Thesis

Investigation and Development of Architectural Process through the Adaptive Reuse of "Big Box" Architecture.

Abstract
Through the exploration of adaptive reuse of residual, no longer viable, commercial buildings in economically challenged urban zones develop an over arching guide and process upon which to base future architectural practice, solidifying design principles that have the potential to define specific approaches to architectural strategies and form making. The adaptive reuse of architecture, specifically "big box" architecture, in a form that captures and utilizes natural daylight, artificial light, and inspires the human spirit addresses many key issues prevalent in today’s practice and design discourses. The notions that the proper lighting of space effects its occupants is not new, but one that is very seldom maximized in the built environment that we occupy. In addition, the importance of recycling building products and materials is at a peak in the world today. The building industry is one of the largest contributors to the degradation of our planet. Adaptive reuse of buildings is quite simply the recycling of architecture.


fracture of rigid form
thin outlines of light
natural and artificial
of worlds on a journey
who grin at the day
to the evening breeze

Wednesday, January 2, 2008

thesis proposal outline: site analysis

Typical site found in just about every urban/suburban town in this country, large parcel of land mostly covered with large flat areas of asphalt pavement. Some have water detention ponds and small trees. Dominant structure is the large masonry or EIFS veneered box that houses program. Not pedestrian friendly – site is focused on vehicular traffic and parking. Turn large areas of asphalt into greener more scenic and park like elements. Reduce heat signature, reduce light pollution.

Site selection: vacated grocery store at the corner of Douglas Rd and W. Sylvania Ave in Toledo, Ohio.






Area demographics: research need for community health programs
Selected Economics Charateristics: 2006
ACS Demographic and Housing Estimate: 2006
Population and Housing Narrative Profile: 2006
s1801: DisabilityCharacteristics 2006
s2301: Employment Status 2006

CDC's Six Strategic Imperatives:
http://www.cdc.gov/osi/goals/strategicimperatives.html

CDC's Health Protection Goals:
http://www.cdc.gov/osi/goals/goals.html

Information used from these demographics and imperatives to support site selection.
Posted by at

No comments:

Post a Comment

Subscribe to: Post Comments (Atom)