The following pages document my responses to the online discussion questions in the Spring 2017 version of ARC 211 American Diversity and Design at the University at Buffalo – State University of New York.

1. University at Buffalo – State University of New York
ARC 211 - American Diversity and Design – Spring 2017
Online Discussion Questions
Peter Mark Vidulich
http://idsgn.org/images/typographic-diversity/diversity__full.png

2. Hello my name is Peter Mark Vidulich and I am in my first
year of the UB undergraduate architecture program. I am
from Greenlawn which is located on Long Island. This
Diversity Design class has influenced me in many different
ways throughout the past semester. I have become aware of
so many different design issues that have related to different
diversity groups. Each topic has given me the opportunity to
learn about various different groups and I have seen through
the readings and videos that it is critical to embrace the
diversity within our world because there are so many
beneficial things that come from these different groups
collaborating. Though this was an online course, there were
many opportunities to communicate with my fellow peers
through online discussion groups and this was particularly an
interesting experience because of that. I do not know if any
of my viewpoints are different than before taking the class,
but I definitely have become more informed about things
that I did not know before.
The following pages document my responses to the online
discussion questions in the Spring 2017 version of ARC 211
American Diversity and Design at the University at Buffalo –
State University of New York.
Introduction
Photographer: Brooke Nicholas

3. Innovation
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?
The invention of the iPhone has had many positive
effects on the population. There are many aspects of it
that make communication between people very easy
since they can instantly respond to each other using
things like iMessage and Facetime. People who do not
have iPhones are at a disadvantage because they can't
use things like Facetime since it only works between
Apple products.
http://blogs-
images.forbes.com/ewanspence/files/2016/06/uSwit
ch_iPhone8_render1-1200x577.jpg?width=960

4. Public Restrooms
Describe a design that was impacted by a
diversity group. How and why did it change form
and/or circumstances?
In today's society, one design that has been affected
by a group is public restrooms. Recently there has
been the addition of gender neutral restrooms in
order to accommodate certain members of the LGBTQ
community. Men's and Women's restrooms still exist
but this is a new "innovation" or addition impacted by
this diversity group. This is a change that affects
everyone and was done to make everyone feel
comfortable.
http://www.uua.org/sites/live-
new.uua.org/files/styles/scaled_960_wide/public/images/things/signs/asset_upload_file61_287336.png?itok=ZdyAkZRC&timestamp=14230
81529

5. I would place the images shown in the Photos
That Changed the World into the left box titled
"Media message or product." The TED talk kept
referring to how the images are not just
products. They actually make people want to
take action in a certain way. This is effective
because of the meaning behind the photos
instead of some irrelevant images.
This image shows many people of diverse
backgrounds protesting the election of
President Trump. The role it has is simply that
it shows many people disagreeing with the new
President and not accepting him as the leader of
our country. The country is very divided at this
point in time in politics especially and this is
showing the strong support for one of the sides,
which is that they do not support Donald
Trump.
Mass Media Photograph
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?
https://static01.nyt.com/images/2016/11/12/us/12xp-
protests_web4/12xp-protests_web4-facebookJumbo.jpg

6. The use of the red and pink hats were used as a vehicle
of communication on a political topic where there has
been much controversy. Although they are very simply
designed hats, they both portray a strong message
especially at this point in time within our country. The
red hat is used as something that attracts middle class
Americans who feel they have worked hard and want a
change that will be beneficial to them and their families.
The use of the hat gets this message across to them and
helped Trump gain support from these types of people
since he represented a change to what already existed in
our country’s government. The pink hat is also a simple
design but it is slightly different in that it portrays a
message about feminism. This hat attracts the support
for this cause and is effective in its own way. Though the
message of the two hats differ, they both use similar
ideas to get the message across through the use of a
simple hat.
https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/1427/9954/prod
ucts/H4-R_grande.jpg?v=1486064096
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 are the two hats (red and pink)
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?

7. Production Line
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?
http://cdn2.trend.az/media/pictures/2015/03/12/
production _line_cars_120315.jpg
There were some consequences to the new production
line introduced by Ford. It created standard pieces and left
little opportunity for anyone to improve the design. This
has changed over time and is not necessarily the same
today. Society has adapted and moved closer to a middle
ground that has benefits from production line while
leaving opportunity for improvement of designs. I think in
the next 20 years this will continue to develop and get
better and better. It will benefit society by improving
designs of all kinds of things.

8. Cradle to Cradle Concept
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 of any products that
embrace Cradle-to-Cradle design, please describe and
cite.
I do not know that any products really do completely
use the cradle to cradle to cradle design because to me
it seems like a concept that creates a perfect design,
however, I feel that there is always a way to improve
the design because everything will have to adapt over
time. That being said, some designs are moving toward
that concept of cradle to cradle designs. One object
that does not use the cradle to cradle concept is the
"oneblade" because it does not seem clear to me how
the nutrients circulates. Yes, it does adapt to humans
and seems to be an improvement and a step in the
right direction, but it is not completely a cradle to
cradle design.
http://epea-hamburg.org/sites/default/files/c2c_logo.gif

9. Cultural Context
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?
In Richmond, Virginia, the Virginia State Capitol has sensibilities
of the past. This building was the first of its kind in the United
States and has influenced many other buildings throughout the
country. It uses a style similar to Greco-Roman architecture and
was used as a way of expressing the new country that broke
away from the English monarchy. In a way it challenged the
cultural context of its time when it was built because it was
really the first building to be designed this way. It has had a
clear impact on other buildings with certain aspects that stand
out such as the huge columns placed in front of the building.
This is probably one of the most prevalent aspects that can be
related between other similar buildings.
The Wainwright building in St. Louis was a revolutionary
building because it was one of the first skyscrapers in the
country. This had sensibilities of the future do to new
developments that allowed for buildings to be built taller than
ever before. One key component was the creation of the
elevator that made it easier for people to get to higher floors
in the building rather than taking the stairs. Another thing that
was critical was the change from using heavy blocks to steel
frames. For one thing it made buildings cheaper to build and
also allowed for buildings to be taller since this was a lighter
material that prevented the buildings from being top heavy.
http://architecturerichmond.com/wp-
content/uploads/2012/04/img_280521.jpg

10. Ballantyne vs. Zumthor
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?
The architecture of Peter Zumthor and Andrew
Ballantyne is similar in that they each agree about the
importance of the five senses. They try to think about
the experiences within the space and how the people
will feel with regard to their senses. Zumthor focuses
more on the materiality of the architecture and the
experience within the space wheras Ballantyne focuses
a lot on the aesthetics of the architecture itself. While
these two things are somewhat related, they are not
exactly the same. Zumthor is also considered to be a
minimalist whereas Ballantyne is not.
https://image.freepik.com/free-vector/five-senses-icon-set_62147502195.jpg

11. http://purus-northamerica.com/wp-
content/uploads/2016/07/efficient-land-use-2-670x270.png
The Impact of Planning
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?
The town I grew up in is a relatively small town. After reading the article I am
starting to think about how Elwood, the town I am from, may not have been
planned in the most efficient way possible. Thinking about it now, there are certain
things that I have gotten so used to that I never really thought of it being planned in
a different way in order for it to benefit all of the residents of Elwood. For instance,
it is not really a town that favors pedestrians. The number of sidewalks is very
limited and most stores are not within reasonable walking distance. Of course, this
is not necessarily true for the entire town, however, it is true for the side that I lived
on.
The article discusses a lot about the "land-use" that a planner must think about
when planning a town or city. Even through reading this short article it has opened
my eyes to many different aspects that must be thought about when planning a
town. There is so much complexity due to all the little details including the
placement of roads and stores. The term "land-use" is used throughout the article.
"The land-use decisions made by a community shape its very character" This quote
from the article puts it simply that the use of the land is what defines the character
of a town. When I think about Elwood, the use of the small amount of land is
something that has undergone change and development over time, however, the
size of it is what gives it the character. The planners of this town have made a small,
close knit community that contains a school district where the High School and
Middle School share the same parking lot. This is really the center of the town
because it brings many people together through different events as well as directly
linking the two parts of town together. This is what creates the close knit feeling
that is the character of Elwood.

12. Pruitt Igoe
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 three 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?
Kent Larson would aim to make Pruitt Igoe as efficient as possible. He would design
spaces with multiple purposes therefore making it as small as possible which would cut
down on costs. This would be his main goal when working on a project like this. By
saving cost on the building of the structure there would be more money that could be
spent in the future for any issues that had to be fixed or just for maintenance. Larson
would be very good at figuring out exactly what the residents need in order to avoid
spending extra money unnecessarily. This of course has benefits short term as well as
long term. I think that Talen would try to make the community as diverse as possible. It
seems that having a diverse population is what is most important to her when thinking
about planning. Having all types of people does have benefits to the community and
this may have helped the situation in Pruitt Igoe. It would be beneficial to not only
attract low income residents but to have a mix. That creates diversity in a sense. She
may also try to create diversity by trying to bring in residents of different races as well.
This would also help build a sense of community within the complex and would
probably be a lot more enjoyable to the residents.
if I were to take on a project like this I would probably take aspects of both Larson and
Talen. I do think however, that creating efficiency is always a key part of a design. This
would probably be my main focus especially in a project like this. Ultimately, the reason
for the failure was the issue of money. Cutting down cost the construction would help
this issue, although it would not completely solve it. I w also consider ways to create
jobs near the area so that the residents have options to get well-paying jobs that create
steady incomes. This would guarantee rent being paid monthly and that money could go
toward repairs and maintenance which makes living there a lot more enjoyable.
Furthermore, I would explore the idea of some kind of public transportation that is
efficient and could get the residents to their new jobs conveniently. Once again this
adds to the experience of living here by an added convenience. Having these multiple
sources of income would surely help the issue of money which would ultimately make
this a prosperous project both for the designer as well as the residents.
https://i.ytimg.com/vi/F3hbH2DWq9A/maxresdefault.jpg

13. The Best Planned City
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?
Buffalo may have been considered to be the best planned city in the
eyes of Frederick Law Olmsted because of it's simplicity. By having a
simple layout with roads that connected the different parts of the city in
strategic ways it made it easy for Olmsted to improve the city in his own
ways. The implementation of his parks are something that further
improved not only the overall atmosphere of the city but the idea of
having everything close by and easy to access, even a public park.
As someone who is relatively new to the area, it is difficult for me to say
whether or not Olmsted would still make the same claim today. Some
aspects about the city that I do have experience with include the use of
the metro that connects downtown Buffalo to other parts. I have been
on it a few times and from my experience it has been easy to get
downtown and connects the University all the way down to Key Bank
Center. This is something that has been well planned out and I think
Olmsted would ultimately agree that this is beneficial to the city. I also
have been on some of the main roads in Buffalo and have traveled to
some of Olmsted's parks here in Buffalo and they are connected in a way
that makes it easy t navigate even for someone like me who prior to
coming to school here has never been in Buffalo. Overall it seems that
Olmsted would still believe that this city is well planned, however,
maybe not the best planned city in the country. There have been some
improvements to Buffalo over time but many other cities have
developed as well and in some cases even more than the developments
of Buffalo.
https://aaa.uoregon.edu/sites/aaa.uoregon.edu/files/images/
alumni/1970/olmsted_sm.jpg

14. Town Memorials
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).
When considering a project and thinking about the triad of investigations, it is
important to think about what each part means. The everyday and mundane
generally refers to the ordinary aspects of people's lives and these are things
that occur everyday. Commemoration is defined as "something that is intended
to honor an important event or person from the past. Finally, considering life
ways means understanding and acknowledging that in different communities
people live in different ways.
When thinking about the town I grew up in the first thing that comes to mind is
the town park. It is located just about in the center of the town and within
walking distance of the school district. This park serves as a gathering place for
all types of events including sporting events, picnics, and many other things as
well. I think that memorializing it would really celebrate this gathering place
and make it known that this is an important part of our town. When
considering how to go about this kind of project I think there would have to
some kind of renovation to the park to make it more enjoyable for all people
who want to gather there and enjoy time with friends and family. I imagine
keeping as much nature as possible, however, renovating the public restrooms
in the park because right now they are simply not up to par. A few other simple
changes such as adding a few lights may be beneficial, but of course nothing
major. I think Hood would agree with some of these changes because they do
benefit the park and ultimately the community, and they do not require
starting over and destroying what is already there. These changes are simply
additions that further celebrate the space and what it is all about. I think that
dedicating it to the citizens of the town would be the appropriate thing to do
because this is a place for those people.
https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/5/59/Par
c-nature_de_la_Pointe-aux-Prairies_07.jpg/240px-Parc-
nature_de_la_Pointe-aux-Prairies_07.jpg

15. Racial Issues and Design
Find an 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.)
The way I interpret this image is that it is showing thumb prints from
different people, probably of different racial backgrounds stating that it is
not a crime to be human. It shows the similarities between all humans
regardless of race because finger prints are something that anyone has and
it is not possible to determine a person's race simply by looking at a variety
of finger prints. It is trying to show that humans are all humans and the
color of their skin does not determine the type of person they are nor is it
a crime. I think for the most part a person of any race would interpret it
similarly because it seems to be a clear message to people of all races.
Perhaps an African American male my age would interpret it slightly
different especially if he had some personal experiences that involved
someone who judged him based on the color of his skin. I think it really
depends more on each different specific situation of each person that
interprets this image. I do not think the color of a person's skin will change
how they relate to this image, instead I think a person's life and their
experiences will determine how they interpret the picture and how it
relates to their lives.
https://encrypted-
tbn0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcSvSRZ-
nnOx_GQljkWnsZzwKpGDDPoE3fLYpx6g6YzoDVhqa16Y

16. EquityXdesign
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 MLK Memorial does have some aspects within it that includes
equityXdesign's beliefs, however, certain aspects are missed
within this particular design. equityXdesign's work focuses a lot
on having a cultural background incorporated into the design that
informs anyone who observes it. This is a critical aspect of any
type of historical design because many people may not know very
much on a particular topic and without the proper background
knowledge it is difficult to fully be able to enjoy a monument, for
example. I feel that the MLK Memorial does not meet this aspect
which is a shame because overall it is a great design that portrays
an important part of American History. I think that the memorial
shows more of moving on into the future which is important as
well and showing the changes that MLK contributed to society.
However, as a memorial, it should focus more on the historical
context and give a background of the time period and maybe
portray some of the difficulties that people had to go through as
well. If the MLK Memorial did, this it would definitely tell the
whole story and be a more powerful design to all who see it.
https://s-media-cache-
ak0.pinimg.com/736x/bf/0d/94/bf0d94654172d29e5
fba17176901f4ba.jpg

17. Ethnic Background and Design
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?
The room in my house that represents my own ethnic background would probably
be the kitchen. I come from a family with a Croatian background and some of the
clearest signs are in the kitchen. One thing that shows this is a sign that is hung on
the wall that is written in Croatian that has to do with some type of Croatian food. A
lot of times my mother will prepare traditional Croatian dishes and in most cases it is
some type of dessert. This could be another clue of my heritage. Many people may
not realize it right away because Croatia is such a small country located in Europe
that is not as well known by everyone, however, my family is very proud of their
culture especially because both of my parents come from a Croatian background. I
plan to continue many of the traditions that I have grown up doing because it has
shaped who I have become over the years.
In the town I grew up in, there are definitely people that come from many distinct
backgrounds. As someone who grew up there I may not really recognize it and the
influence it has on the town since it has become the norm considering I lived there
my whole life. There definitely are certain parts of the town that are predominantly
Hispanic and located in that area some of the stores and delis reflect this background
with the food they sell as well as the majority of the employees being Hispanic. It is
very likely to walk into one of these stores and hear a conversation in Spanish and I
am sure this will continue for years to come.
https://ak5.picdn.net/shutterstock/videos/6781495/thu
mb/1.jpg

18. 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?
I think in most cases having a sports team named after a specific
group of people of a certain kind of ethnicity is not necessarily a
bad thing. It can actually be a positive to the team because it may
attract fans to follow the team if they can relate the team's name
to their own lives and maybe create awareness and a new
appreciation for a heritage by encouraging people to want to learn
more about the heritage. That being said, I do not think it is
acceptable to have a team named with a downright derogatory
term that insults anyone. However, if more teams use this as an
advantage, like how Notre Dame has done it along with other
teams, it can benefit not only the people of that ethnic
background, but others as well by creating an opportunity for
people to learn about different cultures.
http://sportsfansbedding.com/wp-
content/uploads/2013/10/COL_Notre_Dame_Pillowcase.jpg

19. Gender Issues
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?
The approach of this is definitely directed more toward "get the idea"
because it does not give data or specifications, however, it is successful in
that it shows an example of an aspect where women are discriminated.
The designer used the approach to try and relate to other people, girls
especially, who have faced a similar situation. It shows a picture of a girl
who seems to be somewhat upset or unhappy which makes that
connection because it makes it more of a real thing that is easier for girls
to connect to. I think it definitely works well, but with anything, there is
always room for improvement. Maybe instead there could be multiple
sports listed besides just football and having multiple pictures to
correspond in order to further enforce the idea. This is just one way to
move forward with the design, but there are countless ways to go about
it. Overall it dos have a clear message that is easy for people to relate to
and thus is a successful visual.
Source: http://aplus.com/a/break-the-box-anti-gender-
stereotypes-psa?no_monetization=true

20. Public Restroom Issues
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?
The issue of public restrooms is a controversial topic within the past
few years.
One argument is that people should be required to use the restroom
of their biological gender. The reason for this is because this is how it
always was due to the simple idea of trying to create privacy and it
appears to be logical because it divides people up easily without
question based on the simple fact of whether they are male or female
so there will be no question.
More recently in some cases people now have different views on the
public bathroom situation. Some people argue that the bathroom
they should be allowed to use should not be restricted by the
biological gender written on their birth certificate. The reasoning for
this is that it can cause issues to trans gender people who may be in
the process of converting.
Both sides present arguments that can be understood when it comes
down to it, however, we as designers must try to solve this issue even
though it is certain that not everyone will be happy. Maybe the best
thing to do would be to only have bathrooms for people to use one at
a time that can be used by everyone. Eventually I am sure someone
will still be unhappy with this solution because that always seems to
occur which is why designs must always adapt.
http://www.clipartkid.com/images/34/restroom-clip-art-Z0Qn4f-
clipart.png

21. Types of Disciplinary Architecture
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.
Hayes Hall could be considered "crusty" because it definitely
stands out and is a building that cannot be missed by anyone
who is on UB's South campus, yet not everyone has access.
Since there is a need to swipe a cared to get in it creates a
barrier to those who are not wanted inside the building. This
could discriminate against a homeless person looking for a
place to stay in bad weather or to sleep, however it is
understandable why the university would want to protect this
building and also keep it safe for students and faculty.
The KeyBank Center could be classified as "jittery" because it
contains security cameras. There is definitely also security that
makes sure to watch the surroundings especially during events
such as Sabres games but there is always some kind of video
surveillance that exists. I think it would discriminate against
people who tend to hang around the area whether they
intend to cause an issue or not, however it is primarily for
safety that there is a presence of surveillance cameras.
http://wac.450f.edgecastcdn.net/80450F/wyrk.com/
files/2012/05/Hayes-Hall.jpg
http://media.gettyimages.com/photos/an-exterior-
view-of-the-keybank-center-home-of-the-nhl-
buffalo-sabres-picture-id611584876

22. Tammy’s Goals
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?
The first thing and in my opinion the most important thing is to
help her find a new job that pays more. Although it is true that it
is never too late for someone to go to college I think for her
situation she should not pursue her dreams of being a teacher
because that will only put her in more debt and take a long time.
Perhaps some of her older children who live with her could also
get part time jobs to help the family. Another thing would be to
relocate her closer to a town or city. The reason being she needs
to be closer to where she will be working or at least close to
public transportation because it is unreasonable to walk 10 miles
to get to work. Even if she continues living in the trailer for a
while I would help her figure out a way to put money to the side
so that eventually she can live in a house or an apartment.
Everything that I would want to help her with ultimately comes
down to the original issue of finding her a better paying job. I
would also motivate her to want to work hard because I am sure
it can be discouraging at times, but the harder she works the
better it will get and if she would continue to rely on welfare
there is no benefit to that. Having that cushion may result in
giving up easier whereas if there is nothing to fall back on that
can be the best motivation of all because ultimately she would
have to work to survive which would push her to do better and
better.
http://historymiamiarchives.org/guides/?p=digitallibrary/getf
ile&id=1116

23. http://www.fmuweb.com/omar/A-Walk-in-the-Park3.jpg
Regent Park
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 think that any time a designer needs to consider the needs of
older people, there are multiple things that should be thought
out in order to accommodate them. Often times, designers may
forget about these things because it is difficult to think of ways
to accommodate the needs of everyone. That being said, here
are some things that can be done to try and help the elderly
more specifically within the "new and improved" Regent Park. I
would say that an important thing to consider would be to try
and create a sense of unity within the community and one way
this can be done is through public transportation. Many older
people are unable to drive and having that means to get
somewhere really can connect them with everything else and
make life much easier and enjoyable for them. Something else
to consider would be to make sure there is a way to treat some
of the older people when they get sick. It is no secret that older
people are more likely to get sick and require medical attention,
therefore it is important to have things like doctors’ offices and
hospitals either nearby or perhaps making sure public
transportation will be able to transport people easily.

24. Extended Life Spans
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?
The first thing that comes to mind, like I am sure is what most people
think of, is that there will be a huge increase in population.
Overpopulation can cause problems so designers will have to get
creative and think of ways that we can resolve issues and possibly even
avoid some of these issues before they occur. So one thing that will
need to happen is that more buildings will be required for things like
housing, supermarkets, hospitals, and other things that everyone uses.
It will be interesting to see how designers are able to make this work
while remaining as efficient as possible both with material cost and
efficiency of space. Something that one of Elon Musk's company is
currently working on is trying to have a way for humans to get to mars.
SpaceX is determined to make this happen and Musk is leading the way
hoping to make this happen soon so that humans will be a species on
multiple planets and that will help to prolong the existence of humans.
If this does happen, this could be a huge help to the overcrowding
issues that we are bound to run into if people are able to live past 120
years because it opens up the possibility of more space to live on.
http://localtvwhnt.files.wordpress.com/2016/06/spacex-
mars.jpg?quality=85&strip=all&w=770

25. Universal Design Principles
For the Module 12 Thread 1, 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.
Here are two examples of positive and negative equitable
use. On the bottom there is a standard bath tub that
requires a certain level of balance and strength to raise one
leg at a time to enter and maintain balance, this is a
negative example. The example on the top is positive
because there is no barrier that restricts a person who
must use the bath tub. The normal bath tub clearly
disempowers those who struggle with some type of
disability in their legs. Having any kind of issues in the legs
or knees may make it very difficult for someone to enter
and properly clean themselves. The bath tub on the top
empowers these people by making it much easier for their
use. This is an example of equitable use because it is
something that can be used by anyone, even if they have
some kind of disability in their legs. I think that this design
could even be further improved through the use of a hand
rail to help with balance when entering the bath tub just to
have a place to hold on when walking into it. It can also be
improved by possibly changing the floor to something that
is not as slippery because it lowers the chance of someone
slipping when using it. The idea would be to make it as safe
as possible for everyone to use.
http://www.homedepot.com/catalog/productImage
s/1000/53/53278822-6dbc-4855-b175-
5e54e08c21dd_1000.jpg
http://www.signaturehardware.com/media/catalog
/product/cache/1/image/87262090fe9597288962a
e094098a4ab/4/0/401975-cast-iron-clawfoot-
bathtub_1_17.jpg

26. Designing Humans
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?
Of course anyone who is having a child wants the best for that
child, this is something that will never change. However, as
technology advances, we must be cautious with how far we go to
set up the best life for that child. It is important to understand
from history that diversity is very important for the existence of
humans to continue and to ultimately thrive. The positives of new
advancements are usually much easier to see such as the
reduction of diseases and guaranteeing positive characteristics in
every child that is born. This could most definitely cause issues.
Although it may not be pleasant to talk about or think about, the
removal of disease completely would eventually create a situation
of overpopulation because there would be nothing to "control" the
population on the planet. This causes issues like overcrowding or
not having enough food for everyone. Another thing that we have
learned from history is that it seems that when one disease is
cured, a new one becomes more prominent. Therefore, if we can
find a way to cure all diseases that currently exist, would there be
new ones to come in the future? This is not to say that as a society
we should not try to find these cures, however, it is something to
think about.
When it comes down to it, we must think of the ethics behind
designing a baby. Yes, there are certainly benefits to designing your
very own baby, however, the risks may not be worth the reward. I
personally do not think it is really ethical to completely design a
baby the way you want it picking things such as hair color or eye
color. These are things that should be organic and according to
nature in my opinion because it will continue to create diversity
within our society.
https://www.scientificamerican.com/sciam/cache/file/D
6867EAF-CD49-4941-A30D93F5784383D5_source.jpg

27. Film and Design
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?
Initially, my first thought was that they should not have been
allowed to film the residents of Bridgewater
Massachusetts Correctional Facility due to the fact that
these people were clearly unable to give their written
consent. I think most people would agree with this because
of basic human rights. However, that being said there could
definitely be some positive things that come out of the
release of the film and these things should not go unnoticed.
It definitely brought attention to a situation that needed
change due to the negative reaction that many people had.
Unfortunately, often times things that have a strong
negative reaction bring about the strongest change for
situations that need change the most. Designers could have
benefited in various ways from the film just by knowing
more about the situation since there was not much public
knowledge prior to its release. In conclusion, although it may
not have been the right thing to do, it was beneficial in many
different ways.
https://c.o0bg.com/rf/image_1920w/Boston/2011-
2020/2014/09/27/BostonGlobe.com/Metro/Images/ryan_statehospita
l5_met-10509.jpg

28. Realistic 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”?
Initially, based on the scenario presented I do not think I would go out of my way to support,
nor oppose it. I would simply remain indifferent on the situation because it does not really
seem to have any effect on me other than the fact that I would be receiving new neighbors.
After learning the second part of the situation, I may consider other methods that could be
more beneficial for this group of people, especially the three that exhibited challenging
behavior. I don't think I would have a problem with them living there, nor do I mean to be
disrespectful, but I do think it would be beneficial for everyone, especially for them, if there
was some kind of place that they could live where they could be watched and taken care of by
professional individuals. I think that this could help them with the issues that they may
encounter living only with other intellectually challenged adults. As I said before it is not really a
question of whether or not I have an issue with them living there, it’s more about their well-
being.
Perhaps a solution would be to hire a few professional "caretakers" to take care of these
individuals at the group home. Perhaps there could always be at least one of them there at the
home. I also think it could be better to have a fewer number of people living there because 10
may be a bit overcrowded, and it could potentially get to be too much to handle for only one
person to be the "caretaker," for lack of a better word, and overall be easier on everyone.
http://images.housesforsalelists.com/Images/Houses/ny/
east-amherst/2-beachridge-dr-east-amherst-new-york-
14051.jpg

29. Worship and Design
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?
This is St. Francis of Assisi which is a Catholic church located on
Long Island and has been my primary place of worship for my
whole life. The church serves as a gathering place for the
community especially on Sundays during mass. It has been a place
that I have gone and welcomes everyone with open arms and this
has impacted the community by creating a place for people to
meet and get to know each other. It has also offered various
types of help for those who needed it. For example, one time I
volunteered at the church around the time of Thanksgiving where
there was a food drive and we distributed turkey and other food
that some people may not have been able to afford so they could
have an enjoyable holiday with their families. I think it has made
the neighborhood a more pleasant place, it attracted new houses
being built right next to it and these houses have made the
neighborhood seem much nicer. I do not think its role has
necessarily changed over time, but perhaps it will have impacts in
the future. Maybe it will continue to attract more people to the
area and make the area more pleasant than it already is.
http://weddingmapper.s3.amazonaws.com/assets/photos/2/79/130
128_l.jpg

30. Tiny House
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?
Something that needs to be addressed within the field of
architecture is the importance of being efficient with our
resources. When designing buildings, we can not be wasteful
with the materials we use. Young architects are the future of
design and this needs to be something we tackle as an entire
generation. It is also important to avoid destroying the
environment to replace it with structures when it is not
necessary. One way to reduce the use of materials and remain
efficient is designing "tiny houses" for people to live in. It is a
growing group of people that are living in these small
trailer home, however they are not run down trailer
communities with an old home that is falling apart. Instead it
is a well thought out home that is livable because it screams
efficiency. I think we as architects should push the limits of
these ideas because these homes will save materials, which
saves money, and avoids clearing off land to build a new
structure.
http://clv.h-cdn.co/assets/cm/15/09/54f0d9d889efa_-_01-
millertinyhouse-048-edit1-lgn.jpg