Architecture Commons^™

Mind The Gap: An Exploration Into The Accessibility, Ease Of Use, And Design Of Public Transport Wayfinding, Jack Nierenberg

Honors College Theses

Wayfinding, an essential aspect of public transport, is not always accessible, user-friendly, or well-designed. Because of this, people with disabilities, language barriers, or other difficulties understanding information or navigating public transport are put at a disadvantage. This thesis explores prior research and projects, as well as in-depth case studies of three cities' public transport systems, to identify best practices and guiding principles for enhancing accessibility, ease of use, and design. These principles can be incorporated into a unifying standard to improve public transport wayfinding and bridge gaps in existing systems.

Território Brincapé: The First Adventure Playground Experience In Portugal, Rita Frade, Ana Rita Fonseca, Frederico Lopes, Sandra Nascimento

International Journal of Playwork Practice

Território Brincapé (TB) - Community Space for Free Play was a seminal project in Lisbon designed to deliver weekly play sessions to 112 children between 6 and 10 years old, for 1.5 hours during school time, at a private sandpit just outside a school. TB was developed under the ethos of playwork practice and was conceptualised as an adventure playground. This is a report of how we navigated this endeavour, focusing mainly on the perspective of the playwork practitioners. Specifically, it documents the questions that we dwelled upon through reflection and which aspects of this process we focused on. We …

Development And Assessment Of Thermophysical Performance And Embodied Energy Of Insulation Materials From Date Palm Leaves Fibers, Sharina Abdul Rahman Aldhaheri

Thesis/ Dissertation Defenses

Rising energy usage and environmental contamination are among the most pressing challenges of the twenty-first century. The construction industry significantly contributes to global climate change by emitting many greenhouse gases due to its high energy-intensive production processes of non-renewable materials and high energy consumption, necessitating more sustainable solutions. One viable strategy involves using waste resources and eco-friendly production techniques. The search for environmentally friendly and sustainable building materials has become increasingly essential in this context. Despite their effectiveness, traditional insulation materials pose serious environmental issues as they are non-renewable and have ecological impacts during manufacture and disposal. This study analyzes …

Observing The Enablers For Achieving Sustainability In Saudi Oil Industry Cities According To Vision 2030 Aspirations: A Case Study Of Jubail Industrial City, Abdulrahman Salem Alruwaili, Mohammad Alghamdi Prof.

Emirates Journal for Engineering Research

The research emphasizes the ongoing need to enhance sustainability in Saudi industry cities, which are vital to the Saudi economy and contribute significantly to non-oil revenue streams. This study explores the key factors enabling sustainability in such cities by focusing on Jubail Industrial City, which has developed over 50 years. Using a descriptive-analytical methodology, the research highlights that Jubail Industrial City has a well-developed infrastructure, establishing it as a crucial logistics hub that connects Kingdom of Saudi Arabia with global cities. The city has made significant contributes to the national GDP and attracts national and international talent by adopting sustainable …

Durability And Steel Corrosion Resistance Of Fly Ash Concrete Exposed To Groundwater, Mohamed Ahmed Bayomy, Khaled M. Osman, Hala Emad Elden Fouad

Mansoura Engineering Journal

This article proposes replacing Ordinary Portland Cement (OPC) with a fly ash (FA)-based geopolymer (GP) material, activated by a chemical activator, as the binding material. A 90-day study was conducted to evaluate the performance of fly ash geopolymer concrete (GPC) in a corrosive environment (groundwater). Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), compression testing, and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) were used to assess the toughness of the samples. Additionally, the linear polarization resistance (LPR) method was employed to measure the corrosion of steel embedded in the concrete structures. The comparison shows that increasing the fly ash (FA) content in geopolymer concrete (GPC) enhances …

2025 Scholarly Productivity Report, Missouri University Of Science And Technology

Civil, Architectural and Environmental Engineering Scholarly Productivity Reports

No abstract provided.

Investigating The Role Of Semi-Public Open Spaces Of Housing Clusters As A Booster Of Social Interaction In Abu Dhabi Neighbourhoods, Mohammad Shuayyat

Thesis/ Dissertation Defenses

This thesis explores the relationship between urban housing cluster configurations, open space design, and social interaction in the context of Emirati neighborhoods, focusing on the Al Salamat area in Al Ain, United Arab Emirates. It aims to investigate how different residential housing cluster types—such as cul-de-sacs, perimeter blocks, linear blocks, and closed-loop configurations—shape the usability and social function of semi-public open spaces. The study integrates theoretical insights from urban planning literature with empirical findings through spatial analysis (using Depth map X), field observations, and semi-structured interviews with residents.
The research adopts a mixed-method case study approach. It begins with a …

Behind The Walls: The Implications Of Assisted Living Building Codes On Resident Safety, Adam Pennavaria, Lindsey Smith, Paula Carder, Cassandra Hua, Eric Jutkowitz, Kali Thomas

OHSU-PSU School of Public Health Annual Conference

As the US population collectively ages, issues related to assisted living (AL) resident safety have become an increasingly pressing issue for the general public, reflected by major media reporting in the last year. The building codes that govern ALs play an important role in mitigating the risks associated with falls, wandering, and other hazards, especially for residents living with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias. We sought to understand how states vary in their approaches to building code regulations that might impact resident safety. We used search term-based text retrieval to identify areas of text relevant to locks, alarms, and egress …

Farmstead Therapy: Intergenerational Connection And Sense Of Place Via Equine Therapy, Kaleb Griffeth

Student Research Symposium

Therapy has become a crucial element within society. It has offered relief, understanding, and hope for a changed future to hundreds of millions of people just in the last five years (SAMHSA, 2004).

On another front, division between generations seems to be growing by the month. Political, social, and economic differences between generations “X”, “Z”, Alpha, and Baby Boomers make it appear that there is no connection whatsoever across age gaps.

Because equine therapy has proven a succesful branch, especially for those of a younger demographic, Farmstead Therapy was a project designed to bring together the skills of the older …

Can Walkability Solve Utah's Housing Shortage?, Jordan Taft

Student Research Symposium

52,000

Housing Units Short (2022)

1,445,808

Projected New UT Households (by 2023)

$510,867

Median Home Price

Goodwater Elementary School, Sara Jones

Student Research Symposium

Goodwater Elementary School is designed as a replacement for the existing Castle Dale Elementary School that the community has outgrown. Serving multiple small towns in the area, this elementary school plays an important role in both education and socialization as the area is sparsely populated.

How Long-Term Rents Are Being Impacted By The Emerging Of Short-Term Rents In Riyadh, Tahar Ledraa Prof., Sameeh Saad Alarabi Dr, Talal Fahd Bin Saeed Eng

Emirates Journal for Engineering Research

الملخص

شهدت الرياض مؤخراً نمواً سريعاً ومتسارعاً للإيجارات قصيرة المدة مما أربك سوق الإسكان بالمدينة بسبب التأثيرات التي أحدثتها على المخزون السكني طويل الأجل وأسعار إيجاراته. فظهور الأنشطة والمهرجانات الترفيهية على شاكلة موسم الرياض وموسم الدرعية والفعاليات المصاحبة بالإضافة إلى انتشار تطبيقات منصات الاستئجار اليومي للسكنات مثل Airbnb، أدى لخلق سوق جديدة للإيجارات قصيرة المدة ساهمت في تغيير رغبات الكثير من زوار المدينة من التوجه للفنادق إلى استئجار الوحدات السكنية لفترات قصيرة. اعتمدت الدراسة على تحليل بيانات أعداد الوحدات الموجهة للإيجارات اليومية ومتوسطات عائداتها من منصة Airbnb ومقارنتها ببيانات الوحدات الموجهة للإيجارات طويلة المدة وعائداتها والتي تم استخلاصها من منصة …

Vernon Aubrey Hallum Papers, 1962-2011, Abilene Christian University Special Collections And Archives

Center for Restoration Studies Archives, Manuscripts and Personal Papers Finding Aids

No abstract provided.

An Ai-Driven Framework For Assessing Intersection Infrastructure And Accessibility, Logan Liddiard, Joel Pierson, Brent Chamberlain, Keith Christensen, Xiaojun Qi

Computer Science Student Research

Background: Intersections serve as vital nodes within transportation networks, facilitating the movement of pedestrians. However, their effectiveness often hinges on the quality of their infrastructure and accessibility. Furthermore, it is expensive and time-consuming to collect infrastructure data, yet is crucial for creating a safe and efficient urban landscape.

Objective: Develop an AI-driven model that leverages Google Street View to provide detailed information about intersections, helping city planners identify infrastructure and accessibility issues and supporting improvements to create safer, more accessible intersections for people of all abilities.

The Role Of The Moderation Approach In Islamic Architectural Thought: Between Application And Law, Riyam Rajab Al-Amara Rm

Emirates Journal for Engineering Research

No abstract provided.

Finding Aid For The Vernon Aubrey Hallum Papers, 1962-2011, Abilene Christian University Special Collections And Archives

V. Aubrey Hallum Papers

Finding aid for the Vernon Aubrey Hallum Papers, 1962-2011.

Biophilic Design And The Human Experience, Brooklyn Erickson

Student Research Symposium

Biophilia is the idea that humans possess an innate tendency to seek connections with nature and other forms of life. It stems from the Greek meaning "love of life." Biophilic design is an innovative approach to architecture and interior design that integrates natural elements into built environments to enhance human well-being. This design philosophy seeks to create spaces that promote physical, mental, and emotional health by incorporating elements such as natural light, greenery, water features, and organic materials. This research examines the benefits of biophilic design and how implementing these principles affects the "Human Experience". In this project the research …

New Beginnings Behavioral Health, Mckenna Spens

Student Research Symposium

This project is the 2025 IIDA Student Competition. The objective of this project is to design the Lobby/Reception and Inpatient area of a behavioral health clinic. The design must consider the safety and well being of the patients as well as the staff. This project is in partnership with OFS and Carolina and at least 50% of the furnishings shall be sourced from them. The Lobby/Reception must contain a reception desk for 4 staff, a waiting area, and a minimum of 4 lockers for guests. The Inpatient area must contain the following: a sallyport at the entrance; 2 consultation rooms …

Concrete Grove Biophilic Hotel, Kieran White

Student Research Symposium

Located in Eugene, Oregon, the Concrete Grove Hotel is a modern biophilic retreat inspired by the state tree, the Douglas fir. Influenced by Louis Kahn's architecture, the design combines concrete and glass with natural materials to harmonize strength and tranquility.

Understanding Dementia Friendly Features Of Public Bathrooms: Dementia-Friendly Bathroom Design Explored + Checklist, Sarah Stegge, Elsie Aslesen, Gowri Betrabet Gulwadi, Denell Henninger, Janice Blevins

INSPIRE Student Research and Engagement Conference

Our Study Objectives:

• Identifying Dementia-Friendly Public Restrooms Elements
• Creating a Checklist of Features

Designing To Harmonize With The Environment, Demi Harmon

Student Research Symposium

Architecture has the power to either disrupt or harmonize with the natural environment. This research explores how buildings can be designed to blend seamlessly with their environment through three key principles: form integration, material integration, and site-adaptive design. By studying how natural landscapes shape architectural form, how locally sourced materials create harmony, and how buildings can work with rather than alter topography, this project highlights strategies for designing spaces that feel like an organic part of their surroundings. Through case studies of successful projects, this research demonstrates that thoughtful design can enhance both the built and natural worlds, proving that …

Effects Of The Built Environment On Intergenerational Interaction, Hyrum Worth

Student Research Symposium

What are the effects of intergenerational interaction? Who do they impact, and how?

The Impact Of Visual Stimuli And The Properties Of Green Walls On Human Well-Being In Built And Immersive Virtual Environments, Alireza Sedghikhanshir

LSU Doctoral Dissertations

The built environment significantly influences human well-being, particularly in the context of stress recovery and cognitive restoration. This dissertation investigates the impact of visual stimuli, particularly green walls, on human responses related to stress, restoration, and thermal comfort. The research is guided by three primary objectives: (1) examining the role of visual stimuli and their properties in promoting stress recovery and restoration, (2) evaluating the potential of Immersive Virtual Environments (IVEs) as tools for delivering and studying restorative environments, and (3) investigating the influence of green walls on indoor environmental conditions.

A series of experimental studies were carried out to …

Maldi-Mass Spectrometry Imaging To Investigate Distribution Of Per- And Polyfluoroalkyl Substances In Exposed Poplar Tissues, Tonglin Zhou, Varuni Abhayarayne, Joseph Akor, Honglan Shi, Paul Ki-Souk Nam, Joel Gerard Burken, John Yang

Miners Solving for Tomorrow Research Conference

No abstract provided.

Co2 Utilization For Cementitious Materials - A Review, Seongho Han, Jae Hong Kim, Rohitashva Kumar Singh, Surendra P. Shah

Civil, Architectural and Environmental Engineering Faculty Research & Creative Works

This review examines methods for utilizing CO₂ in construction materials to reduce the carbon footprint of cement and concrete production. Key approaches include direct carbonation of calcium silicates through CO₂ curing, use of industrial by-products as supplementary cementitious materials activated by carbonation, production of alternative binders and aggregates via CO₂ treatment of waste materials, injection of CO₂ into fresh concrete mixtures, and use of CO₂-dissolved mixing water. Both academic research and emerging commercial technologies are covered. While these methods show promise for enhancing material properties and sequestering CO₂, challenges remain in optimizing …

Access To Augustana’S Ascension Chapel: Who Gets To Worship?, Jaycee C. Bythewood

Race, Ethnicity, & Religion

This poster seeks to educate readers about the challenges disabled students would face in attending a service in Augustana College’s Ascension Chapel and how inaccessible this actually is using maps crafted by the author with hand-gathered data.

Beyond Barracks: Addressing The Psychological Impacts Of Military Housing Through Design, Malia Hunt

Interior Design Capstones

Military personnel sacrifice their lives to safeguard the country yet often return to inadequate living conditions that fail to support their needs after facing the rigors of duty. Beyond Barracks explores the impact of military housing on the mental health and well-being of service members.Prevalent concerns such as insufficient privacy, limited space, and poor facility conditions can exacerbate the physical and emotional challenges already faced by those in service, diverting their energy from service duties to unnecessary complications.

This body of research and design examines the shortcomings and successes of current military housing to provide a comprehensive overview and identify …

The Internal Flame, Bailey Robydek

Interior Design Capstones

This body of research and design explores the vital relationship between interior environments and the well- being of firefighters. Challenging the traditional assumptions about how fire station design impacts their health and recovery. Firefighters endure significant physical exertion, psychological stress, and exposure to traumatic events, yet many fire station interiors remain focused primarily on operational functionality rather than personal wellness.

This research underscores the urgent need for fire station design to transcend traditional assumptions and evolve into a model that actively supports holistic recovery. Firefighters require spaces that address the cumulative impacts of their profession, both physical and mental taxation. …

Building Better Communities, Abby Simandl

Interior Design Capstones

This project explores how innovative design strategies can build better communities by enhancing mental health, physical well-being, and social engagement, ultimately creating a sense of belonging and growth in cities.

Motivated by the challenges of affordability, accessibility, social isolation, and environmental degradation, this project emphasizes the transformative power of design. By integrating community-centered design (CCD) and human-centered design (HCD) principles, the project aims to learn about resilient, inclusive, and sustainable communities. These approaches involve active community participation, ensuring that solutions are culturally relevant, inclusive, and responsive to local needs.

Key strategies include promoting social connectedness, improving public access to health …

To Build A Home, Liset Diaz-Cortes

Interior Design Capstones

Multigenerational housing allows for a more compassionate and whole-hearted alternative to other forms of elder care while addressing the needs of vulnerable groups. The multigenerational housing model emphasizes dignity and comfort, while increasing the quality of life overall. It is crucial to focus on living as individuals gain years of “living in place”. Living in place provides more than just physical care—it cultivates a life enriched with meaning, purpose, and the comforting familiarity of home. This research demonstrates how individuals can thrive within the home environment, enriching quality of life and preserving independence through intergenerational support. The COVID-19 pandemic underscored …