Architecture Commons^™

Parametric Bamboo, Dominic Reilly

Bachelor of Architecture Theses - 5th Year

This thesis project explores the potential of using bamboo as a sustainable material in building parametric designs. The construction industry has a significant impact on the environment, and the use of sustainable materials in architecture is becoming increasingly essential. Bamboo is a versatile and sustainable material that has been used for centuries in various cultures worldwide. Bamboo is a fast-growing grass that can grow up to 91 cm per day and matures in just three to five years, making it an excellent alternative to traditional building materials like wood and synthetics. The project aims to investigate the properties of bamboo …

Tides Of Memory: Restoring The Soul Of The Shoreline, Ruth Llorente

Bachelor of Architecture Theses - 5th Year

Guayaquil, with a population of approximately 3 million inhabitants, is the largest city in Ecuador and home to the most important port in the country, driving its commercial and industrial activity. Despite significant urban expansion in the last 40 years, urban planning has been lacking, leading to informal settlements and overcrowding. While the city government initiated projects to attract tourists and uplift residents, these efforts focused on central areas, leaving many in poverty and segregation.

Isla Trinitaria, a major informal settlement, suffers from high density and poor living conditions, attracting migrants seeking better prospects. Although the city eventually provided basic …

Resurgence, Caleb Willis

Bachelor of Architecture Theses - 5th Year

As much as technology has advanced in the past couple of centuries, it appears that the relationship between the architect and the site has only grown thinner. Working from home and technological advancements have created an environment that loosens the grasp that architects have with the site. Documents are sent directly to contractors over email, buildings are standardized and plotted unto any landscape desired, and buildings are demolished at the touch of a button. With this loss in connectivity, this project aims to reconnect the architect to their site, as they shall be issued land for development, not a building. …

Interdisciplinary Couture: A Translation From Fashion To Architecture, Michael Toache

Bachelor of Architecture Theses - 5th Year

Haute Couture or ‘high dressmaking’ is a term used for fashion designers to implement one-of-a-kind designs custom fit for an exclusive collection. Within the realm of design, there lies a relationship between fashion and architecture. Humans formed the earliest iterations of spatial boundaries by implementing weaving techniques made with plant fibers and posts. We created fences before we clothed ourselves. Weaving these boundaries or textile walls was instituted in some of the earliest forms of architecture still used today. The process of design that drives the creation of the spaces we inhabit today is created by the same beginnings as …

Digital Tectonics: Developing An Architectural Design Process, Megan Eaton

Bachelor of Architecture Theses - 5th Year

This thesis investigates the transformative role of computer software in reshaping architectural design processes. It explores how digital tectonics, facilitated by Grasshopper, revolutionize architectural practice by offering novel avenues for innovation and efficiency. Central to this research is the development of a systematic design methodology that seamlessly integrates Grasshopper into the architectural workflow. This study looks at worship spaces and war memorials as precedents and studies their procession and experience. It uses the procession as a design parameter to be input into Grasshopper to generate design ideas. Additionally, the thesis addresses practical considerations, including the constructability of Voronoi structures. By …

The Art Of Experience: Changing Architectural Designs Through The Perception Of Light, Brett Hembree

Bachelor of Architecture Theses - 5th Year

We are constantly surrounded by and inhabiting the built environment. Architecture can affect someone’s mood in the most subtle of ways. The spaces we inhabit have an impact whether you are aware of it or not. Peter Zumthor said, "Architecture is a service, a process, a way of building and leaving the world a little better for our presence." The question becomes, "How can we use lighting in architectural designs to create impactful experiences for those in the space?" My thesis explores how we design spaces and what strategies can be implemented to influence the viewers’ perception. We are shaped …

Stitching Atlanta's Hbcus: Campus Design As The Site Of Integration, Nicole James

Bachelor of Architecture Theses - 5th Year

The DEI initiatives, which aim to cultivate an institutional culture at the intersection of diversity, inclusivity, and equity, have permeated every corner of public life. One can trace these initiatives to the rise of multiculturalism in the 1960s civil rights and other emancipatory movements that demanded the recognition of differences in general and ethnic, gender, religion, and cultural differences in particular. In architecture, however, the discourse of intersectionality arrived late and only in a fragmentary fashion. While Edward Soja, Saskia Sassen, David Harvey, Henri Lefebvre, among others, have underlined different dimensions of the relationship between space and politics, the intersection …

Rock To Renewal - Depleted Quarry Revitalization, Daija Laney

Bachelor of Architecture Theses - 5th Year

Healing the wounds of the earth and its people through the revitalization of depleted quarries Revitalizing depleted quarries is essential for healing both the scars on the earth's landscape and the adverse effects on local communities. Despite their necessity for construction, quarries often leave lasting negative impacts, diminishing the quality of life for nearby residents and harming the environment repeatedly. This thesis advocates for a comprehensive approach to revitalizing the depleted quarries by, integrating ecological restoration, economic redevelopment, and community engagement through an architectural lens. By implementing these restoration techniques and incorporating architectural design principles driven by ecological, social, and …

Nomad Unit, Thiago Degrossi

Bachelor of Architecture Theses - 5th Year

This thesis explores the transformative potential of van conversions into sustainable living spaces through the integration of spatial operations, efficient design, and renewable technologies. By examining various case studies and employing design experiments, the research investigates how space optimization, energy efficiency, and minimalist design can contribute to a lifestyle that is both eco-conscious and adaptable. The study focuses on the design and build process of converting a Ford Transit into a full-time, livable space of 100 square feet that incorporates advanced movement mechanisms, such as telescopic furniture and pivot-rotation elements, to maximize the utility of every inch. The van conversion …

Evolving Comforts [Reimagination Of The Homestead Community Based On Flexible Living, Adaptability And Self-Sufficiency, Tyler Quick

Bachelor of Architecture Theses - 5th Year

"Evolving Comforts" investigates the design of adaptable housing components to facilitate flexible, sustainable, and self-sufficient living, in form of a community homestead. The research explores how adaptable housing solutions can foster a more flexible lifestyle while promoting sustainability and cost efficiency. Innovative material options are scrutinized to ensure both flexibility and sustainability in developing housing components. Effective joinery techniques balancing ease of replacement, reuse, and transport are examined. Additionally, strategies for creating the desired homestead community environment and achieving net-zero energy goals are proposed. Through this study, a solution emerges for reimagining housing for those seeking simplified, more …

The Question Of Design In The Context Of The First Australian Nations: Designing Reparations Through Decolonial Architecture, Eli Abamonte

Bachelor of Architecture Theses - 5th Year

Forget about tourist postcards and picture-perfect landscapes. Australia's true heart beats in the ancient stories of the Indigenous communities that tell them, their vibrant cultural tapestry woven beneath the surface. My research dives into this tapestry, not as an Architect with blueprints imposing my own vision, but as a student with an open ear and collaborative spirit. Australia’s vastness holds countless stories, but my research led me deep into the heart of East Arnhem Land, where ancient legends whisper in the wind and the Yolngu people dwell. Anthropologists like Bruno Descola shattered my singular view of the world, revealing a …

Reimagining Fire Tower Typology: Enhancing Safety And Creating A Sense Of Place, Chloe Bango

Bachelor of Architecture Theses - 5th Year

This architectural exploration studies the transformative evolution of fire watch towers, shifting from their traditional role as fire safety devices to become inviting destinations for hikers and visitors. This paradigm shift not only embraces the functional aspect of fire prevention but also capitalizes on the inherent potential for these structures to serve as unique, inhabitable spaces within the natural landscape. The design philosophy integrates state-of-the-art wildfire detection systems seamlessly into the architectural fabric, establishing a symbiotic relationship between safety and recreation. The incorporation of cutting-edge technologies, such as advanced sensors, satellite imagery, and real-time data analytics, enhances the tower’s primary …

Multisensory Realm: Architecture For The Visually Impaired, Jennifer Perez

Bachelor of Architecture Theses - 5th Year

According to the World Health Organization, there are approximately 2.2 billion people who have a near or distance vision impairment. Vision has historically been considered the most important of the senses; therefore, when this sense becomes obstructed, an individual’s lifestyle can be harshly impacted. Because their vision becomes obstructed, visually impaired individuals run into various daily life challenges such as having difficulty navigating around independently, stigma in society, leisure, accessibility, and isolation. This can be due to the issue that the built environment has tended to neglect building for all senses. For this reason, an architectural goal has been to …

Between Art And Architecture: Curating Space For Creatives, Mahari Kitt

Bachelor of Architecture Theses - 5th Year

Art is an inherent human right, woven into the fabric of society since ancient times. Its profound impact on individuals and communities, as a source of reflection, inspiration, and joy, is undeniable. From serving as a medium for political expression to encouraging introspection and reflecting emotions, art stands as a cultural cornerstone. Yet, its significance extends beyond mere existence; it is deeply intertwined with the environments in which it is presented and experienced.

Growing up in East Flatbush, Brooklyn, there was a noticeable absence of spaces for artists to thrive, which negatively affected the growth of artistic talent in the …

Deluge [ Proof ]: A Design Resilience Study, Nia A. Mcgann

Bachelor of Architecture Theses - 5th Year

Rising sea levels, a consequence of climate change, pose a significant and escalating threat to coastal communities worldwide. Projections indicate that by 2050, sea levels may rise by an estimated 1 to 2 feet, potentially affecting not only coastal but also inland communities. The ramifications of rising sea levels encompass heightened risks of flooding, erosion, and saltwater intrusion. These impacts have multifaceted consequences, ranging from evident transportation disruptions and damage to underground and ground-level structures to more subtle yet equally critical effects on infrastructure, ecosystems, potable water reservoirs, community displacement, and economic activities.

In response to this pressing challenge, a …

Transcending Human-Centric Design: Rethinking Animal Shelters Through Compassionate Cohabitation, Isabel Hunt

Bachelor of Architecture Theses - 5th Year

The evolution of cats and dogs throughout history is directly related to the evolution of human society. These animals are now reliant on humans for survival and are prominent companions within our society. Animal shelters serve as a place for animals in need to be taken care of while awaiting a permanent home. This thesis explores the challenges animal shelters face and possible solutions to alleviate the strain currently put on animals and shelter staff. Overpopulation of these animals has become an increasing crisis in many communities, leading to overcrowding in shelters. Ensuring spaces are utilized efficiently is important as …

Viva El Vecindad, Sergio Nino De Rivera

Bachelor of Architecture Theses - 5th Year

This thesis explores the historical origins of courtyard housing, characterized by a central open space surrounded by residential units, has a rich history that dates back to ancient civilizations. Through an in-depth examination of its origins and historical development, this thesis aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of how courtyard housing has adapted over time.

The focus then shifts to the unique challenges faced by elderly individuals in contemporary societies, including issues related to accessibility, social isolation, and healthcare. With an aging global population, the demand for housing that caters to the needs of older adults is increasing. Courtyard housing, …

Reconnecting Roots: The Role Of Nature And Culture In Community-Based Design, Ben Audinet

Bachelor of Architecture Theses - 5th Year

Mental health is a growing challenge in today’s world despite being a critical component of well-being. One in five adults in the U.S. experience some form of mental health issues. Among that population, Native Americans suffer disproportionately with higher rates of depression, suicide, drug overdose, and Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACE). These disparities faced by the Indigenous population stem from several factors—historical trauma, social and economic inequalities, and cultural disconnect. Despite modern treatments for mental health, many individuals—both indigenous and non-indigenous—continue to struggle.

Nature and the environment are a core part of Native American culture, bringing together communities. While exposure to …

Square One Station: Atlanta's New Multi-Modal Passenger Terminal, Mariya Georgieva

Bachelor of Architecture Theses - 5th Year

The Atlanta Journal Constitution Building and its block is located in arguably the most historically significant area to Atlanta: The Gulch. Being so close to the original Zero Milepost location, this is where the City of Atlanta was founded. The Gulch started out as the center of downtown’s business district, but has since steadily declined in popularity, initially triggered by people moving out to suburban homes

Even after multiple attempts to revive the area, it proved unsuccessful. This is best illustrated by the fact that the city lost money on the property even during big events like the 1996 Olympics …

Eluding Caricature, Rafael Hernandez

Bachelor of Architecture Theses - 5th Year

Caricature, defined as exaggeration by means of often ludicrous distortion of parts or characteristics, has taken over the outskirts of cities across the country of Mexico. A landscape once characterized by intelligible urban form, architectural diversity, and walkability has been exchanged for walled in developments so poorly designed Levittown appears bespoke in comparison. But why Caricature? Simply, new residential developments value the erosion of public space, contiguous grids, and manufactured reliance on the automobile that is supported with a myriad of ill understood urban design elements inspired by American suburban design. With exaggerated features such as cul de sacs, gated …

How Can Kinetic Architecture Enhance Public Space?, Tamia Durden

Bachelor of Architecture Theses - 5th Year

Although rudimentary kinetic architecture types were displayed in the Middle Ages the original definition of Kinetic Architecture was coined in 1970 By Engineer and Architect William Zuk. This has led us to a more modern definition of “buildings that are designed to allow parts of the structure to move, without reducing overall structural integrity. Due to technological advancements and design innovation architecture is now able to incorporate movement and responsive gestures to environmental and human interaction. Now, why is this important? Uniquely, kinetic architecture gives built structures the opportunity to adapt to their environments in more ways than one, similar …

The Crucian Cultural Experience | Designing A Cultural Heritage Park For The Island Of St. Croix Usvi, Ashlee Martinez

Bachelor of Architecture Theses - 5th Year

Welcome to St. Croix USVI, an island of beauty and wonder, filled with rich history and splendor. The question posed throughout the thesis is – how can Architecture be used to preserve the history and culture of St. Croix?

This thesis proposes the development of a cultural heritage park based on the culture of St. Croix, USVI. The park's primary goal is to preserve the island's cultural heritage while providing an immersive and educational experience for tourists and locals alike. Using interactive exhibits (VR), performances, and hands-on activities, visitors will gain the opportunity to learn about the island's history, music, …

Livable Vessel: Amphibious And Nomadic Living, Dalton Hill

Bachelor of Architecture Theses - 5th Year

The idea of nomadic living is something that has been done for thousands of years throughout history, this way of life in which people that do not settle down and move periodically. Unlike that of migration, nomadic living involves a total change of habitat and often when adopting the nomadic lifestyle, it calls for having a limited amount to own and carry as the more stuff means less space in a fixed vessel. Amphibious living refers to the idea of having a house or structure that rests on the ground but has the ability to rise in the case of …

Submerged Sanctuary, An Nguyen

Bachelor of Architecture Theses - 5th Year

Ho Chi Minh City shines as one of Vietnam’s swiftly expanding urban centers. However, this rapid growth has brought challenges. Many areas in the city have reached maximum capacity, leaving no room for additional housing. Moreover, inadequate regulations, particularly concerning natural disasters such as floods, have left the city vulnerable, particularly for those living along the riverbanks. The project aims to uplift the riverfront community, promoting economic development and enhancing living standards. To achieve this, I plan to improve infrastructure and introduce communal spaces. My strategy involves harnessing the river’s potential as a central feature, integrating programs and architectural designs …

Knit Architexture: Crafting A Feminine Narrative, Cameron Shapiro

Bachelor of Architecture Theses - 5th Year

During the industrial period, a transformative wave swept through the realm of architecture. The advent of new technologies gave rise to a sleek and polished modern form, marked by its concise, efficient lines. This era brought forth remarkable advances in construction technology, leading to significant improvements in structural integrity and architectural form. However, in the midst of these innovations, a certain artistic touch began to wane. The landscape became dominated by the repetitive replication of similar structures worldwide, leaving the artistry of craftsmanship fading into the past.

To address this growing concern, a solution emerges: the reintroduction of craft. Craftsmanship, …

From Silence To Thriving: Architecture As A Voice For The Wayuu Tribe, Angie Son Pulido

Bachelor of Architecture Theses - 5th Year

This research explores how stories, music, and patterns intersect to shape the built environment, with an emphasis on spotlighting the Wayuu tribe, a resilient culture facing extinction in the arid desert of La Guajira, Colombia. The Wayuu people have endured centuries of adversity, including colonialism, exploitation, drug trafficking, and internal conflict. In this place, water and food are scarce, and child mortality rates are very high. Despite hardships, they preserve a culture of resilience thanks to their tradition of oral storytelling. Drawing from the tradition of storytelling, the works of writer Gabriel García Márquez, particularly his Magical Realism, serve as …

Urban Metabolism, Clayton Champion

Bachelor of Architecture Theses - 5th Year

This thesis aims to reimagine urban living in San Francisco through the design of a utopian megastructure that transcends traditional notions of architecture. Megastructures, a post-war architectural concept, consist of a big frame with modules that have a short-term life cycle. By integrating principles of inclusivity, adaptability, and community empowerment, the proposed megastructure serves as a spatial bridge, addressing the city's multifaceted socioeconomic challenges.

Drawing inspiration from architectural precedents such as the Metabolist movement, Fumihiko Maki, Ralph Wilcoxon, Kisho Kurokawa, and Archigram, the research emphasizes the significance of modular and adaptable structures that evolve over …

Crux: Urban Ecology And Cultural Essence, Maria Del Valle

Bachelor of Architecture Theses - 5th Year

The CRUX, stands for islands grappling with the aftermath of hurricanes. Its transformative vision is set against the backdrop of a city scarred by abandoned homes, tainted water sources, agricultural decay, and a crippled electrical grid. CRUX aspires to breathe new life into this urban landscape, envisioning a self-sustaining city dedicated to nurturing community ties for the resilient people of Yabucoa. The testament to the restoration is not just physical structures, but the research studies the very spirit of the community. By delving into the realms of art, farming, Afro-Carribbean culture, and food, the project seeks to create a vibrant …

Queer Underground: A Spatial Re-Imagination Of Underground Atlanta, James T. Lawrence

Bachelor of Architecture Theses - 5th Year

In the 1980s, stumbling upon the Imperial Lodge of Elks by night would have immersed one in an atmosphere characterized by expression, love, and cultural vibrancy. This locale, nestled within the ballroom culture of Harlem, NYC, has since evolved into a celebrated bastion of queer culture, serving as both a historical touchstone and a wellspring of inspiration for contemporary pop culture and the LGBTQ+ community. Drawing parallels between the architectural and functional dynamics of this bygone era and present-day queer spaces reveals intriguing insights. In downtown Atlanta, the once-thriving Underground Atlanta district grapples with the challenge of maintaining its relevance …

Revitalizing Sweet Auburn, Georgia: A Foodcentric Biophilic Inspired Solution, Cason Lott

Bachelor of Architecture Theses - 5th Year

Revitalizing Sweet Auburn, Georgia: A Foodcentric Biophilic Inspired Solution addresses the critical issue of food deserts and the challenges of maintaining a healthy balance in densely populated urban environments. It underscores the importance of easy access to essential resources like food for community well-being and highlights the strain on individuals. The thesis emphasizes the potential for sustainable solutions to improve urban living conditions, promoting both physical and mental health while ensuring stability and community. Furthermore, the thesis explores the integration of urban farming, community education, and sustainability with biophilic design’s natural elements to create an enriching community center that acts …