Evertson District: A Social Gathering Place

Evertson District: Mount Vernon, Indiana

a social gathering place

Evertson District: a social gathering place

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List of Figures

Figure 3.10 : Commuters

Chapter 2

Figure 3.11 : Loca on of Views

Figure 2.1 : United States of America

Figure 3.12 : Mount Vernon Ohio Riverfront

Figure 2.2 : Indiana - Posey County

Figure 3.13 : Buildings located on the Riverfront

Figure 2.3 : Posey County Townships

Figure 3.14 : Aerial view of Mount Vernon, 1920s

Figure 2.4 : Mount Vernon Council Districts

Figure 3.15 : Summer Sols ce

Figure 2.5 : Downtown Mount Vernon, early 1920s

Figure 3.16 : Winter Sols ce

Figure 2.6 : View of 4th and Main, early 1920s

Figure 3.17 : Prevailing Winds

Figure 2.7 : â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Landingâ&#x20AC;?

Figure 3.18 : Average Temperatures and Precipita on

Figure 2.8 : 2000 Census Data

Figure 3.19 : Average Temperatures

Chapter 3

Figure 3.20 : Site Selected

Figure 3.1 : Regional Highways and Interstates

Chapter 4

Figure 3.2 : Mount Vernon Council Districts

Figure 4.1 : Posey County

Figure 3.3 : Blu| Diagram

Figure 4.2 : Site Selected

Figure 3.4 : Soil Types

Figure 4.3 : Contours of the Immediate Site

Figure 3.5 : Floodplains

Figure 4.4 : Trees and Flora

Figure 3.6 : Exis ng Green Spaces

Figure 4.5 : Historic Structures and Structures to be Removed

Figure 3.7 : Classi ca on of Roads

Figure 4.6 : Pedestrian Density

Figure 3.8 : TraHc Volumes

Figure 4.7 : TraHc Density and Parked Vehicles

Figure 3.9 : Travel Time

Figure 4.8 : Views List of Figures |

1

Figure 4.9 : South Main Street

Figure 6.2 : Indiana Limestone

Figure 4.10 : Site Selected

Figure 6.3 : Endico0 Face Brick Applica on

Figure 4.11 : Views

Figure 6.4 : PPG Architectural Glass

Figure 4.12 : East Panorama of Site

Figure 6.5 : Cambridge Solucent System Mesh

Figure 4.13 : West Panorama of Site

Figure 6.6 : Cambridge Solucent System Mesh

Chapter 5

Figure 6.7 : Armstrong Ceiling Panels

Figure 5.1 : Exis ng Land Use

Figure 6.8 : Ceiling Panels Con gura ons

Figure 5.2 : Exis ng Land Use - 2 Miles Out

Figure 6.9 : Barista Family

Figure 5.3 : Future Land Use

Figure 6.10 : Joe Tulley

Figure 5.4 : Future Land Use - 2 Miles Out

Figure 6.11 : Kristen Brown

Figure 5.5 : Phase 1

Figure 6.12 Tim Moore

Figure 5.6 : Phase 2 - Removal of the Silos

Figure 6.13 : Steve Hoehn

Figure 5.7 : Phase 3 - Outdoor Amphitheater

Figure 6.14 : King Family

Figure 5.8 : Phase 3 - Outdoor Amphitheater

Figure 6.15 : River Place Mixed Use Development

Figure 5.9 : Phase 4 - The Landing Development

Figure 6.16 : Les Colonnades

Figure 5.10 : Phase 4 - The Landing Development

Figure 6.17 : Fletcher Music Hall

Figure 5.11 : Phase 5 - Immediate Site Selected

Figure 6.18 : County Theater

Figure 5.12 : Phase 6 - Recrea onal Trail

Chapter 7

Chapter 6

Figure 7.1 : Program Rela onship

Figure 6.1 : Brick and Limestone Example

Figure 7.2 : Civic Hall Program

2

| List of Figures

Figure 7.3 : Civic Hall Space Matrix

Figure 8.12 : Form Itera on 4

Figure 7.4 : Civic Hall Bubble Diagram

Figure 8.13 : Form Itera on 5

Figure 7.5 : Movie Theater Program

Figure 8.14 : Massing

Figure 7.6 : Movie Theater Space Matrix

Figure 8.15 : Massing

Figure 7.7 : Movie Theater Bubble Diagram

Figure 8.16 : Massing

Figure 7.8 : Restaurant Program

Figure 8.17 : Massing

Figure 7.9 : Restaurant Space Matrix

Figure 8.18 : Massing

Figure 7.10 : Restaurant Bubble Diagram

Figure 8.19 : Massing

Chapter 8

Figure 8.20 : Massing

Figure 8.1 : Building Community

Figure 8.21 : Massing

Figure 8.2 : Social Gathering

Figure 8.22 : Civic Hall Floor Plan Sketch

Figure 8.3 : Downtown Land Use

Figure 8.23 : Movie Theater Floor Plan Sketch

Figure 8.4 : Master Comprehensive Plan Future Phases

FIgure 8.24 : Restaurant Floor Plan Sketch

Figure 8.5 : County Court House

Figure 8.25 : Schema c Master Plan

Figure 8.6 : South Main Street

Figure 8.26 : Schema c Civic Hall First Floor Plan

Figure 8.7 : Connec ons to the Site

Figure 8.27 : Schema c Civic Hall Second Floor Plan

Figure 8.8 : Lines of Axis

Figure 8.28 : Schema c Movie Theater Floor Plan

Figure 8.9 : Form Itera on 1

Figure 8.29 : Schema c Restaurant Floor Plan

Figure 8.10 : Form Itera on 2

Figure 8.30 : Schema c Site Sec on

Figure 8.11 : Form Itera on 3

Figure 8.31 : Schema c Site Sec on List of Figures |

3

Figure 8.32 : Schema c Civic Hall Perspec ve

Figure 9.12 : Front Approach

Figure 8.33 : Schema c Main Street Perspec ve

Figure 9.13 : Hinge Approach

Figure 8.34 : Schema c Pedestrian Plaza

Figure 9.14 : Hinge Approach

Figure 8.35 : Schema c College Street Perspec ve

Figure 9.15 : Hinge Approach

Figure 8.36 : Schema c Civic Hall Massing Model

Figure 9.16 : Two Pivoted Doors

Figure 8.37 : Schema c Restaurant Massing Model

Figure 9.17 : Ramps

Figure 8.38 : Schema c Pedestrian Plaza Massing Model

Figure 9.18 : Handrails

Figure 8.39 : Schema c College Street Massing Model

Figure 9.19 : Water Closet Clearances

Chapter 9

Figure 9.20 : Grab Bars

Figure 9.1 : Egress

Figure 9.21 : Wheelchair Space

Figure 9.2 : Emergency Exits

Figure 9.22 : Line of Sight

Figure 9.3 : Egress Distance

Figure 9.23 : Structural Bay

Figure 9.4 : Floor Openings

Figure 9.24 : Rigid Frames

Figure 9.5 : T - Shaped Space

Figure 9.25 : Schema c Steel Frame of Civic Hall

Figure 9.6 : Obstruc on Clearances

Figure 9.26 : Acous cal Source Loca ons

Figure 9.7 : Ver cal Clearance

Figure 9.27 : Acous cal Studies - Performance

Figure 9.8 : Clear Width

Figure 9.28 : Acous cal Studies - Recep on

Figure 9.9 : 180 Degree Turn

Figure 9.29 : Developed Exterior of the Civic Hall

Figure 9.10 : Front Approach

Figure 9.30 : Developed with Context Exterior Perspec ve of

Figure 9.11 : Front Approach 4

| List of Figures

Civic Hall

Figure 9.31 : Developed Civic Hall Lobby Perspec ve

Figure 10.15 : Typical Wall Sec on - Founda on

Figure 9.32 : Developed Ballroom Performance Perspec ve

Figure 10.16 : Evertson: Main Lobby

Figure 9.33 : Developed Ballroom Recep on Perspec ve

Figure 10.17 : Evertson: Main Lobby from Stairs

Figure 9.34 : Developed Natural Ven la on Diagram

Figure 10.18 : Evertson: Ballroom from Balcony - Performance

Figure 9.35 : Developed Daylight Diagram

Figure 10.19 : Evertson: Ballroom from Balcony - Recep on

Chapter 10

Figure 10.20 : Evertson: Ballroom from Stage - Recep on

Figure 10.1 : Master Plan for Mount Vernon Figure 10.2 : Evertson Plaza Figure 10.3 : Plan of Evertson Plaza Figure 10.4 : Evertson : Civic Hall Figure 10.5 : Evertson : First Floor Plan - Performance Figure 10.6 : Evertson: First Floor Plan - Recep on Figure 10.7 : Evertson: Second Floor Plan Figure 10.8 : Evertson Plaza Sec on Figure 10.9 : Evertson: East Eleva on Figure 10.10 : Evertson: North Eleva on Figure 10.11 : Evertson: Sec on Figure 10.12 : Evertson: Sec on - Performance Figure 10.13 : Evertson: Sec on - Recep on Figure 10.14 : Typical Wall Sec on - Parapet List of Figures |

5

Evertson District: a social gathering place

Jus n Michael Risher

May 2012

To integrate, connect, and re-establish a thriving, popular community des na on is the inten on for the Evertson District. The program for this built connec on, including entertainment venues, will be a vital part of its success, impac ng the everyday life of the cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s residents and visitors. Behind the unique facade of these buildings, Mount Vernonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Evertson District will revolu onize the adaptable future and technology of todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s world. This change will only bene t the city, its residents, and the new businesses in the downtown area, resul ng in an economic gain and an urban form that allows for upcoming growth within the community.

Thesis Abstract |

7

1

General Architectural Principles and Justification

Project Statement and De ni on Many small ci es around the world are experiencing economic hardships, high levels of unemployment, and popula on decrease, and loss of jobs. New technology and outsourcing of jobs to lower paying countries have also factored into the plight of these areas, especially within the United States. This thesis will examine condi ons within a small city in the southwestern p of the state of Indiana, Mount Vernon, located on the Ohio River. According to the 2010 United States Census, Mount Vernon has had a ten percent decrease in popula on since 2000. (United States Census Bureau 2010)

Located along the Ohio River, Mount Vernon, Indiana was started by pioneers traveling along the river. Being located in such fer le land, Mount Vernon was the trading ground for farmers and pioneers.

Many industrial and manufacturing factories call Mount Vernon General Architectural Principles and JustiďŹ cation |

9

home. Located on a prosperous waterway, the city is a popular

economy and this suburban growth, many downtown areas

agricutlural des na on. according to the Ports of Indiana’s

have become less a0rac ve to tenants. Understanding the

website, the port processes “about 4 million tons of grain, grain

growth of suburbs as a problem, further research that supports

products, coal, fer lizer, cement and minerals annually” (Ports

urban living or new innova ve ways of incorpora ng suburban

of Indiana 2011).The port’s website also states that “This river

living within the urban district, are worth inves ga ng. Also,

port is in the center of one of the richest grain produc on areas

answering ques ons related to ac vity levels of a small town

in the world, and of one of the globe’s largest fer lizer markets”

urban core, other successful downtown revitaliza ons, why

(Ports of Indiana 2011). Since the founding of Mount Vernon in

suburbs are not desirable, and what is needed in a successful

1816, the river has been very important to the city’s industry

downtown urban core, will be valuable to the research of this

and economic growth.

thesis.

However, despite the strength of the local economy, most

Site visits to similar urban centers rela ve in size will contribute

buildings within the downtown area of Mount Vernon are

to understanding urban cores and the recent e|ects of the

either vacant, deteriora ng, or have not been updated, making

downward turn of the economy has had on small city urban

them less engaging to tenants than spaces located along main

centers. Also, discussing these economic issues and revitaliza on

highways. Such condi ons of buildings within downtown areas

ideas with city oHcials of Mount Vernon, Indiana will unite this

is not unique to Mount Vernon, but exist throughout the United

thesis and the research. Surveys through a mixture of social

States.

media networking internet sites will also be a bene t to the inves ga on.

Suburbs con nue to grow at an alarming rate. Due to the 10

| Chapter 1

Recently, small ci es have embraced revitaliza on e|orts within

residents and visitors” (Geralds 2010).

their own communi es. In the document, “Revitalizing the Small Town Mainstreet,” Edward A. Cook and Marion T. Bentley present

Currently, many of the restaurants and shops in Mount Vernon

objec ves and ideas to consider when revitalizing a small town’s

are located along highway 62, which dissects the downtown

downtown area. In the document the authors examine current

district from most of the residen al areas of the city. This strip

theories, trends, studies, and development prac ces dealing

of development include fast food restaurants, banks, ower

with small towns, and include case studies with speci c per nent

shops, and a few oHce buildings. Most of the popula on of

organiza onal considera ons.

Mount Vernon drives to these businesses instead of walking or biking. In addi on, highway 62 serves as a major connec on

Within the rst paragraph, Cook and Bentley state, “Even in

between Indiana and Illinois, Mount Vernon, once a des na on,

communi es where there is growth and development, as in many

has become a “drive-through” city, with few businesses located

small towns, there is also decay, and a decline of ac vity in the

within the historic downtown.

central business district” (Cook and Bentley 2011). The authors also state that “…there are more than 15,000 municipali es of less

Strategies

than 10,000 people” (Cook and Bentley 2011). With a popula on of

By providing Mount Vernon a realis c plan with solu ons

about 7,500 ci zens, Mount Vernon, is one of these municipali es.

based on: considera on of economics of small businesses,

In the Mount Vernon Democrat ar cle, “A Responsible Approach

incorpora ng urban design philosophy, and speci c architectural

to Downtown Beau ca on,” Angela Geralds writes, “Towns are

elements, is what is needed. In recent years, the future of the

nding themselves turning to downtown revitaliza on as a way

city has been visualized by a few architects, but nothing has been

to capitalize on the town’s history and ambiance and draw new

done in; helping the economy of the city and researching the General Architectural Principles and Justification | 11

value of small businesses and their needs. Within the past ten

(Fulford 2008). Unfortunately, the historic grain elevator, which

years, developers have purchased dated, deteriora ng buildings,

is in his proposal, was brought down by a wrecking ball in July of

leveling them without analyzing historical value and context. Even

2011. The grain elevator was demolished in the prepara on for

though recon gura on of the downtown area may be bene cial,

phase two of the ci es revitaliza on e|orts currently underway.

historical values and site context must be considered before new,

According to the Mount Vernon Democrat, the “Plans for the

modern buildings, are built on these empty lots. This thesis will

phase II makeover will include two water features for children to

provide solu ons for Mount Vernon with examples of adaptable

run through, a ered si ng area that surrounds a stage that can

mixed use buildings that will accompany and strengthen the

be used for various community events” (Mount Vernon Democrat

historic value of the city and suppor ng the local economy.

2011).

Can good design save a historic grain elevator in this Indiana

While, there are many organiza ons within Mount Vernon that

town? Eric Fulford, Landscape Architect of Indianapolis, Indiana,

maintain venues for their use by members, and there are churches

asks this ques on in his proposal of a newly developed downtown

which have large mul purpose rooms that serve their members,

riverfront of Mount Vernon. Currently, some of his visions have

the city itself does not have a civic hall or large mul purpose room

been constructed. Fulford concludes by sta ng that “These

for public use, to accommodate a town gathering, or to sponsor

building blocks are intended to help Mount Vernon reengage its

a fund-raising event.

physical and cultural link to the Ohio…Our successful advocacy on behalf of the grain elevator suggests that it will remain now

By providing the urban core of Mount Vernon with an adaptable,

and in the future as a link between past and present and a place

mixed-use building, the city will be able to respond to growth

where visitors can once again enjoy the bend on the Ohio”

and changes in technology. The users of the project will include

12

| Chapter 1

community leaders, residents, and tourists. Once a des na on,

waterfronts. Many of waterfronts are under developed. In “Urban

Mount Vernon no longer has places to a0ract visitors. This

Design for an Urban Century,” Lance Jay Brown, David Dixon, and

thesis will include spaces to help Mount Vernon become that

Oliver Gillham examine projects that have transformed these

des na on it once used to be. The project elements include a

waterfronts into densly populated mixed-use districts in successful

large mul purpose room (civic hall), a restaurant, ar sts galleries,

downtown revitaliza on projects. Rivers and waterways used

retail spaces, and apartments.

to be and s ll are one of the na on’s form of industrial hubs of urban economies. Growth of trucking and mechanized shipping

The inten on is for this mixed-use building is to bring crea ve and

facili es, have moved large industries to inland economies and

unique experiences and environments to a0ract people back to

have forgo0en the importance of the waterways.

the urban core and strengthening the community and the local economy. Once a thriving community with department stores,

Brown, Dixon, and Gillham state, “Redeveloped waterfronts have

hotels, movie theaters, and industries, Mount Vernon has lost its

begun to reclaim the importance to city economies that they held

historical value and its excitement. Even though the industries are

a century ago” (Brown, Dixon and Gillham 2009, 222). Waterfronts

s ll prosperous, ci zens and workers are taking their income to

perform many di|erent func ons and greatly depend on the

other ci es in the area instead of helping their own economy, due

loca on and the surrounding industries. Other urban ideas, such

to the lack of a thriving urban center.

as historic preserva on, have also helped with the historic urban fabric that may be associated with these waterfronts.

Theore cal Jus ca ons Large and small ci es, which develop along bodies of water,

Organiza ons and ci zens, such as merchants and government

whether rivers, coasts, or lakes, all have something in common;

leaders, all must work together in order for a crea ve and General Architectural Principles and Justification | 13

a0rac ve downtown to ourish. From the architectural elements

Theore cal Objec ves

of buildings to the trash collec on methods, all must be carefully

Organiza ons and ci zens, such as merchants and government

considered. Cook and Bentley put it very simply as, “Conserva on

leaders, must work together in order for a crea ve and a0rac ve

rehabilita on is the design treatment that can be applied most

downtown can ourish. Since the na on is in a slow economy,

o+en in downtown revitaliza on programs. Although the term

rehabilita on to dead malls by retro ng that mall into an

is a new one, the NMSC de nes it as simply improving the

art gallery will not only bring in revenue, but will also bring

storefront appearance by minimizing less a0rac ve features

a community together which is the main idea to retro ng

and adding simple, inexpensive elements to emphasize posi ve

and revitaliza on of a declining area, whether a suburb or a

characteris cs” (Cook and Bentley 2011).

downtown area of a small town. Ellen Dunham-Jones believes that the future of retro ng can be described in three ways.

Even though most ci zens will not see immediate change within

These ways are “Plan retro ng in a metro scale, improve the

a downtown area, they must remain open to new ideas and

overall architectural design quality of retro ts, and demand

encourage growth within an area for revitaliza on to work.

more sustainable places” (Dunham-Jones 2010). There must be a

Cook and Bentley again state, “Reversing decades of decline will

demand for more sustainable places or there will no longer be a

require a considerable investment of me, energy, and money.

sustaining planet in which to live.

It will also require open minds, a belief in the possible and a con nuing commitment. The results will not be immediate; Main

Ac ve Research

Street’s problems have evolved over a long period of me and its

This thesis will explore the issues of how ci es develop along

revitaliza on can only be incremental”(Cook and Bentley 2011).

rivers and how to a0ract people back to the urban center without disturbing the historical value of a city.

14

| Chapter 1

Personal Inspira on Growing up in a small community or city helps realize that something must be done in order for these ci es to Â&#x152;ourish around the United States. Without small businesses, the country would only thrive on big-box stores that want to rule the world and create monopolies. Where is the crea vity in a Wal-Mart store that looks like another one across the United States or around the world? Being able to help oneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s own community is just one way in which to give back to the greater area, to the profession of architecture and the greater good. By crea ng this model for success in a small community with this mixed use venue, a small city will not only bring the community back together, but will create revenue and an opportunity for a greater local economy.

General Architectural Principles and JustiďŹ cation | 15

2

Context Analysis and Regional Description

When revitalizing a small downtown area, urban designers and architects are faced with numerous problems and can have many di|erent solu ons. Large ci es around the world are surrounded by many small ci es. These small ci es are homes to people and thriving industries. The loca on along the Ohio River really gives Mount Vernon favorable work places and its economy. If small ci es were to die o| with the su|ering economy, so will the waterways and their coasts and the riverbanks.

Descrip on and Iden ca on of Region Small ci es around the country that are successful with their downtown areas are very important in shaping the country.

Many of these successful ci es are not even close to a large metropolitan city. Unfortunately, Mount Vernon, Indiana, is within 15 miles of Evansville, Indiana, which has an urban sprawl problem of its own.

Context Analysis and Regional Description | 17

In rela on to the United States of America, the state of Indiana is located in the heartland and is part of the Midwest, indicated in Figure 2.1. Known as the “Crossroads of America,” Indiana is a leading state of agriculture products such as corn, wheat, and other produce. Within the state of Indiana, Mount Vernon is located within the county of Posey, indicated in gure 2.2.

Posey County, located in southwestern Indiana, “…was named for Thomas Posey, a Revolu onary War Hero, who later became Figure 2.1

United States of America

United States Senator from Louisiana and Indiana Territory Governor in 1814,” according to the Ancestry website (Ancestry. com 2011). Posey County is known for its kind people, its fer le land, and its Posey County melons. Posey County is divided into ten townships.

These townships include: Bethel, Black, Center, Harmony, Lynn, Marrs, Point, Robb, Robinson, and Smith. Located within Black township and along the Ohio River to its south lies the city of Mount Vernon, as indicated in gure 2.3.

Figure 2.2

18

Indiana - Posey County

| Chapter 2

The city of Mount Vernon has four districts which is led by councilmen or councilwomen. The historic downtown area of city is located within the rst district as indicated in gure 2.4.

It is safe to say that except for a few shops and grocery stores, the majority of the retail shops are located within district one.

Southern Indiana is a region that is independent of nearby larger ci es. A statewide arrangement of coun es kept towns centers in a proximity that was advantageous of early legislators. Being even rela vely independent in today’s market has become more

Figure 2.3

Posey County Townships

Figure 2.4

Mount Vernon Council Districts

obsolete since the industrial revolu on has made the United States dependent on globalized world necessi es. This has made the commerce of the small city much more complicated.

The success of the city is partly dependent on the tax base it can procure for itself.

Social and Cultural Context In the book “Mount Vernon 175th Birthday” Anne Fullinwider talks about Mount Vernon, Indiana. She writes “A river town has something about it that is di|erent from any other town.

Context Analysis and Regional Description | 19

It possesses an aura of adventure, romance and excitement, and

characteris cs…” This thesis will bring those characteris cs of

a wealth of historical background not found in inland places.

adventure, romance and excitement back to the downtown area.

Life moves at a more leisurely pace in a river town, in keeping

The history of Mount Vernon, along with any other river city

with the broad waters which ow past its shores, and usually,

can only be described as exci ng and adventurous. In the book

in its early days, such a town knows some lusty and boisterous

“Mount Vernon 175th Birthday” Jerry King talks about Mount

moments, engendered by the river. When that town grows to city

Vernon’s rst se0lers and how the city got its name. Mr. King

status, it discards many of its rst characteris cs, but its legends

writes “When Andrew and William McFadden (McFadin) came to

and history remain to remind us of the past, and the lure of the

the county in 1805, they probably had no inten on of star ng

river is s ll ever present. Such a town is Mount Vernon, Indiana”

a town on the blu|. Hence, in the founding of Mount Vernon,

(Fullinwider 1991). Anne says that …“it discards many of its rst

there was no great movement (economic, poli cal, or religious)

Figure 2.5

20

| Chapter 2

Downtown Mount Vernon, early 1920s

responsible for the beginning of Mount Vernon. Rather it was the

doubt, travelers on the lonely Ohio were glad to see the hamlet

collec ve e|orts of individual men, some mes working alone and

and many were probably a0racted to the blu| ’s “landing.”

some mes together, that forged the beginning of the town” (King

The McFaddens (McFadins) and others in turn made travelers

1991). Being sited on a blu|, Mount Vernon is protected from the

welcome and always looked forward to hearing a bit of news.

ood waters and o|ers views from along the shore.

The se0lement on the blu| burst forth from its cocoon in 1806 and slowly began to grow” (King 1991). In the ar cle tled “The

“By the fall of 1806 several families were already at work carving

Early Years,” Ilse Horascek writes about river traHc. Horascek

out new homesteads in the Posey County wilderness. McFadden’s

writes “The river traHc increased more and more as atboats

(McFadin’s) Blu|, as the se0lement came to be called, was a small

piled high with produce and grain plied the waters of Ohio on the

isle of civiliza on in a sea of seemingly endless wilderness. No

way to the New Orleans market. A stopover at the local wharf

Figure 2.6

View of 4th and Main, early 1920s

Context Analysis and Regional Description | 21

brought welcome rest and a chance of refreshment for the crew

Then it was called “The Row” and bordered immediately on a

at one of the two taverns. Thus came about the tale of Hoop-Pole

dense forest populated with wild animals of all kinds” (Horascek

Township” (Horascek 1991).

1991).

With Mount Vernon nally ge ng its name, it came to be apparent

Horascek also writes “Before the coming of the automobile, local

that it had to start growing to keep up with the state and the

transporta on was by boats, by rail, and mostly by horses. Buggies,

na on. Jerry King con nues to write “At this me in Mt. Vernon’s

hacks, wagons and drays, accompanied by the clop-clop of the

history, it was apparent that the na on, the state, and our city

horses’ hooves, were part of the busy scene one encountered

would all three grow together. In order to ship manufactured

along the either dusty or muddy city streets of the last century.

goods economically to markets in the West, new and be0er

Travel to distant places was done by train. During the early 1900s

roads and bridges had to be constructed. Be0er roads would

an interurban ran between Evansville and Mount Vernon every

also encourage new se0lers to migrate to the area. The rivers of

hour all day and un l 11 o’clock at night. The boarding sta on was

Indiana served as our rst highways. As se0lement progressed

located in the Oddfellows building at Fourth and Main Streets.

throughout the state, roads followed old animal trails usually

With the building of good roads the interurban was replaced by

referred to as “traces” (King 1991). Ilse Horascek writes about the

buses and the tracks were removed from the streets. Today even

development of the area and the downtown district also in her

the buses are a thing of the past – replaced by the family car”

ar cle. She writes “By the early 1820s more daring souls ventured

(Horascek 1991). With the development of roads happening, so

into this wild fron er land which necessitated the building of

did the businesses and the “Main Street.” King also writes “One

two log hotels and two taverns. The clearing was enlarged to

of the rst businesses on the blu| was a tavern established by

encompass what today is the 100 block of West Second Street.

Thomas Givens. The tavern was probably a one-room hewed log

22

| Chapter 2

building situated close to the riverfront on what is today Water

A+er the depression, Mount Vernon saw a boom in war e|orts

Street. No doubt, the tavern became a favorite gathering place

and housed many soldiers. But since its beginning, Mount

for both early se0lers and river travelers” (King 1991). King

Vernon has thrived due to its loca on on the Ohio River.

con nues “Mt. Vernon would see many more taverns blossom forth upon her fair “Main Street”” (King 1991).

In the ar cle “Impact of the Ohio River on the Development of Mount Vernon,” Teresa L. Branson states, “The mighty Ohio

From this point on, Mount Vernon only saw an in ux of

River makes a graceful bend as it approaches the site of Mt.

businesses, taverns, and industries. Horascek also writes about

Vernon. Boa ng on the river, a favorite past me of many of

the businesses within the “Main Street.” Horascek writes “In

the area residents, is evident by the many boat trailers parked

1845 all the buildings on “the row” burned to the ground and were soon replaced by brick structures. The business district which was formerly located on Store Street (now College Avenue) gradually moved to Main Street. Several brick stores on lower Main Street became vic ms of a re in 1872; and on October 19 1880 a most disastrous re swept the whole 200 block of Main Street. This tragic incident led to the organiza on of the rst Mount Vernon re department” (Horascek 1991).

Just like every small city, Mount Vernon encountered many diseases and economic hardships, especially during the Great Depression.

Figure 2.7

“The Landing”

Context Analysis and Regional Description | 23

at both the public and private boat ramps on sunny summer

exclusively has followed the newly renovated riverfront park

days. This a0rac on to the river has always been the focus of Mt.

area. Wersich writes in the ar cle, “Mount Vernon, IND., Makes

Vernon. The river has been the life blood for the economy of the

Plans for Amphitheater, Fountain on Riverfront,” that “The now

town. From the early se0lers to the present ci zens the river has

cleaned-up riverfront along Water Street in Mount Vernon, Ind.,

brought goods and products from over the globe. The Ohio River

will get even pre er once an amphitheater and six new condos,

is Mt. Vernon’s “Window to the World.”” (Branson 1991). Branson

46 senior housing units and retail space are added to the area in

goes on and states “Mount Vernon’s riverbank is no longer do0ed

the near future” (Wersich 2011).

with steamers and atboats. Today it is lined with barges wai ng to be loaded or unloaded at one of the many river terminals or

Wersich further explains “Mount Vernon Mayor John Tucker

the river port. New factories have replaced the barrel making and

revealed that an amphitheater with an interac ve fountain,

pork packing factories of the past… Today that window to the

cos ng around $1 million, will be built on picturesque acreage

world has been opened wider and Mount Vernon has reached

overlooking bends in the Ohio River. He also revealed plans for

out farther than the early founders dreamed possible.” (Branson

the development of a $7.9 million three story building across

1991).

Water Street from the amphitheater. The building will include senior housing units and condominiums on the upper oors and

Current State and Future Developments

retail/commercial space on the ground level. Tucker said the

The current state of Mount Vernon rests in the hands of the

building will be known as The Landing. It is all part of the city’s

mayor, administrators, and the people of the city. Carol Wersich,

con nuing riverfront revitaliza on program, which calls for a bike

a writer for the Evansville Courier and Press writes about the

and pedestrian trail as well. The revitaliza on recently began with

most current economic happenings of Mount Vernon, that

the clearing of silos, built in 1953 and formerly used to store grain

24

| Chapter 2

for Mount Vernon Milling, from the riverfront site. The acreage

side streets. Downtown was from the beau ful Ohio River on

is now a peaceful, park like se ng. The mayor said he hopes the

the south, spreading northward. Mt. Vernon was the last town

new construc on will make Mount Vernon “a des na on place

in the southwest corner of Indiana. No bridge to Kentucky or

for families and businesses” and will spur addi onal economic

Illinois meant any traHc through Mt. Vernon came for a reason.

development in the future” (Wersich 2011). Below is a proposed

People who came here had a reason. They weren’t on their way

rendering, indicated as gure 2.7, from the Mount Vernon city’s

somewhere else” (Maas 1991). Many ci es, including, are drive

website. The rendering was proposed by Myszak + Palmer, Inc. an

through towns and people are just in a hurry to go. No one seems

architecture rm located in Vincennes, Indiana.

to want to stop and visit the sites. Entertainment and places of leisure should return to the downtown areas around the country.

Professional and Industrial Environment In the book “Mount Vernon 175th Birthday” Cli|ord Maas talks

Also in the book “Mount Vernon 175th Birthday” Anne Doane talks

about Mount Vernon, Indiana and what he no ced growing up

about Mount Vernon, Indiana and its early years and business,

as well as his comparison to other small ci es at the me. Maas

but more speci cally the year 1991. She writes “The three major

writes, “My observa ons began about 1910 and have con nued

shopping areas are downtown Mount Vernon, Village West and

to the present. They began in what is generally referred to as,

Southwind Shopping Center. There are a number of businesses

‘The Good Old Days.’ Anyone who had to live then, thought they

and specialty stores along east and west Fourth Street and on

were good, is having memory tricks played on himself. Mt. Vernon

to North Main. Large and small retail stores and service shops

had a typical Main Street. Most everything was downtown. This

keep expanding their merchandise and repair services” (Doane

was before shopping centers. We didn’t realize it, this was a

1991). Unfortunately, currently there are just a handful of shops

shopping mall. Individual stores fronted on Main Street and the

in Village West and the Southwind Shopping Center and very few Context Analysis and Regional Description | 25

businesses within the downtown area. Currently, the downtown

subject to a number of developments that have either dissipated

area consists of oHces for the legal professions, a couple of banks,

or never realized their full poten al or life span. There just hasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t

three restaurants, a car dealership, and a furniture shop.

been a realis c plan available to the ci zens. Mount Vernon has such a strong history and culture that must be represented

Demographic Analysis

correctly and thoughÂ&#x161;ully such that no urban designer or architect

The city of Mount Vernon and Posey County are predominantly

has been able to realize, which makes Mount Vernon a valuable

from one race. This singling of one race could be contribu ng to

candidate for revitaliza on. Due to its loca on on the Ohio River

the lack of diversity among shops and entertainment within the

shore, the city should capitalize on this asset and beau fy the

downtown area of Mount Vernon. The chart to the right further

downtown area.

explains the demographics of Mount Vernon and Posey County.

This chart, gure 2.8, was created from the help of the United States census of 2000. Within the Mount Vernon city limits, white Caucasians are 95.9% of the cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s popula on. Also, of the popula on only 62.1% of the popula on is employed in the work force of the city of Mount Vernon. With this being said, there is de nitely a need for more jobs within the city limits of Mount Vernon. Aside from economic woes and the riverfront, Mount Vernon is full of diversity and a rich culture that makes Mount Vernon pleasant to live in. Without the community, the city itself would die out and wither away. Mount Vernon has also been 26

| Chapter 2

Figure 2.8

2000 Census Data

Context Analysis and Regional Description | 27

3

A well-executed site analysis forms the essen al founda on for a cost-e|ec ve, environmentally sensi ve, and ra onal approach to project development.

Site Selection

Site selec on and urban analysis make up the bulk of this urban renewal and design process. This thesis uses a balance of sta s cal data and subjec ve observa ons to analyze the downtown area in three phases: overall in its boundaries and connec on with the river; city to site rela onships; and lastly, this thesis evaluates a site loca on that would serve as the best con nua on of Mount Vernonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s revitaliza on e|orts.

A+er an extensive interview with Mayor John Tucker of Mount Vernon, Indiana, it was determined that the city of Mount Vernon is working towards its goals as stated in The City of Mount Vernon Final Comprehensive Plan prepared by the city and Bernardin, Lochmueller & Associates, Inc. who are a planning and engineering rm in Evansville, Indiana. Parts of Site Selection | 29

the comprehensive plan were analyzed and recapitulated

These a0ributes are: regional and local descrip ons,

within this chapter of this thesis project, more speci cally, the

surrounding context to the immediate site, size and zoning,

analysis of the city of Mount Vernon, Indiana.

legal descrip ons, natural physical features, manmade features, circula on, u li es, visibili es, and climate.

Approach When selec ng a site that is suitable and ra onal for a thesis

Regional and Local Descrip on

project, architects and urban designers must study a numerous

As stated in chapter 2, this thesis project will be located within

of features and other feasible studies. The physical descrip on

the downtown historic district of Mount Vernon, Indiana. The

of the site selec on process has many diverse characteris cs.

city is located within 15 miles of Evansville, Indiana. Within the state of Indiana, Mount Vernon is located within the county of Posey. Interstate 64 is located within the northern half of the county, but regional highways, that connect to the interstate, contributes to most of Mount Vernonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s economy and produce.

These highways can be seen in gure 3.1.

Agriculture and industry have helped form Posey county and Mount Vernon into which they are today. It is correct to say that the site must be located along a major highway in order to a0ract more businesses to the downtown area, but must also Figure 3.1

30

Regional Highways and Interstates

| Chapter 3

take advantage of what Mount Vernon has to o|er- a beau ful

riverfront.

Posey County is divided into ten townships. These townships include: Bethel, Black, Center, Harmony, Lynn, Marrs, Point, Robb, Robinson, and Smith. Located within Black township and along the Ohio River to its south lies the city of Mount Vernon.

The city of has four districts each is lead by a councilman or councilwoman.

According to the city of Mount Vernon’s

website, “Rita Askren is the Councilwoman for District one” (City Of Mount Vernon, Indiana 2011). “Stephen Fueling is

Figure 3.2

Mount Vernon Council Districts

serving his rst term on the Council represen ng district two,” immediate site generally determines constraints to urban (City Of Mount Vernon, Indiana 2011) also according to the development. The natural environment can also be a gauge of city. Bill Cur s is serving on the council and represents district economic development opportuni es, such as the Ohio river three. Nancy Hoehn represents district four on the council. The to the beginning of the revitaliza on e|orts in Mount Vernon. historic downtown area of city is located within the rst district According to the Mount Vernon Comprehensive Plan , Mount as indicated in gure 3.2.

Vernon is rela vely at as well as the site selected. As stated in previous chapters, Mount Vernon was founded on a blu|.

The Merriam Webster dic onary classi es a blu| as “rising Natural Physical Features steeply with a broad at or rounded front” (Dic onary). The The natural physical features of Mount Vernon and the Site Selection | 31

Mount Vernon Comprehensive Plan states “The highest point

and o| the topography of the site.

in the city is at 484 feet above sea level...The lowest point is

Furthermore, being located along a river brings ooding with

346 feet above sea level at several loca ons along the Ohio

clima c rainfall. The Mount Vernon Comprehensive Plan says

River. The average eleva on for the city is 398 feet” (Bernardin

that “A oodplain consists of areas on both sides of a body

Lochmueller & Associates, Inc. 2008). A diagram of a blu| is

of water that are prone to both seasonal and intermi0ent of

shown in gure 3.3.

ooding” (Bernardin Lochmueller & Associates, Inc. 2008).

According to the Mount Vernon Comprehensive Plan , “There

Topographical Features

are a few oodplains located within Mount Vernon’s boundaries.

Mount Vernon has a variety of soil types that must also be

They are located along the Ohio River and McFaddin Creek,

documented within this thesis. According to the Mount Vernon

as well as a few addi onal loca ons throughout the city...

Comprehensive Plan , “The Zipp-Vincennes-Evansville soil type is located in the eastern and southern por ons of the city, (loca on of site). This soil type has slopes ranging from zero to two percent. It has slow to moderate permeability, and its drainage is well to moderately well” (Bernardin Lochmueller & Associates, Inc. 2008). This soil type greatly e|ects the site selected and are also shown in gure 3.4.

Since Mount Vernon is also located along the Ohio river, most of the storm water drains to that loca on through storm drains 32

| Chapter 3

Figure 3.3

Bluff Diagram

Southeast of Mount Vernon is a large area of oodplains around the Ohio River” (Bernardin Lochmueller & Associates, Inc. 2008) as shown in gure 3.5. “Any construc on within the oodplain must comply with state and federal permit requirements. Many towns and ci es, including Mount Vernon, include addi onal restric ons in their zoning ordinance” (Bernardin Lochmueller & Associates, Inc. 2008).

Figure 3.4

Soil Types

Site Selection | 33

Mount Vernon has a few natural landscaped areas within the historic downtown area. Figure 3.6 shows these natural areas and a gure ground of the historic downtown area.

Figure 3.5

34

| Chapter 3

Floodplains

Figure 3.6

Existing Green Spaces

Site Selection | 35

Table 3.A

Downtown Historic Structures

Outstanding (O) – recommended as a poten al nomina on for the Na onal Register of Historic Places.

Notable (N) – recommended as a poten al nomina on for the Indiana Register of Historic Sites and Structures (lacks na onal signi cance).

Contribu ng (C) – contributes to the density, con nuity and/or uniqueness for the whole county or historic district, but the present condi on does not appear to meet Na onal or State designa on criteria.

These proper es may be considered for a county or local historic register program.

Reference (R) – site in historic districts that are considered later or badly altered pre-1940 structures. These proper es do not meet inventory criteria.

Non-Contribu ng (NC) – sites in historic districts that create a nega ve impact.

Figure 3.1

Title

Man-made Features Within the city of Mount Vernon, there are three historic districts that have several notable historic structures. The Mount Vernon Comprehensive Plan has provided the city more informa on on the direc on to take with these structures. A further analysis will not be needed with the greater Mount Vernon area. In addi on, historic structures near the immediate site selec on of the 300 block of Main Street was analyzed. The Mount Vernon Comprehensive Plan states in Table 3.A of the condi on and historic recommenda ons for the downtown 36

| Chapter 3

area. It is understood that if a historic structure does not

Table 3.B

Downtown Historic Structures Demolished

meet the inventory criteria it will be the owner’s decision to demolish or to repair the historic structure. These structures to be demolished or destroyed were given a ra ng lower than a contribu ng category. Unfortunately, some owners of these historic proper es that did meet the criteria decided to demolish historic structures, even notable structurally sound and thriving. The structures that were destroyed are listed and highlighted in table 3.B. The loca on of these destroyed structures is currently a vacant lot at the corner of Main Street

Figure 3.3

Title

and West Fourth Street.

Completed in 2008, the Mount Vernon Comprehensive Plan states “The Mount Vernon Downtown Commercial Historic District is primarily located along Main Street and Walnut Street between Water Street and Sixth Street. The district includes 103 proper es, 68 of which are in the contribu ng category or higher” (Bernardin Lochmueller & Associates, Inc. 2008).

As stated before, some of these contribu ng category historic structures were not protected but demolished by developers.

Site Selection | 37

Located within the downtown district of Mount Vernon, the 300 block of College Street and Main street both consist of man made features within the immediate site selected. The speci cs of this site selected is discussed in following chapter.

Circula on TraHc around the Mount Vernon area can be excessive at mes due to the amount of truck traHc from the industrial factories sca0ered around town. According the Mount Vernon Figure 3.1

Title

Comprehensive Plan, “The transporta on system physically links the community to the land use ac vi es within the community as well as ac vi es outside of the community such as state and na onal ac vi es. Only ground transporta on is found in Mount Vernon. The closest interstate to Mount Vernon is I-64. It is located approximately twenty miles north of Mount Vernon and can be accessed via SR 69” (Bernardin Lochmueller & Associates, Inc. 2008). Mount Vernon has several roads with di|erent types of func ons. These roads range from principal roads that carry the most of the vehicle traHc to collector and

Figure 3.7

38

Classification of Roads

| Chapter 3

arterial streets that carry ci zens to where they need to travel.

The map from Mount Vernon Comprehensive Plan shows these roads located around the city of Mount Vernon in gure 3.7.

Streets located within city limits of Mount Vernon have several varie es of arrangements. Mount Vernon Comprehensive Plan states “Streets throughout Mount Vernon range in width from over 40 feet wide in the downtown area to around 20 feet wide for some neighborhood roads. Most of the roads in Mount Vernon are around 30 feet wide, allowing for two-way traHc and parking on one or two sides. Older areas of the city have

Figure 3.3

Title

Figure 3.8

Traffic Volumes

both sidewalks and alleys. The newer areas of the city, such as the subdivisions on the city’s north side do not have sidewalks or alleys”(Bernardin Lochmueller & Associates, Inc. 2008).

Within the immediate site, College street dissects the site into two separate loca ons. The site is bordered by SR 69 to the east and SR 62 to the north. There are appropriate sidewalks bordering all edges of the site that are in fair condi on with a need for a few small repairs.

Pedestrian and bicycle traHc is visible within Mount Vernon, but

Site Selection | 39

these modes of traHc are not protected from vehicle traHc or made visible. According to the Mount Vernon Comprehensive Plan, â&#x20AC;&#x153;There are no separate bikeways/walkways in Mount Vernon. However, sidewalks exist in several por ons of the

Figure 3.1

Title

Figure 3.9

Travel Time

40

| Chapter 3

Table 3.C

Travel Time / Number of Commuters

Table 3.D

Number of Commuters

city, especially in the older neighborhoods. With the excep on

located on the William Keck Bypass. Figure 3.8 shows the INDOT

of Fourth Street and Main Street, the traHc volumes and speeds

traHc counts from 1994, 1999, and 2002. Heavy truck traHc to/

on most of the roadways in the city are low enough to permit the

from I-64 con nues on Main Street/Industrial Road from the SR

coexistence of automobile traHc and bicycles, especially in the

69 Bypass to SR 62 (Fourth Street) and along SR 62 to SR 69 south.

newer subdivisions” (Bernardin Lochmueller & Associates, Inc.

While truck volumes have decreased on SR 62 east of Main Street

2008).

as a result of the SR 69 Bypass, truck volumes remain high on SR 62 between the east and west junc on with SR 69” (Bernardin

Tra c Volumes

Lochmueller & Associates, Inc. 2008).

TraHc volumes within the city of Mount Vernon are very high compared to a similar small town with the same popula on.

For the immediate site, a traHc count was also completed with

These higher traHc volumes are from the amount of industrial

the count of parked cars and traveling cars surrounding the site.

factories that Mount Vernon has to o|er. The Mount Vernon

These counts and diagram will be described in the following

Comprehensive Plan states, “ TraHc counts in Mount Vernon were

chapter.

completed by the Indiana Department of Transporta on (INDOT) in 1994, 1999, and 2002. These counts covered SR 62 and SR 69.

Commu ng

In 1994, SR 69 was s ll located on Main Street through Mount

Many of the industrial jobs and manufacturing jobs loca ons are

Vernon and traHc counts were taken along this route. By 1999, SR

located on the outskirts of town. Commu ng to work and to a

69 was rerouted to the William Keck Bypass and counts were no

series of des na ons is very common throughout Posey county

longer taken on Main Street. The highest counts are located along

and Mount Vernon. Bernardin, Lochmueller & Associates, Inc.

SR 62 (Fourth Street) near Main Street. The lowest counts are Site Selection | 41

states “According to the 2000 U.S. Census, 69 percent of Mount Vernon residents worked in Posey County, including 39 percent who worked in Mount Vernon. The average travel me for workers living in Mount Vernon is 19 minutes. Figure 3.9 and 3.10 shows the es mate of distance based on me of commuters and a number of these commuters. Table 3.C shows the travel me for the commuters and Table 3.D shows the number of commuters traveling to and from Posey county” (Bernardin Lochmueller & Associates, Inc. 2008)

Services and U li es Mount Vernon is similar to every small city or town. It has all of the essen al services and u li es that ci zens need. According to the Mount Vernon Comprehensive Plan, “The u lity infrastructure of the community is essen al to suppor ng urban ac vi es in the community and includes the water treatment and distribu on system, the liquid waste treatment and collec on system, the storm water collec on, and the electric, gas and communica ons u li es” (Bernardin Lochmueller & Associates, Inc. 2008). “Electricity and natural gas are both 42

| Chapter 3

Figure 3.10

Commuters

provided by Vectren in Mount Vernon. Comcast, Insight, WOW, AT&T, and Verizon all provide television, internet, and phone service to Mount Vernon. Curbside trash pick-up is available in Mount Vernon through the Department of Sanita on. They also collect appliances and other metal items every Friday. All other trash items not collected with the normal trash can be picked up for a minimum fee of $20 and up to $40 for one ton by truck,â&#x20AC;? (Bernardin Lochmueller & Associates, Inc. 2008) also according to the Mount Vernon Comprehensive Plan.

Figure 3.11

Location of Views

Figure 3.12

Mount Vernon Ohio Riverfront

Site Selection | 43

Figure 3.13

Buildings located on the Riverfront

The site selected for this thesis currently has connec ons to all of these services planned to accommodate new structures.

Visibili es Located in the top of a horse shoe con gura on of the Ohio River, Mount Vernon o|ers several amazing views that should be capitalized on. The revitaliza on e|orts within Mount Vernon that are currently taking place has capitalized on these views and is really maximizing the natural beauty that the city has to o|er. When completed, this thesis project will capitalize 44

| Chapter 3

Figure 3.14

Aerial view of Mount Vernon, 1920s

on these views that the river and the downtown has to o|er.

Figure 3.11 maps these viewpoints. Figure 3.12 shows the natural beauty of the Ohio River. Figure 3.13 displays the current buildings located on the Ohio River. Figure 3.14 shows Mount Vernon, Indiana in an aerial format during the late 1920s.

Climate Indiana has a humid climate, with cool winters and warm, dry summers. The southwestern por on of the state is within the Figure 3.15

Summer Solstice

Figure 3.16

Winter Solstice

Figure 3.17

Prevailing Winds

Site Selection | 45

humid subtropical climate area and receives more precipita on than other parts of the state. Temperatures in southwestern Indiana in the winter range from 39 °F / 22 °F. In the summer temperatures range from 90 °F / 69 °F. Precipita on totals range from 45 inches along the Ohio River, while it is arid in the rest of the state. In the recent history of the state, Indiana and the Mount Vernon area has seen many severe storms with several tornado outbreaks. Despite the states vulnerability to tornadoes, Indiana is not a part of tornado alley. The gures below graphically show Mount Vernon’s clima c data.

Figure 3.18

Average Temperatures and Precipitation

Figure 3.19

Average Temperatures

The city of Mount Vernon has great poten al to harvest the natural sunlight at the site’s loca on. According to the stereographic diagrams to the le+, gure 3.15 shows summer sols ce and gure 3.16 shows winter sols ce, Mount Vernon receives a generous amount of sunlight throughout the en re year. Due to the historic component of the site being an old car dealership, all of the natural landscape and ora has been discarded providing the site with an ample amount of sunlight.

Another source of energy that can be harvested using Mount 46

| Chapter 3

Vernon’s climate involves the prevailing winds. Even though on

sees around 4 inches of snowfall throughout the winter months.

average the wind is only measured at 9 mph in the winter and on

Mount Vernon also sees around 5 inches of rainfall within the

average 3 mph in the summer, wind along the riverfront and in

summer months. Due to clima c changes and storm situa ons,

the downtown area can be harvested due to the nature of these

the city can experience a great di|erence in these amounts.

breezes o| the water. Figure 3.17 shows these prevailing winds.

Figure 3.18 shows a chart of the clima c averages that Mount Vernon can experience throughout a year’s me. Figure 3.19

A wide range of temperatures can a|ect the city of Mount

shows a weekly summary of average temperatures.

Vernon. In the winter months, on average, the ci zens of the city can witness the low temperatures around 30 degrees Fahrenheit.

Natural catastrophes in the city are common in the spring, the

While the summer months, on average can be an unbearable

summer, and the fall. These natural catastrophes range from

90 degrees Fahrenheit. Throughout the year, although, high

earthquakes, tornadoes, and straight line winds.

temperatures on average are around 65 degrees Fahrenheit and the low temperatures are on average at 46 degrees Fahrenheit.

Surrounding Context and Selected Site

Overall the city’s average yearly temperature is a temperate 55

According to Bernardin, Lochmueller & Associates, Inc.’s extensive

degrees Fahrenheit.

research, there are several vacant lots within the historic downtown district of Mount Vernon. One site that stands apart

The city of Mount Vernon can also witness a variety of amounts

from the rest is a vacant car dealership with an extensive asphalt

of precipita on, ranging from snow, ice, and freezing rain in the

parking lot that is unbearable in Mount Vernon’s hot and humid

winter months. While in the summer months, rain is likely the

summer.

culprit in this precipita on factor. On average, Mount Vernon Site Selection | 47

The site is located within the 300 block of College street at College

correct to say that the site must be located along a major highway

and west Fourth streets and extends south towards west Third

in order to a0ract more businesses to the downtown area, but

street. It also extends east toward Main street due to historic

must also take advantage of what Mount Vernon has to o|er; a

vacant structures being removed. The overall acreage of the site

beau ful riverfront.

is roughly 2.75 acres or 119,800 square feet. The site loca on is indicated in gure 3.3.

The site is located within the 300 block of College Street at College and West Fourth streets and extending southward towards West

The site was selected based on its proximity to the government

Third street. It also extends east toward Main Street due to

buildings and the exis ng services and shops within the downtown

historic vacant structures being removed. The overall acreage of

courthouse square. Located three city blocks from the riverfront,

the site is roughly 2.75 acres or 119,800 square feet. Since Mount

the site will be a popular des na on for visitors and residents

Vernon is also located along the Ohio river, most of the storm

alike. Exis ng pedestrian and vehicle paths also show that the

water drains to that loca on through storm drains and o| the

site selected will be easily accessible and visible from regional

topography of the site selected.

highways and immediacy to services downtown.

TraHc around the Mount Vernon area can be excessive at mes Summary

around the downtown area due to the amount of truck traHc

Mount Vernon is located within the state of Indiana. In rela on

from the industrial factories sca0ered around town. TraHc

to the United States of America, the state of Indiana is located

volumes within the city of Mount Vernon are very high compared

in the heartland and is part of the Midwest. Within the state of

to a similar small town with the same popula on. These higher

Indiana, Mount Vernon is located within the county of Posey. It is

traHc volumes are from the amount of industrial factories that

48

| Chapter 3

Figure 3.20

Site Selected

Site Selection | 49

Mount Vernon has to o|er. Mount Vernon is similar to every small city or town. It has all of the essen al services and u li es that ci zens need. Natural gas, electricity, water, sewage and communica ons are all available to the site selected. These connec ons are available in the service alleys.

Located in the top of a horse shoe con gura on of the Ohio River, Mount Vernon o|ers several amazing views that should be capitalized on.

Clima cally, the design of the structure must be suitable to withstand harsh winters and summers. It must also survive tornadoes and damaging storms. Located near a major fault line, the structure must be equipped to withstand an earthquake of moderate magnitude.

50

| Chapter 3

4 Site Analysis

Site analysis is the in depth study of the proposed site derived from the site selec on.

Physical Descrip on The physical descrip on of the site selec on process has many diverse characteris cs. These a0ributes are: regional and local descrip ons, surrounding context to the immediate site, size and zoning, legal descrip ons, natural physical features, manmade features, circula on, u li es, visibili es, and climate.

Loca on As stated in chapter 2 and chapter 3, this thesis project will be located within the downtown historic district of Mount Vernon, Indiana. Mount Vernon is located within 15 miles of Evansville, Indiana. Within the state of Indiana, Mount Vernon is located within the county of Posey. Figure 4.1 shows Posey county in rela on to Evansville, Indiana located within Vanderburgh county. As stated in chapter 3, it is correct to say that the site Site Analysis | 53

must be located along a major highway in order to a0ract more businesses to the downtown area, but must also take advantage of what Mount Vernon has to o|er; a beau ful riverfront.

A+er an analysis of the city of Mount Vernon in chapter 3, the site located inside the 300 block of College street and is contained by West Fourth Street and Main Street was selected and is shown in Figure 4.2.

Figure 4.1

Posey County

From the selected site, there are numerous gas sta ons that over food markets to the downtown area. Unfortunately, there are no grocery stores or signi cant retail shops located within the historic downtown area. The closest grocery store provided to the downtown area is located 3/4 of a mile north on Main Street.

There are a few sit-down restaurants located within the historic district but these venues do not stay open past nine oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;clock at night.

Figure 4.2

54

Site Selected

| Chapter 4

Size and Zoning

the regula on of building height oor area, land coverage or

The site located inside the 300 block of College Street is contained

parking space requirements within the central core area of the

by West Fourth Street and Main street. College street dissects

City. Preserve and promote the public and private investment of

the site into two parts. The overall acreage of the site is roughly

the exis ng central core area. CBD District contained within this

2.75 acres or 11,128.85 square meters including college street

de ned area; The Ohio River to the South, Fi+h Street to the

and setbacks. The overall site is broken into two property sites

North, College Avenue to the West, and Walnut Street to the

with three alley ways and college street dissec ng the overall

East. Before addi onal area, con guous to that area presently

site. All of the proper es are zoned within the rst district of

designated CBD, be considered for inclusion within the CBD

Mount Vernon and are classi ed as commercial. Zoning within

District considera on should be given to the appropriateness

the city of Mount Vernon has several restric ons depending on

of the CG, General Commercial classi ca on. This alternate

the use of the structure. The highways also within the city limits

designa on is intended to create a less congested district than

also have restric ons and setbacks to the construc on within

that of the CBD” (Commission 2011, 153.070). Also according to

the surrounding proper es. These constraints are found within

the zoning ordinance, the table below, Table B.1, has listed the

the Mount Vernon’s Zoning ordinances.

requirements in setbacks of the commercial districts.

According to the Mount Vernon city zoning ordinance, the

Legal Descrip ons

selected site is located within the commercial business district

According to the city tax assessor, the site selected has

which states “The Commercial Business District (CBD) is

had many owners and several improvements.

designed to: Accommodate and encourage the most desirable,

the informa on provided, the site has a very detailed legal

most produc ve, most intense use of land, without regard to

descrip on. The governmental jurisdic on the site is located in

Based on

Site Analysis | 55

is the commercial district. The property owner of this en re site is Five, LLC of Mount Vernon, Indiana, the city of Mount Vernon has jurisdic on over the immediate site.

Natural Physical Features As stated in chapter 3, the natural physical features of Mount Vernon and the immediate site generally determines constraints to urban development. the Ohio river, to the south of the city and the site, is the beginning of the revitaliza on e|orts in Figure 4.3

Contours of the Immediate Site

Mount Vernon. The Mount Vernon Comprehensive Plan states â&#x20AC;&#x153;The highest point in the city is at 484 feet above sea level...

The lowest point is 346 feet above sea level at several loca ons along the Ohio River. The average eleva on for the city is 398 feetâ&#x20AC;? (Bernardin Lochmueller & Associates, Inc. 2008). Within the site selected inside the 300 block of College street, the top contour is stated at 400 feet at Main street and gradually slopes towards the western side of the immediate site selected. These contours can be seen in gure 4.3.

Drainage pa0erns on the site includes direc ons of surface

Figure 4.4

56

Trees and Flora

| Chapter 4

drainage (perpendicular to contours), which Â&#x152;ows towards the

western side of the site and into the street and into the storm sewers, which the city has improved within the recent years. The current site loca on has appropriate grades for drainage consequently, minimal grading will be needed.

Due to the previous use of the site as a car dealership, there is very limited natural features such as grass and trees. The site is asphalt covered except for the sloping area of the site which used to be historic structures that were destroyed.

Figure 4.5

Historic Structures and Structures to be Removed

Figure 4.6

Pedestrian Density

There are trees and ﾂ経ra in the surrounding context of the immediate site. These trees and ﾂ経ra can be seen in gure 4.4.

Man-made Features Within the city of Mount Vernon, there are three historic districts that have several notable historic structures as discussed in chapter 3 of this thesis. Unfortunately, some owners of historic proper es within these historic districts that did meet criteria to remain and bene t the architectural style of the city decided to demolish historic structures, even notable structurally sound and thriving.

Site Analysis | 57

Figure 4.7

Table 4.A

Parked Vehicles

Table 4.B

Traveling Vehicles

TrafďŹ c Density and Parked Vehicles

The structures that were destroyed are listed and highlighted in table 3.B located in chapter 3. The loca on of these destroyed structures is currently a vacant lot at the corner of Main Street and West Fourth Street, which is the eastern part of the selected site. Located within the downtown district of Mount Vernon, the 300 block of College Street and Main Street both consist of man-made features within the immediate site selected. Since the remaining buildings on the site do not contribute to the architectural style of the city, por ons or all of the buildings on the immediate site will be demolished in hopes of progress for 58

| Chapter 4

the future. Figure 4.5 shows current remaining historic structures

For the immediate site, a traHc count was also completed with

within the remaining surrounding context and site buildings to be

the count of parked cars and traveling cars surrounding the site.

demolished.

Table 4.A lists these loca ons along with the parked vehicle count.

Table 4.B lists the amount of traveling vehicles along with the

Circula on

important arterial streets. Figure 4.7 maps these traveling and

TraHc around the Mount Vernon area can be excessive at mes

parked vehicles. TraHc volumes within the city of Mount Vernon

around the downtown area due to the amount of truck traHc

are very high compared to a similar small town with the same

from the industrial factories sca0ered around town. Within the

popula on. These higher traHc volumes are from the amount of

immediate site, College street dissects the site into two separate

industrial factories that Mount Vernon has to o|er.

loca ons. The site is bordered by SR 69 to the east and SR 62 to the north. There are appropriate sidewalks bordering all edges

U li es

of the site that are in fair condi on with a need for a few small

According to chapter 3 of this thesis, electricity and natural

repairs.

gas are both provided by Vectren in Mount Vernon. Comcast, Insight, WOW, AT&T, and Verizon all provide television, internet,

Pedestrian and bicycle traHc is visible within Mount Vernon,

and phone service to Mount Vernon. Curbside trash pick-up is

but these modes of traHc are not protected from vehicle traHc

available in Mount Vernon through the Department of Sanita on.

or made visible. Figure 4.6 shows the pedestrian movements

The site selected for this thesis already has connec ons to all of

around the site and the surrounding context. Blue denotes li0le

these services. Building a new structure should not be a problem

pedestrian movement, yellow denotes medium pedestrian

with these services. Many of these services are located within the

movement, while red denotes heavy pedestrian movement.

service alleys shown on the maps of the site.

Site Analysis | 59

Figure 4.8

Views

Figure 4.9

South Main Street

60

| Chapter 4

Figure 4.10

Site Selected

Figure 4.11

Views

Figure 4.12

East Panorama of Site

Figure 4.13

West Panorama of Site

Site Analysis | 61

Sensory

thesis project.

On the east side of the site, the courthouse o|ers a focal point for a historic view along Main street. The north side of the site o|ers

Summary

view of the SR 62 highway that can be an eye sore. Unfortunately,

Mount Vernon is located within the state of Indiana. In rela on

the south side of the street has several buildings that blocks the

to the United States of America, the state of Indiana is located in

view of the river, but o|ers beau ful historic context in which the

the heartland and is part of the Midwest. More speci cally, the

architecture of the thesis project can capitalize on. The west side

site is located within the 300 block of College street at College

of the site is terminated by an alley way which doesn’t o|er many

and west Fourth streets and extends south towards west Third

views to take advantage of. These views can be seen in several

street. It also extends east toward Main street due to historic

gures below. Figure 4.8 maps the views on this page.

vacant structures being removed. The overall acreage of the site is roughly 2.75 acres or 119,800 square feet and is located

Climate

within the commercial business district, according to the Mount

Indiana has a humid climate, with cool winters and warm, dry

Vernon city zoning ordinance. The governmental jurisdic on the

summers. The southwestern por on of the state is within the

site is located in is the commercial district. The property owner of

humid subtropical climate area and receives more precipita on

this en re site is Five, LLC of Mount Vernon, Indiana. The city of

than other parts of the state. Temperatures in southwestern

Mount Vernon has jurisdic on over the immediate site.

Indiana in the winter range from 39 °F / 22 °F. In the summer

Within the site selected inside the 300 block of College street,

temperatures range from 90 °F / 69 °F. Precipita on totals range

the top contour is stated at 400 feet at Main street and gradually

from 45 inches along the Ohio River, while it is arid in the rest of

slopes towards the western side of the immediate site selected.

the state. Other clima c data can be found in chapter 3 of this

Due to the previous use of the site as a car dealership, there is very

62

| Chapter 4

limited natural features such as grass and trees. The site is asphalt covered except for the sloping area of the site which used to be historic structures that were destroyed. There are appropriate sidewalks bordering all edges of the site that are in fair condi on with a need for a few small repairs. Pedestrian and bicycle traHc is visible within Mount Vernon, but these modes of traHc are not protected from vehicle traHc or made visible.

On the east side of the site, the courthouse o|ers a focal point for a historic view along Main street. The north side of the site o|ers view of the SR 62 highway that can be an eye sore. Unfortunately, the south side of the street has several buildings that blocks the view of the river, but o|ers beau ful historic context in which the architecture of the thesis project can capitalize on.

Clima c data can be found in chapter 3 of this thesis project.

Site Analysis | 63

5

Master Comprehensive Plan

In 2008, the city of Mount Vernon, Indiana and the rm Bernardin, Lochmueller & Associates, Inc. wrote a new master comprehensive plan for the city and its expansion. As stated in sec on three of this thesis, it was determined that the city of Mount Vernon is working towards its goals as stated in The City of Mount Vernon Final Comprehensive Plan.

Site selec on and urban analysis make up the bulk of this urban renewal and design process. This thesis used a balance of sta s cal data and subjec ve observa ons to analyze the downtown area. This thesis evaluated and selected a site loca on that would serve as the best con nua on of Mount Vernonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s revitaliza on e|orts.

A+er an extensive interview with Mayor John Tucker of Mount Vernon, Indiana, it was determined that the city of Mount Vernon is working towards its goals as stated in The City of Mount Vernon Final Comprehensive Plan prepared by the Master Comprehensive Plan | 65

city and Bernardin, Lochmueller & Associates, Inc. Parts of the

Bernardin, Lochmueller & Associates, Inc. express that it is

comprehensive plan was analyzed and recapitulated within this

important to preserve the historical elements of the city,

chapter of this thesis project. These parts include: the vision of

including architectural of the downtown area. They believe that

the city to take, goals and direc on that the city should undergo,

the Comprehensive Plan will work towards improving tourism,

guidelines to follow as a model, recommenda ons for the city to

which, in turn will expand the local economy.

take, and implementa on that the city is currently progressing with. Other sec ons included in this chapter are a person reac on

The future vision of Mount Vernon can only be seen by the ci zens

to the Comprehensive Plan and current and future phases of

of the city. Their input was greatly used in the con nua on of

the city of Mount Vernon. This thesis includes current phasing

the vision stated within the Comprehensive Plan. Even though

presently happening as well as this thesis project’s phasing.

their input was not stated within the future vision chapter of the Comprehensive Plan, Bernardin, Lochmueller & Associates, Inc.

Vision

states their input within community issues. The ci zens concerns

The vision of the Comprehensive Plan is to encourage the

range from growth to the future. These issues include, “small city

establishment and expansion for the city of Mount Vernon. It

a tudes,” poli cal issues, and housing issues in all price ranges.

is a protected method to strengthen the downtown area while

Issues with the downtown area that include; a lack of commercial

providing the ci zens and visitors with ample needs. The vision

spaces, recrea onal spaces, and a lack of leadership were also

strives to achieve a desirable des na on for ci zens to live and

concerns. Bringing more residents to the downtown area would

work. Development will be persuaded to eHciently use exis ng

help bring growth in many of the other categories.

infrastructure and exis ng building condi ons.

66

| Chapter 5

Goals

(Bernardin Lochmueller & Associates, Inc. 2008, 71).

With the vision in place that the Master Comprehensive Plan campaigns to achieve, sets the stage for a number of goals to

Located within the heart of downtown and the city, this thesis

be stated for the community to achieve. Bernardin, Lochmueller

focuses on the use of businesses within the downtown area.

& Associates, Inc.

states these goals within the Master

Goal three that is stated says to “Ensure industrial, commercial

Comprehensive Plan. Such goals are economic development,

and oHce uses that are consistent with the small city character,

housing, business uses, environment, transporta on, u li es,

provide convenience goods, services and jobs to residents, and

recrea on, and community.

are highly accessible to residen al areas” (Bernardin Lochmueller & Associates, Inc. 2008, 72). More speci cally pertaining to this

The rst goal is to “Enhance economic development opportuni es

thesis, objec ve 3.8 pertains to the preserva on and enhancing

in areas appropriate for the expansion of commercial and

of the downtown area and its businesses.

industrial uses” (Bernardin Lochmueller & Associates, Inc. 2008, 70). Understanding this goal more closely, objec ve 1.2 and 1.3

Protec ng manmade features and natural features of Mount

encourages the city to reuse exis ng structures when expanding

Vernon are the ambi ons of goal four. The fourth goal believes that

in commercial and retail zoned areas in the downtown.

the city should strengthen the uses of the riverfront by con nuing to grow and improve the areas that links it to the downtown area.

The second goal listed states “Ensure residen al development

This will allow members of the community to travel through and

that is compa ble with exis ng residen al areas, consistent with

help con nue the support and growth throughout the en re city.

the small city character, preserves property values, provides opportuni es for a|ordable housing and serves all age groups”

Within every city there is a network of roadways and pedestrian Master Comprehensive Plan | 67

paths. Within the city of Mount Vernon, there is a signi cant

serving the residents of Mount Vernon” (Bernardin Lochmueller

absent of pedestrian pathways and is addressed within goal ve of

& Associates, Inc. 2008, 74). Pertaining to this thesis, objec ve

the Master Comprehensive Plan. Goal ve says to “Preserve and

7.1 and 7.4 will be demonstrated. These speci c objec ves

enhance exis ng transporta on corridors in and around Mount

within goal seven encourages the improvement of businesses

Vernon while providing new corridors to address conges on, to

that provide recrea onal ac vi es and pathways throughout the

facilitate goods movement and to s mulate economic growth”

downtown area.

(Bernardin Lochmueller & Associates, Inc. 2008, 73). More speci cally, goal ve claims that the city will improve exis ng

In addi on to all of the aesthe cs goals that Mount Vernon

sidewalks and bike paths while also crea ng new connec ons

should address, one must not forget the real reason for a city.

throughout the city to help decrease any traHc congested issues,

Community. Goal eight addresses this issue. Goal eight reads

while crea ng a con nuing circula on of people throughout the

“Ensure adequate availability of entertainment, recrea on,

city and the downtown area.

services, and all necessi es for all residents of Mount Vernon” (Bernardin Lochmueller & Associates, Inc. 2008, 75). To ensure

Goal six pertains to u li es. A+er an extensive interview with

success of goal eight, the objec ves encourages the downtown

Mayor John Tucker, it was concluded that the u li es issue

area to have more events that bring the current residents

pertaining to this goal have been resolved.

together, and to also promote tourism in the downtown and riverfront areas.

Without recrea on and a sense of community, goal seven and eight have been wri0en. Goal seven, which is valid to recrea on, states “Preserve and enhance the parks and recrea onal facili es 68

| Chapter 5

Guidelines

exis ng context surrounding the new buildings.

Guidelines within the Master Comprehensive plan have speci c inten ons to determine a consistency of the developments

Guideline C-11, which is very important to the approval of this

within the city. These guidelines are broken down into speci c

thesis project states includes and explains the importance of

categories. These categories include: land use and infrastructure.

obtaining permits in order to reuse exis ng structures in and or

Within land use and infrastructure categories, there are several

around the downtown area.

other categories that govern the type of use and their speci c guidelines. The categories that directly relate to this thesis project

Public use for recrea onal purposes is also very important and

are listed below with the appropriate reference to the guideline

should be addressed. Within the public use category guideline

that dictates to this thesis project.

P-7 reads “Improve pedestrian and bicycle access to and within exis ng parks, historic and nature areas” (Bernardin Lochmueller

The residen al use category guideline R-13 states “Encourage

& Associates, Inc. 2008, 78).

innova ve residen al developments that mix housing types and densi es with appropriate screening and bu|ering to ensure

Within the infrastructure category, transporta on is brought

compa bility with surrounding land uses” (Bernardin Lochmueller

up and highly contributes to the overall outcome of this thesis

& Associates, Inc. 2008, 76).

project. Transporta on is very important to the overall integrity of the city of Mount Vernon and should be improved. By keeping

The commercial guideline C-1 supports the use of exsis ng

the importance of improving

structures for commercial spaces as well as the crea on of new commercial spaces as long as they retain the character of the

Environmentally, Mount Vernon, which is located along the Ohio Master Comprehensive Plan | 69

River, has to protect its assets both naturally and manmade.

is one of the most important guideline that needs to happen in

The environmental subcategory has guideline E-6 which helps

order for Mount Vernon to ourish once again. Guideline G-11

to protect and govern the historic downtown area and the

promotes the improvement of communica on between business

importance of the preserva on of historical landmarks and

owners and local residents. It also guides the city to facilitate a

buildings within the community.

sense of structure in the community.

Governmentally, Mount Vernon also has some guidelines that will

Recommenda ons

help with the process of turning this small city a des na on within

Bernardin, Lochmueller & Associates, Inc. and the city of Mount

the state of Mount Vernon. The government category also has

Vernon created several guidelines to predict the future of Mount

appropriate guidelines in which the government should put into

Vernon and create appropriate recommenda ons for the city

ac on. Guideline G-2 encourages the improvement of poli cal

to use. They rst determined uses for the exis ng land before

communica on between the city and the county. Guideline G-3

determining uses for possible future developments. To do this,

helps with nancial bene ts to help with guideline G-2. Guideline

they created an “exis ng land use map” to show and compare

G-3 says “Provide nancial incen ves (low interest loans, public

areas taht were already in use to areas open for development.

infrastructure improvements and tax incen ves) to encourage

These maps are shown on the following page ( gure 5.1, gure

the reuse of vacant industrial, commercial and oHce commercial

5.2, gure 5.3, gure 5.4).

structures and proper es in and adjacent to Mount Vernon” (Bernardin Lochmueller & Associates, Inc. 2008, 81). While

Due to the nature of this thesis project, Commercial use

guideline promotes nancials, guideline G-4 promotes tourism

recommenda ons should be addressed. By using the maps they

to help bring new ci zens to Mount Vernon. And guideline G-11

determined that there are thirty acres available for commercial

70

| Chapter 5

development. A+er these areas are lled they will move onto

Mount Vernon received a Transporta on Enhancement grant

possible new spaces. “The retail/personal services designa on

for $1,250,000 (including 20% local match) to develop this trail

includes general oHce and retail ac vi es such as grocery stores,

and has also applied for Safe Route to School funds to improve

hardware stores, drug stores, restaurants, gasoline sta ons,

sidewalks/bikeways from about 8th Street at Pearl Street to the

department or discount stores, drive-in businesses, motels,

West Elementary School” (Bernardin Lochmueller & Associates,

furniture stores, appliance stores, and businesses for motor

Inc. 2008, 101).

vehicle, boat, trailer, mobile home and farm equipment sales and repair” (Bernardin Lochmueller & Associates, Inc. 2008, 91).

As stated within the guidelines, Mount Vernon has to protect its assets both naturally and man made. Bernardin, Lochmueller &

Besides future land use, Bernardin, Lochmueller & Associates,

Associates, Inc. says within their recommenda ons “Protec on

Inc. also states how other ci es are crea ng recrea onal trails

of historic buildings is important in any community, especially

to bene t their communi es. Mount Vernon should also take

communi es with high concentra ons of historic structures

appropiate ac on in bene ng as well. Bernardin, Lochmueller &

like Mount Vernon. All historic structures in the city should be

Associates, Inc. writes “Many communi es throughout Indiana are

protected and maintained, in par cular those structures in the

crea ng trails connec ng parks/recrea onal areas, community

three historic districts. Many of the buildings in the Downtown

buildings, and other public use spaces. The Bend on the Ohio

Mount Vernon Historic District need to be examined for possible

Plan (developed by Eric Fulford) includes a trail that would

structural problems and repaired if at all possible. The Historic

connect Sherburne Park, West Elementary School, Bri0lebank

Landmarks Founda on of Indiana can help in nding grants

Park, Kiwanis Park and Senior Center, the Alexandrian Library,

and loans or other resources to help individuals, non-pro t

the Riverwood Natural Area, and the Mount Vernon Boat Club.

organiza ons, and communi es preserve and restore historic Master Comprehensive Plan | 71

structures” (Bernardin Lochmueller & Associates, Inc. 2008, 106).

excited about its future and where things are headed in the years to come. Personally, I am also very excited for my hometown and

Implementa on

its progressions within the past few years. Although, Bernardin,

As stated previously in this thesis, “The current state of Mount

Lochmueller & Associates, Inc. has shown in the master

Vernon rests in the hands of the mayor, his administrators, and

comprehensive plan for Mount Vernon extra growth outside of

the people of the city” (chapter 2). Progression has become

the downtown area and says “Future retail land uses should also

evident within the city of Mount Vernon over the past few years.

locate rst in vacant retail buildings, par cularly along 4th Street

The riverfront has seen major improvements with the addi on

in the eastern part of the city near exis ng retail uses. Exis ng

of park benches, trashcans, new sidewalks, landscaping, and the

vacant land and non-retail uses in this area have also been

removal of the old silos, also stated in chapter two. Within the

iden ed as shi+ing to retail uses in the Future Land Use map.

next year, private developers will be breaking ground on a new

Several loca ons outside of the city limits of Mount Vernon have

outdoor amphitheater for the riverfront as well as a three story

also been iden ed as future retail uses” (Bernardin Lochmueller

complex of a|ordable re rement housing, luxury condos, and

& Associates, Inc. 2008, 91). I disagree with this statement and

essen al retail shops for more urban living within the downtown

feel that retail and businesses should reside within the historic

area. This addi on to downtown is essen al to the Master

buildings in the historic downtown area rst. Having a center

Comprehensive Plan and the future of Mount Vernon, as well as

core full of ci zens and tourists walking around will bring more

to the success of this thesis project.

residents to the downtown area crea ng a more beau ful city.

Reac on

In the book “Downtowns” Michael A. Burayidi talks about small

According to Mayor John Tucker, the city of Mount Vernon is very

ci es within the United States and their economic health. Burayidi

72

| Chapter 5

Figure 5.1

Existing Land Use

Master Comprehensive Plan | 73

Figure 5.2

74

Existing Land Use - 2 Miles Out

| Chapter 5

Figure 5.3

Future Land Use

Master Comprehensive Plan | 75

Figure 5.4

76

Future Land Use - 2 Miles Out

| Chapter 5

then proceeds to explain the problems that small ci es are facing

have recognized the advantages of having more people actually

and gives his advice along with others. Kent Robertson, a leader

live downtown thereby providing a human presence throughout

in the eld of downtown revitaliza on, talks about what can be

the week and a market for downtown businesses” (Robertson

done for a successful downtown area. Kent Robertson says “The

2001, 14-15). Robertson concludes this principle by saying that

healthiest downtowns contain a wide range of ac vi es that serve

“Most small city downtowns possess an inherent advantage

to bring di|erent types of people downtown for di|erent reasons

over other loca ons within their city and region: a mul tude of

at varied mes of the day and week. Tradi onally, the primary

ac vi es within close walking distance. Downtowns seeking to

downtown func ons were shopping/services and employment.

improve their vitality have learned to build upon and enhance

Even though most small ci es have seen the level of downtown

the func ons that are already prevalent and then, as appropriate,

retailing decline in recent decades, these two ac vi es are s ll

add new complimentary func ons” (Robertson 2001, 15). This

very important. Other func ons compliment this tradi onal

thesis project will do just that and add a mul tude of new and

commercial orienta on. Downtown has long been the loca on

exci ng a0rac ons.

for government-related structures such as city halls, county courthouses, libraries, post oHces. and police sta ons. O+en the

Phases

oldest churches in the city are in the downtown area, thereby

Phasing of a thesis project with this size of scope can be

a0rac ng people during the weekend and evenings. Entertainment

challenging. With the city master comprehensive plan and other

ac vi es and cultural a0rac ons also bring people downtown at

investor projects as a guide, this thesis will be the con nua on

mes other than the tradi onal 9AM -5PM on weekdays. The

and act as a model for the city to follow. Phasing of the riverfront

above ac vi es primarily seek to bring people to the downtown

and the historic downtown has already began. Phase one of the

from elsewhere. In recent years, however, many downtowns

city’s inten ons for the future was to create sidewalks and clean Master Comprehensive Plan | 77

the debris and dense forest from the riverfront. Phase two was to demolish the old silos and reclaim the natural beauty of the Ohio River. Phase one and two can be seen in gure 5.5 and gure 5.6.

Phase three will be breaking ground in the Spring of 2012. Stated from the Courier and Press news ar cle, “Mount Vernon, Ind., Makes Plans For Amphitheater, Fountain On Riverfront,” by Carol Wersich says that phase three consists of “an amphitheater with an interac ve fountain — cos ng around $1 million — will be built on picturesque acreage overlooking bends in the Ohio

Figure 5.5

Phase 1

Figure 5.6

Phase 2 - Removal of the Silos

River” (Wersich 2011). Wersich also writes “ Construc on on the Riverfront Amphitheatre is expected to begin next spring (Spring 2012), according to Tucker” (Wersich 2011). Phase three is pictured in gure 5.7 and gure 5.8.

Phase four of this riverfront revitaliza on program consists of “ the development of a $7.9 million three-story building across Water Street from the amphitheater. The building will include senior housing units and condominiums on the upper oors and retail/ commercial space on the ground level. Tucker said the building 78

| Chapter 5

will be known as The Landing” (Wersich 2011). Carol Wersich also writes “The mayor said he hopes the new construc on will make Mount Vernon “a des na on place for families and businesses” and will spur addi onal economic development in the future” (Wersich 2011). The Landing will be designed

by Andrew Myszak, project manager with Myszak + Palmer, Inc. out of Vincennes, Indiana. Wersich writes “Though predominantly contemporary and green in design, the building will also feature some architectural elements reminiscent Figure 5.7

Phase 3 - Outdoor Amphitheater

of older buildings, which formerly stood on the proposed construc on site. Tucker predicted energy costs in the senior housing units could average between $80 to $100 a month. He said the condominiums will be o|ered for sale at market rate.

“The proposed 52 households and the retail areas will create a vibrant new center of ac vity on what is now vacant ground across from the proposed Riverfront Amphitheatre and park,” Tucker said. “The Landing supports the economic progress already made in Mount Vernon, by crea ng jobs during the construc on phase, and in the opera on of the building and

Figure 5.8

Phase 3 - Outdoor Amphitheater

retail employment while adding 52 quality units to the tax base, Master Comprehensive Plan | 79

crea ng more income for the city’s future endeavors” (Wersich 2011). According to Myszak wri0en by Wersich, “The Landing construc on is an cipated to begin in September 2012 and be complete by fall of 2013” (Wersich 2011). Figure 5.9 and gure 5.10 depict phase four of the master comprehensive plan.

With new homes and retail shops within the downtown area by the fall of 2013, residents of Mount Vernon will be needing an area of entertainment and art. With prospects of a successful phase four, this thesis project of a complex of entertainment

Figure 5.9

Phase 4 - The Landing Development

Figure 5.10

Phase 4 - The Landing Development

venues and retail should be phase ve of this con nuing of the riverfront revitaliza on program and the master comprehensive plan developed by the city of Mount Vernon and Bernardin, Lochmueller & Associates, Inc. Phase ve, which is this thesis project is shown in gure 5.11.

Phase six of the riverfront revitaliza on program will then be addressed during or a+er construc on of phase ve. Also Phase six will consist of a recrea on trail that will run along Mill creek and connect the riverfront and the downtown area 80

| Chapter 5

to the Alexandrian public library, West Elementary school, Bri0lebank park, and the Safe Route to School, which will connect the schools together on a safe pedestrian and bike path making it safer for children to travel to school more sustainably. Phase six is shown in gure 5.12.

Future phases of Mount Vernon will then be addressed as t to the master comprehensive plan as discussed with Bernardin, Lochmueller & Associates, Inc. and the city of Figure 5.11

Phase 5 - Immediate Site Selected

Mount Vernon.

Summary As stated previously, in 2008, the city of Mount Vernon, Indiana and the rm Bernardin, Lochmueller & Associates, Inc. wrote a new master comprehensive plan for the city and its expansion. As stated in sec on three of this thesis, it was determined that the city of Mount Vernon is working towards its goals as stated in The City of Mount Vernon Final Comprehensive Plan.

Figure 5.12

Phase 6 - Recreational Trail

The vision of the Comprehensive Plan is to encourage the Master Comprehensive Plan | 81

establishment and expansion for the city of Mount Vernon. It

“Increase ac vi es and events in downtown Mount Vernon to

is a protected method to strengthen the downtown area while

make downtown more a0rac ve for residents to visit” (Bernardin

providing the ci zens and visitors with ample needs. The vision

Lochmueller & Associates, Inc. 2008, 75).

strives to achieve a desirable des na on for ci zens to live and work. Development will be persuaded to eHciently use exis ng

Guidelines were set in place for Mount Vernon to follow. Guideline

infrastructure and exis ng building condi ons.

G-11 is one of the most important guideline that needs to happen in order for Mount Vernon to ourish once again. Guideline

The future vision of Mount Vernon can only be seen by the ci zens

G-11 states “ Create a downtown revitaliza on program that

of the city. Their input was greatly used in the con nua on of

encourages the coopera on and interac on between downtown

the vision stated within the Comprehensive Plan. Even though

business owners and occupants, provides incen ves for the

their input was not stated within the future vision chapter of the

rehabilita on of structures in downtown, provides improved

Comprehensive Plan, Bernardin, Lochmueller & Associates, Inc.

streetscape and adequate o|-street parking, and facilitates the

addresses their input within community issues.

marke ng of downtown” (Bernardin Lochmueller & Associates, Inc. 2008, 81).

With the vision in place that the Master Comprehensive Plan campaigns to achieve, sets the stage for a number of goals

Land use maps and future land use maps were provided

to be stated for the community to achieve. Such goals are

and

economic development, housing, business uses, environment,

recommenda ons for Mount Vernon to follow.

transporta on, u li es, recrea on, and community. Pertaining to this thesis, more speci cally goal and objec ve 8.1 1 reads 82

| Chapter 5

Bernardin,

Lochmueller

&

Associates

stated

their

Progression has become evident within the city of Mount Vernon over the past few years. The riverfront has seen major improvements with the addi on of park benches, trash cans, new sidewalks, landscaping, and the removal of the old silos, also stated in chapter two. Within the next year, private developers will be breaking ground on a new outdoor amphitheater for the riverfront as well as a three story complex of a|ordable re rement housing, luxury condos, and essen al retail shops for more urban living within the downtown area. This addi on to downtown is essen al to the Master Comprehensive Plan and the future of Mount Vernon, as well as to the success of this thesis project.

With new homes and retail shops within the downtown area by the fall of 2013, residents of Mount Vernon will be needing an area of entertainment and art. With prospects of a successful phase four, this thesis project of a complex of entertainment venues and retail should be phase ve of this con nuing of the riverfront revitaliza on program and the master comprehensive plan developed by the city of Mount Vernon and Bernardin, Lochmueller & Associates, Inc. Master Comprehensive Plan | 83

6

This thesisâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; inten on is to provide an instrument to integrate, connect, and reestablish a thriving popular community once again. The program for this built connec on will be an vital part

Program Analysis

of its success, with the way it persuades the everyday life of the cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s residents and visitors. Mount Vernon has seen a number of entertainment venues enter and exit within the downtown area. Movie theaters, opera houses, restaurants and shops of all kinds for example. In Chapter 3 of this thesis, a site was selected. The site selected was then analyzed in Chapter 4.

Chapter 5, the master comprehensive plan was discussed and found the need for an entertainment venues for the city.

Mount Vernon is very fortunate to have vacant lots for designers and architects to ll. The program for this thesis will serve the physical buildings, the users, and the cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s needs on many levels. A successful civic hall and entertainment programs for Mount Vernon will provide the permanence that a successful redeveloping downtown needs. The engagement of Program Analysis | 85

entertainment through a literal venture in the built context brings

Also, as stated in chapter 5, phase four of the riverfront

dependability to the eHciently developed vision that Mount

revitaliza on program consists of “the development of a $7.9

Vernon needs to convey to its ci zens and its traveling through

million three-story building across Water Street from the

visitors to a0ract their a0en on.

amphitheater. The building will include senior housing units and

Project Inspira on

condominiums on the upper oors and retail/commercial space on the ground level. With new homes and retail shops within the

Once a des na on, many small ci es have seen a decline in their

downtown area by the fall of 2013, residents of Mount Vernon

downtown cores. This is partly due to the inven on of the regional

will be needing an area of entertainment and art. With prospects

highways and the interstates. As stated in Chapter 5 of this thesis,

of a successful phase four, this thesis project of a complex of

Kent Robertson, a leader in the eld of downtown revitaliza on,

entertainment venues and retail should be phase ve of this

talks about what can be done for a successful downtown area.

con nuing of the riverfront revitaliza on program and the master

Robertson says, “Most small city downtowns possess an inherent

comprehensive plan developed by the city of Mount Vernon and

advantage over other loca ons within their city and region: a

Bernardin, Lochmueller & Associates, Inc.” (chapter 5).

mul tude of ac vi es within close walking distance. Downtowns seeking to improve their vitality have learned to build upon and

The goals of this thesis project are to integrate a small civic hall into

enhance the func ons that are already prevalent and then, as

a larger development that would not only serve as an anchor, but a

appropriate, add new complimentary func ons” (Robertson

las ng charisma to ensure the viability of the neighboring historic

2001, 15). This thesis project will do just that and add a mul tude

context. This block development would include the character

of new and exci ng a0rac ons.

and, most importantly, ac vity and entertainment of surrounding sites in a way that would incite growth and innova on through

86

| Chapter 6

the natural phasing of real estate turnover and en ty parcel

services compared to a short list of what people enjoy in similar

maturity for genera ons to come. All these delibera ons have

public spaces today. Since this is an explora on into an cost-

the interest of the county and city but are directly compassionate

e|ec ve social center, those ac vi es that are most trendy and

to the neighborhood scale. This not only insures the protec on

reasonable will be heavily considered.

of localism but also brings a prac cal approach to the project that will decrease vacancies and promote tourism. It will also

Program and Goals

limit the careless invasion of vacant lots into the surrounding

The analysis and survey was completed and was resolved to Mount

neighborhoods. The overall program seeks to create venues of

Vernon needing upscale restaurants and entertainment venues

new construc on that will readdress business to Mount Vernon’s

for all ages. With the recent progress as discussed in chapter

downtown and therefore make the adjacent historic spaces more

5 of this thesis, the city is beginning to recognize the need for

economically prac cal.

further development and excitement within the downtown area.

Recent proposals and a0empts to renovate historic structures

The individual programs for the enduring spaces are exible

show that the downtown area is simply lacking encouraging

and may be based on two considera ons: reloca ng downtown

schemes to produce noteworthy investments. “The Landing”

tenants in inadequate spaces or providing spaces for new tenants

development as discussed in chapter 5, Carol Wersich writes

that are not available. Their projected uses will be managed by

“The mayor said he hopes the new construc on will make Mount

an analysis of the current downtown ameni es and a proposal

Vernon “a des na on place for families and businesses” and will

based on what would best serve the area.

spur addi onal economic development in the future” (Wersich 2011). The Landing will be designed by Andrew Myszak, project

The program will be mo vated by an evalua on of the analysis of

manager with Myszak + Palmer, Inc. out of Vincennes, Indiana.

Program Analysis | 87

Wersich writes “Though predominantly contemporary and

in renova ons and new construc on as downtown becomes

green in design, the building will also feature some architectural

more dense and popular among residents and visitors. The least

elements reminiscent of older buildings, which formerly stood on

popular outcome would for a new building or an array of buildings

the proposed construc on site” (Wersich 2011). This des na on

with uses that are met with public objec on that delivers more

will set the stage and focus for other growth and new construc on

vacancies than it erased. The site will also serve as a con nua on

within the downtown area. The program for the civic hall and

of Mount Vernon’s revitaliza on e|orts that are currently taking

entertainment venues and their con guous spaces will help ll in

place as discussed in chapter 5. The sites func on will strive to

the gaps in the lack of encouraging proposals.

bene t local residents and traveling visitors with entertainment and provide downtown with commerce. The rela onship of the

The site located inside the 300 block of College street and is

site to the river, “The Landing” development, and Mount Vernon’s

contained by highway 62 and Main street was selected and is

government buildings give it poten al to reconnect a vacant hub

shown in Figure 6.1. This loca on on Main street and highway

to the rest of the expanding city in a more posi ve manner.

62 provides the greatest of visibili es to residents and visitors to Mount Vernon’s downtown area. However, its success will greatly

Materiality

depend on the execu on of the city’s e|orts and the developer’s

For the purpose of this thesis, some basic building materials of

e|orts of “The Landing” development.

the region were analyzed. This thesis also examines each building material carefully and includes the established coherence of

Such preliminary projects, such as “The Landing” development

prominent building materials and how successfully they are. This

and the outdoor riverfront amphitheater, must spark future

thesis also examines manufactures around the area and selects

growth and establish a pleasing language that can be con nued

speci c manufactures of the analyzed building materials that

88

| Chapter 6

are within a 500 mile radius of the selected site. This selec on

to the 21st century and beyond.

process helps reduce emissions from vehicles transpor ng the selected material.

The dis nguished character of the selected materials are seen as their styles, ways of providing shelter, and permanent applica ons.

Five materials and manufactures were selected and ranges from

There are a number of issues when the exterior materials are

exterior facade materials to interior applica ons. These materials

carried through the interior spaces along the axis of the historic

selected are of the most widely used in the urban seÂ&#x2019;ng. They

bay layout. The walls are then obstacles for future tenants, thus

are also used in Mount Vernonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s built environment, especially

preven ng easy transi ons from one tenant to another. Due

within the downtown area. Two of the selected materials, Indiana

to the expensive cost of renova ons and lack of space, future

limestone and brick, were tradi onally used, and s ll used, as

tenants are more likely to reside in the suburban areas of town.

structural units that are readily available, durable, and reusable.

These materials are o+en found throughout modern day prac ce

By using basic curtain walls in construc on, tenants would be able

to this day.

to move walls and expand more quickly and cost-e|ec vely. This will then glimmer a greater interest in moving into downtown

Basic explana ons of what we value about the downtown

loca ons instead of suburban areas. The integra on of curtain

environment and what seems to weaken its buildings can help us

walls of glass or other building materials, provides func onality

nd a solu on. A simple analysis of material can help a designer

and the prospect to create exci ng spaces.

or architect create a more las ng and sustainable structure.

Ul mately, we deviate to a built form that might retain the historic

Since this thesis is located in southern Indiana, it is only poli cally

dimensions and bay layouts but could innovate the interior spaces

correct to build with local materials and to use Indiana limestone Program Analysis | 89

in the construc on of this structure. In respect to the history, this

Shading solu ons for south and western facades of buildings

thesis project will only improve the surrounding context with its

without harming views outside of the structures is also needed

connec on with Indiana limestone. Indian Limestone case study,

and was analyzed. Due to the orienta on of this thesis project, a

located on page 75 of this thesis, with gures labeled as gure

unique and exci ng shading device is needed along the southern

6.2.

exposed wall.

Brick o|ers a variety of colors and textures to be expressed with

By including ceiling panels unique to the space with this thesis

this thesis. But since brick facades make most of this thesis

project, the structure will strive to achieve a sustainability factor

project, brick would only be a wise choice in this new structure to

that will set the example for new buildings around the world. The

be constructed within the surrounding context.

ceiling panels will also create an atmosphere, within the structure, of a great ambiance that will set the example for surrounding

Leﾂ地g natural light into a structure without disturbing

buildings. The be0er an atmosphere of a space, the more people

sustainability and hea ng and cooling features will be one

it will a0ract.

solu on included in this thesis project and was analyzed. Also, many surrounding buildings within the surrounding context have many large windows that allows for wonderful natural sunlight into those buildings. In respect to the history, this thesis project will only improve the surrounding context with its connec on with glass facades.

90

| Chapter 6

Case Study - Materials

Indiana Limestone Company says, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Vanderbilt Classic is a

Indiana Limestone

solid, genuine natural Indiana limestone (Stone masonry

Indiana Limestone Company

unit) sawn building veneer. The strong, clean look of genuine

P. O. Box 1560

Indiana limestone masonry units is ideal for both commercial

Bedford, IN 47421

and ne residen al structures. Using proven, me-tested

Located in Bedford, Indiana, Indiana Limestone Company and

Indiana limestone, Vanderbilt Classic is readily available in full

since 1926, they have con nued to be the largest limestone

bed-depth precision cut modular limestone masonry units.

quarrier and fabricator in the United States. In respect to the

Vanderbilt Classic limestone masonry units can be produced

history, this thesis project will only improve the surrounding

from the full color range of Indiana limestone, including our

context with its connec on with Indiana limestone.

premium Bu| and Silver Bu| materials. All of our stone exhibits the subtle natural color range and ght grain structure of Indiana limestone that architects and builders have sought out for over 100 yearsâ&#x20AC;? (Indiana Limestone Company 2011).

Figure 6.1

Brick and Limestone Example

Figure 6.2

Indiana Limestone

Program Analysis | 91

Case Study - Materials

structures in the surrounding context of this thesis project

Endico0 Face Brick

contain brick facades, it would be wise to construct a new

Endico0 Clay Products Co.

building with the same texture and color of brick.

P.O. Box 17 Fairbury, Nebraska USA 68352

Endico0 says, “Endico0 has a face brick to meet most any design criteria. A variety of colors, including authen c Ironspots and a

Endico0 face brick o|ers a wide variety of brick to be used with

wide selec on of textures and sizes, provides the designer with

any project. Endico0 o|ers an endless color pale0e selec on

an array of product selec ons. Regardless of what’s perceived

that also includes an endless selec on of textures that can

in the mind’s eye, Endico0 possesses the ability to transform

be matched with exis ng bricks. Since many of the exis ng

that image into an aesthe cally beau ful shape of the highest quality. These shapes, available in colors, textures and sizes to match the face brick, create the benchmark for design exibility” (Endico0 2011).

Brick o|ers a variety of colors and textures to be expressed with this thesis. But since brick facades make most of this thesis project, brick would only be a wise choice in this new structure to be constructed within the surrounding context.

Figure 6.3

92

Endicott Face Brick Application

| Chapter 6

Case Study - Materials

windows that allows for wonderful natural sunlight into those

PPG Architectural Glass

buildings. In respect to the history, this thesis project will only

PPG Industries, Inc.

improve the surrounding context with its connec on with glass

400 Guys Run Road

facades.

Cheswick, PA 15024 PPG Industries o|ers many glass solu ons to an array of

PPG Industries says, “Throughout its history, beginning as a

projects. Le ng natural light into a structure without disturbing

glass manufacturer in 1883, and now as a globally diverse

sustainability and hea ng and cooling features will be one

coa ngs and specialty products provider, PPG has blazed a trail

solu on included in this thesis project. Also, many surrounding

of leadership and innova on. Today, that legacy con nues, not

buildings within the surrounding context have many large

just in an ever-expanding array of sustainable products, but also through corporate business prac ces, manufacturing advances and supplier partnerships that help protect the environment, build strong communi es and enhance individual lives. The company has pioneered the development of today’s advanced low-e and solar control, low-e coa ngs, including Solarban 70XL glass, which features the industry’s rst triple-silver, low-e coa ng” (PPG Industries 2011).

Figure 6.4

PPG Architectural Glass

Program Analysis | 93

Case Study - Materials Cambridge Solucent Systems Cambridge Architectural 105 Goodwill Rd Cambridge, MD 21613 Cambridge Solucent systems o|ers a wide variety of shading solu ons for south and western facades of buildings without harming views outside of the structures. Due to the orienta on of this thesis project, a unique and exci ng shading device Figure 6.5

Cambridge Solucent System Mesh

is needed along the southern exposed wall. Cambridge Architectural says, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Cambridge mesh provides a unique alterna ve to tradi onal shading systems, and can be designed for almost any opacity, shading or heat reduc on requirements imaginable. For solar shading, architectural mesh looks and performs brilliantly. Cambridge mesh is more sophis cated and re ned than any other solar shading product - and promotes airÂ&#x152;ow unlike tradi onal shading materials.

Figure 6.6

94

Cambridge Solucent System Mesh

| Chapter 6

Based on the mesh pa0ern, the interac on of material with light varies. Closed, ght weaves can block illumina on completely, while open pa0erns allow varying degrees of light to pass through.

Cambridge provides solar heat gain data to assist in mesh pa0ern selec on.

Woven metal fabric reduces solar glare and light pollu on from electric night ligh ng. In the day me, mesh can replace tradi onal wall materials to harvest natural daylight. Cambridge mesh is lightweight and requires minimal structural support - reducing material and labor costs - and, it can be made from recycled materialsâ&#x20AC;? (Cambridge Architectural 2011).

Program Analysis | 95

Case Study - Materials

“Armstrong is the rst ceiling manufacturer with a closed-

Armstrong Ceiling Panels

loop recycling program which redirects recovered ceilings

2500 Columbia Ave. (17603)

back to the manufacturing process. This cradle-to-cradle

P.O. Box 3001

process is a natural extension of our use of recycled materials

Lancaster, PA 17604

and environmentally compa ble manufacturing process that

Armstrong ceiling panels o|ers its customers with award

reduces our environmental footprint. To aid in reducing ligh ng

winning designs in sustainability (LEED), ligh ng eHciency, and

power density which lowers energy and maintenance costs,

acous cal design. Armstrong uses a recycling program that

Armstrong High Light Re ectance ceilings and systems provide

collects old ceiling panels and recycles them into new ones,

the same level of luminance with fewer luminaries.

which reduces the amount of new materials to be reduced.

This will assist in reducing ligh ng and HVAC energy costs in new

Armstrong ceiling panels helps to achieve maximum comfort

or exis ng building structures where a High Light Re ectance

and aids in aesthe cs of a space without disturbing the

ceiling is installed along with indirect ligh ng” (Armstrong

environment.

2011).

Figure 6.7

96

Armstrong Ceiling Panels

| Chapter 6

Figure 6.8

Ceiling Panels Configurations

Users

its visitors that may just travel through town. By crea ng such

The objec ve of this thesis project, as a method of establishing

a program that a0racts visitors and suburban residents is the

entertainment to Mount Vernon’s social and economical center

ul mate goal of this thesis project. The program will also consider

of town, would provide something for everyone of every age.

residents that travel to the site by vehicle and o|er them ample

The urban center, the courthouse square, will con nue to be

resources that are not o|ered in the suburban areas. Examples

the center stage of the city. Instead of being enjoyed only during

of users that would be a0racted to the site are listed on the next

the day, entertainment venues would provide something for

pages of this sec on. These users range in age and culture, just

everyone around the clock on everyday of the week.

like the city itself.

More speci cally, this thesis project will examine crea ng vibrant spaces. If the exis ng shops and restaurants were centrally

Final goals

located, the downtown area would feel more complete and

Decisively, the project will o|er the city of Mount Vernon with

dense, as an urban core should feel. This density can be achieved

public buildings full of entertainment that will promotes socialism,

in many techniques. It can be achieved by crea ng in mate public

pro tability, and reconnec on, for the desolate downtown.

urban spaces, funneling of traHc both vehicle and pedestrian,

Lee Ross Dinwiddie of Franklin, Kentucky states several words

and by orienta ng programma c spaces and buildings to create

of wisdom within his thesis project “Revitalizing the American

subconscious urban spaces for interac on between user groups.

Downtown.” He says “In small ci es, the most important spaces are those that serve as transient zones between two dynamic

The program will then extend beyond its exis ng downtown and

areas. This site will both regulate and s mulate the fading

a0ract its suburban and rural residents. It will also strive to a0ract

downtown and the historic neighborhoods. It can serve as both Program Analysis | 97

a connec on and a bu|er between the two spacesâ&#x20AC;? (59). I feel that this can also be applied to this thesis project as well since the site is located between a historic neighborhood and the fading downtown of Mount Vernon, Indiana.

98

| Chapter 6

User Personas

commute to Evansville, Indiana every day, and is contempla ng

The Barista Family - Young Family

on star ng his own illustra ng rm or a satellite oHce with his current rm in Mount Vernon. Since both Sarah and David

David Barista

work during the day, Melissa goes to day care in the morning and is picked up in the evening during the week. David and

Sarah Barista

Sarah both enjoy walking trips to Bri0lebank Park for a picnic with Melissa. “It is very dangerous walking along the roads in

Melissa Barista

some parts of the walk,” says Sarah. David adds, “We would really enjoy some kind of path from downtown to the park that Figure 6.9

Barista Family

we can enjoy.” David is a handyman around the home and is always renova ng the house and volunteers around the city.

Sarah is a gym enthusiast and is a leader in her mommy and

Meet David and Sarah Barista and their three year old daughter

munchkins weekend gatherings, which take place at a local

Melissa. David and Sarah are high school sweethearts. Both

church. “It would be really nice if there was a city mul purpose

David and Sarah were born and raised in Mount Vernon,

room that we could rent once a week,” says Sarah.

Indiana. David grew up in the Western Hills country club neighborhood and Sarah grew up in the historic neighborhood of Mount Vernon. Sarah is an editor and photographer for the Mount Vernon Democrat. David is an anima on specialist for a mul media company in the region. David does not enjoy his Program Analysis | 99

User Personas

Meet Joe Tulley. He is a small business owner from Mount

Joe Tulley - Small Business Owner

Vernon, Indiana. He is interested in opening a small co|ee shop and restaurant in the downtown area. Joe grew up in Evansville,

Joe Tulley

Indiana with his parents. He also received his business degree from University of Southern Indiana and is currently employed at a chain co|ee shop. He is not happy with his restric ons with work and would like to open his own co|ee shop or restaurant.

Joe would also like to live in a more historic and quiet city.

Joe enjoys running and working out at the gym. Joeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hobbies Figure 6.10

100 | Chapter 6

Joe Tulley

include photography, beer connoisseur, and gardening.

User Personas

Meet Kristen Brown (on the le+). Kristen is a recent graduate of

Kristen Brown - Recent High School Graduate

Mount Vernon Senior High School. She is planning on a0ending University of Southern Indiana for nursing. Kristen was born

Kristen Brown

and raised in Mount Vernon. She plans on living at home and commu ng to school every day. While Kristen a0ended school in Mount Vernon, she o+en complained that there was nothing exci ng to do while she was downtown. Kristen says, “If there was a co|ee shop, book store, or just a place to relax a+er school, the life downtown would be more exci ng downtown, Figure 6.11

Kristen Brown

then what it is today.” Kristen also says, “The downtown area should have places to go for everyone, not just for the criminals and lawyers or the bankers and their clients.” Besides working on school work, Kristen is involved with the marching band and the student council. Kristen also enjoys pain ng and kni ng.

“Having a place to show o| my ar s c skills as well as selling them would be a really cool idea,” Kristen adds.

Program Analysis | 101

User Personas

Meet Tim Moore. Tim is a 45 year old, divorced factory worker

Tim Moore - Factory Worker

for a local manufacturing company. Tim has been working in the factory ever since he graduated from high school. Tim Moore

Tim Moore

was born and raised in Mount Vernon, Indiana. His father just re red from the same factory that Tim is currently employed at. “The work is steady and the pay is fair,” Tim says. “Now there is only one Moore that gets yelled at,” Tim laughs. Tim works a steady schedule of shi+ work. Tim also volunteers for a local re sta on just outside of the city limits. Tim really enjoys Figure 6.12

Tim Moore

helping his local community. He never has a chance to visit his family and some mes even misses holidays with them. Tim adds, “Ge ng o| of work at midnight is some mes diHcult when I am hungry and nothing is opened in this small town.”

102 | Chapter 6

User Personas

Meet Steve Hoehn of Hoehn Farms. Steve is a 40 year old local

Steve Hoehn - Local Farmer

farmer, born and raised in northern Posey County. Steve, his wife Ellen, and his two kids live on their 100 acre farm. Much of

Steve Hoehn

their crop is sold locally at grocery stores and along the highway on the edge of town. Steve says, “It would be really nice if there was a loca on downtown where I could sell my produce with other local farmers and help support community life.” “A farmers market could help educate the ci zens about agriculture and living sustainably,” Steve adds. Being a farmer, Steve’s hobbies Figure 6.13

Steve Hoehn

include gardening, organic farming, living sustainably, and researching clean energy methods. Hoehn Farms has been in business for over 100 years. As long as Mount Vernon has been around, Hoehn Farms has been suppor ng Mount Vernon and its ci zens.

Program Analysis | 103

User Personas

Meet the King Family, visitors from Chicago, Illinois. Father Jerry

The King Family - Visitors

King, 41, wife Tina King, 38, son Kyle King, 12, and daughter Kayla King, 6, are all visi ng their family that lives in Mount

The King Family

Vernon, Indiana, and are contempla ng on moving to a smaller community for the sake of the children’s educa on. Currently, Jerry and Tina both work at home in their Chicago suburb. Their children Kyle and Kayla both a0end the local grade school in their suburb, but are not doing very well educa onally. Jerry and Tina are considering moving to a smaller city for more Figure 6.14

King Family

individualized schooling that Mount Vernon’s educa on system can o|er. Currently, the family is visi ng their rela ves and really do not enjoy staying in the small town of Mount Vernon when visi ng, due to the lack of entertainment. The family would rather stay in a hotel in Evansville, Indiana, 20 minutes away. Jerry and Tina say, “There is just more to look at and explore in Evansville. There are movie theaters, shopping malls, downtown shops and restaurants, and even a zoo for the kids.”

Jerry and Tina add, “If there was just one thing exci ng in Mount Vernon, that the whole family could enjoy, we would move here in a heartbeat.”

104 | Chapter 6

Case Study - Use

development that supports the City of Greenville’s master plan

Urban Revitaliza on

to further enhance the South Main Street area of downtown

River Place Mixed-Use Complex - Phase 1

as a des na on place. It is the single largest development in

Loca on: Greenville, South Carolina

downtown Greenville’s history. River Place is expected to have

Architect: Cooper Carry Architects

another two phases of its development.

Use: Mixed Use Riverfront Development

The architecturally striking oHce facility features can levered

Bri0, Peters and Associates provided structural design services

glass corners. The adjacent condominium complex consists of

for Phase 1 construc on of River Place. Located in Greenville,

two wood framed structures providing a total of 50 luxury and

South Carolina River Place is a high-pro le, mixed-use

mid-priced residences. One building comprises four stories, and the other has six stories with retail shops housed on the ground oor. River Place Phase 1 development also includes a pedestrian plaza featuring a world-class water fountain. A public walkway along the river connects River Place to Falls Park. (Bri0, Peters and Associates, Inc. 2011) The condominium in this development is a signi cant part in my own thesis. Providing higher priced places of living is one solu on in bringing ci zens back to the downtown area for my thesis loca on.

Figure 6.15

River Place Mixed Use Development

Program Analysis | 105

Case Study - Use

of the city. For years, the 12 acre area, known as Flon, served

Mixed Use

as an industrial district, surrounded by a rich fabric of historic

Les Colonnades

buildings, but over me the warehouses and lots became

Loca on: Lausanne, Switzerland

vacant, leaving a void in the middle of the city.

Architect: R204Design and Plancherel/Schmid of Switzerland

A simple, clean box by day, a glowing backdrop of colors by

Use: Mixed Use Building

night. This mixed-use project in Switzerland features marching

Located in the French-speaking area of Switzerland, Lausanne is

columns fron ng the adjacent pedestrian passage which gives

a quiet city that is home to the headquarters of the Interna onal

the project its name. The program consists of a high-end

Olympic Commi0ee. The project site resides near the center

restaurant on the ground oor, 2 oors of commercial oHce space, and residen al ats on the top oor. The building employs a number of environmental design strategies. The compact planning of the varied program elements into a simple, clean box provided an eHcient but elegant, green design that would re ect the Swiss cultural aesthe c. (ArchiCentral 2010) This building is an excellent example for my thesis since it incorporates several luxury places and is situated in a district that needs renewal.

Figure 6.16

Les Colonnades

106 | Chapter 6

Case Study - Use

facility and one acre rain garden for the Chautauqua Ins tu on

Civic Hall

School of Music. This building provides a 250 seat rehearsal

Fletcher Music Hall

and performance facility that varies in uses from voice to

Loca on: Chautauqua Ins tu on; Chatauqua, New York

instrumental to opere0a and large ensembles.

Architect: Foit Albert Associates Use: Music Hall

The building uses many sustainable features including a rain garden. The roofs of the building also can lever is such a way

Foit-Albert Associates provided architectural and engineering

that the rain water is ltered into the rain garden. (Foit-Albert

services for the design of this 6,000 square foot, single-story

Associates 2011) This building is an example of one of the uses that the mixed building that I have proposed in my thesis. It is similar in size and would roughly seat the same amount of people. The func on of the space would be used in many ways for the city.

Figure 6.17

Fletcher Music Hall

Program Analysis | 107

Case Study - Use

The 40s, 50s, and 60s were golden years for the County Theater.

Movie Theater

As an important town center and gathering place, it worked

County Theater

its Hollywood magic. But by the 70s, the usual suspects (TV,

Loca on: Doylestown, PA

shopping centers, and mul plexes) were beginning to take their

Use: 2 Screen Movie Theater

toll and the theater was in a slow downward spiral. In the early

350 Occupants

80s, the theater even lost its air-condi oning! The neon le0ers

The County Theater was built in 1938. The County is a ne

on the marquee tower went dim one by one. Then in 1990 the

product of late art-deco style and, more importantly, it is air-

theater closed for six months. A+er reopening, it closed again in

condi oned and â&#x20AC;&#x153;state-of-the-art,â&#x20AC;? even back when it opened.

1992, this me for nine months. In 1992, the theater was saved and in 1997 major renova ons took place saving the building.

In 1998, the exterior was restored to its original beauty and in 2009, the interior was renovated to what it is today. Renova ons to the lobby were completed in June 2009. The lobby change was cosme c and long overdue. In keeping with the art deco origins of the theater, new carpets were installed and fresh paint was added. In addi on, new entrances to the two auditoriums were made by crea ng double door ves bules. An addi onal improvement included an upgraded video projec on system to accommodate the latest in digital media and high quality

Figure 6.18

County Theater

108 | Chapter 6

projec on. ( Countytheater.org, 2011)

7

A signi cant program contains a detailed list of buildings and spaces to ful ll the required program and goals as discussed in the previous sec on. The following spaces are designed with

Program Development

deduc ve programs that are based on commercial construc on, successful spaces within downtown Mount Vernon, and the idea that these spaces are exible in terms of func on and adaptability. The civic hall program will include a dynamic room for an occupancy of around 300 guests. The civic hall will also include oHces for city oHcials that are without an appropriate oHce. Being located across from the courthouse, city oHcials will be able to travel easily between government buildings.

Located along the major regional highways, and within the courthouse square, the civic hall will be an icon for the city of Mount Vernon, without taking away from the county courthouse. As an icon and a bene t for the downtown area, the civic hall will become the se ng of the more social spaces created within the downtown area. Mount Vernon’s need for a Program Development | 111

civic hall and entertainment venues follows the decision of the successful planning and outcome of “The Landing” development as discussed in chapter 5 of this thesis project.

Program and the Goals of Design

The program for Mount Vernon’s new civic hall and entertainment venues will be based on the needs of the ci zens of Mount Vernon, as well as the needs associated with the func ons of Figure 7.1

Program Relationship

the spaces. These entertainment venues include a civic hall with a exible space, a two to four screen movie theater, a formal restaurant, and an adaptable mixed use building with adaptable structural bays. These programma c spaces can be found in gure 7.1. Square footages of these speci c buildings can be found in the gures to follow, as well.

Even though

these structures may be permanent, the tenants within these structures could be ever changing with their own needs. That is why, one must design a space that can accommodate those changes and can make those new tenants successful within the downtown area. For purpose of these tenants, this thesis will 112 | Chapter 7

Figure 7.2

Civic Hall Program

Program Development | 113

Figure 7.3

Civic Hall Space Matrix

114 | Chapter 7

Figure 7.4

Civic Hall Bubble Diagram

Figure 7.5

Movie Theater Program

Program Development | 115

Figure 7.6

Movie Theater Space Matrix

116 | Chapter 7

Figure 7.7

Movie Theater Bubble Diagram

Figure 7.8

Restaurant Program

Program Development | 117

Figure 7.9

Restaurant Space Matrix

118 | Chapter 7

Figure 7.10

Restaurant Bubble Diagram

examine the urban aesthe cs of the exis ng context to create a

except for making the downtown area more dense. “The Landing”

facade that will be a recognizable icon within the downtown of

development, as stated in chapter 5 of this thesis project, which is

Mount Vernon.

to break ground in the fall of 2012, will help start this issue. This thesis project will then con nue to densify the downtown area

Behind the unique facade of these buildings, Mount Vernon’s

and bring entertainment to the residents living in the downtown

entertainment district can change with the ever changing future

area and to a0ract new visitors as stated in chapter 6.

and technology of today’s world. This adaptability will only bene t the city, it’s residents, and the future businesses in Mount

“The Landing” development is a similar project happening in

Vernon, Indiana. The result of a dynamically changing building is

the area that is related to this thesis project. It is similar in scale,

an economic gain and an urban form that allows for future growth

context, and program. Its orienta on, much like this project was

within the downtown area. For Mount Vernon, this means that

taken into considera on as being both an icon and a boundary for

the Final Comprehensive Plan can con nue to grow and move

downtown development, located on the riverfront. It lies at the

forth with the city’s ever changing future.

end of Main street and will eventually sit amidst a similar context of the downtown area. Carol Weirsch, as stated in chapter 5 writes

Similar Projects in Locale - Landing Development

“The Landing supports the economic progress already made in

As discussed in chapter 5 of this thesis project, the city of Mount

Mount Vernon, by crea ng jobs during the construc on phase,

Vernon has adopted a nal comprehensive plan and is working

and in the opera on of the building and retail employment while

towards the goals stated. This includes beau fying the riverfront,

adding 52 quality units to the tax base, crea ng more income for

xing city infrastructure, and densify the downtown area. The city

the city’s future endeavors” (Wersich 2011).

of Mount Vernon has recently seen progress in all of these areas Program Development | 119

8

Beginning with site analysis and the understanding of the exis ng condi ons, the design of this thesis starts to take shape. Located within the heart of downtown, the entertainment district and

Schematic Design

its proposed buildings will serve not only its tenants but also the community. The master comprehensive plan developed for the city of Mount Vernon by Bernardin, Lochmueller & Associates states in guideline eight of their vision to increase ac vity and community in downtown. More speci cally it reads to â&#x20AC;&#x153;Increase ac vi es and events in downtown Mount Vernon to make downtown more a0rac ve for residents to visitâ&#x20AC;? (Bernardin Lochmueller & Associates, Inc. 2008). By increasing ac vi es and bringing entertainment venues to downtown, community and spaces within the downtown area begin to take shape and evolve.

As the program has de ned, there are four por ons of this project; the civic hall, movie theater, restaurant, and retail.

With these programs, public, semi-public, and private spaces Schematic Design | 121

Figure 8.1

Building Community

Figure 8.3

Downtown Land Use

Figure 8.2

Social Gathering

Figure 8.4

Master Comprehensive Plan Future Phases

122 | Chapter 8

take shape within the exterior and interior of the structures.

Logically, these spaces must also be connected to each-other, to the city, and to the riverfront. With these connec ons, the public and private spaces can start to shape through a hierarchy process. Interac on between these spaces is a crucial step in evolving the building form and de ning the func on of the spaces within the ﾂ経or plan and in sec on.

View With the site located within the heart of downtown, views

Figure 8.5

County Court House

become evident within speci c corridors of the city. While maintaining the small city character of Mount Vernon, views in and out of the city will be very important. Func ons within the spaces will need to be interac ve and engaging with the street level in order to a0ract the visitors and ci zens of Mount Vernon. The view to the east of the Posey county courthouse as the civic hall will interact with Main Street and the courthouse lawn. Having a corner presence on the corner of 4th street and Main street will also be a prominent view. Views to the south of the riverfront will also be important when establishing the

Figure 8.6

South Main Street

Schematic Design | 123

architectural func ons of the project. The view of the river is very important when working on a river revitalizing project. This view of the riverfront will create a connec on with the river and the heart of downtown.

Form Located within an urban landscape, limita ons governed by the site has given the form the buildings a dicta on. Using angles from the connec on diagrams, the building form presented Figure 8.7

Connections to the Site

Figure 8.8

Lines of Axis

124 | Chapter 8

Figure 8.9

Form Iteration 1

itself. These building forms were also developed from the

The second itera on of building masses successfully creates

func ons that will be happening from within. These func ons

appropriate gathering areas and has appropriate density while

and forms were developed simultaneously with several itera ons

using angles from the connec on diagrams.

in the process.

The remaining itera ons of building masses has their merits but Itera ons

also includes many Â&#x152;aws. Many of these itera ons do not include

The process of nding a building form for this project and

appropriate gathering areas or are too dense for the city of Mount

more clearly de ning the func ons and program within these

Vernon.

structures and the city has progressed in both quality and clarity as the project has been re ned. Consequently, a more accurate representa on of the buildings programs have taken shape with a realis c idea of volume and area of the func ons within each building. Spa al awareness and orienta on have also developed more realis cally. The rst itera on of masses uses the angles from the city connec ons diagram successfully while expanding the public space between the buildings. While keeping the density of the masses, itera on also creates gathering areas that are not needed and desired.

Schematic Design | 125

Figure 8.10

Form Iteration 2

Figure 8.12

Form Iteration 4

Figure 8.11

Form Iteration 3

Figure 8.13

Form Iteration 5

126 | Chapter 8

Figure 8.14

Massing

Figure 8.16

Massing

Figure 8.15

Massing

Figure 8.17

Massing

Schematic Design | 127

Figure 8.18

Massing

Figure 8.20

Massing

Figure 8.19

Massing

Figure 8.21

Massing

128 | Chapter 8

Sketches The sketches to the right and below show preliminary ﾂ経or plans of the civic hall, the movie theater, and the restaurant.

Using the itera ons of building masses as a base to formulate func ons within the site resulted in clear and appropriate layout of func ons. These sketches can be seen in the gures to follow.

Figure 8.22

Civic Hall Floor Plan Sketch

Figure 8.23

Movie Theater Floor Plan Sketch

Figure 8.24

Restaurant Floor Plan Sketch

Schematic Design | 129

Figure 8.25

Schematic Master Plan

130 | Chapter 8

Figure 8.26

Schematic Civic Hall First Floor Plan

Schematic Design | 131

Figure 8.27

Schematic Civic Hall Second Floor Plan

132 | Chapter 8

Figure 8.28

Schematic Movie Theater Floor Plan

Schematic Design | 133

Figure 8.29

Schematic Restaurant Floor Plan

134 | Chapter 8

Figure 8.30

Schematic Site Section

Figure 8.31

Schematic Site Section

Schematic Design | 135

Figure 8.32

Schematic Civic Hall Perspective

136 | Chapter 8

Figure 8.33

Schematic Main Street Perspective

Schematic Design | 137

Figure 8.34

Schematic Pedestrian Plaza

138 | Chapter 8

Figure 8.35

Schematic College Street Perspective

Schematic Design | 139

Figure 8.36

Schematic Civic Hall Massing Model

Figure 8.38

Schematic Pedestrian Plaza Massing Model

Figure 8.37

Schematic Restaurant Massing Model

Figure 8.39

Schematic College Street Massing Model

140 | Chapter 8

9

With the ini al design in place, further explora on of interior experiences and func ons can take place. When progressing with design, building codes, ADA requirements, and speci c

Design Development

egress requirements must not be forgo0en. This chapter digests these requirements while providing a further analysis of the interior spaces. This chapter will also analyze the experiences of the spaces within the civic hall.

Building Code Buildings, or por ons of buildings, are classi ed by the ac vi es for with they are used. This is commonly referred to as Occupancy Groups. These classi ca ons reÂ&#x152;ect the rela ve life-safety hazard associated with the ac vi es and occupant characteris cs.

The civic hall, designed for this project, is composed of several spaces. These spaces include a 4,400 sq+ Ballroom with retractable theater sea ng, 3,000 sq+ of prefunc on area, a Design Development | 143

small 1,300 sq+ kitchen for catering use, an 800 sq+ stage, a 1,200

A-1, standing space is found to be 5+² net, while unconcentrated

sq+ balcony, and 2,100 sq+ of city oHce space. These spaces are

sea ng (tables, chairs, pla orms, etc.) is 15+² net. Business areas

situated among two oors.

(B) are found to have an occupant load of 100+² gross.

The building will be classi ed as a mixed use building with two

Other data, as found in The Architect’s Studio Companion

occupancy groups. The ballroom will be classi ed as an Assembly

consists of travel distances, minimum length of dead end

(A-1). According to The Architect’s Studio Companion “Assembly

corridors, door widths, and stair widths. For an assembly area,

occupancies include social, recrea onal, entertainment, and

A-1, an unsprinklered maximum travel distance is 200 feet, while

civic gatherings of 50 or more persons. A-1: This group includes

a sprinklered maximum travel distance is 250 feet. The maximum

theaters for the viewing of mo on pictures, drama c arts, and

common path of egress travel is 30 feet for assembly sea ng

performances, usually with xed sea ng” (Allen and Iano 2007,

more than 50 occupants. The minimum length of a dead-end

7). Even though the sea ng will be retractable, the building

corridor is 20 feet. A minimum of 32” net clear door width and a

must be designed as if the sea ng is xed. The city oHces will

maximum of 48” nominal door width is accepted. The minimum

be classi ed as Business (B). The Architect’s Studio Companion

clear corridor width and stair width for more than 49 occupants

states “Business occupancies include oHce, professional, and

is 44”. For a business area (B) an unsprinklered maximum travel

service ac vi es, and storage of related records and accounts”

distance is 200 feet, while a sprinklered maximum travel distance

(Allen and Iano 2007, 7).

is 300 feet. The maximum common path of egress travel is 75 feet for unsprinklered, 100 feet for sprinklered or for unsprinklered

Using the Occupancy Groups found by the func ons of the spaces,

tenant spaces with occupant load of 30 or less. The minimum

an appropriate occupant load is determined. For an assembly area,

length of a dead-end corridor is 20 feet for unsprinklered or 50

144 | Chapter 9

feet for sprinklered. A minimum of 32” net clear door width

exit is 200 feet for unsprinklered and 250 feet for sprinklered

and a maximum of 48” nominal door width is accepted. The

areas. “In assembly spaces, accommoda ons for a minimum

minimum clear corridor width and stair width for more than 49

amount of wheelchair sea ng must be provided” (Allen and

occupants is 44”. (Allen and Iano 2007, 281-285)

Iano 2007, 276). For a total capacity of 101-300 occupants, 5 wheelchair places must be provided. There should also be 2

Since the ballroom will have retractable xed sea ng, there are

separate wheelchair loca ons (Allen and Iano 2007, 273-276).

egress requirements for assembly sea ng. For a row with egress at both ends, maximum row length is 100 seats and a minimum

Using the occupancy group for the civic hall as stated above,

of 12” clear for row spacing plus 0.3” for every seat above 14,

the height and area limita ons for two alterna ve construc on

but the clear row spacing must never exceed 22”. Aisle width for such sea ng is a minimum of 42” for aisles serving more than 50 seats on two sides. Maximum slope of an aisle is 1:8.

Table 9.A

Minimum tread depth is 11” while maximum riser height is 8” and minimum riser height is 4”. Stair width for more than 50 seats on two sides is a minimum of 48”.

Handrails are required on all stairs and handrails subdividing stairs or aisles serving seats on both sides may be discon nuous to allow aisle access. The minimum space between the handrail and adjacent sea ng is 23”. The maximum travel distance to an Design Development | 145

types can be found. A 3-hour, type I-A, is made of a noncombus ble

applied reproo ng materials. Precast concrete columns must be

construc on requires a re resistance ra ng of 3 hours for columns

at least 10” and beams at least 4”. Load bearing wall panels must

and bearing walls and 2 hours for oor construc on. Structural

be at least 3.5” thick and solid slabs may not be less than 3.5”

steel that includes columns, beams, joists, and decking must

thick. Brick masonry load bearing walls must be at least 6” thick

be protected with reproo ng materials. Reinforced concrete

and vaults and domes must be at least 4” deep.

columns must be at least 12” and load bearing walls must be at least 6”. Floor slabs must be at least 5” and between joists require

Egress

protec on with applied reproo ng materials. Precast concrete

As stated from The Architect’s Studio Companion “The func on

columns must be at least 12” and beams at least 7”. Load bearing

of a building egress system is to conduct the occupants of the

wall panels must be at least 6” thick and solid slabs may not be

building to a safe place in case of a re or other emergency”

less than 5” thick. Brick masonry load bearing walls must be at

(Allen and Iano 2007, 253). “For the occupants of the upper oors

least 6” thick and vaults and domes must be at least 8” deep.

of a tall building, or for people who are incapacitated or physically restrained, the safe place may be a re-protected area of refuge

A 1-hour, type II-A, is made of a noncombus ble construc on

within the building itself” (Allen and Iano 2007, 253).

requires a re resistance ra ng of 3 hours for columns and bearing walls and 2 hours for oor construc on. Structural steel that

According to the Interna onal building code, the ballroom

includes columns, beams, jousts, and decking must be protected

located within the civic hall must have at least two independent

with reproo ng materials. Reinforced concrete columns must be

exits since the occupant load of the ballroom is greater than

at least 8” and load bearing walls must be at least 4”. Floor slabs

49 occupants. These exits must also be separated by a distance

must be at least 3.5” and between joists require protec on with

equal to not less than one-half the diagonal measure of the room,

146 | Chapter 9

space, or ﾂ経or. Where the space or building is sprinklered, this distance may be reduced to one third. The diagrams shown on the next pages depict the accessible routes, the compliance of the egress requirements and accessibility requirements of the project.

Design Development | 147

UP DN UP DN

DN

DN

DN DN

Figure 9.1

Egress

148 | Chapter 9

UP

UP DN UP DN

DN

DN

DN DN

Figure 9.2

UP

Emergency Exits

Design Development | 149

UP DN UP DN

45’

DN

DN

DN DN

UP

100’

Figure 9.3

Egress Distance

150 | Chapter 9

Accessibility According to the 2010 American with Disabili es Act Standards for Accessible Design, at least one accessible route shall be provided within the site from accessible parking spaces and accessible passenger loading zones; public streets and sidewalks; and public transporta on stops to the accessible building or facility entrance they serve. At least one accessible route shall connect accessible buildings, accessible facili es, accessible elements, and accessible spaces that are on the same site.

Where a circula on path directly connects a performance area

Figure 9.4

Floor Openings

Figure 9.5

T - Shaped Space

to an assembly sea ng area, an accessible route shall directly connect the assembly sea ng area with the performance area.

An accessible route shall be provided from performance areas to ancillary areas or facili es used by performers. Assembly areas shall provide wheelchair spaces, companion seats, and designated aisle seats. Openings in ﾂ経or or ground surfaces shall not allow passage of a sphere more than ﾂｽ inch (13 mm) diameter.

The turning space shall be a T-shaped space within a 60 inch

Design Development | 151

(1525 mm) square minimum with arms and base 36 inches (915 mm) wide minimum. Each arm of the T shall beclear of obstruc ons 12 inches (305 mm) minimum in each direc on and the base shall be clear of obstruc ons 24 inches (610 mm) minimum.

Unless otherwise speci ed, clear oor or ground space shall be posi oned for either forward or parallel approach to an element.

Figure 9.6

Obstruction Clearances

Ver cal clearance shall be 80 inches (2030 mm) high minimum.

Guardrails or other barriers shall be provided where the ver cal clearance is less than 80 inches (2030 mm) high. The leading edge of such guardrail or barrier shall be located 27 inches (685 mm) maximum above the nish oor or ground.

Accessible routes shall consist of one or more of the following components: walking surfaces with a running slope not steeper Figure 9.7

Vertical Clearance

152 | Chapter 9

than 1:20, doorways, ramps, curb ramps excluding the ared

sides, elevators, and plaÂ&#x161;orm li+s. Excep on: Within employee work areas, clearances on common use circula on paths shall be permi0ed to be decreased by work area equipment provided that the decrease is essen al to the func on of the work being performed. the clear width of walking surfaces shall be 36 inches (915 mm) minimum. Excep on: The clear width shall be permi0ed to be reduced to 32 inches (815 mm) minimum for a length of 24 inches (610 mm) maximum provided that reduced width segments are separated by segments that are 48 inches (1220 mm) long minimum and 36 inches (915 mm) wide minimum.

Figure 9.8

Clear Width

Figure 9.9

Title Degree Turn 180

Where the accessible route makes a 180 degree turn around an element which is less than 48 inches (1220 mm) wide, clear width shall be 42 inches (1065 mm) minimum approaching the turn, 48 inches (1220 mm) minimum at the turn and 42 inches (1065 mm) minimum leaving the turn. Figure 9.9 displays this 180 degree turn.

Maneuvering clearances shall extend the full width of the doorway and the required latch side or hinge side clearance.

Design Development | 153

Figure 9.10

Front Approach

Figure 9.12

Front Approach

Figure 9.11

Front Approach

Figure 9.13

Hinge Approach

154 | Chapter 9

Figure 9.14

Hinge Approach

Figure 9.16

Two Pivoted Doors

Figure 9.15

Hinge Approach

Figure 9.17

Ramps

Design Development | 155

The distance between two hinged or pivoted doors in series and gates in series shall be 48 inches (1220 mm) minimum plus the width of doors or gates swinging into the space.

Ramps that do not have level landings at changes in direc on can create a compound slope that will not meet the requirements of this document. Circular or curved ramps con nually change direc on. Curvilinear ramps with small radii also can create Figure 9.18

Handrails

Figure 9.19

Water Closet Clearances

156 | Chapter 9

Figure 9.20

Grab Bars

compound cross slopes and cannot, by their nature, meet the requirements for accessible routes. A level landing is needed at the accessible door to permit maneuvering and simultaneously door opera on.

Handrails are required on ramp runs with a rise greater than 6 inches (150 mm) and on certain stairways. Handrails are not required on walking surfaces with running slopes less than 1:20.

The water closet shall be posi oned with a wall or par on to

Figure 9.21

Wheelchair Space

Figure 9.22

Line of Sight

the rear and to one side. The center line of the water closet shall be 16 inches (405 mm) minimum to 18 inches (455 mm) maximum from the side wall or par on, except that the water closet shall be 17 inches (430 mm) minimum and 19 inches (485 mm) maximum from the side wall or par on in the ambulatory accessible toilet compartment. Water closets shall be arranged for a le+-hand or right-hand approach.

Clearance around a water closet shall be 60 inches (1525 mm) minimum measured perpendicular from the side wall and 56

Design Development | 157

inches (1420 mm) minimum measured perpendicular from the rear wall.

The seat height of a water closet above the nish ﾂ経or shall be 17 inches (430 mm) minimum and 19 inches (485 mm) maximum measured to the top of the seat. Seats shall not be sprung to return to a li+ed posi on. Grab bars shall be provided on the side wall closest to the water closet and on the rear wall.

A single wheelchair space shall be 36 inches (915 mm) wide minimum Where two adjacent wheelchair spaces are provided, each wheelchair space shall be 33 inches (840 mm) wide minimum.

Where spectators are provided lines of sight over the heads of spectators seated in the rst row in front of their seats, spectators seated in wheelchair spaces shall be a|orded lines of sight over the heads of seated spectators in the rst row in front of wheelchair spaces. (Jus ce 2010)

158 | Chapter 9

Structural System Analysis

construc on” (Allen and Iano 2007, 23).

Using the occupancy group for the civic hall as stated above and the height and area limita ons for two alterna ve construc on

Due to the loca on in a high seismic area of the United States,

types, two possible structural systems can be found. According

as well as a high tornado probability, lateral bracing and shear

to The Architect’s Studio Companion “If you wish to leave the

walls will be needed to be designed e|ec vely. According to

structure exposed while retaining a high re-resistance ra ng:

The Architect’s Studio Companion, “a conven onal steel frame

Choose structural systems that are inherently resistant to re

requires welded connec ons in a rigid frame, a braced frame, and

and heat including: all concrete systems, heavy mber frame, mill

/ or a shear wall that is sitecasted” (Allen and Iano 2007, 39).

construc on, and structural steel with adequate re proo ng”

These frames of this lateral stability can be seen in gure 9.20.

(Allen and Iano 2007, 22). According to this statement, the civic hall should be constructed of a concrete system or structural steel

By having a civic hall constructed of a concrete system, the city

with adequate re proo ng. This was also chosen due to common

is taking advantage of speci c building prac ces. According to

building prac ces in the area.

The Architect’s Studio Companion, A sitecast concrete one-way joist system holds several advantages. These advantages include,

Adaptable spaces, that can be changed several years in the future,

exposing the structure while retaining a high re-resistance ra ng,

is another feature of this project. According to The Architect’s

minimize the area occupied by columns or bearing walls, allow for

Studio Companion “If you wish to allow for changes to the building

changes in the building over me, and avoid the need for diagonal

over me: Consider short-span one-way systems that permit easy

bracing or shear walls. Although, according to The Architect’s

structural modi ca on, such as, light gauge or conven onal steel

Studio Companion, A steel frame with rigid connec ons structural

frame or sitecast concrete one-way solid slap or one-way joist

system provides more advantages over a sitecast concrete Design Development | 159

one-way joist system. These advantages include, permi ng of construc on under adverse weather, therefore, allowing a minimal on-site erec on me. It also allows for a minimal dead load on a founda on. These advantages are also including the same advantages of a sitecast concrete structural system (Allen and Iano 2007, 26-27). As a result, a steel frame with rigid connec ons structural system will be used over a sitecast concrete structural system. Site condi ons also do not allow a large enough space for a sitecast concrete to be prepared.

Figure 9.23

Structural Bay

160 | Chapter 9

Figure 9.24

Rigid Frames

By having a steel structural system, a large span in the ballroom of

typically used. Structural systems also carry a live load that must

the civic hall can be achieved. According to The Architect’s Studio

be calculated appropriately. A conven onal steel frame, like the

Companion, “a series of open-web steel joists can be spanned

structural chosen for the civic hall, can withstand medium loads

across of a space a maximum of 150 feet” (Allen and Iano 2007,

and upwards of heavy and very heavy live loads. According to

29). A steel structural system will also consist of beams which

the charts located on page 32 and 33 of The Architect’s Studio

have a maximum span of 75 feet. By designing a space that is

Companion, concert halls are commonly constructed of beams

adaptable, the steel structural beam system must be arranged on

and girders, while theaters are typically constructed of beams

a structural bay grid system with an appropriate size of span no

and girders, open-web steel joists, and trusses (Allen and Iano

larger than the maximum span of the beams of 75 feet but within

2007, 31-33).

an economical eHciency. “For economical framing of steel bays, the lighter beams should span 1.25 to 1.5 mes the span of the

Sizes of a steel structural system components can be found within

heavier girders. Bay area should be equal approximately 1,000

the design development step in any building design process. In

square feet,” according to The Architect’s Studio Companion

rela on to this project and according to The Architect’s Studio

(Allen and Iano 2007, 104). This is shown in gure 9.21.

Companion, “it may be advantageous to run girders parallel to the building’s shorter axis, the direc on must suscep ble to

Before a beam or joist can be chosen, the structure must also be

lateral forces. In this way, these stronger members can contribute

selected based on a live load range for building uses. According

addi onal lateral resistance to the building through rigid frame

to The Architect’s Studio Companion, assembly areas with

ac on” (Allen and Iano 2007, 104). Typical sizes of beams are also

movable sea ng, similar to the ballroom in the civic hall, and

found in many sources. For a typical 30 foot span, a beam should

public corridors, a medium load of 100 pounds per square foot is

be at least 16 inches in depth. For this same typical 30 foot span Design Development | 161

Figure 9.25

Schematic Steel Frame of Civic Hall

162 | Chapter 9

a girder will be larger in depth and should be at least 20 inches

protec on or exposed steel for roof structures that are 15 to

in depth. These sizes are also classi ed for a steel wide ange

25 feet or more above the oor” (Allen and Iano 2007). This is

component.

not the case for any assembly space located within the state of Indiana according to the Indiana Building Code in which the city

Since a greater span is needed in the ballroom of the civic hall

of Mount Vernon, IN follows. In this project, a re-resis ve ceiling

of this project, “the light weight of open-web steel joists makes

will be used within the ballroom of the civic hall.

them an economical alterna ve to conven onal structural steel members for spans greater than 30 to 40 feet,” (Allen and Iano

The Human Experience and the Environment

2007, 106) according to The Architect’s Studio Companion. To

In the book “Old Buildings, New Designs; Architectural

span a distance of 90 feet, an open-web steel joist should be a

Transforma ons” Charles Bloszies talks about how new and

minimum of 48 inches in depth for oor and roof joists located

tradi onal old architecture can merge in union as one. Even

within the ballroom.

though the union can be diHcult to achieve there is a debate to the dis nc ve aesthe c poten al created through the concurrence

Fire proo ng to these structural members can and should be

of old and new. Charles Bloszies states” For such a design to

applied. According to The Architect’s Studio Companion, “Fire

be successful, there must be a recognizable degree of contrast

resistance ra ngs of as high as 3 hours are achievable with

between new and old. It need not be extreme- di|eren a on is

applied reproo ng or an appropriately re-resis ve ceiling. The

the key” (Bloszies 2012, 13).

re-resis ve ceiling is used more commonly due to the diHculty of applying re-proo ng directly to the complex surfaces of an

The tradi onal style of architecture of the civic hall, that can be

open-web joist. Some building codes also permit reduced re

seen in gure 9.29, blends with the surrounding context. As the Design Development | 163

civic hall rounds the corner of Fourth street and Main street, the

Not only will the exterior a0ract a0en on, the interior spaces

architecture changes to a modern style and becomes di|erent.

will also be designed in such a way that it will create a unique

Charles Bloszies says “A reason why we like old buildings is

experience for each and every guest and their intent for the

because they are familiar. Many are well-known civic landmarks,

func on of the space, both exterior and interior. Since the

where important events take place daily or monuments that mark

civic hall is the most important building, it must be the most

signi cant historic mile-stones. They represent social stability and

appealing. The civic hall contains the ballroom that has an

ins tu ons that people can trust” (Bloszies 2012, 15). He also states

exquisite luxury feel. Even though the feel will be luxury, the

that “Base on a formal balance, and achieved by adhering to the

acous cs must also be examined in the design development

established rules of composi on, the classical idiom is ubiquitous in

phase. In the ar cle, “Considering Concert Acous cs and

civic architecture. This style has yielded many familiar, eye-pleasing

the Shape of Rooms” by Nicholas Edwards, he discusses the

monuments, and it is not surprising that the general public thinks

rela onship between the shape of the room and the quality

fondly of buildings designed in this manner” (Bloszies 2012, 16).

of acous cs. “Cri cal listeners o+en observe that rectangular (shoe-box) rooms have “be0er” acous cs for music than fan-

By possessing a tradi onal style of architecture, the civic hall will

shaped moms of similar size” (Edwards 1984, 133). Edwards

be familiar in such of a popular center of the city. Bloszies states

goes on to say, “This observa on, of course, o|ers no proof of

“When new forms are physically joined to old forms, however, the

a rela onship between room shape and music acous cs, but

ques on of context is more immediate. This architectural fusion

since the turn of the century some acous cal designers have

overly exposes di|ering philosophical perspec ves as architects

suspected that there is such a rela onship” (Edwards 1984,

propose individualis c interven ons or designs that are seamlessly

133). When a space is analyzed for acous cs, reverbera on

integrated into the exis ng urban fabric” (Bloszies 2012, 39).

mes were always considered. Edwards states, “Although for

164 | Chapter 9

many years reverbera on me was virtually the only consistently

listener with the full mbre of musical instruments” (Edwards

accepted criterion for concert hall design, now, par ally through

1984, 134).

a series of acous cal failures, it is recognized that achieving what is some mes called the “op mum” reverbera on me is

The greatest acous cal eHcency is found in a rectangular space.

no guarantee of good acous cs for music” (Edwards 1984, 133).

Edwards writes, “A substan ally greater number of rays arrive at

For theatrical spaces, the op mum acous cal quality must be

the listener’s posi on in a rectangular room than in the widest

found. “Scien sts involved in independent research programs

fan-shaped room. We can thus expect to bear a more complete,

in di|erent countries have reached a consensus that listener

full mbre in the rectangular room than in the fan-shaped one.

preference relates in many ways to what is currently being called

This agrees with experience in real rooms having these shapes”

the “lateraliza on of the sound eld” and thus to the shape of

(Edwards 1984, 134). “The three sequences shown here depict

rooms” (Edwards 1984, 133). Edwards then quickly states, “The

sound arriving at a listener in 9 di|erent rooms, ranging from

posi ve subjec ve characteris cs of sound elds described as

acutely fan-shaped to acutely reverse fan shaped” (Edwards 1984,

envelopment, warmth, loudness and in macy are all improved

136). “The depic ons use three di|erent descrip ve methods:

with the increasing lateraliza on of sound” (Edwards 1984, 133).

soundroses at the top, ray traces at the middle, and images at the

A useful analy cal tool for studying acous cs “ is the “soundrose.”

bo0om. As room shape changes from fan-shaped to rectangular

The soundrose shows the impulse response of an auditorium

(the room with parallel walls angled at 0 deg), sound arriving at

in terms of direc on and intensity of re ected sound energy”

the listener becomes more lateralized” (Edwards 1984, 136). “It is

(Edwards 1984, 134). “ The greater the number of arriving rays and

the mul plicity of these lateral re ec ons that allow the listener

the more spa ally even their emana on from the sound source,

such pleasurable musical percep ons as warmth, envelopment

the greater the eHciency of the room in its task of providing the

and richness of sound” (Edwards 1984, 136-137). These notes can Design Development | 165

be seen in gure 9.26.

To extend the adaptability of the civic hall and the ballroom, the building will possess a mechanical ceiling located within the ballroom. This ceiling will adjust when the seats are retracted and extended. The diagram showing this mo on with an acous cal analysis can be seen in gures 9.27 and 9.28 on the next page.

Figure 9.26

166 | Chapter 9

Acoustical Source Locations

Figure 9.27

Acoustical Studies - Performance

Figure 9.28

Acoustical Studies - Reception

Design Development | 167

A+er passing by the county court house, visitors and residents of

this building. The naturally vented air will travel through the crawl

Mount Vernon, Indiana are greeted with the contrast of old and

space of the civic hall and the heat will escape out of the roof.

new architectural styles upon the east facade of the civic hall. The

The civic hall will also consist of a forced air Â&#x152;oor hea ng and air

contrast of materials of limestone, brick, glass and steel displays

condi oning system that will reduce energy by only comfor ng

the strength of the community and the longevity of the city. The

the occupied areas of the space. This ballroom was designed with

lobby space to the civic hall is also a grand tower that is invi ng to

the thought of adaptability in mind. The images depicted on the

any visitor or resident with large windows and an array of glazing

next pages depict the ballroom prepared for a performance and

that welcomes natural light to brighten the space.

also prepared for a banquet or recep on. The walls are composed of a dark wood material with bands of a reÂ&#x152;ec ve metal. These

Upon entering the civic hall, visitors and residents are welcomed

materials were chosen based on the barrel making history in the

with soothing colors and textures that are invi ng. Guests are

city of Mount Vernon. During the early 1800s, wooden barrels

greeted with a touch screen interac ve display that can be moved

were manufactured within the downtown area of the city. This

around the space. Guests are also greeted by a representa ve

area was the closest to the Ohio river in which the barrels were

of the building at the informa on desk, where guests can be

transported to other ci es on this water traHc. By designing the

assisted.

ballroom in this fashion the history of the city can be expressed in a luxurious way.

A+er traveling through the lobby, guests can proceed into the grand ballroom. This ballroom consists of retractable sea ng that can be in an open or closed posi on based on the func on of the space. Natural ven la on was also considered when designing 168 | Chapter 9

Figure 9.29

Developed Exterior Perspective of the Civic Hall

Design Development | 169

Figure 9.30

Developed with Context Exterior Perspective of the Civic Hall

170 | Chapter 9

Figure 9.31

Developed Civic Hall Lobby Perspective

Design Development | 171

Figure 9.32

Developed Ballroom Performance Perspective

172 | Chapter 9

Figure 9.33

Developed Ballroom Reception Perspective

Design Development | 173

Figure 9.34

Developed Natural Ventilation Diagram

174 | Chapter 9

Figure 9.35

Developed Daylight Diagram

Design Development | 175

10

Realizing that the downtown area of Mount Vernon is deteriora ng, the Evertson District and the Evertson: civic hall will be the catalyst and the con nua on of the Master

Final Design Defense

Comprehensive Plan adopted by the city in 2008. The Evertson District will create a sense of place within the downtown core that visitors and ci zens will want to walk and enjoy the natural beauty that Mount Vernon has to o|er.

Behind the unique facade of these buildings, Mount Vernonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s entertainment district will revolu onize the adaptable future and technology of todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s world. This change will only bene t the city, its residents, and the new businesses in the downtown area, resul ng in an economic gain and an urban form that allows for upcoming growth within the community.

The name Evertson derives from John R. Evertson, the inventor of the grain and mill drier that is used in the transporta on of grain, and the exis ng building. The Everston Civic Hall will serve Final Design Defense | 177

as an anchor and ensure the viability of the neighboring historic context. This block development will include the character and, more importantly, ac vity and entertainment of surrounding sites to incite growth and innova on.

The overall master plan of the downtown area is shown in gure 10.1. Main street, shown in grey, will be composed of grey brick pavers and the red shows red brick sidewalks that will be connected from the riverfront to the Evertson district.

By changing the materiality of the Main street, it is noted that this par cular street is more important than any other street in the city. Material changes will also keep pedestrians safe having motorists drive slower due to the rough texture. The material also shows the connec on to the proposed condominium and the riverfront. Having a renovated main street will draw visitors and ci zens to the downtown area and by making Mount Vernon a pleasant des na on to walk around.

The Evertson plaza is composed of alterna ng materials of Figure 10.1

Master Plan of Mount Vernon

178 | Chapter 10

brick and limestone that mimics the banning of wood slats of

a wooden barrel that es in the history of the downtown area.

This material banning can be seen in gure 10.2 and gure 10.3.

Even with the exterior of the Evertson Civic Hall, the banning is repeated with the brick, limestone, and the spandrel glass, as shown in gure 10.4.

Figure 10.2

Figure 10.3

Evertson Plaza

Plan of Evertson Plaza

Final Design Defense | 179

Figure 10.4

Evertson: Civic Hall

180 | Chapter 10

UP DN UP DN

DN

DN

DN DN

Figure 10.5

UP

Evertson: First Floor Plan - Performance

Final Design Defense | 181

UP DN UP DN

DN

DN

DN DN

Figure 10.6

Evertson: First Floor Plan - Reception

182 | Chapter 10

UP

DN UP

DN

Figure 10.7

Evertson: Second Floor Plan

Final Design Defense | 183

Figure 10.8

Evertson Plaza Section

184 | Chapter 10

Figure 10.9

Evertson: East Elevation

Figure 10.10 Evertson: North Elevation

Final Design Defense | 185

Figure 10.11 Evertson: Section

186 | Chapter 10

Figure 10.12 Evertson: Section - Performance

Figure 10.13 Evertson: Section - Reception

Final Design Defense | 187

PRE-FINISHED METAL COPING LAP ROOF MEMBRANE OVER PRESSURE TREATED WOOD NAILER

ROOF MEMBRANE 412" TAPERED LIGHT WEIGHT INSULATING CONC. W/ 112" METAL DECKING

STRUCTURAL STEEL FRAMING

STEEL TRUSS SYSTEM WEEP HOLES @ 4'-0" O.C. W/ BASE FLASHING BEHIND WATERPROOF BUILDING FELT OR SHEATHING SUSPENDED CEILING SYSTEM BRICK VENEER TIES @ 24" O.C. HORIZONTALLY & 16" O.C. VERTICALLY

Figure 10.14 Typical Wall Section - Parapet

188 | Chapter 10

BRICK VENEER SEAL FLASHING AS REQUIRED

512" R-15 BATT INSULATION

4" X 8" INDIANA LIMESTONE BLOCK W/ WEEP HOLES @ 4'-0" O.C. 1

2"

DENSGLASS SHEATHING

DUPONT TYVEK WEATHER BARRIER SYSTEM COMMERCIAL WRAP "D" DAMP PROOFING

6" 25 GAUGE "C" TYPE STEEL STUDS @ 16" O.C. 1

2"

GYPSUM WALL BOARD

2x6 TREATED CONTINUOUS STEEL SILL ANCHORED TO SLAB @ 6'-0" O.C. W/ 1/2" DIA. x18" +HK-A-BOLTS. 4" 3000 P.S.I. CONC. SLAB W/ 6x6 1.5/1.5 W.W.F. ON 6 MIL. POLY VAPOR BARRIOR ON 4" CRUSHED STONE

TOP OF SLAB

APPROXIMATE GRADE LINE

PERIMETER INSULATION 2'-0" LAY-IN 8" x 16" CONC. BLOCK W/ #5 BARS @ 24" O.C. CRUSHED STONE 6" DIA. PERFORATED PLASTIC PIPE 24" WIDE x 12" DEEP CONC. FOOTING W/ (2) #5 BARS CONTINUOUS

Figure 10.15 Typical Wall Section - Foundation

Final Design Defense | 189

Figure 10.16 Evertson: Main Lobby

190 | Chapter 10

Figure 10.17 Evertson: Main Lobby from Stairs

Final Design Defense | 191

Figure 10.18 Evertson: Ballroom from Balcony - Performance

192 | Chapter 10

Figure 10.19 Evertson: Ballroom from Balcony - Reception

Final Design Defense | 193

Figure 10.20 Evertson: Ballroom from Stage - Reception

194 | Chapter 10

11

While a dispute can be made for architecture having a place in all built environments, it is par cularly true in the downtown spaces of ci es and towns. These spaces provide a social

Conclusion

and economical hub, and they provide the most well-known indica ons of the city, its culture, and its history. Public green spaces and downtown business also carries a great deal of unrealized poten al in ci es such as Mount Vernon. Architects have the ability to inÂ&#x152;uence the ways we use our historic spaces and the urban fabric of small ci es.

The expanding elds of architecture, interior design, and urban design must allocate more considera on to the small-scale ci es that are in need of resources to take the ini al steps toward a built and des ned community. These disciplines will e|ec vely establish a process for evalua ng small ci es that will include: commerce, industry, history, demographics, and the community.

This thesis serves as an inves ga on into the possibili es that the process could include. It responds to the analysis of a Conclusion | 195

con nua on of a comprehensive plan that addresses the present

on the exis ng context. For the urbanist, America’s small ci es

needs of Mount Vernon. It also keeps in mind the ever-important

are the opportunity to work at a most in mate scale with the end

realiza on that a downtown space, both interior and exterior, is

user—crea ng spaces that require a di|erent approach than the

most successful when it can adapt to programma c changes and,

metropolis se ngs we’re most familiar with. The urban designer

therefore, create a|ordable businesses and meless icons for the

can e|ec vely mold the lifestyle of a community with a successful

community. Even though a building could be repainted, it is the

plan. This enables architects, urban designers, and interior

interior spaces that are the most interes ng if they can adapt to

designers to be the most in uen al people in a community,

a par cular func on e|ortlessly. While crea ng a unique space,

especially in those socie es that may be deteriora ng and being

it is the mul func onal value of the building that is priceless and

forgo0en.

worth no ng.

Small-scale urbanism is an intriguing niche of architecture for many reasons. It analyses and responds to unique scenarios that are enriched with history and tradi on, yet o+en contain a desire to showcase ground breaking designs. For the interior designer, crea ng an in mate space is easy on the interior, but can be just as easy around the exterior. Places of social gathering, in mately and publicly, can be created in any se ng, especially in small ci es. For the architect, this process is a chance to modify a context with a single vision, as opposed to crea ng a vision based 196 | Chapter 11

Thesis Exhibit | 197

Final Presentation Boards

198 | Thesis Exhibit

Final Presentation Boards

Thesis Exhibit | 199

Final Site Model

Final Site Model

200 | Thesis Exhibit

Final Site Model

Final Model

Final Model

Final Model

Final Model

| Thesis Exhibit

Thesis Exhibit | 201

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Figures Cited

Figure 3.8 : Bernardin Lochmueller & Associates, Inc.

Chapter 2

Figure 3.9 : Bernardin Lochmueller & Associates, Inc.

Figure 2.1 : By Author

Figure 3.10 : Bernardin Lochmueller & Associates, Inc.

Figure 2.2 : By Author

Figure 3.11 : By Author

Figure 2.3 : h0p://www.city-data.com/city/Mount-Vernon-

Figure 3.12 : By Author

Indiana.html

Figure 3.13 : By Author

Figure 2.4 : City Of Mount Vernon, Indiana. Common Council.

Figure 3.14 : Ray Kessler

Figure 2.5 : Ray Kessler

Figure 3.15 : By Author

Figure 2.6 : Ray Kessler

Figure 3.16 : By Author

Figure 2.7 : Myszak + Palmer

Figure 3.17 : By Author

Figure 2.8 : United States Census Bureau

Figure 3.18 : h0p://www.city-data.com/city/Mount-Vernon-

Chapter 3

Indiana.html

Figure 3.1 : h0p://www.city-data.com/city/Mount-VernonIndiana.html

Figure 3.19 : By Author Figure 3.20 : By Author

Figure 3.2 : City Of Mount Vernon, Indiana. Common Council.

Chapter 4

Figure 3.3 : By Author

Figure 4.1 : Posey County

Figure 3.4 : Bernardin Lochmueller & Associates, Inc.

Figure 4.2 : By Author

Figure 3.5 :Bernardin Lochmueller & Associates, Inc.

Figure 4.3 : By Author

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Figure 3.7 : Bernardin Lochmueller & Associates, Inc.

Figure 4.5 : By Author

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Figure 4.6 : By Author

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Figure 4.7 : By Author

Chapter 6

Figure 4.8 : By Author

Figure 6.1 : Indiana Limestone Company

Figure 4.9 : By Author

Figure 6.2 : Indiana Limestone Company

Figure 4.10 : By Author

Figure 6.3 : Endico0

Figure 4.11 : By Author

Figure 6.4 : PPG Industries

Figure 4.12 : By Author

Figure 6.5 : Cambridge Architectural

Figure 4.13 : By Author

Figure 6.6 : Cambridge Architectural

Chapter 5

Figure 6.7 : Armstrong

Figure 5.1 : Bernardin Lochmueller & Associates, Inc.

Figure 6.8 : Armstrong

Figure 5.2 : Bernardin Lochmueller & Associates, Inc.

Figure 6.9 : By Author

Figure 5.3 :Bernardin Lochmueller & Associates, Inc.

Figure 6.10 : By Author

Figure 5.4 : Bernardin Lochmueller & Associates, Inc.

Figure 6.11 : By Author

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Figure 6.12 By Author

Figure 5.6 : By Author

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Figure 6.14 : By Author

Figure 5.8 : Myszak + Palmer

Figure 6.15 : Bri0, Peters and Associates, Inc.

Figure 5.9 : By Author

Figure 6.16 : ArchiCentral

Figure 5.10 : Myszak + Palmer

Figure 6.17 : Foit-Albert Associates

Figure 5.11 : By Author

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Chapter 7

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Chapter 8

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208 | Figures Cited

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Figure 9.9 : 2010 ADA Standards for Accessible Design

Figure 8.30 : By Author

Figure 9.10 : 2010 ADA Standards for Accessible Design

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Figure 9.11 : 2010 ADA Standards for Accessible Design

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Figure 9.12 : 2010 ADA Standards for Accessible Design

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Figure 9.13 : 2010 ADA Standards for Accessible Design

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Figure 9.14 : 2010 ADA Standards for Accessible Design

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Figure 9.15 : 2010 ADA Standards for Accessible Design

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Figure 9.16 : 2010 ADA Standards for Accessible Design

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Figure 9.17 : 2010 ADA Standards for Accessible Design

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Figure 9.18 : 2010 ADA Standards for Accessible Design

Figure 8.39 : By Author

Figure 9.19 : 2010 ADA Standards for Accessible Design

Chapter 9

Figure 9.20 : 2010 ADA Standards for Accessible Design

Figure 9.1 : By Author

Figure 9.21 : 2010 ADA Standards for Accessible Design

Figure 9.2 : By Author

Figure 9.22 : 2010 ADA Standards for Accessible Design

Figure 9.3 : By Author

Figure 9.23 : The Architectâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Studio Companion

Figure 9.4 : 2010 ADA Standards for Accessible Design

Figure 9.24 : The Architectâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Studio Companion

Figure 9.5 : 2010 ADA Standards for Accessible Design

Figure 9.25 : By Author

Figure 9.6 : 2010 ADA Standards for Accessible Design

Figure 9.26 : Places of Performance

Figure 9.7 : 2010 ADA Standards for Accessible Design

Figure 9.27 : By Author

Figure 9.8 : 2010 ADA Standards for Accessible Design

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Chapter 10

Figure 10.20 : By Author

Figure 10.1 : By Author Figure 10.2 : By Author Figure 10.3 : By Author Figure 10.4 : By Author Figure 10.5 : By Author Figure 10.6 : By Author Figure 10.7 : By Author Figure 10.8 : By Author Figure 10.9 : By Author Figure 10.10 : By Author Figure 10.11 : By Author Figure 10.12 : By Author 210 | Figures Cited