H.O.P.E.S. Eco Design Conference 2002

The H.O.P.E.S. Eco-Design Arts conference was started seven years ago by a group of students motivated to integrate ecological design issues with their design education at the University of Oregon. The original organization has served as a foundation for a dynamic group of students who volunteer their time and energy throughout the year to envision the conference and bring it to reality. Each year the theme discusses a particular relationship between ecology and design and how their integration catalyses responsible and sustainable place-making. For four days participants engage in this dialogue through a series of keynote lectures, panel discussions, exhibitions, workshops, a design charrette, and much more.

The Eighth Annual H.O.P.E.S. Conference theme is Energizing Potential. The conference will feature three internationally recognized leaders in the fields of environmental design and sustainable living. San Francisco based Landscape Architect and Urban Planner, Angela Danadjieva and German Architect Stefan Behnisch will address the theme Energizing Potential as it applies to their respective work in landscape, architecture, urban design and planning. John Schaeffer, the founder of both Real Goods and the Solar Living Center will present his experience in activating the goals of sustainability to create viable businesses and educational opportunities.

The conference kicks off with a design charrette that explores the challenge of Energizing Potential in a redesign of Eugene’s south central riverfront district. The problem provides an opportunity to explore a wide array of issues from day- lighting the Millrace to redeveloping the steam plant, and connecting downtown, the university and its watershed community, to the Willamette River.

The weekend will also feature hands-on workshops such as the design and construction of a model educational living machine. In addition, panel presentations and discussions will allow for exchanges with people who are working in the field. Listen as each person brings different experiences to bear on the theme of Energizing Potential; from living systems in the urban environment to renewable energy technologies. Come with questions and build your understanding of sustainable design.