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: title

Adaptive Reuse of the "Big Box" as a Community Based Healthcare Facility

Adaptive reuse of residual, no longer viable, commercial buildings in economically challenged urban zones bringing healthcare to underserved communities. Adaptive reuse of architecture, specifically "big box" architecture and sustainable designs trategies combined with evidence based design principles that promote healing environments.

3 comments:

Denise Dea said...

Not much new. But clear and concise. Let's see what everyone else says.

rbutera said...

Only small development has been in starting to think about the program elements a bit... while not very exhaustive, I attempted to set the tone. I should have the site info posted in the next day or two, probably Tuesday night.

Thomas said...

Rick:
As usual -organized and on time!
We have these enormous centers new and old which long to be humanized all over the united states. Seperating a real trend in our built environment for long term use is tough! What is your overall theory about urban vs. suburban spaces? Will you use some of the recomendations of Jane Jacob's book " Life and Dealth of Great American Cities"?
See you Sat.
Tom