The Stories of State College

In this group project, we worked with the State College Bureau to connect the frequently used Frasier Street parking garage to the community. The garage was very dull and lacked proper signage, not reflecting the unique and diverse culture downtown State College has to offer. The garage is used by a variety of people, such as current students, locals, alumni, fans, and friends.

We chose to address the goal of connecting the community by showing there is something for everyone here or, “finding your story.” We focused on some of State College’s most well-known stories, one for each floor. These stories focused on art, film, music, activism, sports, indigenous land, and astronomy. We displayed each story within the elevator hubs so the user would be able to both learn something new and connect them to what floor they’re parked on. We also included motion lines within each floor design, connecting the idea of movement and “finding your story” as well as supporting wayfinding throughout the garage.

With every floor designed by a member in the group (Lillian North, Shalini Prasath, | Kristin Muir, Elias Kronberg, Catherine Frank, William Shin and myself), we were able to research a story or event unique to State College.

I selected the music floor because I have been involved in band and music since I was 9 years old, and it is something I continue to really enjoy.