Aniebonam_Urban Vibrations: Promoting Social Awareness by Eliminating Housing Homogeneity

URBAN VIBRATIONS: PROMOTING SOCIAL AWARENESS BY ELIMINATING HOUSING HOMOGENEITY

Urban Vibrations: Promoting Social Awareness by Eliminating Housing Homogeneity

A Thesis Submitted to the Faculty of the Architecture Department in Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Degree of Master of Architecture at Savannah College of Art and Design Dubem Sarah Aniebonam Savannah, GA © November 2014

Arpad Ronaszegi, Committee Chair Mohamad El Nahas, Committee Member Désiré Hounguès, Committee Member

TABLE OF CONTENTS

List of Figures

1-4

Abstract

6

Forward

8

1. Urbanism 1.1.

1.2.

1.3.

1.4.

1.5.

1.6.

1.7.

1.8.

1.9.

1.10.

1.11.

1.12.

1.13.

1.14.

1.15.

1.16.

1.17.

1.18.

Housing in the United States The Low Income Archetype Crime + Architecture Ownership Opportunity Neighborly Responsibility A Sense of Belonging Education Roots in Poverty Unequal Opportunity Lack of Diversity Neighborly Relations The Density Factor Isolation Heterogeneity Variety Tolerance Broadened Education Alternative Lifestyles

13-14 14 17 18 19-20 20-21 21-23 23-24 24 31 31 32 33 37 37 37 38 38

2. Evaluating the Social Disconnect 2.1.

2.2.

2.3.

2.4.

2.5.

2.6.

2.7.

2.8.

2.9.

2.10.

2.11.

2.12.

Economic Inequality “Poor Door�

Affordable Sustainability Sustainability Defining Sustainability Focus: Material Objects Consumer Choice Sustainable Technology Cost Exclusivity Image Mindset

45 45-46 48 49 49 49-50 50-51 51 52 52 52-53 53-54

URBAN VIBRATIONS: PROMOTING SOCIAL AWARENESS BY ELIMINATING HOUSING HOMOGENEITY

2.13.

2.14.

2.15.

2.16.

2.17.

2.18.

2.19.

Unattainability Self Focused Group Activities Safety Focus Shift Social Disconnect Analog Social Media

54 54 54-55 55 55-56 57-58 58

3. Site in Context: Potomac Gardens 3.1. Washington DC 3.2. Southeast Neighborhood 3.3. Urban Disconnect 3.4. Neighborhood Disconnect 3.5. Existing Amenities 3.6. Problems With Site

66-67 68 69-70 71 74-76 77-78

4. Designing the Social Change 4.1. Give People Options 4.2. Needs Of The Community 4.3. Program Development 4.4. Existing Conditions 4.5. Reconfiguring Block Layout 4.6. Algorithm For Variety 4.7. Program Development 4.8. Apartment Program 4.9. Massing Development 4.10. Materials Detail 4.11. Systems Detail 4.12. Final Plan Configuration

85 87 88-90 91 91-92 93-94 95-98 99-100 101-104 105-106 107-108 109-111

5. Final Design 5.1. Final Site Plan 5.2. Final Floor Plans / Site Section 5.3. Interior Renderings 5.4. Exterior Renderings 5.5. Conclusion

119-120 121-122 123-128 129-138 138

References

139

LIST OF FIGURES

1. Urbanism Figure 1.1.

Figure 1.2.

Figure 1.3.

Figure 1.4.

Figure 1.5.

Figure 1.6.

Figure 1.7.

Figure 1.8.

Figure 1.9.

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Figure 1.14.

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Figure 1.17.

Figure 1.18.

Figure 1.19.

Figure 1.20.

Figure 1.21.

Figure 1.22.

Figure 1.23.

Figure 1.24.

Figure 1.25.

Author http://metteingvartsen.net/2011/09/giant-city/ http://switchboard.nrdc.org/blogs/kbenfield/pruitt-igoe_and_lessons_from_t.html http://www.businessinsider.com/pruitt-igoe-myth-public-housing-project-2013-5?op=1 http://larrycprice.com/southwark/ http://www.detroits-great-rebellion.com/Newark---1967.html Author Author http://blog.promiseneighborhoodsinstitute.org/tag/federal-funding/ http://larrycprice.com/southwark/ http://larrycprice.com/southwark/ http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pruitt窶的goe http://www.molleindustria.org/blog/toward-independence-indiecade-2012-microtalk/ Author Author Author Author Author Author http://homesforall.org/campaign/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/corp-landlord-report-web.pdf Author http://www.geraldbrimacombe.com/black_&_white.htm Author Author Author

10 11 15 16 17 19 20 22 22 23 25 27-28 29 31 32 32 33 33 33 34 35 35 37 38 38

2. Evaluating the Social Disconnect Figure 2.1.

Figure 2.2.

Figure 2.3.

Figure 2.4.

Figure 2.5.

Figure 2.6.

Figure 2.7.

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Figure 2.21.

Figure 2.22.

1

Author http://www.nydailynews.com/news/world/occupy-wall-street-day-protests-gallery-1.1070858?pmSlide=1.1071114 Author Author http://inhabitat.com/modern-richardson-apartments-provide-low-income-housing-in-the-heart-of-san-francisco http://inhabitat.com/modern-richardson-apartments-provide-low-income-housing-in-the-heart-of-san-francisco http://inhabitat.com/modern-richardson-apartments-provide-low-income-housing-in-the-heart-of-san-francisco http://inhabitat.com/modern-richardson-apartments-provide-low-income-housing-in-the-heart-of-san-francisco http://inhabitat.com/modern-richardson-apartments-provide-low-income-housing-in-the-heart-of-san-francisco http://inhabitat.com/modern-richardson-apartments-provide-low-income-housing-in-the-heart-of-san-francisco http://inhabitat.com/modern-richardson-apartments-provide-low-income-housing-in-the-heart-of-san-francisco http://inhabitat.com/modern-richardson-apartments-provide-low-income-housing-in-the-heart-of-san-francisco Author Author Author http://bridgemarkbranding.com/resources/Bridgemark//Newsfeed/Schick_XtremeEco_BarCode003.jpg Author http://skilltechfoundation.org/csr-program-implementation/ Author Author Author Author

42 43 45 46 46 47 48 48 48 48 48 48 49 51 52 53 54 56 57 57 58 58

URBAN VIBRATIONS: PROMOTING SOCIAL AWARENESS BY ELIMINATING HOUSING HOMOGENEITY

3. Site in Context: Potomac Gardens Figure 3.1.

Figure 3.2.

Figure 3.3.

Figure 3.4.

Figure 3.5.

Figure 3.6.

Figure 3.7.

Figure 3.8.

Figure 3.9.

Figure 3.10.

Figure 3.11.

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Figure 3.27.

Figure 3.28.

Figure 3.29.

Figure 3.30.

Author Author http://www.scribd.com/doc/50942976/FINAL-BOOK-Choice-Neighborhoods-DC Author, Google Maps © Author, Google Maps © http://www.scribd.com/doc/50942976/FINAL-BOOK-Choice-Neighborhoods-DC http://www.scribd.com/doc/50942976/FINAL-BOOK-Choice-Neighborhoods-DC Author, Bing Maps © Author, Google Maps © Author Author, Google Maps © Google Street View © Author Author Author Author Author Author Author Author Author Author, Google Maps © Author, Google Maps © Author, Google Maps © Author, Google Maps © Author, Google Maps © Author Author Author Author

62 63 64 65 66 67 67 68 69 69 69 69 70 70 71 71 72 72 72 72 72 73 73 74 74 75-76 77 77 77 78

4. Designing the Social Change Figure 4.1.

Figure 4.2.

Figure 4.3.

Figure 4.4.

Figure 4.5.

Figure 4.6.

Figure 4.7.

Figure 4.8.

Figure 4.9.

Figure 4.10.

Figure 4.11.

Figure 4.12.

Figure 4.13.

Author Author Author Author Author Author Author Author, Google Maps © Author Author Author Author Author

82 83 84 85 85 86 87 88 89 89 90 90 90

LIST OF FIGURES

Figure 4.14.

Figure 4.15.

Figure 4.16.

Figure 4.17.

Figure 4.18.

Figure 4.19.

Figure 4.20.

Figure 4.21.

Figure 4.22.

Figure 4.23.

Figure 4.24.

Figure 4.25.

Figure 4.26.

Figure 4.27.

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Figure 4.31.

Figure 4.32.

Figure 4.33.

Figure 4.34.

Figure 4.35.

Figure 4.36.

Figure 4.37.

Figure 4.38.

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Figure 4.41.

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Figure 4.43.

Figure 4.44.

Figure 4.45.

Figure 4.46.

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Figure 4.48.

Figure 4.49.

Figure 4.50.

Figure 4.51.

Figure 4.52.

Figure 4.53.

Figure 4.54.

Figure 4.55.

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Figure 4.57.

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Figure 4.60.

Figure 4.61.

3

Author Author Author Author Author Author Author Author Author Author Author Author Author Author Author Author Author Author Author Author Author Author Author Author Author Author Author Author Author Author Author Author Author Author Author Author Author Author Author Author Author Author Author Author Author Author Author Author

91 91 91 92 92 92 92 93 94 94 94 95 95 95 95 95 96 96 96 96 96 97 97 98 98 99 99 100 100 100 100 102 101-102 103 103 103 104 104 104 105 105-106 107-108 107-108 109 109 109 110 110

URBAN VIBRATIONS: PROMOTING SOCIAL AWARENESS BY ELIMINATING HOUSING HOMOGENEITY

Figure 4.62.

Figure 4.63.

Figure 4.64.

Author Author Author

110 110 111

5. Final Design Figure 5.1.

Figure 5.2.

Figure 5.3.

Figure 5.4.

Figure 5.5.

Figure 5.6.

Figure 5.7.

Figure 5.8.

Figure 5.9.

Figure 5.10.

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Figure 5.18.

Figure 5.19.

Figure 5.20.

Figure 5.21.

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Figure 5.23.

Figure 5.24.

Figure 5.25.

Figure 5.26.

Author Author Author Author Author Author Author Author Author Author Author Author Author Author Author Author Author Author Author Author Author Author Author Author Author Author

116 117-118 119 120 120 121 122 122 122 121-122 123 123 124 124 125 125 126 126 127 128 129-130 131-132 133-134 135-136 136 137-138

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URBAN VIBRATIONS: PROMOTING SOCIAL AWARENESS BY ELIMINATING HOUSING HOMOGENEITY

ABSTRACT

[Urban Vibrations: Promoting Social Awareness by Eliminating Housing Homogeneity]

[Dubem Sarah Aniebonam]

[November 2014]

[Thesis Description] This thesis focuses on the issue of socio-economic inequality within the housing infrastructures of urban environments. Addressing the problem of homogeneous communities and how they contribute to social ignorance which may result in increased crime. The aim of this thesis is to propose a new type of urban housing that includes a mix of social groups working towards a common goal to establish safer and more sustainable communities and knit together the tear in the urban fabric.

Keywords: Urban, Social, Networking, Sustainablity, Individualism, Opportunity, Multi-Income

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URBAN VIBRATIONS: PROMOTING SOCIAL AWARENESS BY ELIMINATING HOUSING HOMOGENEITY

FORWARD

The revitalization of Potomac Gardens focuses on the issue of noncohesive urban fabrics in major United States cities due to the neglect and lack of opportunity given to low income peoples. The exclusion of low income citizens during the design, building, and maintenance processes creates a disconnection between the resident and the home. Little opportunity is given to people who reside in government subsidized housing including scarce opportunities for home ownership and community involvement. Typically these sites are located on the outskirts and undesirable areas of cities, creating pockets of poverty where violence and crime may thrive and grow with little attention paid to increasing quality of life in order to reduce harmful actions.

Allowing citizens to have pride and influence in their community creates a sense of permanence and ownership that is lacking when people are under constant threat of being dislocated or abandoned. The proposed site for this thesis is in the South East District of Washington D.C. in the neighborhood of Potomac Gardens; this is an area that despite being located closer to the city center than most public housing still remains isolated from the buildings

around it creating a conspicuous, cagelike dwelling. Implementing social networking opportunities by removing the aspect of wealth from peoples identity will tie together the disconnect between social groups, allowing all residents access to healthy, quality living with equal opportunity to create a home for their families. Providing affordable solutions at all income levels will promote social awareness by creating a vibration between peoples, a connection and understanding of ones living circumstance and lifestyle, and soon we will be able to step away from the feelings of neighbors as being “others�. The new Potomac Gardens eliminates standardization by creating variations throughout the building. The form consistently changes depending on the residents who have complete control over the space and aesthetic of their dwelling. By allowing citizens to add their own personal touch to their neighborhoods they will be more willing to uphold and maintain the aesthetic and safety aspects that create a vibrant and well-connected city.

URBANISM

I CHAPTER : UR BA NI S M

9

URBAN VIBRATIONS: PROMOTING SOCIAL AWARENESS BY ELIMINATING HOUSING HOMOGENEITY

Fig. 1.1

INTRODUCTION

Cities today have the great advantage of having a variety of people to interact and create relationships with.

Although many of our cities are diverse melting-pots of culture, people have still found ways of segregating themselves based on social or economic differences.

The way urban environments are designed contribute to the separation of peoples due to unequal opportunities for quality housing with a building program including adequate amenities for social interaction. For people with low incomes, their options for being included in city life are few because of

resources. Without resources or even the opportunity to aquire them, people become stuck in their socio-economic status and have problems relating to or interacting with people different from them. Allowing this separation causes indifference for the well-being of one’s neighbors which fuels urban crime and violence. If the housing division can be lessened then people will therefore have grounds to relate to one another and learn from others’ situations.

URBANISM

URBAN INFRASTRUCTURE

11

Fig. 1.2

URBAN VIBRATIONS: PROMOTING SOCIAL AWARENESS BY ELIMINATING HOUSING HOMOGENEITY

“The architect who builds a house or designs a site plan, who decides where the roads will and will not go, and who decides which directions the houses will face and how close together they will be, also is, to a large extent, deciding the pattern of social life among the people who will live in those houses.”

Festinger, Schachter, and Back

URBANISM

1.1. HOUSING IN THE UNITED STATES

Throughout the history of the United States, social inequality has been an issue that remains at the forefront.

One such area that is most impactful and prevalent is the housing system and infrastructure that we integrate into our cities today. By attempting to create “utopian� cities we have in actually contributed to the violence and fear that makes living in urban areas difficult for some. Because of the flaws and neglect to improve the current housing system we are contributing to unsafe cities by isolating the people, preventing home ownership, and providing a lack of education and resources. Low income citizens have been treated as second rate in many different instances in history.

Slaves were kept in undesirable areas such as on the ground level underneath the home or in a separated dwelling not large enough to accommodate a typical family. When large cities developed such as New York City and Chicago, people of poverty or of certain racial groups were pushed or forced to move to certain areas of the city which were typically on the outskirts or tucked away from the rest of civilization. This inequality created pockets of poor people with no connection to the larger urban fabric around them.

The isolation of low income people causes not only resentment from those people, but a disconnection that makes it easier to be willing to commit a crime. Government intervention into housing began in the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. Prior, government involvement did not extend further than enforcing building codes and landlord responsibility. The spark in interest in low income society was brought about by the book How the Other Half Lives by photojournalist Jacob Riis. The book analyzed the living conditions of slums in New York City and brought global attention to the blatant inequality and harsh living conditions and low income people suffered in America. Two laws were passed in response, the New York Tenement Act of 1895 and the Tenement Law of 1901 in attempts to address and enforce building codes to ensure livable homes with adequate accommodations.1 The National Housing Association was created in 1910 to improve housing conditions by enacting better regulation and increased awareness of slum areas.

The Association was terminated in 1936 and followed by the Public Works Administration Housing Division which strove to reconstruct and alter current low cost housing areas and revitalize unused areas of cities; this

1. Bauman, John F., Roger Biles, and Kristin M. Szylvian. From Tenements to the Taylor Homes: In Search of an Urban Housing Policy in Twentieth-century America. University Park, PA: Pennsylvania State UP, 2000. Print.

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URBAN VIBRATIONS: PROMOTING SOCIAL AWARENESS BY ELIMINATING HOUSING HOMOGENEITY

administration was developed under the National Industrial Recovery Act passed by Franklin Roosevelt in 1933.

It was not until the Wagner-Stegall Housing Act of 1937 that the Housing Division undertook direct construction of public housing, this Act contributed to the permanent public housing we have today.2 Many of the projects were built on former slum land, but abandoned industrial sites and vacant land were also utilized. These sites were usually already in areas of the city away from most civilization and commercial buildings which in turn created a people secluded from the rest of their neighborhood. During World War II, public housing was constructed near factory sites to make it feasible for people to get to work. Although these were meant to be temporary housing not adequate enough to sustain permanent life, these dwellings became long term housing after the war and saw many generations of families.

Also contributing to the separation of people was the segregation of blacks and whites in America and in housing up until 1962 when mixed housing developments began to arise. Housing built for people of color were not built as adequate as Caucasian housing. There was little equality in the system which led to variations in housing construction

with poorly constructed buildings inhabited for longer than they were intended.

1.2. THE LOW-INCOME ARCHETYPE

Most of new constructed public housing takes the form of concrete, mid to high rise buildings with little interaction with the street or the neighborhood around it. These are often built in complexes including inadequate outdoor space with low levels of safety for playing children or people who want to socialize outside. Because of this, many families succumbed to spending most of their time inside due to disconnect or fear. In large apartment buildings most socialization takes part inside the building between neighbors due to proximity so activities such as going to church or visiting relatives are not often taken part of.3 In single family detached home neighborhoods it is more common to have interaction between further neighbors because of the connection created with shared outdoor space and a higher variation of public to private areas.

2. Jackson, Kenneth T. Crabgrass Frontier: The Suburbanization of the United States. New York, NY [u.a.: Oxford Univ., 1987. Print.

3. Glaeser, Edward L. “The Social Consequences of Housing.� NBER Working Paper Series (2000): n. pag. Web.

URBANISM

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URBAN VIBRATIONS: PROMOTING SOCIAL AWARENESS BY ELIMINATING HOUSING HOMOGENEITY

Fig. 1.3

Fig. 1.4

URBANISM

1.3. CRIME AND ARCHITECTURE

Multi-unit dwellings are typically associated with more crime due to higher density and distance from the street.3 High density may lead to greater returns of criminal activity or residents may not feel immediately responsible for security and therefore forgo it.

Distance from the street separates the people from the public spaces around them which causes it to be more difficult to observe crime or intervene when criminal activity takes place.3 People committing the crimes may feel little remorse for other citizens due to disconnect and it is easier to get away because of the density and far proximity to the street. Figure 1.5 depicts a man, recently beaten in a violent crime in the Southwark housing development in Philadelphia, a place notorius for violent crimes in the 1980s and had become so out of control that residents scarcely paid any attention when neighbors were frequently burglarized or assaulted by gang members.4 The Uniform Crime Reports (UCR) and The National Crime Victimization Survey (NCVS) both show strong connections between probability of street crime and large, tall buildings.3 Housing structure not only effects social interaction and crime rate, but also citizenship and a sense of belonging.

DIAGRAM

CRIME CHART SHOWING HIGHER DENSITY OF CRIME IN LOW INCOME RESIDENTIAL AREAS COMPARED TO HIGHER

3. Glaeser, Edward L. “The Social Consequences of Housing.” NBER Working Paper Series (2000): n. pag. Web. 4. Price, Larry C. “Southwark.” LarryCPrice. N.p., n.d. Web. <http://larrycprice.com/southwark/>.

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URBAN VIBRATIONS: PROMOTING SOCIAL AWARENESS BY ELIMINATING HOUSING HOMOGENEITY

1.4. OWNERSHIP OPPORTUNITY

Fig. 1.5

In the current public housing system, there are few opportunities for homeownership which causes citizens to lack a sense of pride and are thus more susceptible to commit crime. With homeownership, incentive is created to improve oneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s neighborhood because of the significant asset that homeowners have which ties directly do the quality of the community. Homeownership also limits mobility, people stay in the home or neighborhood longer which creates incentive to invest in social capital.3 The longer someone lives in the community the more inclined they are to keep their area safe. High rise buildings provide a pocket of seclusion from the outside world more so than single-family homes; therefore, actions occurring outside of the home become more relevant to the person in the detached home. Especially when the home is owned, the person is more inclined to take action against undesirable situations to ensure quality livability. The homeowner may feel more responsibility for their home than a home that is not owned. With higher density people may become reserved from taking action because they think it is anotherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s responsibility and in turn little gets done about problems in the neighborhood.

URBANISM

1.5. NEIGHBORLY RESPONSIBILITY

People in multi-unit dwellings have a tendency to lack responsibility for each other as well. If a neighbor wants to do something that would modify the aesthetics of their unit this would be of little concern to their neighbor because it would not directly affect them. A person who lives on the 8th floor of a building may not find it in their interest whether or not a strip mall is placed a block away because it would not directly affect their living space. However, in single-family homes if a change is made to the externalities of the home than it can affect the overall aesthetics of the block including personal space causing neighbors to take more responsibility to ensure adequate caretaking of the neighborhood. Another reason why homeowners may be more involved in local politics is that functions of the home are usually taken into their own hands while in large apartments they are overseen by managers or outside professionals. Problems such as sewage or flood conditions during storms are not directly handled by residents of the building and instead are passed on to higher level management who hires outside help. Single family owners are less likely to bring in outsiders and usually will handle the problem

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URBAN VIBRATIONS: PROMOTING SOCIAL AWARENESS BY ELIMINATING HOUSING HOMOGENEITY

personally due to costs and the fact that they have more access to the functions of the building themselves.3 Homeownership and connection to neighbors yields a higher number of residents involved in local politics, a responsibility that is lacking when people are held back from home owning opportunities.

Fig. 1.7

1.6. A SENSE OF BELONGING

Fig. 1.6

The non-permanence treatment of people in low income homes leads to the destruction of urban fabric and higher levels of instability. Public housing facilities are often destroyed to make way for newer developments.

Multi-unit dwellings may have hundreds

of families in one area so the demolition of their property leads to large displacements of people and a culture of movers or temporary residents.5 Low income residents within a mixed community are often evicted for multiple reasons including raise in rent costs or even prejudice. With residents consistently moving in and out of these areas there is little opportunity to create thriving, permanent communities.

Neighborhoods where displaced residents end up usually experience economic and social strain and fall to the level of undesirable territory. A prime example of this occurred in 1920s Brooklyn when large areas of slums in the Brownsville district were cleared to make room for new public housing.

Thousands of displaced families moved to the neighboring district of East New York which at the time was a predominately white, middle-class area with a stable economy. The physical and social services of the community were strained by the sudden introduction of low income African American and Hispanic families. The response from white residents of the community was to flee from the area to more suburban locations in other districts.

The result was the deterioration of a healthy community to one of the most dangerous neighborhoods in the United

3. Glaeser, Edward L. “The Social Consequences of Housing.” NBER Working Paper Series (2000): n. pag. Web. 5. De Souza Briggs, Xavier. “Brown Kids in White Suburbs: Housing Mobility and the Many Faces of Social Capital.”

Housing Policy Debate 9.1 (1998): n. pag. Web.

URBANISM

States in a matter of six years.2 This attitude and action from wealthier, white residents further contributes to the segregation and isolation of certain racial groups belonging to low income communities. Concentrated poverty is formed when urban neighborhoods consisting of public housing are abandoned by higher-income citizens which contribute to higher crime rates, reduced investment from outside businesses, higher neglect from both residents and outside citizens and lower performing schools.6 1.7. EDUCATION

The poor treatment of low income areas extends to many levels, with education being one of the most affected. These poor areas are typically given less educational resources than their wealthier counterparts.

Government funding for quality teachers and usable books and supplies is cut down for areas of poverty leaving children with an inadequate education from school and little chance to learn from parents or other adult figures due to lack of education across the whole community. Disadvantages in the neighborhood can lead to a lack of funding for educational systems and also a slow response to repair existing

infrastructures. Other disadvantages in the community such as unemployment, high levels of poverty, welfare receipt, female-headed households, and low levels of educated adults all create an unfertile environment for child development.7 According to a study in the American Sociological Review, black children are about seven times more likely than white children to experience long-term residence in the most disadvantaged neighborhoods.8 Many children who grow up in such communities and who experience starved education systems do not acquire the resources to better themselves and are given little to no opportunity to escape their situation; therefore, multiple generations may grow up and reside within public housing for years. With no one to break the chain, oppression of blacks and Latinos could continue on for decades.

High levels of unemployment and poverty can cause stress on children and negatively affect their classroom performance. Low-income children have 40 percent more classroom behavior problems if their mother is out of work for a prolonged period, according to The Chicago Tribune.7 Distractions in and out of the classroom with little adult supervision can lead to unruly

2. Jackson, Kenneth T. Crabgrass Frontier: The Suburbanization of the United States. New York, NY [u.a.: Oxford Univ., 1987. Print.

6. Bogardus Drew, Rachel. “The Truth About Concentrated Poverty.” NHI 147 (2006): n. pag. Shelterforce Online. Web. <http://www.nhi.org/online/issues/147/concentratedpoverty.html>.

7. Berman, Jillian. “One In Four Young U.S. Children Living In Poverty, Study Finds.” The Huffington Post.

TheHuffingtonPost.com, 22 Sept. 2011. Web. 15 Oct. 2013.

8. Berman, Jillian. “Children Living In Low-Income Neighborhoods Less Likely To Graduate High School: Study.”The Huffington Post. TheHuffingtonPost.com, 04 Oct. 2011. Web. 15 Oct. 2013.

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URBAN VIBRATIONS: PROMOTING SOCIAL AWARENESS BY ELIMINATING HOUSING HOMOGENEITY

50% High School Graduates

10% College Graduates

LOW INCOME STUDENT GRADUATES

Fig. 1.8

Fig. 1.9

URBANISM

adolescents and a lack of understanding or care for their own education. Even if given opportunity in the future, prior neglect from educational systems may have already created such deep roots that interfere with the drive and knowledge needed to better their living situation. With only a 76 percent chance for low-income black or Latino children to graduate from high school8, motivation is left behind and the area produces more and more uneducated adults with little knowledge or skill to contribute to the community.

to be able to leave public housing situations creates a lack of care for a brighter future. Some children may even believe that they have no way out of such lifestyle and instead get comfortable with committing crimes and malfeasance, exhibiting extreme reckless behavior before they are even of age.

1.8. ROOTS IN POVERTY

The number of children living with at least one unemployed or underemployed parent has nearly doubled in the last five years. Currently, one in four children in the United States live in poverty. Children who are poor before the age of six experience educational deficits as well as health problems, effects that greatly influence them later in life. Being repeatedly undermined creates a displaced and neglected feeling in children, especially when parents are struggling too much to properly raise them. Adolescents who are not emotionally cared for have the tendency to lash out and commit crimes within the community. Little incentive

Fig. 1.10

8. Berman, Jillian. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Children Living In Low-Income Neighborhoods Less Likely To Graduate High School: Study.â&#x20AC;?The Huffington Post. TheHuffingtonPost.com, 04 Oct. 2011. Web. 15 Oct. 2013.

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The reason for low-income adolescents and children to lash out is not only attributed to educational systems, but also to the overall low level of safety in the areas they live. In UNICEF’s State of the World Children 2012 Report, it was found that many children in urban areas are at high risk of exploitation and trafficking as well as becoming victims of violence.9 Additionally, children in areas of poverty experience higher levels of depression and distress than the urban average. These stresses are brought on by the social stigma of being an underprivileged child and complications due to inequality and unfair treatment. These teens create violence amongst themselves and throughout the community because of their lack of education and the city’s disregard for the well-being of children from low-income families.

1.9. UNEQUAL OPPORTUNITY

The prejudice and inequality caused by the lack of attention to the public housing system in the United States has been of great detriment to our cities and creates unsafe urban areas instead of thriving ones. The way in which these dwellings are constructed, their location, and how they are maintained causes increase in violence

and petty crimes such as robberies and car theft. By isolating people, preventing home ownership, and neglecting education systems, urban areas are becoming less desirable to reside in.

High rise buildings may be appropriate to house the largest amount of people in the smallest amount of space, but it leads to disconnect from the street, more willingness to commit crime and less opportunity to stop crime. The ways in which these buildings are made prevent people from participating in community activities and socialization, especially when the site is located on the outskirts of the city or surrounded by abandoned land. Lack in home ownership diminishes a sense of pride in the home because of the possibility of displacement. When the resident does not have the control to take care of things within their own home then they will have less willingness to upkeep the property. Educating the people is a detrimental step in subsiding unsafe urban communities. By giving them opportunity and allowing them to have equal part in the making of their community people will slowly begin to work together and the social divide will finally make way towards closing.

9. KNEWS. “Poverty and Teen Violence.” Kaieteur News. N.p., 03 June 2012. Web. 15 Oct. 2013.

URBANISM

25

URBAN VIBRATIONS: PROMOTING SOCIAL AWARENESS BY ELIMINATING HOUSING HOMOGENEITY

Fig. 1.11

URBANISM

27

URBAN VIBRATIONS: PROMOTING SOCIAL AWARENESS BY ELIMINATING HOUSING HOMOGENEITY

Fig. 1.12

URBANISM

HOMOGENEITY

29

Fig. 1.13

URBAN VIBRATIONS: PROMOTING SOCIAL AWARENESS BY ELIMINATING HOUSING HOMOGENEITY

homogeneous 1. made up of the same kind of people or things.

2. of the same or a similar kind or nature.

3. of uniform structure or composition throughout.

URBANISM

1.10. LACK OF DIVERSITY

1.11. NEIGHBORLY RELATIONS

Homogeneous communities hinder socio-economic development of our society by creating stagnant environments in which interaction is low and new innovations struggle to flourish. By existing only with people alike oneself it becomes difficult to form an understanding of those with different backgrounds and cultures, causing tension and sometimes violence. Even though having common characteristics with ones neighbors is important to spark up interest in creating a relationship, these may often times be shallow and rarely extend beyond the neighborhood lines. Longterm meaningful relationships between neighbors are few due to residents’ subconscious isolation when there is a lack of variety to experience in their environment. Having pockets of like people with no connections between them causes fragmented cities where democracy fails to thrive.

According to the American Sociological Review, there is no relationship between a residents’ length of occupancy and the closeness or intensity of neighboring relationships. A study conducted in a suburb of Virginia concluded that in an economically homogeneous neighborhood with little density residents have few relationships with those immediately around them and few to no relationships with those farther away. The average number or relationships created with a residents’ 10 closest neighbors is 1.47 relationships with a mean length of occupancy of 12.2 years (Figure 1.15). People living towards the outskirts of the community have very little connection to the rest of the community because of low proximity. In order for there to be neighborly relations there needs to not only be a connecting homogeneous force, but also close propinquity between neighbors increasing the likelihood of chance encounters and interaction. Without a careful balance of the two, homogeneity and propinquity, communities are more likely to fall apart and become crime ridden.10 The homogeneous factor does not necessarily need to be an economic one, which is the current system of division used today. People can be

Fig. 1.14

10. Herbert J. Gans (1961) Planning and Social Life: Friendship and Neighbor Relations in Suburban Communities, Journal of the American Institute of Planners, 27:2, 134-140, DOI: 10.1080/01944366108978443.

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grouped by common interests or goals rather than demographic background or culture, which may be kept heterogeneous for the purpose of intermingling and gaining knowledge from a variety of sources.

Fig. 1.15

1.12. THE DENSITY FACTOR

Density is key when evaluating a thriving urban environment. Too much propinquity reduces the level of privacy, which may not be ideal for some residents. Too little and people become isolated with no incentive to have interest in neighborly affairs.

It is also important to keep in mind the distribution of density. It is often too common to find in cities that the most activity and vibrancy takes place at the center and moving towards the outskirts it becomes increasingly suspicious, spread out and unkempt.

These undesirable areas are typically where low-income housing is placed and citizens forgotten. Even if the

housing is not low-income, residents still will find it difficult to become integrated into productive society without some hassle. The connection between the communities is broken once the density and propinquity withers. And if there is no common force between residents within the immediate surroundings then the level of crime rises even more because people do not feel empathy or understanding for their neighborsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; life or living condition. Propinquity alone does not form relationships, but it is very important in regards that the fact of living together encourages neighbors to ensure that the relationships remains cordial and at least somewhat positive in order to not disrupt ones own family life.10

All close relationships within the block

Relationships between families having five or less close relationships

SOCIOMETRIC RELATIONSHIPS IN UNIVERSITY VILLAGE

Fig. 1.16

URBANISM

1.13. ISOLATION

In homogeneous communities where there is a cohesiveness of people by social and economic status, less meaningful relationships typically form due to low propinquity, which leads to isolation and indifference between neighbors. When immediate surrounding neighbors are so alike, they may assume that they know everything they need to about the other, reducing the incentive to mingle and learn about one another, especially with the added hassle of distance. The indifference increases between people who come from adjoining homogeneous communities with a great difference in socio-economic levels. This indifference can escalate into ignorance, tension, and in some cases violence. Having no common interest between communities with the addition of class segregation causes residents to view a neighbor a few blocks away as â&#x20AC;&#x153;the otherâ&#x20AC;? and, therefore, much less willing to aid or influence one another in a positive way, leading to the fracturing of the urban fabric.

Fig. 1.17

33

Fig. 1.18

Paths intersect but no transition spaces for gathering.

Fig. 1.19

Limited sunlight to outdoor areas.

Lack of variety of social spaces.

URBAN VIBRATIONS: PROMOTING SOCIAL AWARENESS BY ELIMINATING HOUSING HOMOGENEITY

Fig. 1.20

URBANISM

HETEROGENEITY

+ $

+ +

35

AGE

$$$ I N CO M E R ACE Fig. 1.21

Fig. 1.22

URBAN VIBRATIONS: PROMOTING SOCIAL AWARENESS BY ELIMINATING HOUSING HOMOGENEITY

“I know there is strength in the differences between us. I know there is comfort, where we overlap.”

Ani DiFranco

URBANISM

1.14. HETEROGENEITY

Heterogeneity can be a mending force within a city. Neighborhood integration may reduce the likelihood of clique formation and indifference towards others. Although people will always hold on to underlying stereotypes, whether subconsciously or not, allowing there to be a common interest or goal between them may reduce the apprehension that comes with interacting with other social groups.

This factor is the balance of homogeneity that will keep the community together.

This thesis will explore how a common program and interest in sustainable living may bond residents of mixed social groups together to live cordially.

The heterogeneous factors that are the focus will be limited to age, class, and race differences. Four reasons to advocate for heterogeneous urban communities are variety, tolerance, broadened education, and alternative lifestyles. These four benefits are very substantial when addressing the issue

Fig. 1.23

37

of extending the safety and vitality of urban life.

1.15. VARIETY

Increasing the variety of age, class, and race within an urban community allows for a social balance wherein every citizen no matter what background may experience the same comfort and quality of living. Variety also allows for increased knowledge from one group to the other. For example, living within the same community of someone with a different religious background could allow for first hand experience and knowledge of how that person may practice their religion, allowing for increased understanding and tolerance.

1.16. TOLERANCE

Due to the fact that each and every person on Earth is different and interprets their values in a unique way, acceptance is not the goal when intermingling cultures. To accept takes great feat and dedication, but to tolerate is something that every person is capable of as long as there is a baseline of understanding. As mentioned previously, one would be less inclined to disrupt the peace within their own environment, so if there is another living

URBAN VIBRATIONS: PROMOTING SOCIAL AWARENESS BY ELIMINATING HOUSING HOMOGENEITY

close by who they do not agree with they would be first moved to tolerate rather than destroy their own community.

Democratic practices may be sought out instead of violent acts.11 This leads to a reduction in conflict, increased stability, and ultimately to more understanding which then may go on to higher levels of safety and comfort about the variation.

1.17. BROADENED EDUCATION

Allowing people to coexist with members of different social backgrounds may open up the door to higher knowledge contrasting from ones own. Especially when speaking of children who have a higher level of absorbency of knowledge from their elders who in a mixed community may be a neighbor with a dissimilar past.

People may also learn to get along with one another by broadening their education. Homogeneous communities limit childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s exposure to variety and they develop being comfortable only around a few types of people causing ignorance and intolerance as they age.11

their own life by interacting with those around them. For example, a child from a lower-class home with no books may benefit from an intellectually affluent neighbor with a full library, or a working-class family may learn economic practices from a middleclass household.11 On the contrary, a homogeneous community encourages being stuck in present status, neither declining nor advancing.

Fig. 1.24

Intersection points open up to spaces of gathering Variety of spatial options

1.18. ALTERNATIVE LIFESTYLES

Living in a mixed community can promote exposure to alternate ways of living. People can learn ways to enhance

Fig. 1.25

Areas for socialization outdoors.

11. Herbert J. Gans (1961) The Balanced Community: Homogeneity or Heterogeneity in Residential Areas, Journal of the American Institute of Planners, 27:3, 176-184, DOI: 10.1080/01944366108978452.

39

EVALUATING THE SOCIAL DISCONNECT

II CHAPTER : E VA LUATI NG T H E SOCI A L D I SCONNE CT

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URBAN VIBRATIONS: PROMOTING SOCIAL AWARENESS BY ELIMINATING HOUSING HOMOGENEITY

Fig. 2.1

INTROD UCTION

The dwindling of Americaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s middle class is rapidly increasing due largely in part to social and economic inequality. A vast majority of people in the nation lack basic resources such as quality living and education and have little opportunity to even attain them.

When a group of people in a society is not given the same choices or opportunities as others their community suffers and can lead to negative consequences that can affect the whole city. Every person deserves the right to provide for their families, but unfortunately when it comes to low-income people, many needs are not met and are frequently overlooked by authorities.

As mentioned in the previous chapter, in order for heterogeneous communities to thrive a common goal must be established in order to create

incentive and encourage collaboration.

For a community broken by socioeconomic tension, a strong goal to focus on could be sustainability of the urban fabric, shifting the focal point to sustaining of culture, safety, and urban infrastructure. Opportunity to advance ones life and provide for their family should be across the board equal.

When given opportunity people are more willing to utilize given resources and expand their intelligence. Even the most oppressed people can make great advances when given the choice to do so.

Opening the doors to various ways of life allows people to intermingle and expand their social knowledge and economic advancement. Digital social networking is the zeitgeist of our age and still has much opportunity to grow beyond the screen and into the tactile world.

EVALUATING THE SOCIAL DISCONNECT

SOCIAL DIVIDE

43

Fig. 2.2

URBAN VIBRATIONS: PROMOTING SOCIAL AWARENESS BY ELIMINATING HOUSING HOMOGENEITY

social stratification 1. classification of people into groups based on shared socio-economic conditions when differences lead to greater status, power, or priviledge for some groups over the other.

EVALUATING THE SOCIAL DISCONNECT

2.1. ECONOMIC INEQUALITY

2.2. “POOR DOOR”

The Occupy Wall Street movement of 2011 brought to media attention the vast inequality existing in our economic system. People of wealth are often handed opportunities that aid them in advancing their wealth while lower classes have to struggle in order to simply make ends meet. The issue, traditionally fueled by racial and cultural differences, has spread to include many types of social groups who remain oppressed by financial debt and lack of opportunity in increasing numbers.

Many people express their outrage over the fact that 1% of the United States population owns a vast majority of the wealth and continue to advance economically with ease. Tension has been elevated between social groups and ways of living differ so greatly it becomes difficult to understand other’s perspectives.

Stereotypes about how rich and poor people live cause misunderstanding and lack of empathy between people who may live within the same city or neighborhood.

Because wealthy and poor people do not have any life connection to each other, violence and distain can increase causing greater misunderstanding and more of a chance of backlash.

Lack of understanding can cause fear and a desire for greater separation.

The apartment complex at 40 Riverside on the Upper West side of New York City attempted to make advances towards mixed-income living by providing a limited number of subsidized lowincome units within a high-quality building. Although the intention should be to intermingle people, the developer created a separate entry for people living in the low-income units, a so-called “poor door” away from main streets and connection to the urban fabric.12 This type of legislation is not only demeaning to the low-income families but also hinders the opportunity for them to advance their situation and

OPPORTUNITY INEQUALITY

Fig. 2.3

12. Westcott, Lucy. “New York City Approves ‘Poor Door’ for Luxury Apartment Building.” Newsweek. Newsweek, 21 July 2014. Web. <http://www.newsweek.com/new-york-city-approves-poor-door-luxury-apartment-building-260218>.

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BASIC POSSESSIONS

Fig. 2.4

RICHARDSON APARTMENTS PROGRAM

have a better connection to society. Such decisions like this are sparked by irrational fear of diversity caused by inherited stereotypes. Residential programs for wealthy citizens differ completely from lower-income neighborhoods resulting in a glitch in translation when trying to understand anotherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s life. It is possible to make quality living attainable at lower-income levels, allowing for less privileged people to have a better connection to modernized urban life, as seen in Richardson Apartments in San Francisco, California.

120 Studio Apartments Green Roof Retail Space Open Air Stair Health Clinic Multiple Eateries Gathering/Meeting Space Communal Kitchen

Fig. 2.5

EVALUATING THE SOCIAL DISCONNECT

RICHARDSON APARTMENTS S A N FR A NCISCO, C ALIFOR NIA DAV ID BAR KER ARCHITECTS

47

Fig. 2.6

URBAN VIBRATIONS: PROMOTING SOCIAL AWARENESS BY ELIMINATING HOUSING HOMOGENEITY

2.3. AFFORDABLE SUSTAINABILITY

Formerly a parking lot located on the southeast corner of Fulton and Gough streets, the Drs. Julian and Raye Richardson Apartments was established on one of the sites freed for development by the demolition of the collapsed Central Freeway. This five-story building provides permanent supportive housing for a very-low-income, formerly homeless population.13

The project is part of the Market + Octavia Neighborhood Plan, which aims to create a dense transit-oriented neighborhood with housing over retail and streets that are friendly to pedestrians and bicyclists. The housing development was designed with quality and sustainable features in mind to provide dignified housing for lowincome people. Citizens of San Francisco who would otherwise be homeless or living in poor conditions get to enjoy a comfortable quality of life just like everyone else in the city. Instead of being cast aside they are allowed opportunities to be close to urban life and amenities to enhance their situations. Opportunities such as easy access to mass transit, an affordable health clinic on site, social and networking opportunities, and green space adequate for recreation and urban farming.

Fig. 2.7

Fig. 2.8

Fig. 2.9

Fig. 2.10

Fig. 2.11

Fig. 2.12

13. Meinhold, Bridgette. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Modern Richardson Apartments Provide Low Income Housing In the Heart of San Francisco.â&#x20AC;?

Inhabitat Sustainable Design Innovation Eco Architecture Green Building Richardson ApartmentsDavid Baker and Partners Comments. Inhabitat, 28 Feb. 2012. Web. <http://inhabitat.com/modern-richardson-apartments-providelow-income-housing-in-the-heart-of-san-francisco/>.

EVALUATING THE SOCIAL DISCONNECT

HAPPY PEOPLE RAIN

GROWTH

EVAPORATION

REDUCED CRIME

SUSTAINABLE NATURE

SUSTAINABLE COMMUNITY

[ INSTINCTIVE ] Predictable behavior that has a tracable pattern.

[ CONSCIOUS ] The existence of consiousness allows for less instinctive actions and greater variation of outcome, hence the dotted line; social interaction is less predictable than nature.

2.4. SUSTAINABILITY

Sustaining both our natural and built environment is detrimental to upholding our way of life and therefore is a topic that a majority of urban dwellers can agree on and work towards improving. We must first understand what sustainability really means in regards to everyday living and how we may go about attaining it.

2.5. DEFINING SUSTAINABILITY

In today’s society, the word sustainable loses its meaning in many cases. The Merriam Webster definition for sustainable is: “able to be used

49

INTERACTION

Fig. 2.13

without being completely used up or destroyed.” The general definition for sustainability has been transformed into a practice that in actuality prohibits true sustainable living across all income levels.

2.6. FOCUS: MATERIAL OBJECTS

What really is sustainable? If you ask this question to people who live in first world countries many may reply with activities such as recycling or buying organic food. What many people do not put into consideration is that sustainability is a way of life that is necessary in order for life to continue at all. The act of being sustainable includes

URBAN VIBRATIONS: PROMOTING SOCIAL AWARENESS BY ELIMINATING HOUSING HOMOGENEITY

adapting practices that furthers the longevity of materials and in turn organic life. Sustainability is not fully encompassed by buying a product and in many cases these sorts of “greenliving” by consuming designated products may not even make a positive impact at all. Sustainability does not have to be expensive or store bought, but our shift towards technology focused sustainable practices may in fact be detrimental to our progress towards upheld urban fabric.

2.7. CONSUMER CHOICE

In most households, the common form of attempting to create a sustainable atmosphere is recycling goods such as paper, plastic, glass, and aluminum or changing a light bulb to an energy efficient model. While these practices may be positive idealistically, it does little in the reality for working towards a healthier planet. The cost and energy that it takes to recycle items is much greater in comparison to the amount that it may be saving. For example, only certain types of plastic may be recycled, and even then it takes a considerate amount of energy to transform that plastic into another usable material. Another problem with these methods is that it requires full

participation from majority of citizens in order to have any sort of impact. In reality, not many people take part in these activities due to disinterest or high costs; because of this, a certain exclusivity is created that will be discussed further in the next section.

Energy waste is also often not considered when people attempt to be sustainable. Recycling a plastic bottle may be good, but not if you consume three bottles of water a day. At that ratio the amount of energy used to produce the bottles and then to recycle them would already be so high that it would actually be negatively affecting the environment. The items in which consumers buy greatly influence how sustainability will be perceived and acted upon. The American people typically choose to spend their money for funding self-defense purposes or personal products instead of focusing on education, healthy food, building community, and poverty. Citizens have become diluted to the point that buying a reusable bag is deemed a noble and self-righteous act and nothing needs to be done further to aid the environment.

The modern focus on technology has quickly become the forefront thought and driving factor in people’s lives and is now used to implement and justify

EVALUATING THE SOCIAL DISCONNECT

sustainable practice in a way that just will not last. If something is not lasting than in actuality it may not call itself truly sustainable.

LIFE CYCLE

Fig. 2.14

2.8. SUSTAINABLE TECHNOLOGY

The modern focus on technology has propelled us into a time in which we are led to believe that every problem has a technological solution. The approach of using technology to reach ultimate sustainability is a road that goes on forever and leads nowhere. All we are doing is wasting more resources to create artificial products that only give the illusion of “doing the right thing.”

Exorbitant amounts of money, energy, and resources are driven towards technologies such as energy efficient appliances, bPA free bottles, organic materials, and post-consumer content products that all claim to be “green,” “clean,” or “carbon neutral”. But what all of these products come with is a cost,

51

not only the inflated cost that must be paid by the consumer at the time of purchase, but also the cost to the environment that it takes to manufacture, package, ship, and distribute the item. Many times these processes are overlooked and emit more greenhouse gases than can ever be saved by buying a single product. By embracing mass manufactured products consumers are adapting to the idea that sustainability is an ongoing process that can never actually be fully attained; products will continue to be made as an addition to a growing fad with eager consumers who will buy out of guilt or feigned environmental responsibility. But what they may not see is that by adhering to the capitalism definition of sustainability we are not being fiscally or even socially responsible. It is important that money and resources begin to make a shift towards long-lasting options and invest in companies that truly make an impact.

Material items are temporary and many times the truth is in the fine print such as an item labeled “made with all natural ingredients/materials” may in actuality only have but 15% of naturally derived substances, all the while the consumer is misled to believe that they are making a difference by buying that product over another.

URBAN VIBRATIONS: PROMOTING SOCIAL AWARENESS BY ELIMINATING HOUSING HOMOGENEITY

2.9. COST

Cost of sustainability may be thought of in a couple of ways. First is the cost to the environment by depleting its resources, the second, monetary cost, is more relatable to how we view and interpret our everyday lives. The fact is that many of the â&#x20AC;&#x153;greenâ&#x20AC;? products mentioned in the last sub-section (2.8.) cost money, and they are often not cheap. A certain value and prestige has been assigned to sustainable living.

Whether voluntary or not, society has pushed out people of low incomes from participating in its so called sustainable culture by assigning a value to environmentally-friendly products for which a majority of Americans remains unattainable and therefore deemed irrelevant to their life. By reevaluating manufacturing and distribution processes, costs may be lowered so that a wider spectrum of people may partake in creating a sustainable life. The value of sustainability has been allowed to be controlled by a small demographic of people who take ownership of it and claim it exclusively because they can afford it and use it as another excuse to be put above others on the social ladder.

2.10. EXCLUSIVITY

The fact remains that most

people, if wishing to live sustainably decide to go out to a store and buy a product or, in the case of residential dwellings, acquire the resources to build a new private home or upgrade their existing one with amenities such as solar panels, radiant heating, water conservation technologies, etc. Doing these things has been accepted as the sustainable living norm and is as far as many people think they can go. But of course if someone does not have the money to buy these things then they may be left out all together. Mass advertising of these material practices as the only way to live a green life is very misleading and causes people to put little effort into cheap sustainable ideas that function just as well.

Fig. 2.15

2.11. IMAGE

The way in which sustainability is advertised to the general public is framed in such a way that adds glamor and focus on appearances. The main argument for embracing sustainability

EVALUATING THE SOCIAL DISCONNECT

is to impress or be like others or to feel better about yourself. Advertising companies take advantage of the natural human ego as well as firstworld societyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s tendency towards selfconsuming acts. By tricking the minds of the general consumer belonging to specific demographics, typically middle to upper class Caucasian citizens, they are led to believe that only they hold the power to make a difference and they are entitled to claiming sustainability as something that only they can improve on. The creation of this closed bubble leads to a large number of people of lower income and ethnic backgrounds who are led to believe that they may never even be close to living such a lifestyle because it is associated with wealth, something they lack. The typical advertisements for a green or energy efficient product will usually have very few depictions of ethnic people and appeals to the interests of upper-class people. This image creates exclusivity of an idea and formulates the mindset that sustainability is something that can only be bought.

Fig. 2.16

53

2.12. MINDSET

For many Americans when they visualize a sustainable home they envision things such as expensive, imported materials that boast ecofriendly values and solar panels that for most would consume a yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s salary.

These things have become engrained in the mindset created for Americans

by Americans which dilutes the true meaning of sustainable and boils it down to something as simple as buying something to add to your home.

When speaking of sustainable homes it must be stressed that the building and maintenance of the home is what ultimately will make it sustainable.

Initial cost and life-cycle cost coexist and must make sense to the scope and attempted longevity of the building. If somewhat adequate housing can be attained by cheaper means than for someone who does not make much money it is not even a choice, they will skip the sustainable option if it is not within their budget. It is often easy to overlook to value of investing in creating permanence of a house. One-track, selfinvolved focus causes people to make choices based on what is in their wallets not what will come of the environment.

Environmental changes are more subtle and difficult to create direct connections

URBAN VIBRATIONS: PROMOTING SOCIAL AWARENESS BY ELIMINATING HOUSING HOMOGENEITY

to everyday life, so when given the choice if a few dollars are saved then sustainability is not even considered.

If more attention was paid to creating cheaper sustainable products or investing in education to enhance the mindset of citizens than it may no longer seem like an unattainable choice but a basic way of life.

2.13. UNATTAINABILITY

Beyond the issue of expensive sustainable products is the fact that many times these products are just simply too difficult to get a hold of.

Due to the exclusivity of high-end eco products only certain stores may carry them, and they are often not the dollar family market that may be found in a poor community. For many people these things may only be seen on city billboards and never in real life for they do not shop at the type of stores that may carry them. Not only that but they may themselves feel that it is unattainable because they are unwelcome. Feeling alienated from a culture causes people to lack will to participate, even if it would be positive. The transformation of sustainability from a basic way of living to a modern fad has caused prejudices and passiveness to be directed towards it instead of a willingness to embrace it.

2.14. SELF FOCUSED

When addressing the subject of sustainability, much emphasis is placed on the individual or what one person can do to make a difference. What is not always put into consideration is community and communal activities.

Sustainability is a topic that encompasses a wide variety and multitudes of directions. If attention is shifted to building communities and tight knit systems, positive human impact on the environment will be increased and able to be implemented on a larger scale.

[CONSUMERISM]

[COLLABORATION] Fig. 2.17

2.15. GROUP ACTIVITIES

One way to increase the level of sustainability in residential communities is by multiple people working together for a particular goal that will aid in increasing the longevity of the community as a whole. Ways this may be done is by community gardening, sharing of goods such as food and clothing, community events done by the people for the people and a reduction of reliance of the monetary

EVALUATING THE SOCIAL DISCONNECT

system by bartering. These things done within a community can increase the long lasting effects of the place by introducing a closed loop system that does not rely on outsider help. By putting the health of the community directly in the hands of the people they are able to take control and make sure that it is upheld. Participating in group activities also builds kinsman ship and neighbors are more willing to watch out for the well-being of others.

2.16. SAFETY

Building of community also builds a sense of safety. A large and prevalent problem in low-income areas is high crime and violence rates.

By approaching sustainability from an angle of communal activity people will be involving themselves in ways that push them towards looking out for their fellow neighbor. They will be involved in helping create a sustainable environment and also a sustainable community that may then be passed on to next generations with the comfort that it will be a fruitful way of life.

2.17. FOCUS SHIFT

It is very important when speaking of making things available to low income people that cost is put at

55

the forefront. The current focus on self does not allow a collection of minds to be put together to further enhance a sustainable experience. If people work together then resources can be pulled and combined to create something greater and beyond just the self.

Different resources may be offered in order to assist the whole goal; money is one but also physical labor, emotional support, and idea formulation. If the citizens are involved in every step of creating sustainability then the cost can be controlled in a way that is affordable for many more people.

The true value of a sustainable practice should not be determined by monetary contribution but instead by communal networking and creating communuities that are truly lasting.

Project housing accommodates citizens who have been treated as outsiders in relation to sustainable living. Instead of keeping such lifestyles out of the reach of poor people, the meaning of sustainability needs to be reassessed and applied to urban environments in a different way. If low cost, sustainable solutions are implemented in public housing such as allowing citizens to take control and pull together their own resources to make a comfortable environment for their demographic

URBAN VIBRATIONS: PROMOTING SOCIAL AWARENESS BY ELIMINATING HOUSING HOMOGENEITY

then a stronger sense of kinship will form therefore making these areas safer. The main factor to focus on when considering sustainable living is life cycle cost and the full impact of the way we live in todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first world society.

Once we are able to simplify our tactics, shift focus away from technology, and invest in educating all people, then sustainability will not be seen as just an ongoing fad that loses meaning.

Fig. 2.18

EVALUATING THE SOCIAL DISCONNECT

Fig. 2.19

2.18. SOCIAL DISCONNECT

It is becoming increasingly apparent within the young adult generation that there is a great divide and widening gap between social groups. This has created ongoing violence between people due to lack of understanding of others circumstance.

The media contributes to the divide by painting stereotyped images of what life is like for rich and poor people. This leads to citizensâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; false interpretations of others actions as well as further prejudices.

When we think we know everything about how the other side lives we cast our own opinions and judgments upon them that may be detrimental, especially as designers, who, more so than others must be able to really understand how people live at different social levels in order to adequately provide for them.

Multi-income dwellings may be a way to

57

introduce a living situation that allows people to view other social groups as neighbors instead of intruders. With the rise of a new generation of social media savvy people, this alternative way of coexisting with different social groups can be extended outside of the computer screen and into tangible interactions which could create true, concrete understanding.

Fig. 2.20

URBAN VIBRATIONS: PROMOTING SOCIAL AWARENESS BY ELIMINATING HOUSING HOMOGENEITY

2.19. ANALOG SOCIAL MEDIA

Equipping people with a socially stimulating setting could create a â&#x20AC;&#x153;vibrationâ&#x20AC;? that drives them to interact. Modern day citizens have become very aquainted to online social media as a primary way of connecting with people. The setting of an online website that both parties can relate to creates a comfortable environment in which to engage in social interaction and typically increased understanding of the other person. A drawback to online social media is the division of the screen. Not being able to physically contact another person halts the extent of knowledge that can be gained. If a new type of physical environment that can be mutually related to by both demographics arises then social media can begin to take a whole new form of deeper understanding. Bringing social media into the tactile world requires that a common ground be established between people. If the focus is taken away from status and instead put onto shared interests in sustainability then new thresholds can be broken and higher knowledge achieved.

Fig. 2.21

[VIBRATIONS] particles that are vibrated at a constant rate overtime cannot stay apart by manual interference.

Fig. 2.22

59

SITE IN CONTEXT: POTOMAC GARDENS

III CHAPTER : S I T E I N CONT E X T: P OTOMAC GA RD E NS

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Fig. 3.1

INTROD UCTION

Washington DC is a unique city in that there already exists much variety of citizens, but the urban environment is divided in such a way that restricts interaction between socio-economic groups which leads to higher crime levels. When choosing an area to focus on for this project, it is important that the city already has the diversity of a dense urban area to allow for a smooth converging of people.

The chosen site is located in the Southeast area of the city, which has

become forgotten territory compared to the greater DC area. Residents in Southeast DC do not experience the full extent of benefits that the city can offer in terms of convenience and variety. Addressing what is wrong with the immediate block of the site in comparison to its surroundings will help establish what residents need in order to be woven into city life and have equal opportunities for sustainability and comfort.

SITE IN CONTEXT: POTOMAC GARDENS

WASHINGTON DC

63

Fig. 3.2

URBAN VIBRATIONS: PROMOTING SOCIAL AWARENESS BY ELIMINATING HOUSING HOMOGENEITY

N

Fig. 3.3

FACTS Washington, DC Metro Region Population: 5.3 million people District of Columbia Population: 600,000 people Largest Racial Groups: African American (53%), White (36%), Hispanics (8%) Regional Area Median Income: $102,700 USD

SITE IN CONTEXT: POTOMAC GARDENS

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URBAN VIBRATIONS: PROMOTING SOCIAL AWARENESS BY ELIMINATING HOUSING HOMOGENEITY

N

SITE

Fig. 3.5

3.1. WASHINGTON DC

Fig. 3.4

Established as the nation’s capital in 1790, Washington DC occupies 64 square miles of land between the Potomac and Anacostia Rivers.14 DC’s metro region encompasses parts of Maryland and Virginia and includes 5.3 million residents. The city’s population averages about 600,000 with African Americans, Whites, and Hispanics being the prevalent racial groups respectively.

White-collar jobs dominate the employment market, resulting in one of the highest median income levels of the nation at $102,700.14 The high median income level as well as scarcity of land has led to a shortage of affordable housing for a large number of citizens.

Previously established infrastructures for housing low-income people have become irrelevant to the urban context because of neglect and an indifferent attitude towards improving amenities and linking neighborhoods. Lowincome housing has become a detriment to urban safety and families that cannot afford a higher quality dwelling must live with the consequences.

Attaining a home of high quality is not even an option for some because of the vast divide between living wages and cost of housing. The minimum wage has not been increased to correlate with rent and mortgage cost inflation.

In Washington DC the Fair Market Rent (FMR – a measure used by HUD to

14. Abramsky, Mat, Lucy Corbett, John Curran, Anna Ellis, Susan Fogt, Paul Shabsis, Shara D. Taylor, and Danae Tilghman.

Final Book Choice Neighborhoods DC. Rep. Lydia DePillis/Scribd, 17 Mar. 2011. Web. <http://www.scribd.com/doc/ 50942976/FINAL-BOOK-Choice-Neighborhoods-DC>.

SITE IN CONTEXT: POTOMAC GARDENS

determine market rents in a given locality) for a two-bedroom apartment is $1,288. If wanting to pay no more than 30% of income on housing, a household must make $4,293 monthly ($51,520 annually). This level of income translates to an hourly wage of $24.77, assuming a 40-hour work week. Considering that the minimum hourly wage in Washington DC is $7.55, a worker at this level would have to work 131 hours per week, 52 weeks per year.14 If multiple people occupy the household, at least three minimum wage earners working 40 hours per week, year-round is necessary in order to afford the FMR. The actual current median gross rent in DC is $1,253 with almost a third of the population paying over $1,500 per month on rent.

On average, the population of the city has grown two percent every five years, so the need for affordable housing at all levels is necessary in order to retain the diversity of the city.

A perceptible divide exists between the northwest areas of DC and the southeast. Northwest DC is comprised of mainly white families with a high income level while southeast DC has neighborhoods of mostly black and hispanic families with low incomes (Fig. 3.6, Fig 3.7). These palpable differences are evidently exposed in the housing

White/Caucasian Asian Hispanic Black/African American

Fig. 3.6

RACIAL DISTRIBUTION Although much diversity exists throughout the city, pockets of division still exist. The West side is predominantly Whites while the East side is predominantly non-White with African Americans the majority.

High Income

Low Income

Fig. 3.7

AREA MEDIAN INCOME Unevenly distributed income levels results in the Northwest side of town earning at or above the Area Median Income while the Southeast side typically earns below with the Capitol Hill neighborhood being an exception.

14. Abramsky, Mat, Lucy Corbett, John Curran, Anna Ellis, Susan Fogt, Paul Shabsis, Shara D. Taylor, and Danae Tilghman.

Final Book Choice Neighborhoods DC. Rep. Lydia DePillis/Scribd, 17 Mar. 2011. Web. <http://www.scribd.com/doc/ 50942976/FINAL-BOOK-Choice-Neighborhoods-DC>.

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and neighborhood infrastructures of these two areas.

3.2. SOUTHEAST NEIGHBORHOOD

Potomac Gardens is a housing project located in the Capitol Hill, Southeast neighborhood in the 6th Ward of Washington DC. Constructed between 1965 and 1968, it appears to be a disconnected space that is conspicuous, as it is isolated from the greater urban fabric. Formally known for crime and drugs, the area has become a tucked away and forgotten part of the city as urbanization takes place around it. This sort of isolation creates a great disconnect between residents and also to the city. That, along with little opportunities around the neighborhood, further induce crime. Residents should be allowed opportunities to have connections with other surrounding neighbors instead of feeling caged and put away.

exists opportunities for residents to navigate the city. But within the neighborhood there still a social disconnect of housing programs.

The neighborhood surrounding the site is mainly residential and is comprised of characteristic two and three story brick rowhouses. The streets are lined with many street trees and a nearby school, Tyler Elementary, provides an outdoor playing field, although more adequate green space is not provided in the immediate areas surrounding the block.

N

The housing complex includes family housing with two buildings dedicated to senior and disabled housing. It is located just south of Pennsylvania Avenue that connects to the Capitol building, National Mall, and downtown DC. Also just a few blocks from the blue and orange Metro lines and several bus stops, there already Fig. 3.8

SITE IN CONTEXT: POTOMAC GARDENS

N

Fig. 3.9

Fig. 3.11

Fig. 3.10

Fig. 3.12

POTOMAC GARDENS, WASHINGTON DC

LEGEND Site Mixed, Commercial and Residential Education Green Space

69

DUPONT CIRCLE, WASHINGTON DC

3.3. URBAN DISCONNECT Many of the amenities available to people in the weathier neighborhoods of Northwest DC are not present in the Southeast DC neighborhoods. Lack of businesses causes less circulation of traffic and vistors to the area. Residents

URBAN VIBRATIONS: PROMOTING SOCIAL AWARENESS BY ELIMINATING HOUSING HOMOGENEITY

are provided very few opportunities for recreation, entertainment, education, and shopping. Overall, the wealthier neighborhoods such as Dupont Circle, Northwest offer many more amenities and recreation to residents, improving the quality of life.

Statistics show that compared to the greater Washington DC area, Southeast DC has less distribution of wealth and education along with a high black population. Diversity is limited due to the grouping of only one type of social group: low income minorities.

Education and income levels are more diverse when considering the full city of Washington DC which allows for the opportunity to live and learn from different social groups. Levels of

Fig. 3.13

education vary and although the cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s population is mostly black, there is a greater number of other racial groups which creates more equilibrium. Figures 3.13 and 3.14 illustrate the diversity found in Washington DC compared to just the Southeast neighborhood. It can be concluded that Southeast DC has become an area of homogeneity.

Keeping people of low income and education level grouped together hinders the development of the neighborhood, which further enhances the disconnect. The most common households are singles with a moderate income and college degree. People of this generation tend to be more accepting of alternative living situations that allow for a more urban, interactive environment.

Fig. 3.14

SITE IN CONTEXT: POTOMAC GARDENS

N

Fig. 3.15

3.4. NEIGHBORHOOD DISCONNECT Although existing only blocks away from one another, the socio-economic differences are great between residents living on the block of Potomac Gardens and the adjoining neighborhood.

Fig. 3.16

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URBAN VIBRATIONS: PROMOTING SOCIAL AWARENESS BY ELIMINATING HOUSING HOMOGENEITY

Fig. 3.17

Fig. 3.18

Fig. 3.19

Fig. 3.20

Fig. 3.21

SITE IN CONTEXT: POTOMAC GARDENS

SITE SITE

Fig. 3.22

PUBLIC COMMERCIAL GOVERNMENT EDUCATION

73

Fig. 3.23

GREEN SPACE

URBAN VIBRATIONS: PROMOTING SOCIAL AWARENESS BY ELIMINATING HOUSING HOMOGENEITY

3.5. EXISTING AMENITIES The neighborhood surrounding the site already includes amenities that residents can take advantage of such as adequate public transportation within walking distance (Fig 3.25). But problems also exist that can be enhanced such as lack of green spaces and parks (Fig 3.23).

Commercial areas are present but few and instead the area is mostly residential, which can pose to be both positive and negative because although it is a quiet place for families, there are few areas to find work close to home (Fig 3.22, Fig 3.24).

N

SITE

SITE

Fig. 3.24

RESIDENTIAL

Fig. 3.25

PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION

SITE IN CONTEXT: POTOMAC GARDENS

3.5. EXISTING AMENITIES Figure 3.26 illustrates amenities found within walking distance of the site, both positive and negative.

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N

LEGEND BENEFICIAL TO NEIGHBORHOOD NOT BENEFICIAL TO NEIGHBORHOOD

NEUTRAL

PUBLIC TRANSIT

5 MINUTE BIKE

15 MINUTE WALK

5 MINUTE WALK

Fig. 3.26

SITE IN CONTEXT: POTOMAC GARDENS

3.6. PROBLEMS WITH SITE

The current block layout of the site is very restricting of urban life to residents. Sunlight is limited to open spaces due to the height of the buildings as well as the fact that they face each other creating enclosed, suspicious spaces. Points of access to the block are disengaged instead of taking advantage of social network stimulating opportunities such as parks, playgrounds, transit hubs, and outdoor seating. Interactive space is kept to a minimum with only one major node linking the block to the surrounding neighborhood context.

The few gathering spaces provided lack socially stimulating areas, including green spaces, and adequate seating.

The window-less ends of the buildings address the main streets instead of building facades, further contributing to the cut-off of residents to the rest of the neighborhood. The fact that the buildings mainly face inward in addition to the prominent fence surrounding the perimeter causes residents to feel sectioned off and forgotten. With no relationship to the greater DC scene, crime can thrive and lurk within the shadiness of the blockâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s structure with little chance for influence from other varieties of people who have no current affiliation.

77

N DISCONNECTED FROM SURROUNDING NEIGHBORHOOD

Fig. 3.27

SINGLE CONNECTION THROUGH SITE

Fig. 3.28

SIDES OF BUILDINGS ADDRESS STREETS

OPPORTUNITY FOR CONNECTION POINTS [VIBRATION]

Fig. 3.29

URBAN VIBRATIONS: PROMOTING SOCIAL AWARENESS BY ELIMINATING HOUSING HOMOGENEITY

Fig. 3.30

Entrances to the housing complex do not create a comfortable and inviting dwelling environment. Instead of appearing welcoming, the tall fence entices a sense of emprisonment. Lack of sunlight and deep setbacks provide

an ideal setting for petty crimes related to theft or drugs. All major entrances to the site lead directly to parking lots; there are no adequate spaces suitable for social activities that are also directly connected to the street.

79

DESIGNING THE SOCIAL CHANGE

IV CHAPTER : DE S I G N I NG T H E SOCI A L CH A NGE

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URBAN VIBRATIONS: PROMOTING SOCIAL AWARENESS BY ELIMINATING HOUSING HOMOGENEITY

Fig. 4.1

INTROD UCTION

The need for socially aware living is addressed by focusing on establishing a cohesive quality of life and opportunities for all residents to create self-sustaining communities. Interest in urban sustainablity is the common bond or “vibration” between different types of people, a factor that can help stitch together the existing gap.

Proposing a variety of options and allowing residents to have increased control over their living space will

generate the afforablity needed for all income levels. Allowing the design to be put into the communities’ hands while establishing only semi-permanent spaces for flexibility and idiosyncratic as opposed to cookie-cutter apartments.

A new housing type that gives residents a shell to then add on their own finishing touches extends user involvement and sustainablity through the reuse of parts.

DESIGNING THE SOCIAL CHANGE

Fig. 4.2

83

URBAN VIBRATIONS: PROMOTING SOCIAL AWARENESS BY ELIMINATING HOUSING HOMOGENEITY

Fig. 4.3

URBAN VIBRATIONS Urban vibrations is a concept that involves stitching together urban fabric by establishing connections between social groups. Each neighborhood has its own unique character, represented in this painting as two different patterns on each panel. The same componenets

of the city may exist but with unique outcomes. Their ability to interconnect by way of common attributes creates greater interest and a stronger bond: the vibration that links the two panels together to create a whole cohesive work of art.

DESIGNING THE SOCIAL CHANGE

Fig. 4.4

85

Fig. 4.5

4.1. GIVE PEOPLE OPTIONS

all types of households and individuals.

A main concept of this proposal is to establish a new housing type that allows the resident to have as many customization options as possible.

Instead of giving the resident a set layout or style, they are given an empty shell for which to add their own finishes. These paintings are an abstract representation of this concept, illustrating how each person can add their own personality to their apartment and they can vary in size and layout, making it affordable for

If a resident is able to own thier apartment then the additions could add equity to their property. Additions such as walls and finishes will be housed in a showroom space on the lower level for residents to browse and utilize when they move in. Reusing materials makes the process more sustainable and affordable.

URBAN VIBRATIONS: PROMOTING SOCIAL AWARENESS BY ELIMINATING HOUSING HOMOGENEITY

Fig. 4.6

DESIGNING THE SOCIAL CHANGE

4.2. NEEDS OF THE COMMUNITY In order to live comfortably, standard amenities are required to be provided within a community to ensure quality of life for the people. The surrounding neighborhood around the

site provides many existing amenities and by creating a new mixed use community many more resources for residents can be offered with the convenience of being situated within the block.

COMFORT

ENVIRONMENTAL

OUTDOOR SPACE

NEIGHBOR/GROUP ACTIVITIES

PERSONAL SPACE

LANDSCAPE

PRIVACY

LOCAL RESOURCING

RELATIONSHIPS

$

CONVENIENCE

SOCIAL ACTIVITY

FOOD

PARKS

RETAIL

COFFEE SHOP

FUEL

COMMUNITY GARDEN

EDUCATION

RECREATION

TRANSPORTATION

EDUCATION Fig. 4.7

87

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4.3. PROGRAM DEVELOPMENT N

With the concept of variance and user opportunity in mind, a mixed use space is to be proposed that will allow residents to have maximum control over their living environment.

Multiple types of spaces dedicated to live, work, and recreation can bring the DC urban environment closer to home for current isolated South East residents, making the benefits of city life more accessible for all types of citizens.

Opportunity to establish live/work areas can be provided at affordable levels by putting labor responsiblity directly into the hands of the resident, which in turn can allow for greater creative freedom, comfort, and possible collaboration between neighbors, contributing to the sustaining of quality urban life.

Various Residency Types | Personalizable Opportunities Live/Work Opportunities Social Networking Opportunities

RESIDENTIAL

WORK

GATHERING

RETAIL Fig. 4.8

DESIGNING THE SOCIAL CHANGE

4.3. PROGRAM DEVELOPMENT

It is important to allow residents to have choice when it comes to how they want to live. Some might enjoy the convenience of being close to a personal workshop or studio while others prefer to have access to a daily coffee shop or a bus stop. Creating apartments with various proxmities to amenities lets people choose what they would like access to for their lifestyle.

In order for people of different economic backgrounds to live together some apartments will differ in regards of size and location on the site; these factors will affect the cost of the apartment per resident. Apartments of various costs will be dispersed and mixed throughout the site, increasing the possibility of neighbors who come from differing social groups.

Fig. 4.9

89

DIFFERENT UNIT COSTS BASED ON LOCATION

OCCUPANT MANIPULATION TO CREATE VARIETY

PHASING OVER TIME

INCLUSION OF MIXED USE FUNCTIONS

Fig. 4.10

Locaiton on site as well as size of unit are both factors that contribute to the cost of the apartment. Sizes of units can be modified by combining them which increases variety probability.

The program can be manipulated into multiple arrangements and forms caused by user intervention. Figures 4.11, 4.12, and 4.13 are examples of program arrangements based on providing residents access to amenities as well as blending different apartment types.

URBAN VIBRATIONS: PROMOTING SOCIAL AWARENESS BY ELIMINATING HOUSING HOMOGENEITY

Fig. 4.11

Fig. 4.12

Fig. 4.13

DESIGNING THE SOCIAL CHANGE

4.5. RECONFIGURING BLOCK LAYOUT

LACK OF FACADE STREET CONNECTION

SHADED AREAS Fig. 4.14

NODE

SINGLE CONNECTION THROUGH BLOCK

Fig. 4.15

4.4. EXISTING CONDITIONS As mentioned in chapter three, the socially disruptive nature of the current block layout of the site restricts quality living for residents for the following reasons. Sunlight is limited to open spaces, creating enclosed, suspicious areas due to the height and orientation of the buildings. Interactive space is lacking with only one major node linking the block to the surrounding neighborhood context. The windowless ends of the buildings address the main streets instead of building facades, contributing to the cut-off of residents to the rest of the neighborhood.

In order to improve the current block layout, some major factors must be kept in mind. The main focus while reconfiguring the building layout was to maximize social interaction while minimizing crime inducing spaces.

Figures 4.16 and 4.17 are preliminary attempts at opening up the city block and allowing for circulation through the site. With increased circulation may come increased safety because there would be less uninhabited areas. Proximity and density are also kept in mind to preserve the urban fabric. Gathering spaces and green spaces relate to one another and provide a variety of transition points between residences. Public and private spaces are loosely defined to increase

N

GATHERING

GREEN SPACE

Fig. 4.16

ATTEMPT 1

91

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user involvement and opportunity for adaptations. Sunlight and fresh air are allowed to penetrate to the center of the block. Increased air circulation is important to providing a healthy environment for all types of people.

Early attempts proposed the idea of multiple housing options; the outer block is engaged with traditional rowhouses with apartment buidings towards the inner block. Green spaces would separate the two housing types for privacy with central gathering at specified nodes. The existing historic building indicated in grey will remain as part of the block to become a welcome center for the complex.

GREEN SPACE

GATHERING

GREEN SPACE

Fig. 4.17

GATHERING

Fig. 4.18

ATTEMPT 2

Fig. 4.19

FINAL CONFIGURATION

Fig. 4.20

SOLUTIONS TO EXISTING CONDITIONS LEGEND CONNECTIONS THROUGH SITE ACCESS POINTS GATHERING

DESIGNING THE SOCIAL CHANGE

4.6. ALGORITHM FOR VARIETY

A major importance of this project is to create as much variety as possible between each apartment so that residents have a choice as to how they want their living space to be laid out. To do this, I created an algorithm that will aid in providing random grouping of apartment sizes, increasing the probability that two households of different economic backgrounds can be neighbors.

To begin the process, I mapped out the grid of the block, lining up existing nodes and edges from the decided final block configuration. The grid revealed spaces of equal square footage that were then given letters to group them. For example, all 15 foot widths are labeled with an “A”, all 20 foot widths are labeled with a “B”, and so on. With all of the widths labeled with a letter, a pattern within the grid was uncovered as Figure 4.20 shows.

This pattern will be used as a guide for placing apartment types in an irregular sequence; each letter corresponds to a particular apartment size.

To create different apartments with various widths, lengths, and square footages, part of the pattern was used with a separate equation to generate apartment types A, B, C, D, and E. The

93

Fig. 4.21

URBAN VIBRATIONS: PROMOTING SOCIAL AWARENESS BY ELIMINATING HOUSING HOMOGENEITY

horizontal pattern of the grid is isolated for the pattern of ABCADCCEEABA to be used for the various widths of the apartments. Each letter is provided with a correspoding number as follows: A B C D E

= = = = =

2 3 4 5 4

The vertical grid pattern (ABCCDECEFEA) is used to generate various lengths of apartments and is assigned numbers corresponding to the letters as follows: A B C D E

Fig. 4.22

= = = = =

5 4 5 4 3

Using just the horizontal pattern of ABCADCCEEABA, the numbers corresponding to each letter both width and length are grouped together (Fig. 4.22) Each number represents a certain footage value as shown in the chart in Figure 4.23, that is then applied to each apartment type A through E via their corresponding letters generated from the pattern. Now that each letter has both a width and length value, there are now five different apartment sizes that can be applied to the mass.

Fig. 4.23

2 15 ft

A

5

450 FT 2 30 ft

A

20 ft

500 FT 2

B

25 ft

25 ft

750 FT 2

C

30 ft

30 ft

750 FT 2

D

25 ft

25 ft

500 FT 2

20 ft

E Fig. 4.24

DESIGNING THE SOCIAL CHANGE

4.7. PROGRAM DEVELOPMENT

Fig. 4.25

Once all apartment sizes are established, they are distributed along the mass with core circulation inserted at critical nodes. The cores are to house gathering spaces, egress, and also transition points, providing privacy to a number of apartments. The apartments are all situated along the core with the

Fig. 4.26

Fig. 4.28

Fig. 4.29

LEGEND

Fig. 4.27

95

GRID CORE AND WALKWAYS

URBAN VIBRATIONS: PROMOTING SOCIAL AWARENESS BY ELIMINATING HOUSING HOMOGENEITY

idea being that there are no permanent enclosures existing along the grid, allowing residents to choose how large they want their space to be. Each grid space is about 500 ft2, the size of a typical studio apartment. Units facing major roads as well as prime circulation spaces have the opportunity to create storefront spaces for live/work dwellings. On upper levels, gathering spaces are created on the rooftops of lower levels.

N

LEGEND CORE AND WALKWAYS TRANSITION MECHANICAL EGRESS PLUMBING HOOKUPS CIRCULATION

LEVEL 1

Fig. 4.30

Fig. 4.31

LEGEND CORE AND WALKWAYS ROWHOUSES APARTMENTS BALCONIES COMMUNITY SPACE GREEN SPACE GARDEN STOREFRONT OPPORTUNITIES

LEVEL 2

Fig. 4.32

LEVEL 3

Fig. 4.33

LEVEL 4

Fig. 4.34

DESIGNING THE SOCIAL CHANGE

4.7. PROGRAM DEVELOPMENT Figure 4.34 displays the most common household types found in Washington DC with Figure 4.35 portraying examples of household income levels along with the size of living space they can afford.

When randomly situated along the apartment mass, the probability increases that households of different income levels may be neighbors, introducing the opportunity for neighborly interaction. Because there are no permanent sizes of apartments, as time goes on different residents of varying income levels and apartment sizes can live in the same space and have a variety of neighbors during their time of residency.

While an apartment space is not being occupied, removeable outer envelope panels can allow for the space to be opened up to the exterior, revealing the core and a visual connection to the street (Figure 4.37).

This feature can increase safety as it creates more possibility for a person inside of the building to observe crime that may be happening below and report it. Opening up the core also generates variance in the buildingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s exterior appearance throughout its lifetime.

Fig. 4.35

FAMILY TYPE

SINGLE

MARRIED

WITH CHILDREN

SINGLE PARENT

LARGE FAMILY

SINGLE

INCOME

LIVING SPACE

$

500 sq.ft

$$

1000 sq.ft

$$$

1600 sq.ft

$

700 sq.ft

$$$$

3000 sq. ft

$$$

1600 sq.ft

Fig. 4.36

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$

E

SINGLE

$$$$

FAMILY OF FOUR

A A B

$$

YOUNG MARRIED COUPLE

A E

$$

SINGLE PARENT

A B

A C

C A

C

$$$

DIVORCEE

Fig. 4.37

FAMILY OF FOUR

SINGLE PARENT

YOUNG MARRIED COUPLE DIVORCEE

SINGLE

REVEAL TO CORE

SECTION Fig. 4.38

DESIGNING THE SOCIAL CHANGE

4.8. APARTMENT PROGRAM The following are examples of possible apartment layouts for three of the most common household types.

Each household has different needs and is allowed to situate their apartment according to those needs. Two different enclosure types are used to section off each individual apartment. The first is a fixed sliding wall system existing along the grid that can lock off each apartment from those surrounding. These walls are constructed of aerated concrete for easability of movement as they open and close to allow for new residents and lock to provide semi-permanent separation.

The second wall type is light-weight walls made of gypsum board that click into place perpendicular to the walls of the grid. These walls are not permanent members of the grid and are placed due to each individual households needs.

Parts such as this one are to be stored in the showroom of the complex where residents have the option to choose additional add-ons to their apartment space for division and customization.

YOUNG MARRIED COUPLE

- Working professionals - Home office - Opportunity to expand family

A A B

$$ - $$$

Storefront Opportunity Desirable Views

Fig. 4.39

Walkway

Core

Egress Kitchen Home OďŹ&#x192;ce

LEGEND

GRID/SLIDING WALL TRACK SLIDING WALL CLOSED ADDITIONAL GYPSUM WALLS

Bathroom

Living Room

Bedroom

PLUMBING HOOKUP ALONG CORE Fig. 4.40

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SINGLE

FAMILY OF FOUR

- Space for school work desk - Simple, small space - Subsizided student housing

- Room for play - Family group activities - Space for privacy

$

E

A B

C A

Garden Desireable Views Safety, connection to courtyard

$$$$

Corner Unit

Fig. 4.41

Fig. 4.43

Walkway

Bathroom Bedroom Kitchen

Walkway

Living Room

Bathroom

Core

Bedroom

Bathroom

Kitchen Living Room

Bedroom

Egress

Fig. 4.42

Fig. 4.44

DESIGNING THE SOCIAL CHANGE

4.9. MASSING DEVELOPMENT

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Fig. 4.45

Courtyard

Private outdoor gathering

Street access to commercial spaces

Extra thick floor slabs house all mechanical, electric and plumbing systems

Fig. 4.46

DESIGNING THE SOCIAL CHANGE

4.9. MASSING DEVELOPMENT

Fig. 4.47

Fig. 4.48

Fig. 4.49

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Fig. 4.50

Fig. 4.51

Fig. 4.52

DESIGNING THE SOCIAL CHANGE

4.10. MATERIALS DETAIL | S O U T H E L E V A T I O N

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Fig. 4.53

OUTER ENVELOPE - SLIDING PANELS

The outer facade facade is a double envelope system that lets residents choose how they want the outside of their apartment to appear. The inner envelope is a thick, transparent glazed curtain wall system which provides moderate insulation and water and weather proofing. The outer envelope has a track system for the placement of semi-permanent panels of varying materials, depending on the resident.

These panels are water and weather proof and provide full insulation and privacy. The openness of the facade also depends on the resident as they can choose to fully enclose their apartment with panels or leave some off to create window openings.

INNER ENVELOPE - GLAZING

Fig. 4.54

DESIGNING THE SOCIAL CHANGE

4.11. SYSTEMS DETAIL | T R A N S V E R S E S E C T I O N

Electrical / Water Chase Metal Decking Concrete Fill

107

Insulation

Plumbing Hookup

Waste Chase

URBAN VIBRATIONS: PROMOTING SOCIAL AWARENESS BY ELIMINATING HOUSING HOMOGENEITY

HVAC

WOOD PANEL

CONCRETE

GLASS CURTAIN

STEEL COLUMN

Fig. 4.55

Transverse section through site and street revealing parking deck and showroom on underground level, egress, courtyards, and a connection to the street thorugh storefront style patios.

Fig. 4.56

DESIGNING THE SOCIAL CHANGE

4.12. FINAL PLAN CONFIGURATION

LEVEL 1

Fig. 4.57

LEVEL 1.5

Fig. 4.58

N

LEGEND APARTMENT UNITS BALCONY COMMERCIAL - RENTABLE COMMERCIAL - FIXED EGRESS CIRCULATION COMMUNITY SPACE MECHANICAL Fig. 4.59

LEVEL 2

109

Fig. 4.60

LEVEL 3

URBAN VIBRATIONS: PROMOTING SOCIAL AWARENESS BY ELIMINATING HOUSING HOMOGENEITY

The first two levels of the new Potomac Gardens will be dedicated to households and individuals who seek live work opportunities or want their own office or studio space away from their apartment. These rentable spaces are affordable and use the same principles as the apartments in that they are flexible spaces and allow the user to have a variety of choices when it comes to size and layout of space. Storefronts that address major roadways and intersections are raised from the sidewalk level to provide a level of protection and also maintain a residential and friendly atmosphere.

These raised spaces can act as patio space for businesses and studios and semi private gathering just off of the street but still connected to the urban life surrounding.

Residential units begin on the second level and continue up to level six. Spaces are layed out according to the algorithmic pattern and are separated by steel columns housing aerated concrete sliding wall systems.

Community spaces exist between units periodically and also on rooftops of lower levels as roof gardens and patios.

Fig. 4.61

LEVEL 4

Fig. 4.62

LEVEL 5

Fig. 4.63

LEVEL 6

DESIGNING THE SOCIAL CHANGE

4.12. FINAL PLAN CONFIGURATION | H O U S E H O L D T Y P E S

[STREET VIEWS] [CORNER UNIT]

N

[ACCESS TO COMMUNITY]

[COURTYARD ACCESS]

Young Couple

Family with children

$$

$$$$

Single student

$$

Yoga Roomates

Single Musician

$$$

$

YOGA STUDIO COMMUNITY GARDEN Fig. 4.64

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LEGEND APARTMENT UNITS BALCONY COMMERCIAL - RENTABLE COMMERCIAL - FIXED EGRESS CIRCULATION COMMUNITY SPACE MECHANICAL

113

FINAL DESIGN

V CHAPTER : F I N A L D E SI GN

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URBAN VIBRATIONS: PROMOTING SOCIAL AWARENESS BY ELIMINATING HOUSING HOMOGENEITY

Fig. 5.1

INTROD UCTION

The new, revitalized Potomac Gardens Apartments is a mixeduse housing complex that provides affordable options for multiple income levels. Apartment and commercial size and layouts are controlled by the user and space is rented at their specified income level. Flexible spaces are separated by sliding wall systems existing along a structural grid.

Additonal add-ons to apartments can be rented from the showroom situated underground and available for residents to make use of. Reusing these elements can be an additional affordable option for new residents moving in. Variety, opportunity, individualism, networking, and urban sustainablity are all important driving factors in the final design.

FINAL DESIGN

N

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Fig. 5.2

FINAL DESIGN

5.1. FINAL SITE PLAN

Fig. 5.3

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URBAN VIBRATIONS: PROMOTING SOCIAL AWARENESS BY ELIMINATING HOUSING HOMOGENEITY

N

Fig. 5.5

LEVEL 1.5 / PATIO LEVEL

LEGEND COMMERCIAL SPACE RESIDENTIAL SPACE

GROUND LEVEL

Fig. 5.4

FINAL DESIGN

5.2. FINAL FLOOR PLANS // SITE SECTION

N

LEGEND COMMERCIAL SPACE RESIDENTIAL SPACE Fig. 5.6

LEVEL 2-3

121

LEVEL 4

URBAN VIBRATIONS: PROMOTING SOCIAL AWARENESS BY ELIMINATING HOUSING HOMOGENEITY

Rooftop Garden

Fig. 5.7

Fig. 5.8

LEVEL 5

Fig. 5.9

LEVEL 6

Fig. 5.10

FINAL DESIGN

5.3. INTERIOR RENDERINGS | A P A R T M E N T T Y P E S

Fig. 5.11

YOUNG COUPLE 1 BR, 1 BA 1425 FT2

6

N

30’

4 2

1

3

25’ [C]

20’ [B]

Sliding wall system (shown closed)

123

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

5

15’ [A] Fig. 5.12

Living Room Dining Room Kitchen Bedroom Bathroom Balcony

URBAN VIBRATIONS: PROMOTING SOCIAL AWARENESS BY ELIMINATING HOUSING HOMOGENEITY

Fig. 5.13

5

N

1

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

30’

3

SINGLE MOTHER 2 BR, 1 BA 1050 FT2

3 4

25’ [C]

2

20’ [B] Fig. 5.14

Living Room Kitchen Bedroom Bathroom Balcony

FINAL DESIGN

5.3. INTERIOR RENDERINGS | A P A R T M E N T T Y P E S

Fig. 5.15

3

N 30’

SINGLE DIVORCEE 1 BR, 1 BA 2250 FT2 5

1

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

2 6

4

25’ [C]

25’ [C]

30’ [D] Fig. 5.16

125

Living Room Dining Room Office Kitchen Bedroom Bathroom

URBAN VIBRATIONS: PROMOTING SOCIAL AWARENESS BY ELIMINATING HOUSING HOMOGENEITY

Fig. 5.17

STUDENT STUDIO, 1 BA 750 FT2

N

30’

2

1.

2.

3.

4.

1

3

4

25’ [C] Fig. 5.18

Living Room Bedroom Kitchenette Bathroom

FINAL DESIGN

5.3. INTERIOR RENDERINGS | A P A R T M E N T T Y P E S

Fig. 5.19

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URBAN VIBRATIONS: PROMOTING SOCIAL AWARENESS BY ELIMINATING HOUSING HOMOGENEITY

FAMILY OF FOUR 2 BR, 2 BA 1800 FT2

6

N 30’

4 1

3

20’ [B]

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

2

25’ [C]

5

15’ [A] Fig. 5.20

Living Room Dining Room Kitchen Bedroom Bathroom Balcony

FINAL DESIGN

5.4. EXTERIOR RENDERINGS | S O U T H E N T R A N C E

129

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Fig. 5.21

FINAL DESIGN

5.4. EXTERIOR RENDERINGS | C O U R T Y A R D

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URBAN VIBRATIONS: PROMOTING SOCIAL AWARENESS BY ELIMINATING HOUSING HOMOGENEITY

Fig. 5.22

FINAL DESIGN

5.4. EXTERIOR RENDERINGS | C O U R T Y A R D

133

URBAN VIBRATIONS: PROMOTING SOCIAL AWARENESS BY ELIMINATING HOUSING HOMOGENEITY

Fig. 5.23

FINAL DESIGN

5.4. EXTERIOR RENDERINGS | C R O S S S E C T I O N // A X O N O M E T R I C

135

Fig. 5.24

URBAN VIBRATIONS: PROMOTING SOCIAL AWARENESS BY ELIMINATING HOUSING HOMOGENEITY

CUSTOM PANELS

GLAZING

FLOOR SLABS

STRUCTURE

Fig. 5.25

FINAL DESIGN

137

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Fig. 5.26

5.5. CONCLUSION

The new, revitalized Potomac Gardens Apartments strives to capture the unique, diverse quality of urban environments to create a variable dwelling that focuses on opportunity for all urban citizens. Mixing social groups can enhance the safety and comfort of the city by allowing people to connect

without the predisposed stigmas of people from different socio-economic groups. Stitching together the urban fabric by the common vibration of establishing social sustainablity keeps the city vibrant, varying, and versitile, as it is intended to naturally be.

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Housing Policy Debate 9.1 (1998): n. pag. Web. 6. Bogardus Drew, Rachel. “The Truth About Concentrated Poverty.” NHI 147 (2006): n. pag. Shelterforce Online. Web. <http://www.nhi.org/online/issues/147/concentratedpoverty.html>.

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TheHuffingtonPost.com, 22 Sept. 2011. Web. 15 Oct. 2013.

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10. Herbert J. Gans (1961) Planning and Social Life: Friendship and Neighbor Relations in Suburban Communities, Journal of the American Institute of Planners, 27:2, 134-140, DOI: 10.1080/01944366108978443.

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12. Westcott, Lucy. “New York City Approves ‘Poor Door’ for Luxury Apartment Building.” Newsweek. Newsweek, 21 July 2014. Web. <http://www.newsweek.com/new-york-city-approves-poor-door-luxury-apartment-building-260218>.

13. Meinhold, Bridgette. “Modern Richardson Apartments Provide Low Income Housing In the Heart of San Francisco.”

Inhabitat Sustainable Design Innovation Eco Architecture Green Building Richardson ApartmentsDavid Baker and Partners Comments. Inhabitat, 28 Feb. 2012. Web. <http://inhabitat.com/modern-richardson-apartments-providelow-income-housing-in-the-heart-of-san-francisco/>.

14. Abramsky, Mat, Lucy Corbett, John Curran, Anna Ellis, Susan Fogt, Paul Shabsis, Shara D. Taylor, and Danae Tilghman.

Final Book Choice Neighborhoods DC. Rep. Lydia DePillis/Scribd, 17 Mar. 2011. Web. <http://www.scribd.com/doc/ 50942976/FINAL-BOOK-Choice-Neighborhoods-DC>.

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