design elements - San Jacinto Texas Historic District
design elements - San Jacinto Texas Historic District
design elements - San Jacinto Texas Historic District
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Community Art & Local Craftsmanship<br />
Defi nition<br />
The public realm is greatly enhanced when<br />
art and craftsmanship are integrated into the<br />
<strong>design</strong> of the street environment. The <strong>San</strong><br />
<strong>Jacinto</strong> <strong>Texas</strong> <strong>Historic</strong> <strong>District</strong> is fortunate<br />
to have a rich cultural and environmental<br />
legacy that local artisans and craftsmen<br />
can draw upon. Art installations such as<br />
murals, frescoes, mosaics, and sculpture<br />
can be added to existing outdoor spaces in<br />
the district. These types of installations are<br />
generally created for the sake of the art itself.<br />
When new places are constructed, there is<br />
also an opportunity to integrate functional<br />
<strong>design</strong> <strong>elements</strong> using local craftsmen. These<br />
can include pavement treatments, wrought<br />
iron creations, fountain <strong>elements</strong>, landforms,<br />
lighting displays, stonework, and detailed<br />
carpentry.<br />
Applicability<br />
From a cultural perspective, the most<br />
signifi cant event in the <strong>District</strong>’s history<br />
is the batt le of <strong>San</strong> <strong>Jacinto</strong> that created the<br />
Republic of <strong>Texas</strong> and eventually led to the<br />
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annexation of <strong>Texas</strong> by the United States. The<br />
district also has a strong industrial legacy as<br />
a major shipping port and petrochemical<br />
center. The region’s natural history is also<br />
signifi cant with its unique mix of coastal<br />
tallgrass prairie, mixed hardwood forest, and<br />
estuarine bayous. Art installations and work<br />
by local craftsmen should draw upon these<br />
primary themes in order to distinguish the<br />
unique qualities of the <strong>District</strong>.<br />
Benefi ts<br />
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Art and craftsmanship can enhance<br />
tourism opportunities.<br />
Art and craftsmanship can stimulate<br />
public and private investment.<br />
Art and craftsmanship can improve the<br />
visual appeal of the <strong>District</strong>.<br />
Art and craftsmanship can provide an<br />
educational experience for visitors.<br />
Art and craftsmanship can add to the<br />
quality of life for local residents and<br />
workers.<br />
Artistic murals depicting neighborhood history.<br />
Walkways using a naturalistic appearance.<br />
Adding personal touches to the landscape.<br />
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