- Audi, city of Miami and famed landscape designer Enzo Enea and architect Chad Oppenheim collaborate on project
- First phase of this philanthropic initiative to be inaugurated during Design Miami/ 2008
- Project is part of Mayor Manny Diaz' broader efforts to revitalize Miami's green spaces
HERNDON, Va., Dec. 1 /PRNewswire/ -- Audi today announced that the
inauguration of the first phase of the 're:design Simpson Park' project will
occur during Design Miami/ 2008 on December 3rd at 9:30 am together with Miami
Mayor Manny Diaz. 're:design Simpson Park' is a philanthropic initiative in
conjunction with the city of Miami aiming to revitalize the park as one of the
very last original hammocks in Miami which were once a critical component of
the city's identity. Audi has partnered with renowned Swiss-based landscape
designer Enzo Enea and Miami-based green architect Chad Oppenheim to donate a
stunning new entrance to Simpson Park. In addition, Enea has developed
conceptual plans to further enhance the park and develop its educational
features in the future. 're:design Simpson Park' is part of the Mayor's
broader 'Green Project.'
(Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20081201/CLM043-a )
(Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20081201/CLM043-b )
Audi had announced the project in December 2007 as part of its ongoing
sponsorship of Design Miami/ together with Enea garden design and Oppenheim
Architecture. 'Audi's commitment to corporate social responsibility has long
been at the heart of our culture,' said Johan de Nysschen, executive vice
president, Audi of America. 'With relationships ranging from Best Buddies
International to the G&P Foundation for Cancer Research we pride ourselves on
working with the right organizations to make a difference globally and
locally. Our continued involvement with Design Miami/ gave us the idea to give
back on a local level -- to the community that has supported the fair now in
its fourth year. Pair this work with Audi's industry-leading TDI clean diesel
technology and it is clear that we have a powerful commitment to positively
impacting the environment we all share.'
Located in an area that has seen major urban development in recent years,
but few green and recreational spaces, the historic Simpson Park was chosen to
make it accessible to the community at large again. Enea redesigned the
entrance by reinterpreting the native hammock in a contemporary fashion that
would make people feel and thus understand the historical ecology of the Miami
area. The entrance will introduce the visitor to the elements of the hammock
-- its native plants, unique light qualities, and sense of mystery by
presenting these features in a contemporary manner that most visitors are
familiar with. Oppenheim Architecture developed a spectacular street structure
completely clad with reclaimed wood materials. The proposed pavilion/orchid
house will define the original Simpson Park wall, while embracing the existing
trees and providing shade to the park's visitors.
'This new phase of Simpson Park is a shining example of what can be
accomplished when we are inspired to invest in our community,' said Mayor of
Miami, Manny Diaz. 'The City of Miami is profoundly grateful to Audi, Enea
garden design and Oppenheim Architecture for helping us make this dream a
reality and returning historic Simpson Park to the neighborhood.'
The idea of a 'green' community project was born in Chad Oppenheim's
living room.
