Providence, Rhode Island, is home to an architect and designer named Jenna Yu. Her Depew Street home may seem like any other on the outside, with its periwinkle color and wooden siding. But upon entering, one discovers a space filled with meticulous attention to detail and a commitment to using natural, nontoxic materials.

Discovering Providence's Sustainable Home Design

Details of the Home's Exterior

The exterior of Jenna Yu's home on Depew Street appears unassuming at first glance. Its periwinkle color and wooden siding blend seamlessly with the Elmwood neighborhood. However, an addition connects to the original 19th-century home, setting it apart. This addition is not only aesthetically pleasing but also environmentally friendly, made of natural materials like panelized straw. 2: Such a design choice showcases the potential for sustainable architecture in Providence. It challenges the notion that sustainable homes must sacrifice style for environmental benefits. The home's exterior serves as a testament to the fact that sustainable design can be both beautiful and functional.

The Interior Ambiance and Safety

As one steps inside, the attention to detail becomes immediately apparent. The clay and sand walls were plastered by her family and friends, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. The handcrafted light fixtures by her mother and step-father add a personal touch, complementing the building's natural materials. 2: For Jenna Yu, creating a safe space for her two young children was a top priority. The lead-free and nontoxic environment ensures their well-being. This emphasis on safety extends beyond just the materials used; it permeates every aspect of the home's design.

Innovative Design and Construction Methods

Yu's addition represents an innovative and eco-friendly approach to design and construction. Insulating homes with straw is a sustainable practice that has gained popularity in other parts of the country, such as California and upstate New York. 2: By moving away from toxic materials like foam and fiberglass, Yu is creating a healthier indoor environment. In California, where wildfires are common, firefighters face health issues due to the toxins released when traditional homes burn. Straw bale construction, on the other hand, is highly resistant to fire and releases fewer toxins when burned.

The Construction Process and Challenges

When the project began in 2019, Yu documented the process on Instagram. She faced some challenges with permitting due to Providence's accessory dwelling unit (ADU) laws being in flux. However, she adjusted her plans and opted for structurally insulated panels (SIPs) for quicker assembly. 2: The panels were sourced from Lithuania and arrived in one shipping container. The entire addition was completed in just over a year, from breaking ground to clearing away construction materials. The use of EcoCocon for the straw panels and the 3D modeling process made the assembly easier.

Community Involvement and the Truth Window

Friends and family played an important role in the construction process, helping to plaster the walls with clay and sand by hand. Yu also brought in subcontractors to assist with the details. The "truth window" is a design choice that reveals the straw behind the plaster, adding to the transparency and authenticity of the home. 2: This community-driven approach shows the power of collaboration in sustainable construction. It also highlights the importance of involving local people in the creation of sustainable homes.

The Future of Biomaterial Construction in Providence

With zoning changes and easier access to materials in the US, biomaterial and straw bale construction could become more common in Providence. Another straw bale house may go up around Federal Hill in the spring, further demonstrating the potential for sustainable construction in the area. 2: Yu's home serves as a model for future homes, showing that well-designed sustainable construction is already possible in Providence. It inspires others to consider sustainable options and embrace a more environmentally friendly way of building.

The first day of December 2019 marked a significant milestone as the construction of the new home for the Jim Crow Museum at Ferris State University (FSU) officially got underway. This museum serves as a vital educational resource, facilitating discussions about race and inspiring positive change. It plays a crucial role in expanding the university's focus on addressing racism and shaping the perspectives of future generations.

Unveiling a New Era of Racial Understanding at Ferris State

Construction Beginnings and Its Significance

On that Thursday, the groundwork for the new museum was laid. It is set to be located near the State Street entrance to the campus, providing easy accessibility. This new facility will be able to accommodate the entire collection of artifacts, along with a modern archive and research component. The university's president, Bill Pink, emphasized the institution's history of being a national leader in innovation. He mentioned how, 140 years ago, the founders opened their doors to all, and now, with the new Jim Crow Museum, they continue to embrace the mission of equity. This museum will serve as a historical lens through which students, visitors, scholars, and policymakers can gain a deeper understanding of racial issues.

The construction of the new home for the Jim Crow Museum is a testament to Ferris State University's commitment to addressing racial injustices. It allows the university to expand its reach and impact in the field of racial education. The museum's centerpiece will be a 7,500-square-foot exhibit featuring some of its most compelling items, which will attract attention from far and wide.

By providing a dedicated space for the collection and research of racial artifacts, the new museum will enable in-depth studies and discussions. It will offer a platform for students and scholars to explore the history of racism and its impact on society. This will not only enhance the educational experience at Ferris State but also contribute to the broader conversation about racial equality.

Location and Future Impact

The strategic location of the new museum near the State Street entrance ensures that it will be a prominent feature on the campus. It will serve as a gathering place for those interested in racial issues and a source of inspiration for future generations. As the museum prepares to open in the Fall of 2026, it holds the potential to become a landmark in the field of racial education.

With its state-of-the-art facilities and extensive collection, the new Jim Crow Museum will attract a diverse range of visitors. Students from different backgrounds will have the opportunity to engage with the exhibits and learn from the rich history of racism. Scholars and policymakers will also be drawn to the museum, as it provides a unique perspective and a wealth of information.

The opening of the new museum is expected to have a lasting impact on the campus and the community. It will serve as a reminder of the importance of racial understanding and equality and inspire action towards creating a more inclusive society. Ferris State University is taking a significant step forward in its commitment to racial justice with the construction of this new home for the Jim Crow Museum.