Thy Nguyen

Advisor: Brian Rex 

The diagram illustrates a "Sponge System" with a central river surrounded by wetlands, vegetation, and constructed green zones. Markers and overlays highlight features, with a legend detailing flood levels and seasonal water heights.
Thumbnail. Section Model. Illustrated by author.
The image depicts the "Sponge by the Forks" site plan, showcasing eco-strategies like wetlands, retention ponds, and permeable pavements to address flood risks and improve biodiversity. It includes labeled diagrams and a detailed riverbank design near Winnipeg.
Panel. Sponge by the Forks. Illustrated by author.
The site assessment of the Red River floodplain shows zones like riparian buffers, dikes, and floodway boundaries, with elevation markers and probabilities. Insets highlight Esplanade Riel, Provencher Bridge, and key features.
Figure 1. Existing Site Assessment. Illustrated by author.
The image contrasts urban water management: the "Existing Framework" shows disconnected layers, while the "Resilient Framework" integrates humans, nature, and water with activities like jogging and kayaking.
Figure 2. Sponge by the Forks concept framework. Illustrated by author.
The concept map integrates water solutions and sustainability, showing site conditions, water flow ("Sponge System"), and green spaces. Panels highlight sustainable buildings using sun and wind, emphasizing ecology and education.
Figure 3. Sponge by the Forks concept development. Illustrated by author.
The diagram depicts a sponge system managing water flow with six stormwater stages (detention to treatment) and three combined water steps. Labeled "Inlet" and "Outlet" points and a legend clarify the process. 4
Figure 4. Sponge system principles: how the water flows. Illustrated by author.
The infographic presents a water management plan with riparian wetlands, bioswales, permeable pavements, and green roofs. Key features like floating islands and retention ponds are highlighted, alongside stormwater flows and flooding measurements.
Figure 5. How the water flows. Illustrated by author.
The diagram compares Winter and Summer Scenarios for urban runoff, featuring sponge system elements like permeable pavement and green roofs. Maps and side views show seasonal runoff management with zones for activities like fishing and bird watching.
Figure 6. Scenarios in winter and summer. Illustrated by author.

Sponge by the Forks

Winnipeg, situated in one of largest watershed in the world, faces increasing water challenges due to its unique geography, historic urban development and the intensifying effects of climate change. 1 This thesis explores the interplay between natural and human-made factors that contribute to flooding, water quality degradation, and infrastructure strain. To address these pressing issues, the thesis proposes a transformative approach inspired by the “sponge city” concept. By integrating nature-based solutions with existing urban grey infrastructure, this framework aims to create a resilient and sustainable water system. Focusing on low-impact development (LID) strategies or green/ blue infrastructure, the project seeks solutions to reduce flood risks, improve water quality, and enhance public spaces.

The proposal “Sponge by The Forks” is a pilot sponge park that re-imagines the iconic Winnipeg landmark as a hub for water innovation and public engagement. This multi-functional design incorporates a Water-Climate Impacts Research and Learning Centre within the Sponge Park framework. The hybrid landscape and architecture, incorporating LID features such as terraced wetlands, rain gardens, and permeable pavements, demonstrate the practical application of sustainable water management principles. By inspiring a paradigm shift in Winnipeg’s approach to water and climate resilience, “Sponge by The Forks” aims to foster a sense of urgency, responsibility, and hope in public discourse as we confront the environmental challenges ahead.