Arc 211: American Diversity and Design: Deborah Urban

Deborah Urban
University at Buffalo- State University of New York
Arc 211- American Diversity and Design
Spring 2017
Online Discussion Questions

Introduction
This thread provides you with an opportunity to "meet" each other and initiate a connection with participants in your group. In
responding to this discussion thread, please introduce yourself and provide us with one interesting fact about yourself. After
posting your introduction, take a look through and reply to some of the others. The purpose of this exercise is to develop a sense
of community. You might find that you share similar experiences and can help each other in many ways throughout the semester.
Hi, my name is Debbie and I am eighteen years old. I am a freshman studying Architecture and Urban Planning. I commute to school
everyday from my house which is about 25 minutes away. I serve at the Applebee's near my house. When I'm not working or at
school, I'm either babysitting my two year old niece or hanging out with friends from high school and/or college.
This course was very interesting. The course honestly changed the way I look at designs, and I now notice the impacts it could have
on different people. I always knew there was a large diversity in our country, but this course opened my eyes even more through
watching TED talks and documentaries. Before taking this course, I wasn’t very aware of how a specific design can change someone’s
life. One project we were assigned was to design a billboard to be placed in Buffalo that represented diversity and design, and it
dawned on me that this billboard can seriously change someone’s life for the better.
In the photo on this page, is myself sitting on my body support from last semester. I wanted to share some of my work I have done
so far In Architecture and Urban Planning.
Senay, Michaela. 2016. Photograph.

Response to "What is design?" from Hello World
On “What is design?” from Hello World: Where Design Meets Life by Alice Rawsthron
The author opened her chapter with the example of Ying Zheng, the ruler of the Qin empire, one of the most powerful and
enduring empires I the history of China. She explained how design innovation contributed to Ying Zheng’s success. For example,
in the development of weaponry, he resolved many problems by standardizing parts, and this single innovation gave his armies
great advantage over other armies.
For this discussion, let’s move away from 246 B.C. China, and into the U.S. Describe an innovation or invention (can be current or
historical) that gave advantage to a group of people in the U.S. or to the population as a whole. What were the social impacts of
this innovation? Were any groups negatively impacted by this innovation? For example, the telegraph, developed and patented in
the United States in 1837 by Samuel Morse, permitted people and commerce to transmit messages across both continents and
oceans almost instantly, with widespread social and economic impacts. This heightened communication speed allowed business
persons to make decisions with up-to-date information, often resulting in big profits. Those without access had to rely on out-
dated information, which put them at a disadvantage.
An invention that gave advantage to a group of people in the US was the telephone. The telephone was invented by Alexander
Graham Bell in 1876. This advanced the ways of communication throughout the US and even the whole world. Communication
became faster and more efficient. There were groups in the community that had a disadvantage. Such as, some citizens could not
afford a telephone; therefore, they were in a competitive disadvantage in the market.
http://www.oaktreevintage.com/Telephones.htm

Response to "Introduction" from Diversity and Design
On “Introduction” from Diversity and Design: Understanding Hidden Consequences
The editors state that “diverse participation in the design process, from both professionals and public citizens alike, yields more
equitable results.” This makes sense, but typically has not been the case. Nonetheless, many marginalized groups have impacted
design in ways that have changed our visual and physical worlds as well as our systems, policies, and institutions. For example, in
the 1960s, disability rights advocates designed media events to raise awareness about barriers in the physical environment. They
persisted with their efforts for decades, and, finally, in 1990, the Americans with Disabilities Act became law. It mandated
accessibility in public accommodations such as restaurants and stores, public transportation, communication, and other areas of
public life. This dramatically changed our physical environment (from curb cuts to ramps to automatic doors) and the results
made public life more equitable.
Now it’s your turn. Describe a design that was impacted by a diversity group. How and why did it change form and/or
circumstances? (Note that a design can be anything requiring planning and development prior to the production of an action,
system, visual, material object, or environment. Also, keep in mind that, for our purposes, a diversity group is a group of
individuals who are underrepresented in society in some way—children, older adults, the economically disadvantaged, those with
cognitive disabilities, etc.)
A design that was an impact to a diversity group is the invention of hearing aids. Hearing aids help those who can’t hear as well as
the majority of society. The hearing aid changed the life of deaf people by providing them the ability to hear clearly. This design was
created because to make life easier not only for the deaf but for the people who live with a deaf person on a daily basis. From my
own experience with my dad, the hearing aids have helped my dad communicate with his family, friends and co-workers a great deal
and he is thankful everyday for this design.
https://accuquest.com/hearing-aids/types-of-hearing-aids/

Response to Media/Society Chapter and TED Talk on Photographs
FROM: Chapter in Media/Society and TED Talk Photos that Changed the World
Where would you place the images shown in Photos That Changed the World into Croteau and Hoynes' diagram entitled “Model
of Media and the Social World”? Identify a mass media photograph taken in your own lifetime that has served as an icon of an
event. (Feel free to add an attachment.) What roles does this photo play in the communication of the event?
I personally found the photos from the TED talk "Photos that Changed the World" eye opening to the viewers and expresses a
powerful message. Therefore, I would place those photos in the "Media Message or Product" category in the diagram "Model of
Media and the Social World". Those photos were captured at eye catching moments by a photographer who then shares it with the
media in hopes that it will impact the society, in particular the younger generations. I believe iconic photos like those shown are
intended for younger people in hopes to change our world for the better. I personally am trying to change the world due to some
powerful photos I've seen. The photo attached I saw once on my Facebook page, and it really affected me to recycle more. When I
saw this photo I even joined the Ecology Club in my high school where we encouraged students to recycle and we planted plants in
our school's grounds. The photo is a visual proof to the filth and destruction of our world caused by humans, and it should influence
others like myself to do something about it.
https://ublearns.buffalo.edu/courses/1/2171_14992_COMB/db/_3568377_1/plastic.jpg

Response to Articles on Hats as Communication Design
FROM: “Fashioning Protest for the Women’s March on Washington” and “The Worst Design of 2016 Was Also the Most Effective”
NOTE: Use the first three part of the SEE-IT method of critical thinking (State, Elaborate, Exemplify) to address the following
questions:
Typically, we do not think of hats as elements of mass media or social media. However, the two hats (red and pink) discussed in
the articles certainly have taken on that role. Why the two hats (red and pink) are mentioned in the articles vehicles of
communication design? What meanings do each of the two hats carry? In terms of communication design, how are they similar?
And how are they different from one another?
These hats mentioned in the two articles not only serve the purpose of protecting someone’s head and eyes from sunlight but they
give out an empowering message, as if it’s a form of advertisement. The red hat with the statement "make America great again" was
to promote Trump's campaign during the presidential election. It was Trump's slogan throughout the campaign and he designed the
simple but effective hat to encourage supporters. The pink hat was represented at the women's march that was to protest against
Trump's election. The hat was looked as a 'comeback' towards Trump's design. It provided a whole different meaning but these
designs are similar because they both represent a simple but powerful message that would encourage people all over the nation.
https://static01.nyt.com/images/2017/01/19/fashion/19MARCHSTYLE3-1484
687606980/19MARCHSTYLE3-1484687606980-blog427.jpg
Response IDEA Awards and Cradle-to-Cradle Video

Which of the 2016 IDEA Gold Award products seems to defy the Cradle-to-Cradle concept developed by architect William
McDonough and chemist Dr. Michael Braungart? How does this product resist or disregard the concept? Provide an example any
products that embraces Cradle-to-Cradle design? Please describe and cite your source.
I found it difficult to find a product that didn't embrace Cradle to Cradle design because nowadays designers want to be more eco-
friendly. But one product of the Gold Award products that seemed to resist the Cradle to Cradle concept is the Rolls-Royce Dawn
product. This car is designed for an enjoyable time traveling with the top of the car replaced in order to enjoy the views and vibes of
the scenery. Therefore, the designer focused on the human interaction with the product, but did not consider the ecological
interactions with the product which is what Cradle to Cradle design is focused on. There are cars designed eco-friendly because they
use solar energy which is useful for the Earth because it decreases pollution, but unfortunately the Rolls-Royce Dawn is not one of
those designs. This car has no Cradle to Cradle concept included unlike the TetraPOT. The TetraPOT has a direct relationship with the
environment. It creates trees and roots to create an ecosystem and to protect structures from the environment. I think it’s
important to include your design with the Cradle to Cradle design because it will benefit our world and society. Our society as a
whole will be much cleaner and healthier.
http://www.caranddriver.com/rolls-royce/dawn
http://www.designrulz.com/product-design/table-
product-design/2010/06/3735/
Response to “Industrial Design” by John Heskett and "The Incredible Inventions of Intuitive AI" by Maurice Conti

In his chapter on industrial design (written in 1987), historian John Heskett claims that the methods of mass production
introduced by Henry Ford in the U.S. involved new concepts of the standardization and integration of the production line that
were adopted across the world. With Ford’s method, work could be completed by relatively unskilled workers; it was more
efficient and with this method, products were made more quickly and cheaply than previously possible. What were some of the
social consequences of Ford’s production line? In other words, how did this system change our U.S. society? Do any of those
changes remain with us today? Now consider Maurice Conti’s TED Talk, and the predictions he makes about production. How do
you think manufacturing processes will change in the next twenty years? How do you think these changes will affect our U.S.
society?
In the 1910s, Henry Ford introduced the assembly line to build cars more efficiently and quicker. In doing so, more cars were out on
the market and were definitely more affordable. It was so affordable that almost everyone owned a Model T, the product invented
by Ford that was used on the assembly line. Although the idea of mass production is affordable and more efficient, it does have its
disadvantages. Think about all the people who had just lost their job as being a car builder because a machine at the assembly line
took their place. Therefore, during the transformation of the methods of mass production, many people were out of jobs. Even to
this day, people are losing their jobs due to the advances of technology. Technology is much faster and efficient and also affordable
that people are no longer needed in businesses. Now from listening to Conti's TED Talk and his predictions he says about production,
I think manufacturing processes in the next twenty years will continue to remain fast and efficient and take more jobs of humans. In
fact, technology will advance so much that it'll won't even need people to run the machines. I think eventually, manufacturing
machines will no longer need human interactions at all and outsmart every human. For the United States, I think it'll effect our
economy substantially and effect our society as a whole because nobody would need to interfere with machinery and creation. In
Conti's TED Talk, he thinks technology and humans will work together, but I disagree because I believe that technology will outsmart
the humans and have no need from our human mind. The only thing I could see what humans could be useful for is to provide
emotional status for the technology.
http://www.tweaktown.com/news/43385/report-china-robots-2017-mainly-used-production/index.html
Response to Ballantyne and Zumthor Articles

Andrew Ballantyne and Peter Zumthor present ideas about architecture that seem to value the sensorial and material elements
of life. How are Ballantyne’s and Zumthor’s viewpoints on architecture alike? More importantly, how do they differ? (Use the
SEE-IT method to respond to this question.)
In the articles, "Thinking Architecture" by Peter Zumthor, and "Architecture, Life, and Habits" by Andrew Ballantyne, they both
present similar and different ideas on architecture and the values of sensorial and material about the architecture. Zumthor and
Ballantyne agree on atleast one viewpoint which is why the building is built, and that the reason they are created is to be able to live
inside them, a place to function as a shelter. They have different viewpoints when it comes to the purpose. Zumthor follows the
concept of that not only does the building function as shelter, but there is more artistic value into it. That the structure is designed
specifically for an artistic reason within every detail of the architecture. He focuses more on the looks of the structure, and the
artistic beauty that will portrayed to the people. Ballantyne strictly believes that the function itself is a design. Also that the function
on how to walk through, how to get in and out, is enough design necessary for architecture.
http://absfreepic.com/free-photos/download/artistic-architecture-of-building-2896x1944_91894.html
Response to All Module 4 Materials

Your readings and viewings this week present different ways of thinking about architecture. Mies Van der Rohe describes
architecture as “The will of the epoch translated into space.” Andrew Ballantyne describes architecture as the background for life.
Jeanne Gang describes it as the act of building relationships. All agree that architecture can change based on context and culture.
Choose two works of architecture from any of your materials this week—one with sensibilities about the past and one with
sensibilities about the present and/or future. How do each of these buildings either reflect or challenge their cultural contexts?
(Use the SEE-IT method to respond to this question.)
While listening to the video from PBS "10 Buildings that Change America" I noticed one work of architecture that had sensibilities
about the past as the Trinity Church. The Trinity Church was design by H. H. Richardson who very much enjoyed and was inspired by
the Romanesque style from centuries before. Richardson put his own style into it and named it Richardson Romanesque style.
Therefore, I choose this building with the sensibility about the past, because with the Romanesque style, meaning a medieval, Gothic
look, with big columns, a style you would see in the past.
A work of architecture that I noticed that had sensibilities about the present or future was Walt Disney Concert Hall created by Frank
Gehry. This building was developed during the Post Modernism period. The building consists of curves and slants in all different
directions and angles, giving it a 'futuristic' look. Since this design was so complex, it was created in the perfect time because they
were able to use computer softwares in order to make it possible to physically create. This design has changed the overall forms of
buildings forever, giving architects a possibly to expand as their ideas in crazy ways and still have it possible to create due to the
advanced techniques.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Walt_Disney_Concert_Hall
Response to Pruitt Igoe Project, Talen, and Larson

Imagine that you are part of a urban planning and design firm working with Emily Talen (author of “Design That Enables
Diversity”) and Kent Larson (who gave the TED Talk "Brilliant Designs to Fit More People In Every City" The thee of you have been
tasked with developing a plan to rebuild Pruitt Igoe in St. Louis. City officials told the three of you that that they want to do it
right this time. Identify three strategies for rebuilding Pruitt Igoe in ways that promise to be more successful. What would Talen
do? What would Larson do? What would you do? How would your strategies differ from those of the original urban
planners/designers of the project? Why would your strategies be more effective?
The Pruitt Igoe Housing Project built in 1954 was a failure due to it’s numerous of living condition problems. The buildings were
filthy, untreated and uncared for spaces and also were overcrowded with residents. By the 1970s, the buildings were demolished. If
it was asked to be developed again by Talen, Larson and myself, we were have atleast three effective strategies to make it
successful. Talen would highly focus on the aspect that the relationship between the physical planning of the buildings and the idea
of place diversity. She says, "there is an underlying conception that the physical environment can play a role in procuring diversity."
Therefore, Talen would focus on the strategy of having everyone happy in their environment, and encourage a safe environment for
all races, religions, etc. Larson would propose the idea of his design of his robotic wall, to take advantage of every space possible,
and to provide the residents to customize their apartment the way they feel most comfortable, or "home". With Larson's designs, his
strategy of occupying space in an efficient and effective way will be possible. I would suggest the strategy of providing services to the
residents when they need it. In the video about Pruitt Igoe, they note how they struggled to solve plumbing issues, and no help
came because it wasn't affordable. I want to create a team of people to provide aid to the residents and to the conditions of the
area.Combining our three strategies in rebuilding this Housing Project, it will be successful, due to Talen's focus on diversity, Larson's
focus of spacing, and my focus on the conditions of the building.
http://www.politico.com/states/new-york/city-hall/story/2012/02/new-documentary-the-pruitt-igoe-myth-tells-of-the-rise-and-fall-
of-americas-most-infamous-housing-project-06722
Response to Levy Article

John Levy’s article, “An Overview: The Need for Planning,” discussed ways in which planning can determine the characteristics of
a place. For example, some smaller towns restrict the heights of buildings to maintain a certain scale. How did planning define the
character of the place in which you grew up?
I grew up right here in Buffalo, NY. Specifically, I lived in a suburban town called Hamburg. The suburban lifestyle is far different from
the city lifestyle, which was intentional. In my area, it was planned to be a whole bunch of neighborhoods next to each other with
areas to eat and shop nearby. The plan was to have families no feel overcrowded and also be close to the necessities they need. My
neighborhood is located right near a shopping mall, a few plazas of restaurants and stores. There are cars everywhere on the main
streets where all the commercial activities take place, but once you enter the neighborhoods, there are just a few and are only of
residents who live in the area. This plan gives the residents the feeling of safety and comfort, which is what every family wants. Most
houses in the neighborhood look the same, to provide the act of simplicity and that everyone is the same and equal, which was the
plan. Each house has a front and back yard to run around in, giving my personal childhood experience full of outdoor activities. Also
there is a nearby neighborhood park with a playground, next to woods with a creek running through it, to feel isolated from the
shopping mall on the other side of the woods. Strategically, it’s an ideal area for a suburban neighborhood, in a small town.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hamburg,_New_York

Response to F.L. Olmsted
Displaying his plan at the 1876 Centennial Exposition in Philadelphia, Frederick Law Olmsted stated that "Buffalo is the best
planned city, as to its streets, public places, and grounds, in the United States, if not in the world." What was the basis for this
claim? Would Olmsted still make that claim today? Why or why not?
Olmsted was known for several well-known parks in the USA such as Central Park in NYC and Delaware Park right here in Buffalo. His
statement about Buffalo being one of the best planned cities was because Olmsted saw Buffalo as a new place for parks and public
spots to be sprouting everywhere just like his Delaware Park. With green fields and parks for people to walk around was a way for
the city to interact with one another in Olmsted's eyes, creating this idea that Buffalo is one of the best planned cities. But, in today's
time, I don't believe Olmsted would think the same way about Buffalo. With the construction of the expressways that destroyed the
parks in the area creates an atmosphere that nobody wants to be at. It's not a pretty view when a huge filthy bridge is right next to
you, instead of trees. I've noticed that parts of the expressway is right along some parks and trails, creating a dangerous
environment for the pedestrians at the park. Creating this dangerous environment causes people to not participate in activities at
these locations, which completely contradicts with Olmsted's original vision.
Scroger, Kaleigh. 2016. Photograph.

Response to Walter Hood's Work
Identify something that should be memorialized either on UB's campus or in your hometown. Imagine that you are the person
who will oversee this project, and that you are using Walter Hood's 'triad of investigations' as your approach to the project. What
would your landscape intervention commemorate/memorialize? How will you use Hood's 'triad of investigations' to design a new
landscape intervention? What do you imagine that the design will be? (Either written or visual descriptions are acceptable).
In Buffalo there are many places I would consider to memorialize, such as the Botanical Gardens. The Botanical Garden is a beautiful
place to take a walk, or go fishing at the pond behind the white greenhouse. It contains a variety of exotic plants inside the
greenhouse and outside in the park surrounding it. This location would be a great place to memorialize because of the atmosphere it
brings to Buffalo. It's located in Lackawanna which is not the most delightful area to be in, but as you enter the entrance for the
Botanical Gardens you are welcomed with a view of the huge greenhouse and the greenery around it. The new design I would place
on the landscape is providing a bigger opening for an entrance. Whenever I enter the area in my car, I feel a little cramped even
though it’s such a wide area. There is only one road that runs along the area and it goes in a circle. The circle provides a simply
pathway to follow but I feel like if you branch off more roads, it'll lead for people to explore the area more and appreciate the land.
Urban, Deborah. 2016. Photograph.

Response to Charles Davis and equityXdesign's Work
Critique either the MLK Memorial or the National Museum of African American History and Culture using equityXdesign’s core
beliefs and/or design principles. (Use the beliefs or principles that are most relevant to your critique rather than all of them.)
The equityXdesign's core beliefs and design principles were created to redesign racism and equity. One of their beliefs was "BE SEEN:
RADICAL INCLUSION". This belief is purely about loving others, despite their race, gender, etc, and to respect our differences. One of
their principles was "Cede Power." Encouraging a nonviolent way to express that everyone holds power in some way. The MLK
memorial successfully uses this belief and this principle because everyone learns about the message Martin Luther King Jr gave in his
'I have a dream' speech. The equality everyone deserves despite their race, gender, etc. and everyone should be respected. MLK also
nonviolently preached his ideas, yet making his voice heard, which expresses power. Therefore, creating a memorial in respect for
this inspiring man encourages others to act out by being respectful of others, and encouraging others to express their thoughts and
ideas peacefully.
https://newmonastic.wordpress.com/2011/05/11/love-god-love-others/

Response to the Brookes
The abolitionist poster, the Brookes, is an iconic image that often is included in exhibits that explore issues of race and power. It
was commissioned by Thomas Clarkson in 1788, and the Committee of the Abolition of Slavery used it to inform and shock the
public. While some consider the poster as an important component of the abolitionist campaign, it recently “has been strongly
criticized by some individuals and groups of African heritage as providing a very limited view of the history of the transatlantic
slave trade, resistance and abolition (Hudson 2007).” The lesson here is that how a viewer sees an image is dependent upon
his/her social, economic, and cultural position. Keeping this in mind, find another iconic graphic that addresses racial issues and
post it for others in your group to view. (Add it to your response by clicking on the picture in the tools section. Do not add it as an
attachment that needs to be opened.) How do you interpret the graphic? What is its meaning? Now imagine that someone from
a racial and cultural background different than your own is looking at the same graphic. Briefly describe this person. How might
s/he interpret its meaning? How might this differ from your interpretation? What are the possible reasons for these differences?
(Consider the three assessment principles mentioned in the article to help you: a technology of vision, an instrument of empathy,
and a symbol of control.)
This image represents the stereotypical ' dumb blonde girl'. The girl who isn't smart, likes to shop 24/7, wears inappropriate clothes,
etc. Ever since I was a little girl, I heard that blonde girls were always not as smart as everyone else. I, being a blonde girl, always
knew that wasn't accurate. I was always a pretty smart kid but I always noticed that other kids would sometimes be surprised that I
was as smart as I was. Growing up with the 'dumb blonde' jokes, and the stereotypical dumb blonde girls in all the movies back in
the day was always low-key annoying to me. Obviously as we grow older, people stop being immature about the subject, but from
time to time people will say something sarcastically about how I'm dumb because I'm blonde, and it's funny but it’s annoying that it
only works for blondes. Sure there are actual not smart girls who are blonde, but the stereotype is just uncalled for. I'm sure others
who aren't a blonde girl won't have the same perspective as me, and might not realize that the 'dumb blonde' jokes could be
offensive to some people. I personally never was offended because I understand the sense of humor of the matter but not everyone
does. If I had brown hair, I definitely wouldn't hesitate to think if those blonde jokes could be related to me because I wouldn't have
blonde hair. Therefore, racial stereotypes don't always have to do with skin color, but it could do with hair color and gender as well.
http://www.articleindex.com/content/personal/attitudes-transformed/12422-are-blondes-actually-dumb.html

Response to "Landscape Stories" Chapter
First, let’s start with your own home. Describe a place in your home (indoors and/or outdoors) that you think of as representative
of your own ethnic background and discuss why you consider this place to be ‘ethnic’. –OR-- Describe an object in your home that
you think of as representative of your ethnic background and discuss why this object is considered to be ‘ethnic’. (If possible, add
photo/s.) Is this object or place something that you will keep or continue when you establish your own home? Why or why not?
Now let’s move into your community. In “Landscape Stories,” the authors show how landscape architects develop a historical
narrative that sifts through and interprets the culture and material of underrepresented groups. Think about the community
where you grew up. Describe and discuss any evidence of cultural influences on the physical environment in your community. If
possible, describe evidence of the cultural influence of an underrepresented group. (If possible, add photo/s.) Is this cultural
influence being acknowledged or preserved from future generations? Why or why not? (Limit your response to 250 words.)
My house has many representations of my ethnic background. My family is almost 100% Polish since all four of my great
grandparents were directly from Poland. My mom decorates our house with showing all the pride she has in being Polish. We have
magnets on the fridge, multiple coffee mugs, several banners, all relating to being Polish. There is not one room that does not have a
Polish decoration. Another ethnic background that is shown in my house is my family religion, Roman Catholic. My mom is very
dedicated to her faith; when my brother moved out of our house, she turned his room to a library/prayer room, which is where is
dedicates an hour each day to read scripture and pray. So in this room especially, our religion is represented, however, our whole
house has a cross in each room and a small Jesus painting is in our living room.
I grew up in the Buffalo, and what I've noticed throughout the years is that it’s a pretty diverse city (not as much as NYC I must say,
but pretty diverse). In Buffalo, we seem to take a lot of pride in our family heritage. If you're Polish, you'll own a sweatshirt or
something representing it, same for being Irish. These two ethnicities are the main ethnicities in Buffalo. Buffalo is known for their
St. Patrick's Day parade, where everyone wears green and celebrates being Irish (even if you aren't Irish. lol) and Buffalo is also
known for their Dyngus Day Parade, in fact its largest populated Dyngus Day parade in the country, it's where everyone celebrates
their Polish heritage. There are always ethnic events going on all around Buffalo, even the underrepresented ones, such as Arabic,
Chinese, Hispanic, etc.
http://www.trendingbuffalo.com/life/10-
best-places-in-america-to-celebrate-
dyngus-day/

Response to Article on Sports Branding
Recent controversies about sports branding focus on ethnicity. The Washington Redskins team is just one example of the larger
controversy, but it receives the most public attention due to the name itself being defined as derogatory or insulting in modern
dictionaries, and the prominence of the team representing the nation’s capital. Should sports team branding designers use ethnic
references (Fighting Irish, Boston Celtics, Atlanta Braves, etc.)? Why? Why not? What are some of the complexities of this issue?
(Limit your response to 150 words.)
In my opinion, there are both great and bad outcomes of having an ethnic references a sport teams names. Some find it offensive to
their culture to be seen as a mascot, where others find it giving their culture power and strength because they are seen as an iconic
idol. In Buffalo, there was a huge debate at Lancaster High School, on whether or not they should be called "Redskins". In the end
they changed their name to "The Legends". On the news, I heard what some kids points of view on the name "Redskins". Some
found it offensive to their ancestors, others found no problem with being called the "Redskins" My friend when to that high school
and she said, "I don't see why a team's name should affect someone's pride in their culture. It’s nothing personal."
http://www.lockportjournal.com/news/lancaster-students-protest-school-s-decision-to-drop-redskins-nickname/article_b909ef90-
f378-5f1e-82bf-a727ff1809cf.html

Response to Bathroom Bill
Last year, North Carolina Governor Pat McCrory signed into law a bill that repealed local LGBT anti-discrimination laws, and
required people to use the bathroom that corresponded with the biological gender written on their birth certificates. This
prompted massive backlash. McCrory stated, “You know, we all have to make adjustments in life. And we’ve had the proper
etiquette situation for decades in our country, and all of a sudden through political correctness we’re throwing away basic
etiquette.” Just this past Thursday, the North Carolina General Assembly passed a bill to repeal the law while placing a
moratorium on nondiscrimination measures.
Should people be required to use the bathroom that corresponds with the biological gender written on their birth certificate?
State why AND state why not. In other words, to receive full credit for this question, you need to present an argument for both
sides of the issue. As a designer, how would you solve this gender dilemma? Use the SEE-IT method to respond to this question.
(Limit your response to less than 250 words.)
This very controversial topic contains strong opinionated views on each end. From the side that believes that people are required to
use the bathroom that corresponds with their biological gender, is for those who don't feel comfortable being in the bathroom with
a transgender, there is also the fear that any male could feel comfortable walking into a girl's bathroom, and just claim he’s
transgender when he's not and vice versa for women walking into a boy's bathroom. On the other hand, those who do identify
themselves as another gender than their biological gender, they may feel discriminated and uncomfortable walking into the
bathroom where they now do not feel comfortable walking in because they are now a different gender.
I feel like a simple way to solve this issue is to create a new bathroom for trans genders, so that way everyone has their own
restroom to walk into and feel comfortable. In a sense, it would be similar to 'family restrooms' that exist today.
https://www.themonastery.org/blog/2016/04/transgender-bathroom-bill-what-should-be-done/

Response to "Visualizing Gender" Chapter
In their chapter “Communicating Gender,” Maya Ganesh and Gabi Sobliye discuss two primary visual advocacy approaches: 1) get
the idea, and 2) stories in data. Find a new example of either of the two visual advocacy approaches to gender issues, and post it
in this thread. Cite the source.
First, identify the approach. Then explain how the designer uses the approach to communicate a gender issue. Is the approach
effective in this example? Why or why not? How could this graphic be improved? (Limit your response to 200 words.)
In this image, the designer is getting the idea that women earn less than men do. This example shows a very effective representation
of this issue. The "his" jar has more coins in the same size jar as the "hers" jar, meaning that for the same amount of work and effort,
the men earn more which is unfair. Why should women get less pay for the same exact work? I believe the graphic doesn't need to
be improve, I think both jars show an accurate ratio of how much money should be in each jar. The 'hers' jar still has money which is
accurate because women do get paid, so the jar shouldn't be empty because that wouldn't be accurate. Also the 'his' jar shouldn't
be changed either.
http://www.huffingtonpost.ca/kirsty-duncan-/canada-gender-gap-_b_6448758.htm

Response to Hidden Ways
Author Steven Flusty categorized five types of disciplinary architecture that perpetuate what he calls urban spatial injustice: 1)
stealthy, 2) slippery, 3) crusty, 4) prickly, and 5) jittery. Go out into the city of Buffalo, and find/photograph two examples from
the list of five. Identify what type of space you’ve photographed and why it might discriminate against a specific population.
Identify the location where you took the photograph, and make certain that you are in at least one of the two photographs.
But his image here is the entrance to my neighborhood. I live in Hamburg, NY which is a little outside of the city of Buffalo, but I
thought this park was a great example of a "Slippery Space" One reason why I think so is because this is a public park, open to
everyone, yet almost nobody goes there because people don't know it exists! The entrance to the park is no noticeable because it is
located between two houses. I'm sure many people think it's either private property or just part of the house's yards.
Urban, Deborah. 2017. Photograph.

Response to People like Us
After almost two decades of public assistance, Tammy Crabtree took herself and her family off the welfare rolls. But her job
cleaning bathrooms at a local Burger King barely paid the bills. Crabtree wanted to do better and hopes to go to college and
become a teacher.
Imagine this scenario. You are a designer who works at the well-known firm, iPD (Integrated Planning and Design). You work on a
team with planners, urban designers, policy designers, architects, and social designers. You have been tasked to develop/design a
way for Tammy Crabtree and her family (and others with situations similar to Tammy’s) to move themselves out of poverty. What
will your team to do to help Tammy and her family achieve their goals? What approach will your team take to address this
difficult problem?
Tammy and her family are living in poverty for a few reasons. One reason is because Tammy is raising a family with a minimum
waged job at Burger King. I would like to develop a way for Tammy to get a better pay job. First Tammy would have to attend college
like she wanted to, and my team and I would provide that loan to her, so she can study and no worry about the cost of it. After four
hard years of studying and getting a degree, my team and I will work together and help Tammy get a job she deserves. Hopefully
with this better job, Tammy can raise her family with ease.
https://i.ytimg.com/vi/37ZpauS5Doo/hqdefault.jpg

Response to Carroll Article: “(Re)forming Regent Park: When Policy Does Not Equal Practice”
The development of Regent Park is phased, and there are several more phases to the project. What actions could be taken to
ensure more social integration for the older people living in the ‘new and improved’ Regent Park?
I believe there can be multiple actions taken to ensure more social integration for the elders. In the book, Carroll quotes, "Hazel and
her friends found themselves excluded." and I believe creating more common space areas to interact will be helpful. Adding benches
and areas to relax would be quite inviting for people, like to lay out a few tables with the game of chess or scrabble would entertain
and create a happy community for sure. Also designing more wheelchair ramps would be helpful in cases where people have trouble
getting from one place to another. These ramps would lead from the relaxing areas I mentioned and also to other rooms that have
utilities such as a laundry room.
http://www.allseniorscare.com/residence/sturgeon-creek-retirement-residence/
I want senior citizens to feel as happy
as these people in this photo.

Response to Enriquez TED Talk: “What Will Humans Look Like in 100 Years?”
For this question, we will focus on Juan Enriquez’ Life Two civilization, which alters fundamental aspects of the body. We are
living longer than ever before in human history. Enriquez argues that, because of advances in bio-medical technology, the
possibility of living to 120 years of age and beyond is quite possible for many of us in this D+D class. Assuming that his assertion is
accurate, how do you think extended life spans will change our societies and built environments? What new issues might
designers face because of extended life spans?
Juan Enriquez shared the possibility of people living to be 120 years old. If this extended life span was to actually occur, our societies
would become overcrowded and chaotic. Our population would increase rapidly and more buildings are going to need to be built in
order to provide shelter for everyone. One issue a designer may face in designing due to extended life spans is that they will need to
think of creative ways to make most of a space and also make space for someone to comfortably live in. Buildings are going to need
to be taller and narrower in order to provide enough space to have many buildings, therefore the living spaces would be smaller
overall, and designers will have to figure out an efficient way to make it a spacious yet usable space to live in the limited space given.
The image is a futuristic look of what buildings I had in mind.
https://www.pinterest.com/y1108/tall-building/

Response to PPT, Smithsonian, and Roy
Please select one of the seven universal design principles, and post photographs that show both a positive and a negative
example of the principle. Then address the following question: How do your examples empower or disempower various people?
Describe the specific features of the positive example and the specific features of the negative example. Discuss ways that the
positive example could be even further improved.
I chose "Equitable Use" as one of the principles of universal design presented in the power point. The first photo represents a
negative example of this principle because it doesn't allow people with leg disabilities up or down the staircase. There isn't even a
railing to hold onto, which not only makes it hard for people in crutches or wheelchairs, but it's also difficult for people that need to
take a rest (because it is a long staircase) to actually rest. Besides the point another negative thing about this staircase that it isn't in
good condition, or built well, it looks uncomfortable to walk on and not inviting. Whereas the next photo shows a railing for people
to hold onto and also a ramp to allow wheelchairs to be able to mobilize up and down the staircase. Also there is the ability to allow
someone space to hold the handles on the wheelchair. This positive example is seen more often nowadays in parks and places like
subway stations. One way to improve it is possibility make the ramp less edgy, like create curves verses harsh angles, just to limit any
bumps the person in the wheelchair may feel in order to make them more comfortable.
https://ublearns.buffalo.edu/courses/1/2171_14992_COMB/db/_3694149_1/embedded/aaaaa
https://ublearns.buffalo.edu/courses/1/2171_14992_COMB/db/_3694149_1/embedded/aaa%281%29

Response to Survey, FIXED, and Stelarc
Currently, we have the technology for you to choose many of the survey characteristics in your future child, and this ability to
choose poses some ethical questions. Of course, we all want the best for our own child. However, as we move into a more
collective situation, we need to consider how the consequences of majority choices for children might change who we are as a
species. In the film trailer FIXED, you were introduced to the dilemma of living in a culture in which the “science-fiction of human
enhancement” has become almost a way of life, from prenatal genetic screening to bionic body parts. In the video, “A Man with
Three Ears” you are introduced to an artist who is using current technology to move humans beyond their current abilities. Last
week, Juan Enriquez asked us if it is ethical to evolve the human body. All of these videos suggest that the concept of disability ‘as
we know it’ could cease to exist in the future.
What lessons do you think we should learn from history when thinking about emerging enhancement technologies and
reproductive technologies? What are some of the possible consequences (both positive and negative) of being able to design our
bodies and the bodies of our children? What ethical quandaries do these technologies pose?
We are living in an era of advancements in technology, such as enhancement technology, where we can now design and alter our
own body parts. Also there is reproductive technology, where we can now design and alter the traits of our children both physically
and mentally. Now there are definitely positive and negative outcomes to these technological advancements. The positive, you can
fix any disability you or your children may have and have your 'ideal' body or child. The ability to design your body parts and your
children's creates an endless amount of possibilities to design "perfection". Enhancing your body for the better is super neat to me,
but I fear that the enhancements will become surreal, and we'll be able to have "superpowers" which would cool but it would affect
our genes and forever create this 'out of the norm' lifestyle for our future generations. I think enhancement technology should
definitely be reconsidered before moving too much forward with it, and think of all the possible outcomes of it. Now the
advancement of reproductive technology, this worries me though because your children's bodies, I believe could potentially create
great danger your children. I believe for ethnic purposes, creating your 'ideal' baby would cause a lot of unnecessary ethnic issues.
Personally, everyone should cherish the race and culture they have and be proud to reproduce that naturally compared to altering
the genetics of the child with technology, to me it’s just not humane; so even though its super neat that we have the capability to
design these things like our bodies and our children's bodies, I don't think the outcome would overall be positive and worth it, and
these technologies could alter our human abilities for not necessarily the better.

http://www.medinart.eu/works/stelarc/
http://nymag.com/thecut/2015/07/lady-scientists-could-make-marvel-comics-real.html

Response to Titicut Follies
The state of Massachusetts tried to ban the 1967 documentary Titicut Follies, arguing that director Frederick Wiseman had
violated the patients’ rights by not getting written permission to film them. The case went to court, and Wiseman argued that he
had consent from their legal guardian, the institution. After a judge ruled in favor of the state, the legal appeals carried on for
several years: in 1969, Massachusetts allowed the film to be shown to doctors, lawyers, and health care professionals; in 1991, a
superior court judge ruled it could be released for the “general public,” as privacy concerns were no longer at issue, so many
years later.
Should Wiseman have been allowed to film the residents of Bridgewater Massachusetts Correctional Facility? Why or why not?
How might this film be of value to designers (communication designers, product, designers, architects, interior designers,
planners, landscape designers, systems designers, and/or social designers)? In other words, what might they gain from this film
that they could use in their work?
I believe Wiseman should have been allowed to film the residents of Bridgewater Massachusetts Correctional Facility. The film
showed the conditions of the residents and their environment. So now, medical and social research will have this to study and figure
what how to help fix the conditions of a place like this in the future. Many designers such as interior designers, planners,
communication designers and architects could help them figure out ways to design better facilities, by seeing the negative elements
in the film, and changing those elements for the better. Their work can be improved and more beneficial for society, especially
residents for a correctional facility as the one shown by Wiseman.
https://peelslowlynsee.files.wordpress.com/2010/03/titicut-3.jpg

Response to PPT, The Architecture of Autism, Public Space
Prelude: Wolf Wolfensberger's seminal work "The Origin and Nature of Our Institutional Models" posited that society
characterizes people with intellectual disabilities as sub-human and burdens of charity, He argued that this dehumanization, and
the segregated institutions that result from it, ignored the potential productive contributions that all people can make to society.
He pushed for a shift in policy and practice that recognized the human needs of those with intellectual challenges and provided
the same basic human rights as for the rest of the population.
The Scenario: Imagine that you and your four children live in Amherst, New York in a $650,000 home at the end of a cul-de-sac on
the edge of a ten acre woods. The town has purchased a one acre lot three houses away from yours, and plans to build a group
home for ten intellectually challenged adults. As a resident of the neighborhood, would you support or oppose this proposal and
why?
You've learned additional information about the residents of the proposed group home in your neighborhood. In 2013, three of
the ten intended residents exhibited challenging behaviors including screaming, public masturbation, repetitive rocking, and
echolalia (elective incontinence). However, these behaviors have not occurred since then. How would this change your opinion
about the construction of the group home in your neighborhood?
The residents in your neighborhood voted (14-3) to reject the town of Amherst’s proposal to build a group home in the
neighborhood. Town officials agreed that the home would not be built in your neighborhood if you and your neighbors could
develop a workable alternative. What are some possible solutions that would allow the residents of the home to be provided
with “the same basic human rights as the rest of the population”?
So, I personally would support the idea having a group home a few houses down from my four children and I. I think it's important to
have all people have a place where they can be taken care of and feel comfortable. I just think it’s a nice idea to plan to build for
challenged adults who cannot tend for themselves. Now, given the additional information about some of the residents and their
challenging behaviors, it also is said that their behaviors have not occurred since 2013. In case these behaviors do occur, I think
simply enclosing the home with a 5ft fence who avoid any visual disturbances for my four kids. So I think that the house should be
built with the addition of a fence to enclose the residents and that would also make neighbors more comfortable with the plan. I
think challenged adults should be provided the same rights as everyone else, so giving the option to be living in a group home
instead of a facility which makes you feel like you are in a hospital or something, the home gives them a more healthier normal
lifestyle. (sidenote: in my neighborhood, there is a group home right down the street from me, and I never heard any complaints or

anything. Everyone who lives there are sweet, and I see them take walks with their caretaker all the time, and it actually makes me
happy to see them enjoying their life.)
The first photo shows the group home controversy issue, here in Buffalo, specifically in Boston.
http://www.wkbw.com/news/group-home-controversy-may-be-headed-to-court
The photo below shows a group of residents living in a group home, expressing their emotions on living in a neighborhood.
https://www.autismspeaks.org/family-services/housing-and-community-living

Response to The Connection Between Religion and Urban Planning by David Engwicht
In his article, David Engwicht discusses the fact that religions (of all types) have played major roles in the development of our
cities. Today, places of worship are primary components of almost all urban centers. Author Lorne Daniel writes “From their often
active role in supporting people who live in city centers to their iconic influence on design and use of space, religious structures
tell us a lot about our history, our current needs, and where we might be headed in the future. This is an aspect of our urban
future that planners and urbanists should attend to.”
Identify a place of worship with which you are somewhat familiar. (If you are not familiar with any places of worship, do a bit of
research on one in your own city or town.) Show a photograph of this religious structure. (You may use photographs from the
web.) What roles has this place served in the development of your city/town? How has it influenced the design of the area
around it? How has its role changed over time? What roles could this place of worship play in the future development of your
city/town?
There is a church located in Lackawanna, NY that I'm sure many people from Buffalo are familiar with. It's called Our Lady of Victory
Basilica. I drive past it often, and it's beautiful exterior architecture designs can be seen from miles away. This place provides Buffalo
with architectural history; the church is known for its size and intricate designs both on the inside and outside. This place of worship
is often used for services everyday for parishioners, but often there are tours that many people visiting Buffalo experience. I believe
this design is a design that many newer churches try to follow because the design expresses superiority, history, and tradition. The
outside of the structure has copper as the domes, but over time the copper turned this green color due to age. In the future, I
believe the church will still be used for services but each year the church becomes more touristic. There is a gift shop and museum in
the basement of the church about the church itself and Father Baker, the founder of Our Lady of Victory Basilica.
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/48061920993494944/

Response to Prospects for the Future of Diversity and Design
Consider the quote in your syllabus from educator Michael J. Shannon: “Design, as vision in action--the intersection of
understanding and creation--is a universal human capability that can play a fundamental role in social evolution, in the process
that transforms resources, energy, and information to make our world.”
At the beginning of this course, we discussed the idea that we are all designers regardless of our profession or field of study.
We’ve asked some big questions along the way, and the conclusion section of our textbook raises additional issues that require
input from people who might not consider themselves to be part of the formalized design professions.
Think about your own major and/or future profession. What is the biggest challenge, problem, or question that your field needs
to tackle right now? What do you plan to do to address this challenge, problem, or question either as part of your studies or
professional life?
I am studying Architecture, and from what I've learned so far, is that one problem you will face is criticism. There will be many
people throughout the career that will dislike the designs I've chosen, and that's something that will be challenging to live with. Also,
I've also noticed that cost and affordability comes into play a lot. It's a struggle when you have this amazing design but can only
advance it so far in progress until money becomes an issue.
Ways to address these problems is always look on the positive side of the situation. If someone gives you harsh criticism, either
ignore them and be confident in your work, or recognize the flaws they noticed and fix them. The way to address the money
situation, learn ways to have companies donate materials; know your way with convincing people that donating merchandise will be
beneficial for them, etc. There are more problems I'm sure, but these were issues that I knew I've faced already being a freshman in
the architecture program, and I'm already striving to address them.
The photo shown was taken by my classmate during my midterm review.
This shows a great representation of critics looking at my work, and
giving me feedback on where it needs improvements.
Senay, Michaela. Photograph.

Arc 211: American Diversity and Design: Deborah Urban

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