This article was originally featured in the December 2022 issue of Preservation in Print, published by the Preservation Resource Center of New Orleans.
Featured in Preservation in Print, Terri Dreyer discusses everything from NANO’s invitation to the 2021 ECC Venice Biennale, the Federal Infrastructure Bill, and NANO’s ever-developing design concept, ARX, to other 21st-century design solutions for climate change mitigation.
“The genesis of the ARX was the culmination of analysis and research showing what a thriving resilient city is and what it needs in times of stability and instability”, says Terri. “We created a Guide to Thrive, principles that are flexible in the face of disaster, building blocks that are resilient in their development, and sustainable operations using distributing systems, symbiotic regeneration and community engagement.”
“I prescribe to modernity and process-driven architecture but believe in New Orleans. With all of its wonder, unique topography, historic architecture, system frailties, social diversity and hypnotic culture, New Orleans and our community are worth saving. We are a resilient people. We adapt, we intuit, we can thrive.”
Innovative ideas about climate change, such as your ARX, are very inspiring but often difficult to fund. Have you identified any funding sources that could be used to get this project built?
Finding funding for innovative climate change mitigation designs is difficult but essential for the security and safety of our country and cities. Funding from the federal infrastructure bill is paramount to building the ARX or any type of climate fortification throughout the country.
… The strategy is an additive process: as infrastructure is being renovated, elements of the ARX could be added. For example, if a bridge is being reconstructed, the project could then add an ice house, shelter, charging stations, micro grids and water purification, etc., to the bridge, providing a multi-use structure that will serve transportation needs but also provide safe places for use in the aftermath of storms. The key is to use funding and energy wisely.
Your work has likely made you all too informed about the climate threats facing New Orleans. Yet, you still live here. What makes you hopeful about the city’s future?
Truthfully, I would call myself a preservationist of New Orleans: our culture, community, and distinct savoir faire. I believe in historic rehabilitation and renovations because a renovation uses less energy, reduces our carbon footprint and provides an opportunity to bring a historic building back to life.
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