design for Hatcher Road becomes a reality

In the fall of 2006 Desert Mission Neighborhood Renewal asked us to study the Hatcher Road corridor through Sunnyslope and propose ways in which it could become a safer street and also attract people into this commercial area. A Hatcher road committee was formed and became our clients for this project. We participated in several community meetings that helped us develop the program with our students facilitating discussions with the local merchants and the general community. We did a great deal of research and presented our finings to the local community and representatives from the City of Phoenix. We proposed a multi-modal transport corridor that included bike lanes and bus pull-outs as well as other traffic calming methods. We also proposed round-abouts at intersections where traffic lights delay traffic flow. The most important recommendation was to create an overlay zoning that would allow for a mix of uses on the street. This strategy will allow for housing as well as commercial and retail activities as a way of adding complexity to the urban fabric and develop what Jane Jacobs defined as “eyes on the street”.

Read more: Ecosa design for Hatcher Road becomes a reality