Architecture Commons^™

Rethinking Tornado Design, Michael Hagan

Masters Theses 1911 - February 2014

Oklahoma is in the middle of Tornado Alley, a name resulting from the large number of tornadoes that hit the region yearly. These storms are costly to life and property.

The housing in Oklahoma is currently not well enough engineered to withstand tornados. This thesis proposes a three stage response combining construction technology and the use of landscape to better protect the homes and residents of Oklahoma.

Situated Architecture In The Digital Age: Adaptation Of A Textile Mill In Holyoke, Massachusetts, Dorcas A. Brooks

Masters Theses 1911 - February 2014

The City of Holyoke, Massachusetts is one of many aging, industrial cities striving to revitalize its economy based on the promise of increased digital connectivity and clean energy resources. But how do you renovate 19th century mills to meet the demands of the information age? This architectural study explores the potential impact of sensing technologies and information networks on the definition and function of buildings in the 21st century. It explores the changes that have taken place in industrial architecture since 1850 and argues for an architecture that supports local relationships and environmental awareness. The author explores the industrial history …

Critical Review Of Elementary School Design, Amy Cole

Masters Theses 1911 - February 2014

This compilation is an in depth analysis of two elementary schools: Candor
Elementary School located in Candor, New York and Fort River Elementary School located in Amherst, Massachusetts. These two schools show the similarities and differences between a 'factory model' or double loaded corridor with an open plan school converted into individual classrooms. These schools are analyzed both at the macro (entire school building) and at the micro (individual classroom) level.

To optimally design an elementary school, the designer needs to be thoroughly aware of the past and current conditions. This understanding will bridge the gap between the teaching methodologies …

Building Integrated Aquaculture, Erik A. Woodin

Masters Theses 1911 - February 2014

Exploratory research into a fresh concept, building integrated aquaculture, has found new information on the topic. Motives indicating building integrated aquaculture is important for sustainable development were identified. A review of the literature found relatively little in the way of experiments, aquaculture operations, and case studies which documented or demonstrated a deep understanding of the interactions between building and aquaculture systems. A simple experiment was conducted observing thermal energy and moisture interactions in simulated aquaculture facilities, some with tank covers and insulation. Two different retrofit programs were developed in a case study of building integrated aquaculture for an existing structure …