Architecture Commons^™

The Green: Building A Viable Program For Forgotten Public Space In Uptown Dallas, Larry Biff Sturgess

Landscape Architecture Masters & Design Theses - Archive

The Uptown area of Dallas has seen rapid and drastic change over the last fifteen years. The conversion of the former Missouri-Kansas-Texas (KATY) Railroad line into the KATY Trail has instigated measurable increases in adjacent property values, while new middle and high-end condominiums and townhomes have replaced older and often dilapidated single- and multi-family structures. Extended trolley service and new light rail service now provide multiple means of access into the area from further-reaching regions. The overall result has provided Uptown with a vibrant mix of new residential, retail and business opportunities, with a quality of life that has visible …

Finding Common Ground: Community Garden As Connector Between Culture, Nature, And The Individual, Valerie Dawn Warner

Landscape Architecture Masters & Design Theses - Archive

In the vacant spaces between buildings, in the corners of school yards, in open fields - wherever community gardens are deliberately placed - the space between culture and nature grows smaller. Closing this gap can come about on the common ground created in a collaborative spirit: the community changes the space, and then the space ultimately changes the community. This is the connective power of the humble community garden. This study finds that in urban environments, a community garden can be the link between individuals and their community, and between people and nature, imparting health of body and mind, feelings …

Career Influences For Women In Landscape Architecture, Catherine Louise Acuna

Landscape Architecture Masters & Design Theses - Archive

This research explores the insights of successful women who are pioneering the practice of landscape architecture in today's practice. Their perspectives regarding the impediments and advantages of women in current practice are examined within the public, private and academic practices of landscape architecture. Also examined are methods that are being used to overcome limitations, as well as advantages utilized in each area of practice. Finally, critical counsel and perspectives of the future of the profession are directed toward future generations of women in landscape architecture who aspire to follow in their path.

The Moderating Effects Of Vegetation On Human Violent Behavior Caused By Environmental Stressors, Jieun Lim

Landscape Architecture Masters & Design Theses - Archive

Numerous studies explain the relationship between the environment and human behavior using the term "environmental stressor." Some examples of environmental stressors are temperature, air pollution, noise, and density and crowding. The negative effects of these environmental stressors on humans occur in the form of mental fatigue and lead to increased anger, aggression, and even violence. Environments such as urban forests provide a number of benefits for one's quality of life. People living in vegetated areas feel lower levels of fear, and have less aggressive and violent behavior. In this light, this study hypothesizes that population density in urbanized areas can …

Analysis Of The Congress Of New Urbanism Landscape Design Principles And Social Interaction, David Bartz

Landscape Architecture Masters & Design Theses - Archive

The Congress of New Urbanism (CNU) is a relatively new topic among urban developers, planners, and city leaders. It seeks to change the way cities and towns are built by creating compact neighborhoods that encourage pedestrian activity. This study was an exploration of the design principles of the Congress of New Urbanism (CNU) as they relate to contemporary neighborhood design research and how effective they are at stimulating social interaction through increased use of outdoor areas. The context of the study stems from the CNU implying that friendly sociable neighborhoods can be physically designed (Talen 2002). More specifically the CNU …

The Connection Between Landscape Architecture And Water Quality: A Survey Of Landscape Architects In Texas, Andrea Lora Davis

Landscape Architecture Masters & Design Theses - Archive

For local jurisdictions and consumers, water quality has become importantas development pressures and expanding population has increased the strain on existing water supplies. Aging infrastructure, limited financial resources, and environmental regulations are forcing many users to seek alternatives to traditional water treatment and storm conveyance systems. Landscape architects can utilize many environmentally sound methods and technology to protect water quality. The opportunity is there to incorporate measures such as buffers, low-impact development, open space design, rain gardens, basins, and native plantings in the design process. A survey of practicing landscape architects in Texas demonstrated the trends of alternative measures applications …

Prospect-Refuge Theory Revisited: A Search For Safety In Dynamic Public Spaces With A Reference To Design, Priti Ramanujam

Landscape Architecture Masters & Design Theses - Archive

Prospect-refuge theory (Appleton 1975) is based on habitat theory (Darwin 1958) which states that the ability to see (prospect) but not be seen (refuge) is basic to many biological needs. According to Appleton, the ability to see without being seen increases perceived safety which increases the esthetic pleasure experienced in the environment. Wekerle and Egan (1991) state that the perception of safety is necessary for feelings of enjoyment and comfort in urban open space. Appleton's hypothesized factors--prospect and refuge--are known to affect people's perception of how safe an environment appears to be. This thesis studies perception of safety in dynamic …

The Green: Building A Viable Program For Forgotten Public Space In Uptown Dallas, Larry Biff Sturgess

Landscape Architecture Masters & Design Theses - Archive

The Uptown area of Dallas has seen rapid and drastic change over the last fifteen years. The conversion of the former Missouri-Kansas-Texas (KATY) Railroad line into the KATY Trail has instigated measurable increases in adjacent property values, while new middle and high-end condominiums and townhomes have replaced older and often dilapidated single- and multi-family structures. Extended trolley service and new light rail service now provide multiple means of access into the area from further-reaching regions. The overall result has provided Uptown with a vibrant mix of new residential, retail and business opportunities, with a quality of life that has visible …

The Moderating Effects Of Vegetation On Human Violent Behavior Caused By Environmental Stressors, Jieun Lim

Landscape Architecture Masters & Design Theses - Archive

Numerous studies explain the relationship between the environment and human behavior using the term "environmental stressor." Some examples of environmental stressors are temperature, air pollution, noise, and density and crowding. The negative effects of these environmental stressors on humans occur in the form of mental fatigue and lead to increased anger, aggression, and even violence. Environments such as urban forests provide a number of benefits for one's quality of life. People living in vegetated areas feel lower levels of fear, and have less aggressive and violent behavior. In this light, this study hypothesizes that population density in urbanized areas can …

Analysis Of The Congress Of New Urbanism Landscape Design Principles And Social Interaction, David Bartz

Landscape Architecture Masters & Design Theses - Archive

The Congress of New Urbanism (CNU) is a relatively new topic among urban developers, planners, and city leaders. It seeks to change the way cities and towns are built by creating compact neighborhoods that encourage pedestrian activity. This study was an exploration of the design principles of the Congress of New Urbanism (CNU) as they relate to contemporary neighborhood design research and how effective they are at stimulating social interaction through increased use of outdoor areas. The context of the study stems from the CNU implying that friendly sociable neighborhoods can be physically designed (Talen 2002). More specifically the CNU …

Self-Efficacy And Health Value Among Undergraduates Following A Lifetime Fitness Course, Heather M. Brown

All-Inclusive List of Electronic Theses and Dissertations

The question of whether perceived self-efficacy for exercise and health value, respectively, varied as a function of gender and exercise stage of change was the focus of this study. An archival data set was used. Participants were 190 college students who completed a demographic questionnaire, the Exercise Stage of Change Questionnaire, the Rokeach Values Survey, and the Self-Efficacy for Exercise questionnaire before and after completing a lifetime fitness course. Two 2-factor analyses of covariance were conducted for each dependent variable, self-efficacy and health value. Gender and exercise stage of change were the independent variables. Exercise stage of change was divided …

Incorporating Neighborhood Social Patterns Into Neighborhood Planning Models, Paul Duggan

All Theses

ABSTRACT
Neighborhood models and patterns are used by developers, planners, and urban designers to plan new neighborhoods and guide the revitalization of older ones. Models are typically based on theories about ideal communities and frequently include significant social objectives.
Comparing neighborhood models with studies of neighborhood life, reveals that neighborhood social and behavioral patterns do not always fit the plan or social objectives of the proposed neighborhood models. There is a gap between the objectives and vision of the models and the patterns of life in the neighborhood. Social patterns such as neighboring, urban cognition, travel preferences and personal meaning …

Continuity Within Islamic Art And Architecture: Hassan Fathy As A Modern Catalyst, Ahmad Hamid

Archived Theses and Dissertations

No abstract provided.

The Impact Of Combined Maternal Alcohol And Tobacco Use On Low Birth Weight In Singleton Pregnancies : A Population Based Study In The Us, 2003, Della A. Campbell

Dissertations

Background: The Black-White disparity in birth outcomes in the United States remains embedded. The World Health Organization (WHO) defines low birth weight (LBW) as birthweight less than 2500 grams/5.5 pounds or below the 10th percentile for gestational age. LBW is a frequent marker of poor maternal/infant health outcome. A reduction in the incidence of LBW is a major public health initiative in the US. Objective: The objective of the study was to determine the magnitude of risk for low birth weight, defined in this study as neonatal birth weight less than 2500 grams, in relation to combined maternal alcohol and …

Reservoir Sedimentation And Property Values, Ronald Leftwich Jr.

All Theses

This thesis uses multiple regression analysis in the determination of two hedonic models to explain the impact that sedimentation and algal bloom events may have on property values along Lake Greenwood, SC. Utilizing different independent variables, the hedonic equations reflect the market value and the sales price of the selected lakeside properties. With an average 4.6 percent of the original lake area lost to accreted sediment, the models show a $7,800 to nearly $10,000 average loss in property value or an estimated $5 to $6 million in value lost within the study area. Properties sold within a two-year period following …

Adaptive Customization: New Design Opportunities In Orthopedics, Driven By The Merging Of Imaging And Surgery, Marie Mcfaddin

All Theses

The architectural response for an out-patient orthopedic surgery and rehabilitation facility that merges the fields of imaging and surgery needs to be an architecture of changing needs. Orthopedic patients are a diverse population with varied and changing medical treatment needs. The practice of orthopedic medicine is rapidly changing in response to these needs and ongoing advances in medical technology. One of the most significant changes under way today is the merging of surgical and imaging modalities. Settings for the delivery of orthopedic medicine must be able to better accommodate these changing needs by becoming more easily adaptable while being highly …

Integrated Treatment Facility: An Alternative Care Setting For Adults With Mental Illness, Brenna Costello

All Theses

ABSTRACT The current model of community mental health care does not provide adequate therapeutic settings for many mentally ill patients to fully recovery. Due to this deficiency, patients are falling into a harmful cycle where they are admitted to the hospital through the emergency department, stabilized at the acute care setting, and discharged within a matter of days into the larger community where they have limited access to resources and support networks. At this point, patients become overwhelmed, have another event, and come full circle back to the emergency department. As a result, there is a drastic need for new …

The Interactive Medical Emergency Department (Imed): Architectural Integration Of Digital Systems Into The Emergency Care Environment, David Ruthven

All Theses

In healthcare, the architectural response to the development of information technologies has largely been relegated to a reactive role, essentially waiting for systems to develop and simply accommodating them with appropriately sized spaces. Designing IT systems independently from, rather than integrally with, their environment impedes them from reaching their full potential as vital components in the delivery of care by creating a lack of flexibility, decelerating performance, and degrading the healing environment. The flexibility of the environment is compromised by fixed position, single user data systems which prevent it from actively adapting to changing conditions, especially during volumetric surges associated …

Bionic Architectural Design: Assembly, Symbiosis, & Repetition, Henry Louth

Honors Capstones

No abstract provided.

Design Outfit An Interdisciplinary Think + Act Tank, Douglas Jack

Renée Crown University Honors Thesis Projects - All

The Design Outfit is a real project derived from a conceptual program. The program, or set of concepts from which the project sprang, critically approached three aspects of design practice:

I) reality: how design proceeds from initial sketches to finishing touches, with all steps and scales given comparable attention

II) collaboration: how designers interface with one another and others throughout a design process

III) social awareness: how designers can shape and place their efforts in relation to social significance

The project was designed to explore and test these aspects of design.

Based at Henninger High, a public Syracuse City school …

A Water-Efficient Landscape: Public Lands Center, Montrose, Co, Marcus Pulsipher

Undergraduate Honors Capstone Projects

The problem of water-wasting landscapes is prevalent throughout the western United States. For decades western settlers struggled to turn their arid lands into the more familiar settings of lush vegetation found in their native New England and Western Europe. This mind set has been passed down through generations and has transformed into the basis of the current western water crisis (Brundin and Pearson 2001). Only in the last few decades has this mentality been challenged and we've seen the emergence of several water-efficient landscape models. Through careful application of water-efficient landscape principles, western communities can greatly extend the life of …

Design Response To Humanitarian Crisis: An Analysis Of Low-Income Labor Camps In Doha, Qatar In The Context Of A Student Charrette, Holly Murdock

Undergraduate Honors Capstone Projects

"Imagine a future where design can alter the quality of life." So began the instructions for "Charrette: A 48 hour Design Challenge" hosted by Virginia Commonwealth University's School of the Arts in Qatar. ("Charrette," 2007.) Combining sustainable design solutions with issues of human rights, an experiment in design education was created to challenge students to improve the quality of life for some of the world's most disadvantaged workers.

The Integration Of Historical And Green Planning In Commercial Development, A Study For The Potential Use Of The Historical Canada Packers Site In Edmonton, Alberta, T. David Murray

Undergraduate Honors Capstone Projects

The Canada Packers meat packing plant stood as a symbol of the agricultural heritage and formed part of the collective memory in the city of Edmonton throughout much of the twentieth century. Abandoned in 1994, the site has remained undeveloped and neglected for over a decade, while new development has expanded in every direction of the city. The development of the site is inevitable as property values skyrocket and the booming oil economy continues throughout Alberta. Currently the site is owned by RONA, a large Canadian home improvement store, and will be developed in the next few years. It is …

Inventorying Landscape Assets In Rural Utah Communities: A Sociocultural Approach, Jennifer F. Hale

All Graduate Theses and Dissertations, Spring 1920 to Summer 2023

A community's physical environment embodies distinct natural and built elements, which hold meanings and values that are formed through daily social interactions within that environment. Such elements, however, are not often recognized until they are dramatically changed or lost. As amenity-rich rural areas of the Intermountain West steadily attract new residents, consciously identifying these elements prior to rapid growth is critical to their preservation.

Research suggests that strong social capital has the potential to encourage the identification of a place's visual assets prior to such change. A documentary research approach was used to understand why citizens do not actively participate …

A Catalog And The Perceived Effectiveness Of Stormwater Best Management Practices Bmps Used On Municipal Sites In Northern Utah, Saadia E. Ahmed

All Graduate Plan B and other Reports, Spring 1920 to Spring 2023

Stormwater, as a result of hydrological events and urbanization, has contributed to problem s of water quality and flooding. Stormwater picks up pollutants and flows into sewer systems ultimately impacting water sheds and wildlife habitat. The primary method to control storm water discharge is by the use of best management practices. This research seeks to evaluate the perceived effectiveness of stormwater structural Best Management Practice s (BMPs) installed on municipal sites in northern Utah. A representative sample of sites is chosen using a snowballing sampling method. Selected sites are visited and surveys addressing effectiveness and maintenance issue s are answered …

Design Guidelines For The Historic Downtown Of The City Of St. George, Utah, Bronson R. Tatton

All Graduate Plan B and other Reports, Spring 1920 to Spring 2023

This document proposes historic preservation guidelines for the downtown area of the City of St. George, Utah. It grew from a summer internship with the city where I took inventory of the streetscape in the Historic Downtown and prepared recommendations in the form of a PowerPoint Presentation that was given to the city council. This paper summarizes the summer internship and introduces a more appropriate approach based on reflection of the intern ship. The new approach involves a thorough inventory of the historic character, in depth research of the historic elements that contribute to the historic character, development of design …

Reservoir Sedimentation And Property Values: A Hedonic Valuation For Waterfront Properties Along Lake Greenwood, South Carolina, R. Wayne Leftwich Jr.

All Theses

No abstract provided.

The Interpretation Of Comingtee Plantation, Kimberly C. Norton

All Theses

This thesis provides a long term preservation plan for Comingtee Plantation, located at the confluence of the east and west branch of the Cooper River in Berkeley County, South Carolina. The plantation, owned by the Ball Family for almost two hundred years, includes the ruins of an eighteenth- century house, a nineteenth-century rice mill, as well as yet undiscovered archaeological resources. The site is owned by the Department of Natural Resources, a state agency, and is accessible to the public, though use is generally limited to hunting activities. During the summer of 2006 I participated in an internship project with …

Campus Commuting: Barriers To Walking And Bicycling Use In A University Town, Benjamin Miller

All Theses

Policy makers frequently express a desire to increase the use of non-motorized modes of transportation for commuting. However, walking and bicycling are only viable commuting modes if people live within acceptable distances of their destination and transportation networks can safely accommodate pedestrians or bicyclists. This research uses a combination of stated maximum-acceptable commute times for walking and bicycling and an assessment of the suitability of the transportation network to develop walking and bicycling commute catchments from which a person could be reasonably expected to commute to a destination by walking or bicycling. Identifying commute catchments such as these then allowed …

The Missing Link: Archaeological Resource Protection In Charleston, South Carolina, Kathryne Joseph

All Theses

Charleston, South Carolina is one of the nation's leading cities in preservation of its built environment - meaning historically and architecturally significant dwellings, sites, and structures. Protection of the city's underground resources, however, falls considerably behind as there is no archaeological preservation ordinance in place, nor is there an archaeological commission or city archaeologist to oversee and administer development projects potentially affecting significant historic and archaeological remains. The purpose of this study is to address the need for archaeological resource protection for the city by providing a better understanding of the importance of urban archaeology and by examining and identifying …