CIVIC MUTATIONS - WordPress.com · CIVIC MUTATIONS ] Proposal for a new agora prototype in a...

[ CIVIC MUTATIONS ]Proposal for a new agora prototype in a post-digital age

Nicholas Ng // Fall 2008http://archithesis.wordpress.com

Thesis Advisor: Vince PanThesis Director: Ian F. Taberner, AIA

Boston Architectural CollegeMasters of Architecture

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TABLE OF CONTENTSPart I: Thesis Outline

• Thesis Abstract 1

• Thesis Statement 3 - Thesis Concept Drawing 4- Thesis Concept Model 5

• Methods of Inquiry + Terms of Criticism 10• Case Studies 11

- Ancient Athenian Agora 12- The Tate Modern 14- Centre Georges Pompidou 16- PostSecret 19

• Site Analysis 22• Performance Program 30• Investigation on Building Technology 31• Sketch Problem 32

Part II: Integrative Programming

• Site Description 34• Existing State: Cultural 37

1. Social Issues 2. Political Issues 3. Economic Issues 4. Historic Context 5. Demographic Information 6. Architectural Context

• Existing State: Physical / Observations 41 1. Site Analysis 2. Observation of the physical context 3. Observation of the behavioral context 4. Issues 5. Interviews

• Future State: Goals and Mission 48 1. Performance Requirements/ Diagrams 2. Cost Evaluation

Part III: Appendix

• Bibliography 52• Zoning Map 1Xa/1Xb 53• Tentative Schedule 54• Résumés 55

- Thesis Candidate - Thesis Advisor - Design Critic

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THESIS ABSTRACT In a recent published article by Clive Thompson of the New York Times on September 5, 2008 entitled “I’m So Totally, Digitally Close to You - Brave New World of Digital Intimacy”, Thompson question the intimacy of our private life and its exposure to a very public domain – the web, Web 2.0 [1] to be more precise. His story was on the development of social networking sites like Facebook, Twitter, Loopt [2] and other social networking software using technology based on the Web 2.0 standard and how that has changed our interaction and connection with friends and communities and as a result aided in the creation of this ambiguous intimacy within our social network. As architecture necessitates around human presence, there’s no doubt our social behavior more or less affect the design and process behind building design. Thompson’s article provided a stimulating point of view and direction towards my question on social qualities and its affect on building design.

The thesis questions the porosity and mutation of architecture in today’s modern society. On another level, this thesis challenge a new system of spatial design, investigating the organization and relationship of architecture between its users by employing online social networking patterns as a framework to stimulate the role of architecture as an agent of cultural and civic meeting spaces.

The project aims to not treat architecture as an object or icon, but rather as an urban catalyst, promoting public uses and facilities for communities in the city where thoughts and voices can be seen and heard in an environment that is unrestricted to personal opinions, unguarded and away from the politics of the city. The thesis will also explore architectural elements and seek out its possibilities and conflicts between system and its cultural environment.

Note:[1] Tim O’Reilly (founder of O’Reilly Media) gives a rather detailed description and definition on what the concept of Web 2.0 is on his web-site. In general, Web 2.0 utilizes the internet as a platform for exchanging ideas, businesses, personal opinions, but more importantly creating a collection of communities in a global perspective. Paul Graham (a programmer) indicates democracy in a Web 2.0 world, where amateurs can express personal opinions either by blogging or posting news articles and ranking them on sites like Digg or Reddit.

http://www.oreillynet.com/pub/a/oreilly/tim/news/2005/09/30/what-is-web-20.html

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http://www.paulgraham.com/web20.html

[2] Facebook, Twitter and Loopt are just some example of the online social networking applications, however, this research will primarily focus on Facebook and Twitter and will occasionally use these sites as references and case studies of user patterns and programmatic challenge for the project but may from time to time reference other Web 2.0 applications and websites, too. To provide a general background, Facebook (Image-01) is a free social networking utility where members can communicate with their friends, family and coworkers. The site is organized by a network of cities, workplaces, regions and schools. Facebook was initially limited to Harvard University students (founder Mark Zuckerberg was a student at Harvard when he developed the program), but has now expanded worldwide to include other global citizens.

Unlike Facebook, Twitter (Image-02) uses the web and SMS technology in mobile phones for a user to let the world know what he/she is doing. Instead of friends, Twitter has followers. Also different from Facebook, Twitter can provide real time updates wherever there are cell phone reception and one can report anything on their ‘tweet’. As the research progress, a detailed analysis will be provided to generate the framework based on Facebook and Twitter and its application to architecture.

http://www.facebook.com/facebook?ref=pf http://twitter.com/about#about

Image-01: A user’s Facebook profile page

Image-02: Twitter main page

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THESIS STATEMENT

The next few pages comprises early concept exploration of the thesis, the different ideas and direction developed from a drawing to express my understanding of the thesis subject. Next follows schematic architectural models which expresses my understanding of the thesis I intend to pursue. Throughout the semester, ideas have evolved and developed into generating a hypothesis that is of interest to me. Since then, the goal of this research is to study the patterns formed by applications such as Facebook and Twitter to generate a new prototype on spatial connection between different programs and seek possibilities of cultural interaction between architectural systems and its environment.

“... SEEK POSSIBILITIES OF CULTURAL INTERACTION BETWEEN ARCHITECTURAL SYSTEMS AND ITS ENVIRONMENT”

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Step 1 Step 2 Step 3 Step 4

Step 5 Step 6 Step 7 Step 8

Step 9 Step 10

The ten diagrams shown on this page are a series developed from the first diagram (step 1) to investigate our thesis concept. In the case of the ten drawings shown, I was exploring the idea on intersection. As an inspirational drawing, the series of dots were created on top of a 16 x 16 grid based on a one inch square. The gird was chosen because of its fundamental principle in the design culture.

The study progresses with a 45 degree rotation of the first diagram. The rotation is meant to disrupt the stability and rigidity of the grid. Step 3 overlays the first figure on top of the rotated diagram. Step 4 is the result of the intersecting pieces on Step 4.

This process is then repeated. The third step within each phase is overlaid on top of the previous action to produce a composite of intersecting objects. After each rotation, the intersecting pieces were subtracted from its main entity, creating another composition which to the naked eye seem to be unrelated to the previous diagram. The end result was a surprise finding in such a way that the centrality of a node have been the core foundation of the first diagram which, did not seem to appear at first glance among the other members around it. As a final analysis, this exercise questions the role of a node.

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A further exploration and reaction towards the diagrams produced on the previous page, this model is a an examination of connecting points and finding trajectories within a framed object. The study is observed from an interior point of view and show the multiple nodes created from within the frame. From the exercise, my findings have shown me that the frame has its limits and does not allow growth beyond the structure. This resulted in studying the central node from within its core as shown in the next page.

WEB LINK: http://www.flickr.com/photos/nicholasngkw/sets/

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This second model shares the same principle as the previous model, however, it is an observation from an exterior perspective. The model documents the trajectories and points developed from within its core, creating a burst of networks between its trajectories, as a result, allowing another level of connecting points. This model allows room for exploration beyond the core, generating a more dynamic system.

WEB LINK: http://www.flickr.com/photos/nicholasngkw/sets/

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New Method of Interaction

The thesis I proposed challenges for a new view and direction in spatial design, with an attention towards the connections of its users, activities and location by using the framework of social networking technologies as a foundation. At present, spaces are created in a rather linear manner, interaction between point A and point B using conventional method is only a two-way communication. Same for connection between A — C, B — C and A — X. Also, if situation arises, X can only communicate with C either through A or by way of X — A — B — C (Image-03).

However, using the same framework underlying current social networking software, A,B,C and X can communicate within each other through a nucleus, thereby generating new and increasing interactive sessions between the four parties (Image-04).

Using this application, interaction between A,B,C and X will be tested with a mixture of public and private programs. The complex as a whole will become a catalyst for future developments in the built-environment, perhaps a new methodology in urban planning. This research will aim to provide a deeper understanding in today’s culture, its social interaction and how its principle can be applied to designing a better environment for leisure, work and living.

A

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Conventional Method of InteractionImage-03: Conventional Method of Interaction within Parties

Image-04: New Method of Interaction within Parties

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Both illustrations above portray the concept diagram of the conventional and new method of interaction mentioned in the previous page (Image-03 and 04). In the first scenario (Image-05), spaces are organized within an enclosed structure. Interaction between parties in this set up is limited to the paths within the confined area. The people in gray represent public figures, therefore the scenario in Image-05 shows that it does not have any spatial relationship and does not allow user interaction with the general public and the private party contained within the four walls. In the second scenario (Image-06), spatial and social relationship between private and public figures are explored and integrated with public life, allowing for a more connected society.

Image-05: Spatial and User Relation in Conventional Method of Interaction

Image-06: Spatial and User Relation in New Method of Interaction

GENERAL PUBLIC PRIVATE USERS

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Retail/CommercialCourtyard

Public spine than runs through the center of the building block from ground floor up to the roof

Residential / DormitoryGovernment Offices

Courtyard

Retail / Commercial

Government Offices

Public spine than runs through the center of the building block from ground floor up to the roof

Residential / Dormitory

The two images at right (Image-07 and 08) are NOT design of the building proposed. It is rather a study on interaction between different programs using the diagrams projected earlier on previous pages (Image 06 and 08). The studies show how different programs might relate to each other if housed in one building complex, in this case, a courtyard building type is used. Components are rather straightforward, a courtyard building, with an internal public spine (open to all -24/7) which acts as the connector between government offices, residential/dormitory and the retail component on the rooftop. The public spine is not a considered as a typical corridor, it is rather like an indoor atrium where different activities can happen at the same time as well as its core purpose of a pathway to the different departments.

In Option B (Image-08), the idea pertains to the initial diagram (Image-06) and that the interaction between public and private spaces within the framework of today’s social networking (Twitter, Facebook, etc.) has more or less affect how we communicate with each other, and I strongly believe that this form of communication and interaction should influence our built environment [Further elaboration and argument on this thesis will be illustrated in the design process].

Both studies were based on an earlier sketch of remixing standard urban planning program of a mixed use building, however, as the course of Thesis Seminar progress, the thesis has began to shift its focus on a more substantial value in terms of creating a building type that might support my thesis statement on cultural interaction in an anonymous environment. On that account, the proposed program will be a cultural/civic center—a tribute to the ancient agora—that seeks to explore social communication and interaction in a new age. The proposed center will have a performance hall, meeting rooms, an urban multipurpose/seasonal plaza, gallery space, a marketplace and or retail/commercial elements. Programming and site details will be discussed in the following sections.

Image-07: Program Concept Study - Option A

Image-08: Program Concept Study - Option B

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METHODS OF INQUIRY + TERMS OF CRITICISM

Below are just a few examples of approach I will take to develop the project further.

Methods of Inquiry:• How are we utilizing social networking software to communicate and interact with our close friends and

families?• What are the pros and cons of social networking sites like Facebook, MySpace, etc.?• Analyze the importance of the Ancient Athens Agora in its glory days. Why was it successful as a civic space? • Study and observe other civic spaces that were historically significant and compare modern civic buildings/

spaces between its users and its programmed spaces.• Research urban spaces and its relationship to the citizens of the city.• Research and proposed new ideas of social activities, events or creative program that might engage curiosity,

fun and entertainment in an urban environment.• Study the culture and social aspect of the public man today.

Terms of Criticism:• Can architecture be more than an object or an icon? If so, how?• What kind of urban programs are considered to be useful to its residents? What do they seek for when living

in a city?• Can architecture become a node or intersection for people other than creating a transportation hub? If so,

how? What kind of a space possess an attraction to all group age where they can interact with each other?• If social networking sites provides an easy option for people to express their opinions, why build a space for it?

What does the architecture need to have or provide to disengage and distinguish itself from the virtual world?

As a summary, online social networking have evolved around events. We use Facebook to not just communicate with our friends and families but also reconnect with their life through a rather voyeuristic approach as we read their daily thoughts without any verbal or physical interaction with their personas. In fact, we indulge ourselves to this kind of communication system similar to posting secrets about ourselves online (see Postsecret -page 16). Perhaps we have evolved online because of the anonymity and porosity of our communication system. What if an architecture possesses the same quality of anonymity, engaging the general public through a series of events in spaces that are unknown to them?

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CASE STUDIES

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ANCIENT ATHENIAN AGORA

The Athenian Agora was considered to be the civic and commercial heart of the city, developed around the Panathenaic Way to the Acropolis (path highlighted in red - Image-10). In the analysis of Image-10, placement of the four Stoas defined the entry points to the Agora, acting as barriers and gates. From the placement of the Middle Stoa and Stoa of Attalos, the path seems to be narrower than the opening in the northern section where the Royal Stoa is located, suggesting a change of attitude and environment of possibly privacy or security as one head towards the Acropolis.

Image-09 : Plan of the Agora, Athens, ca. 150 BCEThe diagonal route crossing the central space is the Panathenaic Way, the processional path that led from the city gate(south) to the Acropolis and toward the north.

The planning of the Agora had a lot to do with views and perspective as well as the procession towards civic spaces and public buildings in ancient Athens making the Agora a good case study to explore movement and idea of experiential architecture. Could this be the base foundation for the success of the Agora in ancient times? How has things changed since then? This brings the attention to what makes a space, a place.

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Nodes

Point of entry

ANCIENT ATHENIAN AGORA

Image-10: Diagrammatic Analysis of the Agora

Image-11: Present view of the Panathenaic Way, looking towards the Acropolis. Stoa of Attalos is to the left.

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THE TATE MODERN

Image-12: Turbine Hall - Tate Modern

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Floor Plan

Parti

Hierarchy

Repetitive to Unique

Additive And Subtractive

Circulation

Designed by Herzog and deMeuron, the Tate Modern is quite a unique building. Gutted from an old power station, the architect designed the museum around the original structure, making sure the renovation and addition to the building still maintains its original spirit to the neighborhood. Inside the Tate Modern is the remarkable five story tall gallery space (Image-12) which once housed the turbine machines used to generate electricity. Visitors are greeted by the monumental space which leads down to the basement of the museum in a gentle slope, creating an experience which heightens the user’s senses. Apart from the sensation of entering the space, the Tate Modern is used as a case study to investigate the quality of the space as a civic center based on a recent comment by philosopher and author of “The Architecture of Happiness” - Alain de Botton. In a recent debate held in London (http://www.monocle.com/webprogrammes/Monocle-Killik-Debates/The-Future-of-the-City/), deBotton describe the Tate Modern which unlike any other museum was considered to be a popular meeting place, a civic space in the making, away from its original intent. I never thought of a museum as a civic space where thoughts can be shared and exchanged, but the Tate Modern is a good subject to study and explore ideas beyond the basic program of a museum. What makes it a place?

From the diagrams at left, the major component of the Tate Modern is the Turbine Hall. Similar to the approach taken at the Ancient Athens Agora, visitors are greeted by the entrance into the Turbine Hall, which from that point spreads out into the different section of the museum.

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CENTRE GEORGES POMPIDOUC

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Image-13: Exterior facade of the Centre Georges Pompidou

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Centre Georges Pompidou

Forum des Halles

Musée du Lourve

Cathédrale Notre Dame de Paris

Hötel de Ville(Paris City Hall)

2000 ft500 ft 1000 ft 1500 ft

N

Situated in the historic district of Le Marais in the heart of Paris, the Centre Georges Pompidou was designed by Renzo Piano and Richard Rogers and was constructed between the year of 1971 - 1977.

The Centre Georges Pompidou houses a public library, a modern art museum and a center for music and acoustic research. As a case study, the location and program of the Centre Georges Pompidou provide similar qualities of urban context and program to the proposed thesis project. Within short distance (from the Centre Georges Pompidou (Culture) is the Hôtel de Ville (Paris City Hall), the Notre Dame Cathedral (Culture/Religion), Forum des Halles (Transportation Hub) and the Musée du Lourve (Culture). Building a modern building in a historical district is not an easy task, especially one like the Centre Georges Pompidou with its inverted mechanical systems projected on the elevation of the building, but its location and flexibility of the building creates a distinct connection between the old and new, providing a unique addition to an old neighborhood.

Because of this unique transition, the Centre Georges Pompidou is used to study for its qualities as a civic center, an urban connector and a meeting point.

Image-14: Connections of The Centre Georges Pompidou to its urban fabric

Image-15: Aerial view of The Centre Georges Pompidou

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MECHANICAL SYSTEMS

MAIN HALL

CORRIDOR / CONNECTIONS

VERTICAL CIRCULATION

Floor Plan

Building Parti

Circulation

Additive and Subtractive

Image-18: Exterior Elevator/Vertical CIrculation

Image-19: Exterior Elevation

Image-16: Interior Lobby

Image-17: Building Parti (Mech./Hall/Circulation)

The analysis above provide an interesting finding of the main exhibit hall as a connector between the vertical circulation and the mechanical system at back. This seems to further illustrate the building concept as a public space and a connector to the urban environment.

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SPostSecret

PostSecret is an ongoing community art project collected by Frank Warren. Started in December 2003, the project has invited people from all background around the world to submit their deepest memories anonymously, which had never been shared and revealed to anyone on a creatively decorated postcard send to him. The result is a collection of provocative and inspiring secrets which some have haunted the life of its creator.

PostSecret was chosen as a case study not only of its inspiring messages, but it is the act of reading those messages that have interested me in using it as a case study. Similar to social sites such as Facebook where we get to read information about what our friends are doing daily, this voyeuristic approach to uncover a person’s life suggests how porous our society has become. It questions our privacy, security and the lack of boundaries between them. Perhaps boundaries should be crossed to reconnect ourselves to the community.

The next page is an excerpt taken from the book “Lifetime of Secrets” by Frank Warren.

WEB LINK: http://www.postsecret.com

Above are some examples of postcards sent to Frank Warren for the PostSecret community art project.

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SWhen I give PostSecret presentations at college campuses, my hope is that people I have never met will be inspired to change their lives through the secrets and stories being shared. Not long ago, at one of my talks, it was my life that was changed, and the secret that inspired me came from a stranger in the front row.

I began my presentation by handing out blank postcards to everyone in the auditorium. I invited each person to anonymously write down a secret on a card and then pass it on. For the next hour, the postcards circulated and were read silently multiple times. At the end of my talk, I asked if anyone would like to stand and read the secret they were holding at that moment. A man in the front row stood up and haltingly read:

I wish I could apologize to my younger brother for the way I treated him growing up.

He sat down and exchanged a long look with the young man next to him. After more volunteers read aloud some of the other secrets that had

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been passed around, I collected all the cards. The man in the front row handed me the postcard he had read from, and the two men walked out together.

His postcard was blank.

I have witnessed many times how the courage of sharing a secret can be contagious. When I realized that the man had been pretending to read someone else’s secret and that the person he had left with was likely his brother, I was inspired.

Growing up, I was not an ideal older brother. As an adult, I have wished for an opportunity to apologize for some of my actions but did not want to open old wounds. I have not shared this secret with my brother . . . until now.

- Frank Warren

CA

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SITE ANALYSIS

N

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NORTH END

WEST END

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NThe chosen site for my thesis subject is located within the Bulfinch Triangle area in Boston, Massachusetts. It is also an area where the new Boston Greenway begins and where the Central Artery used to stand. Thus, the site has some historical value to it. As a general observation, the site challenges the issue to reconnect North End and the greater Boston. With the proposed site chosen as a potential candidate for the thesis subject, further analysis and studies are made in the following pages to illustrate the site’s condition and possibilities for a civic center. The first section is an analysis of the site using Kevin Lynch’s - Image of the City thesis to locate the paths, nodes, district, edge and landmark and study the connections of the site to its existing surroundings.

1

1

2

2

Image-20: This image indicates an approach to the site from the north

Image-21: View of the site and surrounding buildings

Image-22: Enlarged view of the proposed site

SITE

AN

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NO SCALE

NO SCALE

P-1

P-2

P-3

The parcel numbers on Image-22 is collected from the zoning map as indicate by the Boston Redevelopment Authority. Please reference Map 1Xa/1Xb under the Appendix section for more information.

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Paths: The proposed site is surrounded by major vehicular paths along the north, east, south and western section, creating a trapezoid island bordered by the pathways. Narrow paths are found within the trapezoid island, suggesting a more intimate setting and pedestrian friendly area within the block. Though the paths are set in a regular network, because of the shape of the block, its size and regulations of one way streets and intersection between major and secondary pathway within the block can generate a rather confusing navigation for vehicle access. Pedestrian access however may find it easy to navigate because of its regular network of roads.

N

N

Edges: Though edges are not often considered as paths, however, in the case of the proposed site, the paths surrounding the site creates a clear boundary between the small trapezoid block to the greater city. Apart from that, buildings such as the TD BankNorth Garden Arena to the north and the Department of Health Building and Suffolk County Juvenile Court to the south creates a definite edge and entry point to the proposed site.

TD BankNorth Garden

Suffolk County Juvenile Court

Dept. of Health

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North End District

West End District

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North End District

West End District

Beacon Hill

Financial District

Government Center

Markets

Districts: The proposed site is situated in a part of Boston that has gone through a lot of development in its history. Surrounded by the North End, West End and Government Center, the proposed site can be easily identified because of its location. Looking closer, though the site may be sitting on an island, one may think it was part of the North End – because of its building scale and typology – if it wasn’t cut off by the Central Artery, which has since been demolished. However, the small block does not have a clear boundary between the North End and the West End and its identity could not be establish because its ambiguity in distinguishing itself from the rest of the city.

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Nodes: The proposed site is located within a short distance of an important transportation node - North Station. Other than that, there are also nearby transportation node that generates foot traffic such as Haymarket T station. There are also important vehicular node, particularly to the north of the site where Interstate 93 change its course underground. To the northeast corner of the site is a node and entry point to Charlestown, a district across the river. Although there are few important nodes within the site, none are memorable enough to form an image for the site.

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Landmarks:From a larger perspective, the area around the proposed site contains significant landmarks, such as the City Hall Plaza and the Old North Church in the North End. In a closer view, the TD BankNorth Garden and the Leonard P. Zakim bridge provides significant references point to the site.

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Concept Sketches:The studies to the left question issues and problems the site faces in terms of its paths, edges, district, nodes and landmarks. How can the proposed structure resolved and enhance the image of the city? If the thesis proposed to create a cultural/civic center within the site, how does it address the cultural and social context of the site and the greater city of Boston?

TD BankNorth Garden

Leonard P. Zakim Bridge

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SShadow Patterns / Sun Study

JANUARY - 10 AM

JUNE - 10 AM

OCTOBER - 10 AM The massing indicates the maximum allowable height in that area.

The massing indicates the maximum allowable height in that area.


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SShadow Patterns / Sun Study

JANUARY - 2 PM

JUNE - 2 PM

OCTOBER - 2 PM




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SAverage High - January

36.50° F

Average High - July

82.20° F

Average Low - January

22.10° F

Average Low - July

65.50° F

WIN

TERSU

MM

ER

Annual Precipitation 42.53 in.

104AIR POLLUTION INDEX

Climate / Environment Data

5 AM

120° 120°105°

90° East 90° West0° South

105°75° 75°60° 60°45° 45°30° 30°15°

10°

20°

30°

40°

50°

60°

70°

80°

90°

15°

6 AM

7 AM

8 AM

9 AM

10 AM

11 AM

NOON

1 PM

2 PM

3 PM

5 PM

4 PM

6 PM

7 PM

Bearing Angles

Altit

ude

Angl

es

40° NL

June 21

May 21

Apr 21

Mar 21

Feb 21

Jan 21

Dec 21

July 21

Aug 21

Sept 21

Oct 21

Nov 21

Cylindrical Sun Path diagram for 40° NorthCYLINDRICAL SUN PATH DIAGRAM FOR 40˚ NORTH(SOURCE: MAZRIA, EDWARD, THE PASSIVE SOLAR ENERGY BOOK)

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PERFORMANCE PROGRAMBelow is a narrative piece of the spatial experience as I imagined a stranger would experience.

[I hear conversation pieces around me yet I don’t feel the presence of human contact. I see people walking, running and some casually standing still looking out the window, but I do not hear voices between them.]

I stumbled upon a path which led me to the scene described above, however, I did not notice any sign of entering a new territory. The space seems new with its choice of warm materials, and the transparent quality and opaqueness it portrays appears to be rather familiar yet surreal. The structure doesn’t seem to belong there, although it felt like it has been standing there for centuries. Moving through the space, it brought back memories of the four season I used to missed when I was a child; growing up in a neighborhood where a bunch of us would gather everyday after school for a game of catch on the streets, and in the winter months, we would attack each other with snowball fights. At home I would be sitting near the window, watching the leaves fall and waiting for the first snowflake of the season. I felt right at home in that space. A few steps up, coupled with a cup of coffee in one hand and a croissant in another, I found a quiet nook. I sat down and looked down to the plaza below. At that moment, I knew Christmas was just around the corner as the truck below begins to unload the different variety of pine trees waiting for the right home. I gazed at the man loading the truck till a beeping sound from my phone startled me. My friend had sent me a text message and asked me to look to the left. And there he was, standing there waving and pointing to his watch. I was late for the show we had planned to attend. I rushed to the nearest staircase, greeted my friend and headed into the hall downstairs.

The writing above was inspired by a recent trip to the Oslo Opera House in Norway (pictured right).

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BUILDING TECHNOLOGYAt present, the thesis building structure will be a steel structure. The choice of material and its design are equally important as it relates to how architectural system can project ideas on porosity. From the existing conditions of the site, the idea of a screen for shading will be considered in addition to the idea behind porosity . Decision are not definite yet at this stage, but development of a screening system similar to The Atrium (Image-23) at Federation Square, Melbourne Australia by Lab Architecture is a possibility.

In terms of environmental conditions, sustainable design ideas will be implemented on the structure but will not be the driving force of the building design. The proposed building will not be higher than 5 stories or 80 feet, however, structural foundation conditions will need to be investigated because of the expressway below. There will be little disturbance to the topography of the site and ideas of changing grade (if applicable) will be considered inside the structure rather than the landscape.

Image-23: The Atrium at Federal Square, Melbourne

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THE TWELVE HOUR SKETCH PROBLEM

The intent of this exercise was to design and illustrate a proposed entrance to our thesis project. In the case of my thesis for a cultural/civic center, the idea behind an entryway does not exist but rather the focus is based on the experience and procession through the site. The initial idea mimics the moment a vehicle enters the tunnel along Interstate 93, an experience which heightens the driver attention. This is explored through a series of topographic grade changes along a pathway.

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PART II : INTEGRATIVE PROGRAMMING

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SITE DESCRIPTION

The diagram above shows the site at block scale. The proposed site is located within Parcel 1 with an area of 29,369 s.f.

66'-10"

441'-2"

AREA:29,369 S.F.

217'-0"

PARCEL 1

PARCEL 1A

PARCEL 3

10' 25' 50' 100'

LEGEND

PARCEL LINE

SETBACKS

PROPOSED SITE

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Circled in yellow above, the topographic map shows very little or no grade change at the proposed site. Being in an urban area, the site also shows no natural features as observed from the panoramic photo below.

Topographic map obtained from: http://www.mass.gov/mgis/ftpquad.htm

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ˇ

ˇ

ˇ

ˇ

ˇ

Charles RiverPlaza

Commercial St

Sargents Wharf

MercantileWharf

RowesWharf

Paul RevereMall

PembertonSquare

SaltonstallPlaza

King's ChapelBurying Ground

CardinalCushing

Park

CurleyMemorial

Plaza

Union Park/HolocaustMemorial

City HallPlaza

StateHousePark

ChistopherColumbus Park

DeFilippoPlayground

Copp's HillCemetery

Prince St.Park

PuopoloPlayground

LangonePark

Copp's HillTerrace

IrishFamine

Memorial

GranaryBurying Ground

Boston Common Post OfficeSquare

North BennetStreet School

EliotSchool

Old NorthChurch

NazarroCommunity

Center

St Stephan'sChurch

FireStation

West EndBranch Library

SuffolkCounty

Jail

LowellSquare

O'Neill Federal Building

Saltonstall andMcCormackState Office

Buildings

Old Suffolk County

CourthouseSuffolk

University

Paul RevereHouse

City of BostonPrinting Office

North EndNursing Home

ColumbusHousing

AusoniaHomes

North EndBranch Library

Vent Building/Parking Garage

New EnglandAquarium

Old WestChurch

City Hall

John F. KennedyFederal Building

District A-1Police Station

State Health and Welfare

Building

Suffolk CountyCourthouse

FanueilHall

North End Community Health Center

African MeetingHouse

Fleet Center

SpauldingRehabilitation

Center

U.S. Coast GuardStation

New CharlesRiver Dam

TremontTemple McCormack

FederalBuilding

and Post OfficeSuffolk University

Law School

Park StreetChurch

BostonAthenaeum

InternationalPlace

Long Wharf -

Airport

Lovejoy Wharf -

U.S. Courthouse -

World Trade Center

Rowes Wharf - Airport

Long Wharf

Long Wharf

Lovejoy Wharf

Rowes Wharf

Haymarket

GovernmentCenter

State

Aquarium

NorthStation

Park Street

Bowdoin

Stop & Shop

S Russell St

Joy St

Som

erse

t St

Dev

onsh

ire S

t

Was

hing

ton

St

Gar

den

Cour

t St

Richmond St

Moon St

Hanov

er St

Fulto

n St

Commer

cial S

tBlackstone St

Central Wharf

Stanford St

Cambridge St

Brattle

Way

Traverse St

State StCourt St

Broad St

Congress St

Kilby St

Central St

Lewis Wharf

Salem

St

Thacher St

Pinckney St

Clark St

N M

argin St

Prince St

Union Wharf

Sno

whi

ll St

Henc

hman

St

Charter St

Consti

tution

Wha

rfBridge

Charlestown

Leverett Connector

School St

Prov

ince

St

Batterymarch St

Hawl

ey S

t

Exchange Pl

Water St

Pearl St

Beacon St

Park St

India St

Bromfield St

Franklin St

Old City HallKing's Chapel

Long Wharf Marriott

Pilot House

Steriti Rink

Quincy Market

Custom House Tower

Old State HouseState House

Amy

Ct

Arch St

Atlantic Av

Canal St

Causeway St

Chatham St

Clinton St

Cotting St

Endicott St

Federal St

Fleet St

Friend St

Hawkins St

Hull St

India Wharf

Irving St

Lancaster St

Lincoln Wharf

Market S

t

Medford St

Merrimac St

Milk St

Portland St

Temple St

Tileston St

N W

ashington St

Winter St

New Congress St

Cour

t Sq

Oliver St

Nashua St

Eastern Av

Battery St

Commercial Whar

Ashburton Pl

New Sudbury St

Bow

doin

St

Hancock St

High St

Jenton Way

Wha

rf StCu

stom

Hou

se S

tWell St

East India Row

Atla

ntic

Ave

North St

Battery

Wha

rf

Merchants Row

Spring LaBosworth St

Cross St

Cooper St

Lomasney Way

Martha Rd

Ridgeway La

Sheafe St

N Hudson

St

Derne St

Walnut St

New Chardon St

Trem

ont S

t

Interstate 93

feet

0 500250

Government Center/Bulfinch Triangle/HaymarketDowntown

1 Family Residential2 Family Residential

CommercialInstitutionalIndustrialOpen Space

Legend

3 Family ResidentialApartments/CondosMixed Use (Res./Comm.)

Surface Parking

ˇ

MBTA StationsMBTA Surface Subway LinesMBTA Underground Subway LinesCommuter RailBelow Ground Commuter Rail

Water Transit RoutesWater Transit Facilities

Bus Routes

Main Streets District

N

BostonRedevelopmentAuthority

Boston’s Planning &EconomicDevelopment Office

Thomas M. Menino, MayorClarence J. Jones, ChairmanMark Maloney, Director

One City Hall SquareBoston, MA 02201-1007www.cityofboston.com/bra

N





This is a DRAFT copy of a map to be includedin the forthcoming Boston 400 report: Boston400: Connecting the City and Its People. Thisdraft is for public comment and is not forrepublication. Please direct all comments andsuggestions to Boston 400 / BRA at One CityHall Square, Boston, MA 02201-1007 [email protected]. This mapdoes not meet national map accuracystandards and can not be used forengineering purposes.

March, 2000

N





N






March, 2000

N





N






March, 2000

N





N






March, 2000

ˇ

ˇ

ˇ

ˇ

ˇ

Charles RiverPlaza

Commercial St

Sargents Wharf

MercantileWharf

RowesWharf

Paul RevereMall

PembertonSquare

SaltonstallPlaza


CardinalCushing

Park

CurleyMemorial

Plaza


City HallPlaza

StateHousePark


DeFilippoPlayground

Copp's HillCemetery

Prince St.Park

PuopoloPlayground

LangonePark

Copp's HillTerrace

IrishFamine

Memorial




EliotSchool

Old NorthChurch

NazarroCommunity

Center

St Stephan'sChurch

FireStation


SuffolkCounty

Jail

LowellSquare



Buildings

Old Suffolk County

CourthouseSuffolk

University

Paul RevereHouse



ColumbusHousing

AusoniaHomes



New EnglandAquarium

Old WestChurch

City Hall




Building


FanueilHall



Fleet Center


Center




FederalBuilding


Law School

Park StreetChurch

BostonAthenaeum

InternationalPlace

Long Wharf -

Airport

Lovejoy Wharf -

U.S. Courthouse -

World Trade Center


Long Wharf

Long Wharf

Lovejoy Wharf

Rowes Wharf

Haymarket

GovernmentCenter

State

Aquarium

NorthStation

Park Street

Bowdoin

Stop & Shop

S Russell St

Joy St

Som

erse

t St

Dev

onsh

ire S

t

Was

hing

ton

St

Gar

den

Cour

t St

Richmond St

Moon St

Hanov

er St

Fulto

n St

Commer

cial S

t

Blackstone St

Central Wharf

Stanford St

Cambridge St

Brattle

Way

Traverse St

State StCourt St

Broad St

Congress St

Kilby St

Central St

Lewis Wharf

Salem

St

Thacher St

Pinckney St

Clark St

N M

argin St

Prince St

Union Wharf

Sno

whi

ll St

Henc

hman

St

Charter St

Consti

tution

Wha

rfBridge

Charlestown

Leverett Connector

School St

Prov

ince

St

Batterymarch St

Hawl

ey S

t

Exchange Pl

Water St

Pearl StBeacon St

Park St

India St

Bromfield St

Franklin St


Long Wharf Marriott

Pilot House

Steriti Rink

Quincy Market

Custom House Tower


Amy

Ct

Arch St

Atlantic Av

Canal St

Causeway St

Chatham St

Clinton St

Cotting St

Endicott St

Federal St

Fleet St

Friend St

Hawkins St

Hull St

India Wharf

Irving St

Lancaster St

Lincoln Wharf

Market S

t

Medford St

Merrimac St

Milk St

Portland St

Temple St

Tileston St

N W

ashington St

Winter St

New Congress St

Cour

t Sq

Oliver St

Nashua St

Eastern Av

Battery St

Commercial Whar

Ashburton Pl

New Sudbury St

Bow

doin

St

Hancock St

High St

Jenton Way

Wha

rf StCu

stom

Hou

se S

t

Well StEast India Row

Atla

ntic

Ave

North St

Battery

Wha

rf

Merchants Row

Spring LaBosworth St

Cross St

Cooper St

Lomasney Way

Martha Rd

Ridgeway La

Sheafe St

N Hudson

St

Derne St

Walnut St

New Chardon St

Trem

ont S

t

Interstate 93

feet

0 500250

Government Center/Bulfinch Triangle/HaymarketDowntown

1 Family Residential2 Family Residential

CommercialInstitutionalIndustrialOpen Space

Legend

3 Family ResidentialApartments/CondosMixed Use (Res./Comm.)

Surface Parking

ˇ

MBTA StationsMBTA Surface Subway LinesMBTA Underground Subway LinesCommuter RailBelow Ground Commuter Rail

Water Transit RoutesWater Transit Facilities

Bus Routes

Main Streets District

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Adjacent Land Use Diagram

Pedestrian Walking Radius

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Charles RiverPlaza

Commercial St

Sargents Wharf

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RowesWharf

Paul RevereMall

PembertonSquare

SaltonstallPlaza


CardinalCushing

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CurleyMemorial

Plaza


City HallPlaza

StateHousePark


DeFilippoPlayground

Copp's HillCemetery

Prince St.Park

PuopoloPlayground

LangonePark

Copp's HillTerrace

IrishFamine

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EliotSchool

Old NorthChurch

NazarroCommunity

Center

St Stephan'sChurch

FireStation


SuffolkCounty

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CourthouseSuffolk

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Paul RevereHouse



ColumbusHousing

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Building


FanueilHall



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FederalBuilding


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Park StreetChurch

BostonAthenaeum

InternationalPlace

Long Wharf -

Airport

Lovejoy Wharf -

U.S. Courthouse -

World Trade Center


Long Wharf

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5 MIN. WALKING RADIUS 10 MIN. WALKING RADIUS

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The summary below provides a report on the current state of the existing site. It is divided into two sections, A) The Cultural Context and B) The Physical and Behavioral Context.

Section A: The Cultural Context are divided into the following categories.• Social Issues• Political Issues• Economic Issues• Historic Context• Demographic Information• Architectural Context

A1. Social Issues:Under the statistic data collected, the area is predominantly occupied by white collar workers, single, with a median age of 34 and have an average household income of $100,000. It is suffice to say that there is a lack of diversity within the social context of the site, not just within employment statuses but the residents situated in that area. Apart from that, the Crime Index charted on page 33 seems to suggests safety issues with the neighborhood., which influences the choice in residences around the area.

A2. Political Issues (Does Not Exists)

A3. Economic Issues:Data collected from the area suggests an above average income input to the community.

A4: Historic Context *:The chosen site was part of the North End neighborhood. Once named the Bulfinch Triangle because of the urban plan drawn by Charles Bulfinch, the chosen site was the location for the Central Artery, which had separated the North End District to the rest of Boston. The image below shows the site’s condition in 1995 (Area highlighted in yellow dash line).

EXISTING STATE : CULTURAL

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* Further history about the site has been found but is not included in the proposal as full information and data has not been extensively collected and researched in depth yet.

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DEMOGRAPHIC DATA FOR ZIP CODE 02114

The information provided are applicable to the chosen site - zip code 02114. Data on community demographics provided by OnBoard LLC Copyright (c) 2007 OnBoard LLC.

TOTAL POPULATION

EMPLOYMENT

HOUSEHOLDS

9983

MALE 52%

FEMALE 48%MALE POPULATION 5159FEMALE POPULATION 4824

Percent Change Since 1990 1.0%Percent Change Since 2000 -10.0%Density (Persons per sq. mile) 17999.00Median Age 34.20

WHITE COLLAR 32133BLUE COLLAR 5245

0 1000 2000 3000 4000 5000 6000

HOUSEHOLDS W/O CHILDREN

HOUSEHOLDS WITH CHILDREN

NON-FAMILY HOUSEHOLDS

FAMILY HOUSEHOLDS

TOTAL HOUSEHOLDS 59531434

4519

5497

455

A5. Demographic Information:E

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DEMOGRAPHIC DATA FOR ZIP CODE 02114

EDUCATION ( NUMBER OF PEOPLE WHO HAVE ACHIEVED THE FOLLOWING LEVELS OF EDUCATION )

INCOME / FINANCIAL CRIMEThe following values are represented as an index, where the value 100 represents the national average.

MARITAL STATUS( NUMBER OF PEOPLE WHO HAVE THE FOLLOWING MARITAL STATUS )

No High School 237Some High School 153Some College 782Associate Degree 282Bachelors Degree 2742Graduate Degree 3345

NEVER MARRIED 5036MARRIED 2328SEPERATED 947WIDOWED 357

DIVORCED 642

Average Household Income $106,665

Median Household Income $69,688

Median Income Under 25 $52,155

Median Income 25-34 $72,264





Median Income Over 75 $30,167

Percent increase/decrease in income since 1990 90.0 %

Percent increase/decrease in income since 2000 22.0 %

Average Household Net Worth $729,038

Median Household Net Worth $202,234

Median Home Sale Price $427,500

Median Total Debts $242,921

Sales Tax Rate 5.0000 %

Sales Tax Type PL

Average Total Household Expenditure $74,153

The information provided are applicable to the chosen site - zip code 02114. Data on community demographics provided by OnBoard LLC Copyright (c) 2007 OnBoard LLC.

050

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145

171

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139

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148

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123

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LIFESTYLEThe following values are represented as an index, where the value 100 represents the national average.

0.0 87.5 175.0 262.5 350.0 437.5 525.0 612.5 700.0

Automotive Theft Risk

Larcency Risk

Burglary Risk

Property Crime Risk

Assault Risk

Robbery Risk

Rape Risk

Murder Risk

Personal Crime Risk

Total Crime Risk

BELOW AVERAGE

221

305

179

138

116

239

308

622

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A6. Architectural Context:Below are urban streetscape images found along Causeway Street (on the northern part of the site).

From the images above, the architectural sources suggests a rather rustic and eclectic point of view. No doubt brick is the choice of material which dominates the scene in the proposed area. Though the area is predominantly commercial, there is an array of building height around the neighborhood as well as a few monumental pieces that stood out from the background, such as the pieces shown below.

As a summary to my findings, there are certainly constraints within the site, such as its historical value to the neighborhood of the North End and the site’s proximity to a few important architectural landmarks around the area. However, with constraints come challenges and opportunities. Those includes but not limited to improving the quality of lifestyle in the area, providing a diverse culture which the district lacks and possibilities to introduce new architectural elements to the neighborhood. From the context photographed above, the neglected urban condition calls out opportunity to create an architecture with a rich urban program to revitalize the state it’s in. The urban program would include an enclosed multipurpose hall that opens up to a plaza during the warmer season for an outdoor cinema, a marketplace for the residents located within the neighborhood and community rooms where residents can promote their culture and heritage through their annual festival offerings.

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EXISTING STATE : PHYSICAL/BEHAVIORAL

Section B: This section is divided into the following categories.• Site analysis• Observation of the physical context• Observation of the behavioral context• Issues• Interviews

B1: Site AnalysisThe site is located within the Bulfinch Triangle neighborhood. Below is a panoramic view of the surrounding buildings taken in the center of the site, looking towards TD BankNorth Garden (Boston Garden) and the Leonard P. Zakim Bunker Hill Memorial Bridge to the north. A more thorough analysis and description is located under the Site Analysis section in Part 1 of the proposal. Please refer to page 20 for more detailed information.

B2. Observation of the physical contextObservations of the physical context is divided in the following categories, 1.Physical Traces, 2.Adaptations for Use and 3. Public Messages.

i. Physical Traces : ErosionOn a closer look to the site, the area appears to show some signs of wear on the grass which seems to indicate foot traffic to the parking lot adjacent to the site.

ii. Physical Traces : Missing TracesSince the Central Artery was taken down, the site has been left untouched and its current condition is limiting any physical behavior for an urban open space. With a lack of landscaping, or outdoor furniture, the green open space seems to serve no purpose.

Signs of erosion

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TEi. Adaptations for Use: SeparationsBarricades are seen placed along the edge of the site to define and separate the parking lot adjacent to the site.

i. Public Message: OfficialA painted mural of the Boston Celtics on the side of a nearby building suggests a popularity and support for the Boston basketball team. This seems to reflect the use of nearby a sports arena and the behavior of its users.

ii. Adaptations for Use: PropsA nearby restaurant has placed a new deck on an empty lot for use as an outdoor seating area.

i. Public Message: Unofficial/IllegitimateUnlike the previous mural, this message painted on the side of a building does not reflect any behavior of its clients or users. Located behind the building, next to a parking lot, the mural is perhaps meant to reflect a past or merely an artwork to boost the dreary neighborhood.

In a larger picture, the findings seems to suggests a rather vibrant neighborhood with a huge crowd of sports fans and commuters, yet there is a lack of urban spaces to promote interaction among the different users that occupies the spaces around the neighborhood, especially during and after major events at the nearby arena. The major effect on programming will be on how to create a successful program that will link the different communities within the area.

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B3. Observation of the behavioral contextOn a casual site visit and observation of the surrounding, the picture above (labeled 3) was taken on a weekend, late afternoon. As it turns out there was also a Bruins game scheduled at the TD BankNorth Garden Arena (Boston Garden). Notice the woman standing to the left of the photograph, she’s actually watching a girl doing cartwheel (inset). The scene above should be encouraged but there’s a lack of facilities where qualities for fun activities does not exist in the area, instead children have to result into leftover spaces to enjoy their activites. In the demographic chart on page 32, there’s also a very percentage of household with children in the neighborhood, which may be the result of lack of children playground facilities, or even urban open spaces within the neighborhood. These issues should be addressed.

B4. IssuesIssues pertain to the sites are listed below in order of the highest priority at the top.1. Interaction - Social2. Image - Identity3. Economy4. Circulation - Pedestrians5. Environmental 6. Flexibility

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TEB5. Interviews/Observation

Below is a conversation/interview with Josh Sherman (age 26), a resident of 3 years at the North End District, Boston. Josh works as a Financial Analyst.

NN: As a resident within the North End District, what’s your opinion on the neighborhood? What attracted you to move in to the area? Are there any issues you feel that need to be address?

JS: The North End is a great neighborhood live in and there’s a great sense of community within the neighbors, especially during the festivals. I think the issues that need to be address relates to the environment and safety of the residents at the North End. There are certainly some streets where a person would feel unsafe to walk in during the night.

NN: Other than safety issues, are there anything you feel that the neighborhood lacks or perhaps need to address the safety and well-being of the residents?

JS: Since they tore down the Greeway, the North End have become more attractive and easier for people to visit and live in. However, this also result in overcrowding, especially along Hanover Street. Also, the one thing missing is a supermarket.

NN: What’s your opinion if the city were to build a community center within the neighborhood?

JS: I don’t think the neighborhood needs a community center.NN: You had mentioned earlier about the festivals that are held yearly

around the North End, as a resident living in the neighborhood, how do you feel about the event in general?

JS: I love the annual festivals they have around the neighborhood. My apartment is next to Salem Street where the annual St. Anthony festival is held. However, it does get really noisy and the smoke from the vendors gets into the apartment if you leave the window open. I guess it’s a small price to pay for a great location, and it only happens a few days within a year.

NN: Supposedly they move the event to a more central location other than occupying the streets?

JS: I don’t know where they would move to, it could be a nice idea but it may also loose some of the communal qualities the festival creates.

NN: As a current North End resident, do you visit the local sights,like the Paul Revere House, the Old North Church or the Copp’s Hill Burying Ground?

JS: I have to admit that I’ve only visited those places once, and that was when I was in Boston as a tourist many years ago. I think they are a bit out of my way.

NN: What about the local food culture?JS: Definitely. The main attraction for me moving in to the North End

was my love for Italian cuisine. I frequently visit the local restaurants as well as the mom and pop’s deli shop and of course the Modern pastry shop. Mike’s does not provide the same quality.

NN: I think we all can agree with that. I appreciate your time and thank you for your insight to the North End.

JS: Thank you.

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TEApart from getting an insight from a resident/user near the thesis site, the discussion below was chosen to gain an understanding of the thoughts and process behind planning for a recreation and cultural center in a downtown area.

The discussion below is taken from the Cities Conference on Urban Design which took place in Manhattan in May 2007. It is an excerpt on Active Recreation and Culture.

David Emil: One thing I’m curious about is issue of active recreation. How do you plan for that in your cities?

Brent Toderian: We have an amenity plan for each central area neighborhood, and we leverage the building of amenities from developers. A couple of decades ago, we rezoned much of the downtown and created a discretionary system whereby you could create more density in return for “off-setting” public benefits well beyond those normally achieved through development charges in most cities. Because we are a poor city, we achieve most of our recreational needs by leveraging them from developers. This is key to the Living FIrst strategy. Think of all the cities that focus on building residential development without the corresponding amenity packages that make that high density living livable; ultimately it shakes the foundation of community you’re trying to build. The amenities become city-owned land, and we take on the maintenance responsibilities, which of course can be an issue.

Kairos Shen: Boston is a relatively small 14 square miles, the same size as San Francisco. A lot of debate occurred about how active our downtown open space should be. Because we don’t have a system whereby the government takes responsibility for the constructions that’s needed for active open space, it becomes the responsibility of an agency like ours to leverage it through the development process. I’m not sure whether private owners of public space can be good custodians. Just as the Big Dig demon started that the highway department can’t design and manage open space, it’s difficult yo ask private developers to deal with active recreation. I just visited the Robert Moses exhibits here in New York and was completely blown away by the parks and the swimming pool that he built. It harkens back to a time where government had a role in ensuring that those kind of amenities are part of any project whether is be a private development project or whether it’s a city development project. We’re working in a different time.

David Emil: Are we? If Moses were involve in this 27 acres, would there be a forced public recreation space in there?

Kairos Shen: Moses was famous for finding parcels, such as great recreational spaces underneath bridges. We were complete failures in finding those spaces in Boston. During the years that we had the highway, I think there was a mental block. That shadow of the highway was preventing uses, whereas in New York and some Asian cities you can find a lot of recreational spaces under highways. Now that we’ve

Participants:

Amanda Burden is chair of the New York City Planning Commission and director of the Department of City Planing.

David Emil is president of the Lower Manhattan Development Corporation, appointed by New York Governor Eliot Spitzer in May 2007.

Robert Freedman is the director of urban design for the city of Toronto.

Cheong Koon Hean is the chief executive officer of the Urban Redevelopment Authority, the national planning and conservation authority of Singapore.

Kairos Shen is the director of planning at the Boston Redevelopment Authority, Boston’s economic development and planning agency.

Brent Toderian was appointed in 2006 as the city of Vancouver’s director of planning.

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sunken the highway and revealed it to the sky, suddenly it’s more precious. As a result, inventive, not fully controllable kind of activities are hard for many downtown residents to imagine.

David Emil: What are you going to do about the fact that one of the cultural uses you planned for the Big Dig space – the Horticultural Society – doesn’t have the funds to build?

Kairos Shen: I think the issue here is the cultural market. We’re learning that simply providing land and a friendly planning environment does not suddenly make sustainable something that cannot function financially. There’s a requirement in our plan that all the first floor space be cultural, or what we call “facilities of public accommodation.” This allows us leverage through development, but Boston still has a competitive environment for cultural dollars. I know that the Horticultural Society could not succeed not because of a lack of will, but because of a lack of personnel and funds. We don’t yet have a system to create and expand these cultural institutions that are so dear to us without public subsidy. My experience visiting Canada suggests there is a commitment at the governmental level that we no longer see in this country.

Cheong Koon Hean: In growing our new downtown, we have tried to capitalize on the assets of SIngapore. I’m not sure about the testosterone that Peter talked about, but we do have two things: we are tropical, which means that lots of things grow easily, and we are an island. Right in the middle of Singapore is an almost 4000 hectare rain forest. My colleague in the National Park tell me that there are more species of flora and fauna in that rain forest than all of North America. We have many other parks scattered around to create a network that allows you to jog or cycle from park to park. Instead of just having one park, you can actually go from the coast to the rain forest, take a tree top walk, go back to the coast and swim in the sea, and then cycle around Singapore. We provide full public access to the water around the island, so even in the downtown you can actually access every part of the waterfront.

Robert Freedman: One thing that’s unusual about Toronto is that it’s a really good cycling city. All of the streets coming into the downtown or around the downtown during rush hour are jam packed with bicycles. They’re not just for recreation, but for commuting. And as for out waterfront, I think that we’re just on the brink of of getting it right. Quite recently we held an international competition for our central waterfront. It was won by West 8 of The Netherlands, who are helping us figure out how to make it easier for pedestrians and recreational cyclists to make their way across our waterfront. Once you’re through the central waterfront area, there are quite wonderful trails that take you along portions of the waterfront.

Amanda Burden: What role does the government and the market play in facilitating a real diversity of culture in Vancouver?

Brent Toderian: We’ve suffered from lacking of funding, and despite EXI

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what you might think, we don’t have the kinds of foundations and such that you have in the United States that provide tremendous economic support for cultural facilities, so once again we’ve done a lot of leveraging from developers. For example, we have the Vancouver International Film Centre in bonus space that was provided for voluntarily as part of negotiations for additional density. We’ve also rehabilitated our old heritage theaters through density transfer bonuses. Now they’re being operated by the city, but they probably could never have funded it on their own. We’re in the process of creating our first “Creative City” arts and culture plan. We’re embracing the creative-cities model – it’s not just stodgy, “in the box,” arts and culture spaces, but also placing culture into the public realm of the city.

Robert Freedman: Over the last two or three years, Toronto has experienced a cultural renaissance, Major cultural institutions are coming out of the ground after many years of almost complete lack of funding. The Royal Ontario Museum, the Art Gallery of Ontario, our art school, our conservatory of music – all by world architects like Libeskind and Gerry – that’s something we haven’t seen in Toronto for a while, and is helping to make things interesting and exciting. We have a thriving restaurant and bar scene and are shaking off the stodgy British background of the city. I remember as a kid growing up in Toronto, restaurants couldn’t even have windows facing out onto the street – they had to be glass blocks – in order for the establishment to serve liquor. Those days are long gone, and Toronto’s now a party town, particularly in downtown.

Conclusion: The thesis site sits between two neighborhood – West End and North End – and it is also the gateway to the Greenway, thus the issue and challenge has a lot to do with the surrounding community it serves. Both Josh’s perspective and the discussion from the forum provided interesting insight and issues to deal with for the proposed thesis. From Josh’s response, the main concern was about creating amenities for the residents around the nearby neighborhood with facilities like a market or food hall. In the forum discussion, the major topic was public funding and creating an image for the city through an arts and culture plan.

If the idea is to design a cultural/arts center, can we incorporate communal service to the building design? Can civic and cultural live together side by side?

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The above text is taken from “The 2007 Cities Conference on Urban Design” published by The Forum for Urban Design, Inc. May 2007. Page 20 -22

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FUTURE STATEMission Statement:Apart from testing the probability of the thesis building, the mission for this project is to develop a civic and cultural center which will act as a catalyst to revitalize the urban condition of the existing site. This mission is meant to restore and reconnect the Bulfinch Triangle district to the greater city of Boston with its multicultural communities.

Goals:1. Interaction: The center should provide a wide variety of possibilities to promote social interaction within the

communities and exchange information, ideas and skills on a frequent basis.2. Image: The center should promote a vivid image of the communities where it will be sited.3. Circulation: The center should provide a exciting and clear circulation for its visitors.4. Flexibility: The center should encourage spatial elements that will allow multiple events and possibilities.

Performance Requirements:Goal 1. Interaction• The structure should enhance interaction between users and visitors on the exterior and interior of the building

by providing program elements that relates between an outdoor/indoor experience.• The center should provide and encourage a wide variety of social activities for the communities and visitors.• The center should not be left empty when not in used for events and should not have qualities that would create

a desolate building.

Goal 2. Image• The center should be recognizable yet not overpowering the surrounding landmarks.• The center should improve issues and provide a sense of unification between the different communities in the

neighborhood.• The center should provide a strong sense of place and welcoming to it visitors.

Goal 3. Circulation• The center should provide easy and understandable navigation for its users and visitors.• The center should encourage maximum flow between its users and visitors.• The center should have a efficient circulation systems that would handle large crowds safely and easily.

Goal 4. Flexibility• The center should encourage multiple uses.• The center should promote an environment which allows for all season uses.• The center should promote an ease to accommodate different uses at the same time.

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Performance Requirements Diagrams:

1. INTERACTION

2. IMAGE

3. CIRCULATION

4. FLEXIBILITY

← A porous environment is created to promote interaction between the outside and inside,

← To structure will be iconic in form, yet not overpowering but encourages views of the nearby landmarks, enhancing the image of the neighborhood.

← To further enhance the segregated neighborhoods around the site, the structure seeks to promote unification of the area.

← Wide pathways will be generated to maximize flow among users

↑ A flexible system will be introduced in the structure to promote different uses at different times of days and events.

To encourage different seasonal uses, an arcade can be opened up to the outdoors on warmer seasons and closed during the winter months. ↓

Easy way-finding and navigation will be encourage to provide better accessibility. →

Day

Summer Winter

Night

The core of the structure is to act as a catalyst of different programmatic spaces that encourages shared boundaries. →

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Cost Evaluation *

A. Building Cost 30,000 GSF @ $100.00/GSF $3,000,000.00

B. Fixed Equipment 8% of A $240,000.00

C. Site Development 15% of A $450,000.00

D. Total Construction A+B+C $3,690,000.00

E. Site Acquisition/Demolition $1,000,000.00

F. Moveable Equipment 8% of A $240,000.00

G. Professional Fess 10% of D $369,000.00

H. Contingencies 10% of D $369,000.00

J. Administrative Costs 1% of D $36,900.00

K. Total Budget Required D+E through J $5,704,900.00

*Numbers on this page is an estimation and does not reflect the current market value.

List of components:

Site - Plot Size: 29,369 s.f.

Multipurpose Hall / Auditorium - 5000 s.f.Community Museum - 10,000 s.f.AArt Gallery - 2000 s.f.Marketplace / Food Hall - 5000 s.f.Meeting Rooms (10) - 4000 s.f. Retail/Commercial - 4000 s.f.

Building Code:The site is located in Boston, Massachusetts, thus the structure will apply in accordance to the Massachusetts State Building Code (780 CMR). At present, the use group for the propose structure is classified under: A1, A2, A3, B, and M.

The proposed building will not be more than 80 feet high (max of zoning code) with an allocated lot size of 29,369 s.f. The proposed structure is currently set as TYPE 1A. Percentage of perimeter access is set at 100%.

The proposed building and site will also apply to the rules and regulations for accessibility under the Architectural Access Board CM521. The design of the site and building will carry out any applicable rules under specific sections of the building types as set forth in the AAB CM521 unique to the State of Massachusetts.

Currently, there are no definite constraints of code to the proposed site. However, the mixed use quality of the building will have an effect to the user groups, thus effecting the type of construction, it’s hazardous values and construction costs.

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PART III: APPENDIX

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Baer, Walter, et al. Networked Publics. Edited by Kazys Varnelis. Cambridge, Massachusetts: The MIT Press, 2008.Networked Publics is a collection of essays from authors across a range of disciplines and perspectives on the current state of our social being and culture from the aspect of emerging new media. It covers topics from the definition of place in this network age, giving examples and case studies to topics on blogging and the mobility of media and the political scenes. This book is relevant to both my design-based research and scholarly research as it pertains to my investigation of our current social network and its framework on how the built-environment can benefit and learn from the main source that drives it.

Ferré, Albert, et al. Verb Connection. Edited by Albert Ferré, et al. Translated by Elaine Fradley. Barcelona: Actar, 2004.

Verb Connection is a collection of case studies that investigates the virtual connection and its relation with the physical form of architecture in the creation of physical connections with the people, program and uses. Projects include the Seattle Public Library by OMA, SIMCITY, Atelier Bow Wow’s DAS House and other relevant projects and ideas.

Hillier, Bill, and Julienne Hanson. The Social Logic of Space. Cambridge, England: Cambridge University Press, 1984.

In The Social Logic of Space, Bill Hillier and Julienne Hanson begins with identifying the problems of spatial relationship and providing logic behind the organization of space. Though the whole book may not be relevant to the topic of my project, there are some parts regarding the problems and issues on space, how we as human organize our spatial relation and the fundamental elements behind it that I find helpful in recognizing the ideas.

Jacobs, Jane. The Death and Life of Great American Cities. New York, New York: Vintage Books, 1992.Jane Jacobs book on The Death and Life of Great American Cities was the inspiration behind my thesis topic. It provides details, examples, social problems and answers to creating an ideal environment for a city.

Kluitenberg, Eric, Saskia Sassen, Howard Rheingold, Koen Brams, Dirk Pültau, and Logo Parc. Hybrid Space: How Wireless Media Are Mobilizing Public Space. Edited by Jorinde Seijdel. Rotterdam: NAi Publishers, 2006.

Like Networked Publics, Hybrid Space is a collection of essays providing point of views across the globe about the issues and influence of mobile technologies to the mutation of public and private domains, creating a new form of communal space of ‘hybrid’ nature. Its relevance to my thesis project provides ideas, new possibilities and implications on how to take the project further.

Lynch, Kevin. The Image of The City. Cambridge, Massachusetts: The MIT Press, 1960.Kevin Lynch’s The Image of the City provides a case study familiar to me, Boston. It is also the source where the inspiration for my concept came from. Using Lynch’s five main elements in a city, I began to relate the connections between them to the framework of the current social network.

Sennet, Richard. The Fall of Public Man. New York, New York: Vintage Books, 1978.I have not finish the writings in The Fall of Public Man, but from the few chapters I’ve read, I thought there was some historical relevance on how our public domain has changed since the 18th century, resulting in a more private domain. Though the privacy is still one of the biggest concerns in today’s society, with the introduction of modern technology like the Internet or mobile phones, privacy still exists, but may have shifted towards a more public domain as personal information begins to be more easily accessible.

BIBLIOGRAPHY

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IXMAP 1Xa/1Xb Central Artery Special DistrictSee Attached.

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IXTENTATIVE SCHEDULEThesis Seminar: Fall 2008Thesis I Start Date: Spring 2009

Supplementary Review: Early February

Preliminary Review: Mid-February

Schematic Design: Late-April

Design Development: Mid-June

Final Review: Mid-November

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IXRÉSUMÉSSee Attached.

Thesis Candidate - M.Arch: Nicholas Ng Thesis Advisor: Vince Pan, AIA

Client: TBDDesign Critics:Michael Grogan, Assoc. AIAKevin LossoNathan Butt

WORK EXPERIENCE:

OBJECTIVE:

EDUCATION:

AWARDS:

SKILLS:

RÉSUMÉObtain a position in the architecture profession where I can maximize and utilize my skills and education as an architecture student.

Marketing Assistant, Koetter, Kim & Associates, Inc.December 2007 — May 2008Co-directed firm’s new website redesign. Prepared brochure, compiled RFQs and RFPs for private and state jobs. Designed firm’s promotional catalog and publications for events and exhibits. Managed and planned firm’s social events.

Intern Architect, Koetter, Kim & Associates, Inc.December 2005 — December 2007Part of the Urban Design team for New Aktau City in Kazakhstan, assisting with the master plan drawings, regulatory framework drawings and urban design guidelines reports. Managed interns with project assignments and model-making skills.

Administrative Assistant/Project Support, Signer Harris ArchitectsApril 2004 — November 2005Assisted in projects with handling of construction administration documents, schematic design process, model-making and interior finishes. Provided decision-making and design experiences on firm’s marketing profile. Managed and upkeep firm’s current information technology. Maintained firm’s product library, archives and material/finishes library. Assisted in firm’s administrative operations.

Intern, what!design, BostonJune 2002 — August 2002Designed the AIGA Boston annual report. Acquired the knowledge of design business.

Freelance Designer, Kuala Lumpur, MalaysiaMay 2001 — June 2001Client-centred custom artwork for publication.

Junior Designer, Art Profile Advertising, Kuala Lumpur, MalaysiaSeptember 2000 — December 2000Designed print jobs, e.g. brochures, and flyers.

Intern, Prudential Insurance, Kuala Lumpur, MalaysiaApril 2000 — June 2000Assistant to department manager. General office duties. Arranged client meetings.

Boston Architectural CollegeFall 2003 — Spring 2010 (Degree Expected)Thesis Semester — Master of Architecture

Corcoran College of Art and Design, Washington, D.C.September 2001 — May 2003 BFA, Graphic Design (Honors) Senior Thesis Exhibit “Sense,” Corcoran Gallery of Art, May 2003 Centre for Advanced Design (cenfad) in affiliation with Parson School of Design, NY, Kuala Lumpur, MalaysiaJanuary 1998 — May 2001Diploma in Communication Design

2003 BoNE Show AwardAIGA Boston 2001/2002 Annual Report

2003 PSA Creative AwardCorcoran College of Art and Design

2003 HOW Magazine Annual Report Merit AwardAIGA Boston 2001/2002 Annual Report

Proficient in AutoCAD, Vectorworks, Sketchup, Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Illustrator, Adobe InDesign, QuarkXpress, and MS Office. General knowledge in VRay, Rhino3D, Form Z, Flash, HTML. Comfortable and experienced in using all software listed in Mac or Windows environment.

Fluent in English, Mandarin, Cantonese and Malay Language (Bahasa Malaysia). Basic conversation skills in French.

NICHOLAS NG111 Park Drive Apt 20, Boston MA 02215202-361-7950 / [email protected]

Vince Pan AIA4 Clinton Street, #3Cambridge, MA [email protected]

education Princeton UniversityPrinceton, NJ2000-2002Masters of Architecture

University of FloridaGainesville, FL1996-2000Bachelors of Design in ArchitectureSumma Cum LaudeHonors Program

awards Howard Crosby Butler Traveling Fellowship 2002SOM Traveling Fellowship 2000University of Florida Dean's List 1996-2000University of Florida Department of Architecture Distinguished Graduate Award 2000National Merit Scholar 1996Florida Academic Scholar 1996

digital skills Autocad, 3D Studio MAX, SketchUp, Maxon Cinema 4D, Vectorworks, Maya, Rhinoceros, Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Illustrator, Adobe InDesign, Adobe Premiere, Adobe Flash, Adobe Dreamweaver, Microsoft Office

affiliations Registered Architect in the Commonwealth of MassachusettsAmerican Institute of ArchitectsBoston Society of Architects

languages EnglishChineseItalian

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Signer Harris ArchitectsBoston, MA Senior Design Architect + Project ManagerWilliam Harris AIA, LEED AP - 617.426.620004.2004-Present

Broad Institute : Interior Schematic Design for a new 230,000 SF Biomedical Research InstituteWhitehead Institute for Biomedical Research : 25,000 SF Administrative OfficesMIT Stratton Student Center Reading Room : 5,000 SF Reading Room RenovationMilder Residence : 5,000 SF Utility-Independent ResidenceMassachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary : Entrance Canopy : 3,000 SF Fabric StructuresBay Colony Corporate Center : 24,000 SF Lobby RenovationsMassachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary : Building Expansion : 40,000 SF Expansion of Existing Hospital

The ModernsNew York, NYProject Designer + ManagerMark Pedersen - 917.691.855503.2003-04.2004

Rewarding Lives - Los Angeles : 6,500 SF Tensile Structure and ExhibitRewarding Lives - San Francisco : 10,000 SF ExhibitAmerican Express Travel Services Tradeshow Exhibit : 800 SF Tradeshow ExhibitAmerican Express Archives Exhibit : 3,000 SF Exhibit Competition EntryMcGarry Bowen : 5,000 SF Television Advertising Office Renovation

Skidmore, Owings, and Merrill Washington, DCIntern ArchitectKim Vanholsbeke - 212.367.260006.2001-09.2001

United States Patent and Trade Office : Design Development for a 20 acre mixed use complex

FAB ArchitectureAustin, TXIntern ArchitectPatrick Ousey - 512.469.077505.1999-09.1999

Freedom Home Baptist Church and Community Center : Pro-bono Programming and Schematic Design Bell Residence : Programming and Schematic Design for a new residence and ship-building studioNorth by Northwest Restaurant and Brewery : Construction Administration for a 7,500 SF Restaurant

Boston Architectural CollegeBoston, MARich Griswold - 617.585.0219Professor - Master’s A Studio : Spring + Fall 2006Professor \ Lead Faculty - Master’s B Studio : Fall 2007

University of FloridaGainesville, FLTeaching Assistant, First Year Studio : Spring 2000 [Prof. Paul Kariouk - 352.392.0205]Teaching Assistant, Second Year Studio : Spring 1999 [Prof. Donna Cohen - 352.392.0205]

professional experience

teaching experience

[ CIVIC MUTATIONS]Proposal for a new agora prototype in a post-digital age

Nicholas Ng // Fall 2008http://archithesis.wordpress.com

Thesis Advisor: Vince PanThesis Director: Ian F. Taberner, AIA

Boston Architectural CollegeMasters of Architecture

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