OBJECTIVE: For this project, this designer focused intently on how to optimally utilize the limited interior space of the Farm Stand structure to accommodate a set of what were often conflicting requirements. Although major modifications of the structure were beyond the scope of the project and its budget, an optimal solution was nevertheless devised which met all the primary objectives. Of primary concern were: (1) providing adequate accommodations for the efficient delivery of several standard pallets of produce, (2) the allocation of an appropriate space for volunteers to process each pallet, and (3) the provision of adequate surfaces on which they could accomplish their tasks, and (4) devising an arrangement of equipment and fixtures that would provide clients, including those requiring mobility assistance, with an intuitive and unencumbered path through the Farm Stand. (Click here for more details.)
DOWNLOAD: Equipment & Configuration (PDF 9.83 MB)
MORE DETAILS: At the request of our primary supplier, Food Gatherers of Ann Arbor MI, the first requirement was satisfied by the installation of an overhead door (generously provided by Chelsea Door of Chelsea MI, at cost). With the second and third requirements in mind, stainless steel and caster-mounted tables were obtained, allowing the reconfiguration of the processing area as needed. Finally, (4) custom shelving units, also mounted on caster wheels, were designed, and built.
OUTCOME: For this project, detailed models were created of every object that would eventually live within the facility, such as the stainless-steel tables, shelving units, and carts, etc. Once populated with the various objects, SketchUp was used to examine the viability of various arrangements until the layout shown here was selected. Three-D SketchUp Models were then rendered in 2D LayOut to facilitate the communication of these findings of this project to Hope Clinic’s management. This systematically executed process yielded such a robust result that the original layout has endured, essentially unadulterated, since the opening of the Farm Stand in 2015.
Jonathan B. Stella 
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