Ignite

Built for the Girl Scouts of San Jacinto Council on Galveston Island, this fire circle supports a range of educational and programmatic activities across day and night use. 

This project was completed through the Gulf Coast Design Lab Studio, an ecology-focused design-build program centered on environmental activism and public engagement.

Our team began with a master plan for the site, guiding future trails and ecological restoration while determining the fire circle’s location. We researched local climate, ecology, and wildlife, along with Girl Scout activities and badges to inform the design, and held multiple meetings with their leadership to integrate feedback.

The structure and materials were designed to withstand the dynamic barrier island climate, including flooding and hurricanes, while remaining low-maintenance. 

The material palette prioritized affordability, availability with covid-related supply chain challenges, and durability against weather and heavy use. The fire circle was also designed to be multi-functional, supporting activities throughout the day such as cooking, performances, outdoor learning, and birdwatching.

The final structure was designed to withstand flooding, hurricanes, and heavy use, using durable, affordable, and locally available materials. Serving as a gathering and learning space, the fire circle accommodates cooking, performances, and outdoor education. Through this experience, I gained a deeper appreciation for construction, communication, and the translation of drawings into built form.