BAC Distance M.Arch Portfolio Index

BAC DISTANCE M.ARCH PORTFOLIO

INDEX OF DRAWINGS:
SEMESTER I CORE I STUDIO WORK: SEMESTER II CORE II STUDIO: PRACTICE & OTHER WORK:
STUDIO INTRODUCTION STUDIO INTRODUCTION & CONCEPT STATEMENT PRIVATE RESIDENCE RENOVATIONS & ADDITION
1. 1.

RESEARCH & EXPLORATION: PRECEDENT STUDIES RESEARCH & EXPLORATION: SITE ANALYSIS PRIVATE RESIDENCE RENOVATIONS & ADDITION
2. 1. 2.

RESEARCH & EXPLORATION: SITE ANALYSIS RESEARCH & EXPLORATION: PRECEDENT STUDIES PRIVATE RESIDENCE ACCESSIBILITY RENOVATIONS
3. 2. 3.

RESEARCH & EXPLORATION: DAYLIGHT STUDIES PROGRAM PRIVATE RESIDENCE ACCESSIBILITY RENOVATIONS
4. 3. 4.

PROJECT PROGRAM & CONCEPTS GREEN BUILDING STRATEGIES: ENERGY EFFICIENCY ACCESSIBLE COMMUNITY GARDENING
5. 4. 5.

STUDY MODELS GREEN BUILDING STRATEGIES ACCESSIBLE COMMUNITY GARDENING
6. 5. 6.

SCHEMATIC DESIGN DIAGRAMS SITE PLAN LABORERS‟ VILLAGE
7. 6. 7.

GREEN BUILDING STRATEGIES: ENERGY PRODUCTION PLANS LABORERS‟ VILLAGE
8. 7. 8.

GREEN BUILDING STRATEGIES: WATER EFFICIENCY PLANS ETICS IN THE PRACTICE OF ARCHITECTURE: INTRODUCTION
9. 8. 9.

MATERIAL PALETTE PLANS ETICS IN THE PRACTICE OF ARCHITECTURE: BUILT ENVIRONMENT
10. 9. 10.

PLANS 10. STRUCTURAL SYSTEM ETICS IN THE PRACTICE OF ARCHITECTURE: NATURAL ENVIRONMENT
11. 11.

PLANS BUILDING SERVICES: SYSTEMS DIAGRAMS ETICS IN THE PRACTICE OF ARCHITECTURE: SOCIAL ENVIRONMENT
12. 11. 12.

PLANS 12. DETAILING: TYPICAL WALL SECTIONS & DETAILS ETICS IN THE PRACTICE OF ARCHITECTURE: CONCLUSION
13. 13.

PLANS LEED CERTIFICATION ANALYSIS: PLATINUM RATING CLIMATE ANALYSIS & COMPARISION
14. 13. 14.

SECTIONS 14. BUILDING CODE ANALYSIS CLIMATE ANALYSIS & COMPARISION
15. 15.

LEED CERTIFICATION ANALYSIS: GOLD RATING 15. ELEVATIONS PRECEDENT STUDY: NORWAY NATIONAL OPERA HOUSE
16. 16.

PERSPECTIVES 16. THERMAL PERFORMANCE: HEAT LOSS CALCULATIONS RECYCLED CAT FURNITURE
17. 17.

PERSPECTIVES DETAILING: LIVING WALL VISUAL RESEARCH: BOSTON, MA
18. 17. 18.

PERSPECTIVES 18. PERSPECTIVES VISUAL RESEARCH, NEW PALTZ, NY
19. 19.

PROJECTED OUTCOMES & PERSPECTIVES 19. PERSPECTIVES GREENWORKS RECYCLING CAN PROJECT
20. 20.

PORTFOLIO COVER SHEET
PORTFOLIO BY JOSEPH THOMPSON, LEED AP
(DISTANCE M.ARCH PROGRAM; DATE: MARCH 30, 2009)

STUDIO INTRODUCTION 2

“WITH OIL PRICES AT RECORD HIGHS AND RECENT FAILURES IN REGULATING FOOD FROM ABROAD, THERE IS A RENEWED
DESIRE TO BE CONNECTED TO THE SOURCE OF FOOD. MANY BELIEVE THERE IS MUCH TO BE GAINED FROM HAVING FOOD
GROWN LOCALLY: BETTER NUTRITION, SMALLER ECONOMIES, LESS FUEL CONSUMPTION, AND IMPROVED OVERALL
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT. IN A RECENT NEW YORK TIMES ARTICLE TITLED LOCALLY GROWN DIET WITH FUSS BUT NO MUSS, THE
AUTHOR WRITES “LONG DISTANCE FOOD, WITH ITS ATTENDANT PETROLEUM CONSUMPTION AND CHEAP WAGES, IS HARMING
THE PLANET AND DOES NOTHING TO HELP BUILD COMMUNITIES.” “(COURSE SYLLABUS)

“URBAN FARMERS‟ CROPS GO FROM VACANT LOT TO MARKET.” (BY TRACIE MCMILLAN)

THERE IS A REVIVED “URBAN AGRICULTURAL MOVEMENT” IN THE WORKS. URBAN FARMS ARE SPRINGING UP IN CITIES
ACROSS THE NATION. TYPICALLY THEY ARE SITUATED IN ONCE VACANT PROPERTIES AND HAVE WORKED TO TRANSFORM
EXISTING HOLES IN THE URBAN FABRIC INTO PRODUCTIVE VIBRANT COMMUNITY SPACES WEAVING IT BACK TOGETHER.
ACCORDING TO MCMILLAN, SOME OF THESE URBAN FARMS HAVE TO BE VERY PROFITABLE, REPORTING REVENUES AS
HIGH AS $220,000 IN MILWAUKEE IN ONE YEAR. THE MARKETS THESE HAVE CREATED SEEM TO ALSO BE VERY
SUCCESSFUL AS THERE ARE REPORTS OF PROFESSIONALS JOINING ALONGSIDE AMATEURS, NOT IN COMPETITION BUT
COMPLEMENTING EACH OTHER‟S GOODS TO PRODUCE A SUBSTANTIAL ATTRACTIVE MARKET.

“SOME GOOD NEWS ON FOOD PRICES.” (BY KIM SEVERSON)

ALTHOUGH FOOD PRICES ARE UP AND ARE STRAINING THE
AMERICAN FOOD SHOPPER‟S BUDGETS, IT IS VERY LIKELY
POSITIVE CHANGE WILL RESULT. AS LUXURY FOODS SUCH
AS SODA AND FAST FOOD CONTINUE TO INCREASE IN PRICE
THEY BECOME LESS ATTRACTIVE TO CONSUMERS. THEY
REALIZE THEY DO NOT REALLY NEED THESE AND OTHER
JUNK FOOD ITEMS. WE MAY THEN SEE DECLINE IN THE
“OBESITY CRISIS” AND MANY HEALTH PROBLEMS. THIS IS A
SIMILAR SITUATION TO THE REACTION ALREADY IN
PROGRESS TO RISING OIL PRICES. PEOPLE ARE ADAPTING,
LARGE SUV AND TRUCK USAGE IS DOWN. PEOPLE AND
COMPANIES ARE STARTING TO SEEK “SHORTER SUPPLY
CHAINS” FOR THEIR FOOD AS THEY BECOME “INCREASINGLY
ATTRACTIVE AS FUEL COSTS RISE”. THIS MAY RESULT IN
VERY POSITIVE BENEFITS FOR LOCAL AGRICULTURE AND
INDUSTRY.
Figure 1 Photograph of Berkley Figure 2 Photograph of Berkley
Community Garden in Boston, MA Community Garden in Boston, MA

PRUDENTIAL PLAZA URBAN FARM
PROJECT BY JOSEPH THOMPSON, LEED AP UNDER THE DIRECTION OF PROFESSOR LORA KIM
(DISTANCE M.ARCH PROGRAM; CORE I STUDIO COURSE; FALL 2008 SEMESTER)

RESEARCH & EXPLORATION: PRECEDENT STUDIES 3

“DICKSON DESPOMMIER, A PROFESSOR AT
COLUMBIA UNIVERSITY, CREATED THE VERTICAL
FARM CONCEPT WITH 82 GRADUATE STUDENTS. HE
SAYS THAT THE SKYSCRAPERS COULD PROTECT A
CITY'S FOOD SUPPLY FROM FLOODS AND DROUGHTS,
AND FROM PATHOGENS THAT ATTACK CROPS. quot;YOU
COULD DEVELOP A COMMUNITY SURROUNDING
EACH OF THESE VERTICAL FARMS,quot; SAID DR.
DESPOMMIER, WHO BELIEVES THAT STRIKING
DESIGNS LIKE THIS PYRAMID (BOTTOM RIGHT) ARE
KEY TO THE CONCEPT'S SUCCESS. quot;YOU WANT
PEOPLE TO SAY, 'I WANT THAT IN MY BACKYARD.‟ “
THE NEW YORK TIME ARTICLE ALSO NOTES THAT A
KEY CONCEPT TO MAKING THESE SKYSCRAPER
VERTICAL FARMS SUSTAINABLE IN NATURE IS THAT
THEY RELY SOLELY ON RENEWABLE ENERGY
SOURCES. (VENKATARAMAN, 2008) Figure 3 Conceptual Vertical Farm
Figure 3 Conceptual Vertical Farm Rendering Figure 3 Conceptual Vertical Farm Rendering
Note. From New York Times
Note. From New York Times by SOA Architects Note. From New York Times

Figure 3 Conceptual Vertical Farm Rendering
Figure 3 Conceptual Vertical Farm Rendering Figure 3 Conceptual Vertical Farm Rendering
Note. From New York Times by Mithun
Note. From New York Times Note. From New York Times


RESEARCH & EXPLORATION: SITE ANALYSIS 4

N

Figure 4 Aerial Image of Boston, MA
Figure 3 Massachusetts State Map
Note. From Google Earth
Note. From Tourist Guide

v

SUN PATH

Figure 7 Photograph of Prudential Plaza in Boston, MA Figure 9 Aerial Image of Prudential Plaza in Boston, MA


RESEARCH & EXPLORATION: NATURAL DAYLIGHT STUDIES 5

NATURAL DAYLIGHT:
UNDERSTANDING THE AMOUNT OF NATURAL DAYLIGHT AVAILABLE THROUGHOUT DIFFERENT PORTIONS AND LEVELS OF THE SITE IS CRUCIAL FOR THIS PROJECT AND WAS THROUGHOULY CONSIDERED. FOR
SUCCESSFUL URBAN FARMING TO TAKE PLACE THERE MUST BE A SIGNIFICANT AMOUNT OF DAYLIGHT AVAILABLE. THE MORE DAYLIGHT THAT CAN BE HARVESTED THE LESS RELIANCE WILL BE REQUIRED ON
ARTIFICIAL LIGHTING SOURCES. THE PRUDENTIAL TOWER, DIRECTLY ADJACENT TO OUR SITE, HAS ONE OF THE LARGEST IMPACTS ON OUR SITE CASTING A MAJOR SHADOW ACROSS IT AT DIFFERENT TIMES OF
DAY THROUGHOUT THE YEAR.

Figure 11 Summer- Noon Figure 12 Summer- Afternoon
Figure 10 Summer- Morning

Figure 13 Winter- Morning Figure 14 Winter- Noon Figure 15 Winter- Afternoon


PROJECT PROGRAM & CONCEPTS 6

A NEW MIXED USE DEVELOPMENT WILL BE CONSTRUCTED WITH A FOCUS ON URBAN FARMING.
THE MAIN FUNCTIONS THIS DEVELOPMENT WILL PROVIDE ARE:
•FARMING (INTERIOR & EXTERIOR)
•FARMER’S MARKET (INCIDENTAL USE)
•PRESERVE EXISTING FOOD COURT
•RESTAURANT AND COOKING DEMONSTRATION AREA (DAY-DUSK) / NIGHT CLUB (DUSK-NIGHT)
•OFFICES WITH A HEALTH CENTER (24 HR. OPERATION)
•RECYCLING CENTER

*WITH THESE USES THIS SITE WILL BE ABLE TO SUSTAIN A CONSTANT EQUILIBRIUM
OF ACTIVITY AS CAN BE SEEN FROM THE ACTIVITY ANALYSIS IN THE PROGRAM.
*NARRATIVE DESIGN TECHNIQUES HAVE ALSO BEEN EMPLOYED IN THIS DESIGN. THE
DENSITY OF THE STRUCTURE IN INTENTIONALLY LIGHT ALLOWING FOR FURTHER FLEXIBLE
EXPANSION TO IT WITH ALL THE MAIN STRUCTURAL AND CIRCULATION CORES IN PLACE.

*MANY SUSTAINABLE DESIGN ELEMENTS HAVE BEEN INCORPORATED INTO THE
PROGRAM. URBAN FARMING, ON-SITE RENEWABLE ENERGY GENERATION, ULTRA EFFICIENT
OPERATION, WATER EFFICIENCY TECHNOLOGIES ARE ALL PART OF THIS.

Figure 7 Occupancy Use Diagram Figure 7 Occupancy Use Diagram Figure 7 Project Program and Activity Level Analysis


STUDY MODELS 7

Figure 20 Photographed Study Models constructed at 1/32” =1’-0” scale

Figure 21, 22 & 23 Photographed Study Model constructed at 1/16” =1’-0” scale


SCHEMATIC DESIGN DIAGRAMS 8

Figure 24 Form Study Diagram Figure 26 Perspective/ Materials Diagram Figure 26 Site Grid Diagram

Figure 27 Sectional Circulation Diagram
Figure 25 Plan Circulation Diagram


GREEN BUILDING STRATEGIES: ENERGY PRODUCTION 9

ENERGY PRODUCTION:
WITH ENERGY COSTS CURRENTLY AT ALL-TIME HIGHS ,
OIL OVER $100 A BARREL AND GASOLINE OVER $4.50
PER GALLON, INTEREST IN ON-SITE ENERGY
PRODUCTION IS ALSO ON THE RISE. THE INITIAL
SCHEMATIC DIAGRAM BELOW INDICATES THE
BEGINNINGS OF MY THOUGHTS TO INTEGRATE
PHOTOVOLTAICS INTO THE PROJECT. THIS LATER
EVOLVED INTO A SOLAR CANOPY USING
TRANSPARENT SPHELAR PHOTOVOLTAICS DEPICTED IN
THE IMAGE ON THE LEFT. A SUSTAINABLE DANCE
FLOOR WILL ALSO CREATE ENERGY AND SEEK TO
POWER THE NIGHT CLUB PORTION OF THIS PROJECT.

Figure 30 Sustainable Dance Floor Image (right)
Figure 28 Sphelar Photovoltaic (above) Note. From www.worldchanging.com
Note. From www9.sbs.com.au

Figure 29 Schematic Photovoltaic Diagram (above) Figure 31 Sustainable Dance Floor Image (above)
Note. From www.guardian.co.uk


GREEN BUILDING STRATEGIES: WATER EFFICIENCY 10

RAINWATER HARVESTING:
RETAIN STORMWATER ON-SITE TO CONTRIBUTE TOWARDS
EFFORTS TO RECHARGE DEPLETING WATER TABLE LEVELS IN BACK
BAY. STORMWATER WILL BE USED TO SUPPLEMENT DEMANDS FOR
POTABLE WATER FROM URBAN FARMING ACTIVITES ON SITE.
EXCESS STORED WATER WILL BE RECONTRIBUTED LOCALLY TO THE
GROUND WATER.

GREYWATER RECYCLING:
GREYWATER WILL BE RECYLCED AND USED TO SUPPLEMENT
POTABLE WATER USAGE LOADS FOR IRRIGATION REQUIRED BY
URBAN FARMING ACTIVITIES.

Figure 33 Graywater Reuse System Diagram (right)
Note. From lifegoggles.com

Figure 32 Photograph of the Hasbrouck House in New Paltz, NY Figure 34 Schematic Rainwater Harvesting System Diagram
(1712). Precedent for rainwater harvesting.


MATERIAL PALETTE 11

Figure 35 Reinforced Concrete Figure 37 Curtain Wall Glazing- Photograph of Prudential Tower in Boston, MA
Note. From www.flickr.com

Figure 36 Aluminum Panel Figure 52 Green Roof Construction Detail Figure 53 Green Roof Construction Detail
Note. From http://www.apipanel.com/images/photos/AVH-1-Ext2.jpg Note. From www.toronto.ca Note. From http://www.g-sky.com/CADDetails_3-l-2.aspx


PLANS 12

Figure 38 New First Floor Plan Figure 39 New Second Floor Plan
Scale: 1/64” = 1’-0” Scale: 1/64” = 1’-0”


PLANS 13

Figure 40 New Third Floor Plan Figure 41 New Forth Floor Plan
Scale: 1/64” = 1’-0” Scale: 1/64” = 1’-0”


PLANS 14

Figure 42 New Fifth Floor Plan Figure 43 New Sixth Floor Plan
Scale: 1/64” = 1’-0” Scale: 1/64” = 1’-0”


PLANS 15

Figure 44 New Lower Roof Plan Figure 45 New Upper Roof Plan
Scale: 1/64” = 1’-0” Scale: 1/64” = 1’-0”


SECTIONS 16

Figures 46 & 47 Sections A-A (Top Left & Right)
Scales: 1/64” = 1’-0” & 1/256” = 1’-0”
Figures 48 & 49 Sections C-C (Bottom Left & Right)
Scales: 1/256” = 1’-0” & 1/64” = 1’-0”


LEED CERTIFICATION ANALYSIS: GOLD RATING 17


PERSPECTIVES 18

Figures 54 Perspective Key Plan (above)

Figures 55 Conceptual pperspective rendering
looking East on Boylston Street (right)


PERSPECTIVES 19

Figures 56 & 57 Conceptual Rendering and Key Plan


PERSPECTIVES 20

Figures 62 & 63 Conceptual Rendering and Key Plan


PROJECTED OUTCOMES & PERSPECTIVES 21

•THIS STRUCTURE WILL SERVE AS A MODEL FOR THE CRUSADE FOR
SUSTAINABILITY WE SO DESPERATELY NEED TO FULFILL. IT WILL INCREASE
AWARENESS ON THE ISSUE THROUGH DIRECT EXPOSURE OF THE SUSTAINABLE
DESIGN CONCEPTS INCORPORATED WITHIN IT TO ITS OCCUPANTS.

•THERE WILL ONLY BE MINIMAL IMPACTS ON BOSTON’S EXISTING WATER AND
ENERGY UTILITIES DUE TO RENEWABLE ENERGY GENERATION ON SITE,
RAINWATER HARVESTING AND GRAYWATER REUSE TECHNOLOGIES
IMPLEMENTED, AND THROUGH ULTRA EFFICIENT OPERATION.

•A NEW ALTERNATIVE SOURCE OF HEALTHY FRESH PRODUCE WILL BE
AVAILABLE TO LOCAL RESIDENTS.

•THE EXISTING COMMUNITY PARTICIPATING IN THE FARMING AND Figures 64 & 65 Conceptual Rendering and Key Plan
CONSUMING OF PRODUCE GENERATED WILL BE STRENGTHENED.

•A LOCAL FOOD SOURCE WILL BE ESTABLISHED WHICH WILL NOT REQUIRE
LONG DISTANCE SHIPPING TO REACH ITS CONSUMERS, EFFECTIVELY AND
SUBSTANTIALLY REDUCING SUPPLY CHAIN. POSITIVE ENVIRONMENTAL
IMPACTS WILL THEREFORE RESULT.

•THERE WILL BE INCREASED POTENTIAL FOR ADDITIONAL URBAN FARMING
TO CROP UP THROUGHOUT THE CITY OF BOSTON AS THIS PROJECT IS AN
EXTENSION OF A CONTINUING TREND THAT HAS ALREADY BEGUN TO
BECOME ESTABLISHED.

•OFFICE EMPLOYEES WILL HAVE ACCESS TO A MODEL URBAN LIFESTYLE FOR
HEALTHY LIVING WITH ACCESS TO A HEALTH CLUB AND FRESH ORGANIC
PRODUCE ON SITE.

•THIS PROJECT WILL SUPPORT LOCAL FARMERS BY PROVIDING ANOTHER
OUTLET BY WHICH TO DO SUCCESSFUL AND PROFITABLE BUSINESS IN THE CITY
OF BOSTON THROUGH SPACE ALLOCATED FOR A FARMER’S MARKET.


STUDIO INTRODUCTION & CONCEPT STATEMENT 22

PROJECT DESCRIPTION:
“DISTANCE LEARNING IN THE AMERICAN COLLEGIATE SYSTEM IS QUICKLY BECOMING AN EFFECTIVE AND EFFICIENT
ALTERNATIVE TO LIFE “ON CAMPUS”. THE DEVELOPMENT OF POWERFUL ELECTRONIC COMMUNICATIONS TOOLS AND HIGH
COST OF RELOCATION HAS MADE THIS AN APPEALING AND SUSTAINABLE OPTION TO MANY STUDENTS. AS CONVERTS TO THIS
INNOVATIVE EDUCATIONAL WAVE, YOU ARE IN A UNIQUE POSITION TO PUT YOUR NON-LOCAL EXPERIENCES TO WORK IN THIS
COURSE. ” (COURSE SYLLABUS)

OBJECTIVE:
DESIGN A MIXED USE FACILITY TO HOUSE A DISTANCE LEARNING CENTER FOR THE STUDY OF ARCHITECTURE DESIGN ON AN
URBAN SITE IN THE BACK BAY OF BOSTON, MA.

CONCEPT:
EDUCATIONAL BUILDINGS SHOULD NOT ONLY ALLOW LEARNING TO TAKE PLACE WITHIN THEM, BUT THEY THEMSELVES BE

A TOOL FOR LEARNING
BAC HAS TRANSFORMED LEARNING THAT WILL TRANSFORM THE WAY WE DESIGN OUR BUILT ENVIRONMENTS. THE BAC‟S
DISTANCE PROGRAM REACHES OUT TO EDUCATE STUDENTS OF ARCHITECTURE ALL ACROSS THE COUNTRY AS ITS DISTANCE
BUILDING WILL ALSO REACH OUT TO EDUCATE THE CITIZENS OF THE CITY OF BOSTON. THIS BUILDING WILL SERVE AS A TOOL TO
Figures 1-4 Photographs of BAC Students during Fall 2008
ENLIGHTEN THOSE WHO ENCOUNTER IT WITH POSSIBILITIES THAT EXIST FOR REDEVELOPING OUR BUILT ENVIRONMENT IN A
Intensive
WAY THAT PROVIDES GREATER RESPECT FOR THE NATURAL ENVIRONMENT AND STRIVES TOWARD A MORE SUSTAINABLE
FUTURE.

PROJECT GOALS:
EDUCATION: THE PROJECT PROGRAM WILL STRIVE TO SERVE THE CITIZENS OF THE CITY OF BOSTON AS AN EDUCATIONAL
TOOL. THE STRUCTURE WILL STRIVE TO BE AN EXEMPLARY MODEL OF HOW WE NEED TO EVOLVE OUR BUILDINGS TO
INCORPORATE A MORE PREVALENT ECOLOGICAL FOCUS.
ENVIRONMENTAL RESPONSIBLE DESIGN: MANY ENVIRONMENTALLY RESPONSIBLE DESIGN TECHNIQUES AND
PRACTICES WILL BE INCORPORATED INTO THIS STRUCTURE. THE LEED SYSTEM WILL BE USED AS A GUIDELINE FOR THE PROJECTS
DEVELOPMENT AS IT WILL SEEK TO ACHIEVE THE HIGHEST RATING POSSIBLE TO IT.
ADAPTABILITY: NARRATIVE DESIGN TECHNIQUES WILL BE EXPLORED IN THIS STRUCTURE ALLOWING IT THE ABILITY TO
EXPAND AND ADAPT TO CHANGES AND NEW DEMANDS WHICH MAY BE REQUIRED OF IT IN THE FUTURE. THIS IS ALSO
SUSTAINABLE IN NATURE AS IT WILL INCREASE THE FUNCTIONALITY OF THE STRUCTURE THUS INCREASING ITS LONGEVITY. IT IS
MUCH LESS LIKELY A REPLACEMENT OR REPLICATION OF THIS PROJECT WILL NEED TO OCCUR WITH ITS ABILITY TO READILY
LEND ITSELF TO MEETING THE NEEDS OF ITS FUTURE OCCUPANTS.

BAC DISTANCE LEARNING FACILITY
PROJECT BY JOSEPH THOMPSON, LEED AP UNDER THE DIRECTION OF PROFESSORS ERIC NELSON, RA AND GARY BROCK AND CONSULTANTS
KURT BENEDICT, PE AND KEVIN BEUTTELL, RLA (DISTANCE M.ARCH PROGRAM; CORE II STUDIO COURSE; SPRING 2009 SEMESTER)

RESEARCH & EXPLORATION: SITE ANALYSIS 23

N

v
Figure 6 Aerial Image of Boston, MA
Figure 5 Massachusetts State Map
Note. From Tourist Guide
Figure 7 Figure Ground Plan Study

SUN PATH
Figure 8 Aerial Image of Prudential Plaza in Boston,
MA
Buildings and Streetscape Analysis:
•What special qualities does the pattern language have? Repetitive rectilinear geometry. Hierarchy is typically established by placing
emphasis on corner lots.
•Are heights and density consistent? Heights are fairly consistent in the Back Bay and the immediate area of the site. Corner buildings
often differ and are taller giving them emphasis and establish a hierarchy. Two major exceptions are the Prudential and Hancock
Towers a few blocks a way. Density is very consistent. Our site is one of the very few undeveloped sites in the Back Bay area. There
are exceptions such as Commonwealth Avenue and Copley Square.
•What materials are used and why? Masonry (primarily brick and stone). They were probably utilized since they are non-combustible
materials.
•What buildings are unique? Buildings at the corners of street blocks. Copley square is also relatively close by containing Trinity
Church, Hancock Tower and the Boston Public Library all noteworthy structures. The Prudential Tower can also be seen from the site.


RESEARCH & EXPLORATION: PRECEDENT STUDIES 24

Figure 10 Centre Pompidou (Rogers & Piano) Figure 11 Cartier Foundation (Nouvel)
Note. From Flickr Note. From Flickr

Figure 9 Conceptual Skyscraper (Yeang) Figure 12 Casa del Fascio (Terragni) Figure 13 Genzyme Center(Behnisch)
Note. From Green Key Note. From Flickr Note. From Flickr


PROGRAM 25

Figures 15-20 Bubble Diagrams & Program Research Notes
Figure 14 Project Program

Figures 13-17 Program Analysis and Development
Diagrams

GREEN BUILDING STRATEGIES: ENERGY EFFICIENCY 26

Figure 21 Natural Ventilation: Figure 22 Passive & Active Solar Figure 23 Double Envelope & Figure 24 Photograph of Insulated Concrete
Stack Effect Diagram Strategy Diagram (Mechanically Natural Ventilation Diagram Form (R-36)
Operable BIPV External Sun Louvers) Note. From http://www.solarcrete.com

Figure 25 Natural Daylighting Figure 26 Direct Solar Gain Figure 27 Structurally Insulated Panel (R-23) Figure 28 Nanogel Aerogel Panel (R-20)
Diagram Trombe Wall Diagram Note. From http://www.tgpamerica.com Note. From http://www.tgpamerica.com


GREEN BUILDING STRATEGIES: 27

ENERGY
STORMWATER ADAPTABILTY
PRODUCTION
MANAGEMENT PHOTOVOLTAICS:
BIOSWALES: PHOTOVOLTAIC
EXPANDABLE
RETAIN SUN SHADES
STRUCTURAL
STORMWATER AND ROOF GRID
GRID:
ON-SITE TO WILL PRODUCE
INCREASE
CONTRIBUTE SIGNIFICANT
ANTICIPATED
TOWARDS AMOUNTS OF
LONGEVITY OF
EFFORTS TO ENERGY,
STRUCTURE BY
RECHARGE ESPECIALLY
ALLOWING FOR
DEPLETING DURING
EASY EXPANSION
WATER TABLE SUMMER
TO MEET FUTURE
LEVELS IN BACK MONTHS
NEEDS.
BAY.

Figures 29 (far left) Stormwater Management Figure 30 Adaptability Strategy Diagram Figure 31 Energy Production (Photovoltaics) Strategy Diagram
(Bioswale) Strategy Diagram (left)

WIND TURBINES:
MOVEABLE A MODEST
GREEN ROOFS: AN
PARITIONS: AMOUNT OF
EXTENSIVE GREEN
FLEXIBLE ENERGY WILL BE
ROOF SYSTEM WILL
PLANNING GENERATED FROM
PROVIDE OUTDOOR
WITHIN THE THESE SMALL
RECREATIONAL AREAS
STRUCTURAL VERTICAL AXIS
IN CURRENTLY
GRID ALLOWS WIND TURBINES
UNDEVELOPED
FOR (VAWT). THEY
PORTIONS OF
VERSITILITY MAINLY SERVE AS
STRUCTURE AND
OF SPACE A HIGHLY
REDUCE HEAT ISLAND
VISABLE
EFFECT.
EDUCATIONAL
TOOL.

Figure 32 Green Roof Construction Detail (left) Figure 33 Adaptability Strategy Diagram Figure 34 Image of VWAT (Vertical Axis Wind Turbine)
Note. From www.toronto.ca Note. From Flickr


SITE PLAN 28

Figure 35 Site Plan Note. Scale: 1/16” = 1‟-0”


PLANS 29

Figure 36 Foundation Plan Note. Scale: 1/16” = 1‟-0”


PLANS 30

Figure 37 First Floor Plan Note. Scale: 1/16” = 1‟-0”


PLANS 31

Figure 38 Second Floor Plan Note. Scale: 1/32” = 1‟-0” Figure 39 Third Floor Plan Note. Scale: 1/32” = 1‟-0”

Figure 40 Typical Fourth & Fifth Floor Plan Note. Scale: 1/32” = 1‟-0” Figure 41 Roof Plan Note. Scale: 1/32” = 1‟-0”


STRUCTURAL SYSTEM 32

Structural system:
I will be using a very typical structural
steel grid system. 20‟-0” x 40‟-0” bays
provide an efficient increment in
which to build. Floors will be concrete
slab on metal deck. This is an efficient
and cost effective system that also
allows for flexibility. The structure will
be designed to be expandable. Areas
have been left vacant for planned
future expansion and the grid itself
will be expandable to allow for several
additional floors of construction.

Figures 42 & 43 Structural Figure 44 Framing Plan, Design Loads, Occupancy Chart & Column Schedule
Models Note. Scale: 1/32” = 1‟-0”
Note. Scale: NTS


BUILDING SERVICES: SYSTEMS DIAGRAMS 33

Figure 45 Mechanical Systems Diagram (Winter) Figure 46 Mechanical Systems Diagram (Summer) Figure 47 Plumbing Riser Diagram
Note. Scale: 1/32” = 1‟-0” Note. Scale: 1/32” = 1‟-0” Note. Scale: 1/16” = 1‟-0”

Cooling system: Plumbing system:
Heating system:
Passive solar techniques will be used to reduce loads Water use will be kept to a minimum through use of water
Passive solar techniques will be used to reduce
on the cooling system. Exterior sun louvers will keep efficient and waterless fixtures. Potable water will be
loads on the heating system. Trombe walls and
scorching summer sun out of interior spaces. Natural supplied through the municipal water system and black
solar masses have been strategically integrated in
ventilation techniques will seek to minimize the need waste water will be returned in the municipal sewer
the building design. The mechanical heating
for mechanical cooling during the warm season. The system. 100% of all storm water will be retained on site
system will generate its energy from (3) 1500‟ deep
mechanical cooling system will generate its energy and allowed to percolate back into the ground through
geoexchange standing column wells. Outdoor air
from (3) 1500‟ deep geoexchange standing column planned Bioswales and pervious pavers to contribute
is introduced through an air-air heat exchanger,
wells. Outdoor air is introduced through an air-air towards efforts to recharge the depleting ground water
filtered, heated and humidified to before being
heat exchanger, filtered, cooled and dehumidified to table in the Back Bay. Greywater will also be recycled for
delivered to interior spaces. Air introduced will be
before being delivered to interior spaces. Air use in water closets to cut down on potable water usage.
via a UAS (Underfloor Air System). These are more
introduced will be via a UAS (Underfloor Air System). Solar Hot Water Plate Collectors on the building‟s roof will
effective at directing the conditioned air to the
These are more effective at directing the conditioned diminish the need for additional energy to be consumed to
building occupants.
air to the building occupants. heat water for various building functions.


DETAILING: TYPICAL WALL SECTIONS & DETAILS 34

Figure 50 (above) Steel Frame Connection
Note. From Flickr

Figure 48 South Typical Wall Section Figure 49 East Typical Wall Section Figure 51 (left) Steel Frame Connection Details
Note. Scales: 1/16”=1‟-0” & 3/8”=1‟-0” Note. Scales: 3/32”=1‟-0” & 1/2”=1‟-0” Note. Scale: 1/2” = 1‟-0”


LEED CERTIFICATION ANALYSIS: PLATINUM RATING 35

Figures 52-54 Preliminary LEED Certification Analysis: Platinum Rating
Note. Spreadsheets from USGBC


BUILDING CODE ANALYSIS 36

Figures 55-57 Building Code Review


ELEVATIONS 37

Figure 58 South Elevation Figure 59 North Elevation
Note. Scale: 1/32” = 1‟-0” Note. Scale: 1/32” = 1‟-0”

Figure 60 East Elevation Figure 61 West Elevation
Note. Scale: 1/32” = 1‟-0” Note. Scale: 1/32” = 1‟-0”


THERMAL PERFORMANCE: HEAT LOSS CALCULATIONS 38

Exterior Envelope:
A high performance envelope is necessary in any building claiming to be environmentally responsible. Minimum insulation values specified by code will all be exceeded. I plan to use an aluminum structurally insulated
panels for the primary exterior cladding which can provide a continuous R-value of 19. These panels are also very durable and low maintenance. Glazing will be double pane with double low-E coatings which typically
provides u-values of 0.3 or less. The double low-e coatings will help to retain heat in the building during the cold season. SHGC is not of major concern as I plan to provide exterior sun shading louvers to protect
interior spaces from scorching summer sun. Glazing that is provided will be bulked on the south façade as it is the easiest to control solar exposure and daylighting. Aerogel Panels will also be used as a substitution for
conventional glazing in the majority of spaces. These aerogel panels provide R-20 thermal transmittance values and are translucent to allow natural daylight indirectly into spaces. Rigid polyisocyanurate will be used
on the roof and at a thickness of 8” can easily achieve a value of R-48 or better. High albedo roofing, living walls, green roofs and light colors in general will help to reduce heat island effect.

TYPICAL TYPICAL
NORTH NORTH
FACADE FACADE

Figures 62 Typical Structural North Bay Note. Scale: 1/4” = 1‟-0” Figures 63 North Bay Heat Loss Calculation

TYPICAL
TYPICAL
SOUTH
SOUTH
FACADE
FACADE

Figures 64 Typical Structural South Bay Note. Scale: 1/4” = 1‟-0” Figures 65 South Bay Heat Loss Calculation


DETAILING: LIVING WALL 39

Figure 66 Living Wall Enlarged Elevation, Plan & Section Note. Scales: 1/4” = 1‟-0”, 1”=1‟-0” & 1/2” =1‟-0”


PERSPECTIVES 40

Figures 67-70 Key Plan and Exterior Building Perspectives Note. Scale: N.T.S.


PERSPECTIVES 41

Figures 71-74 Key Plans and Perspectives Note. Scale: N.T.S.


PRIVATE RESIDENCE RENOVATIONS & ADDITION 42

PRIVATE RESIDENCE ADDITION
PROJECT BY JOSEPH THOMPSON, LEED AP OF MINUTA ARCHITECTURE, PLLC UNDER THE DIRECTION OF JOSEPH MINUTA, RA, AIA
(PROFESSIONAL WORK; FEBRUARY 2009)

PRIVATE RESIDENCE RENOVATIONS & ADDITION 43

PRIVATE RESIDENCE ADDITION
(PROFESSIONAL WORK; SEPTEMBER 2007-PRESENT)

PRIVATE RESIDENCE ACESSIBILITY RENOVATIONS 44

PRIVATE RESIDENCE RENOVATIONS
(PROFESSIONAL WORK; AUGUST 2008- JANURARY 2009)

PRIVATE RESIDENCE ACESSIBILITY RENOVATIONS 45

PRIVATE RESIDENCE RENOVATIONS
(PROFESSIONAL WORK; AUGUST 2008- JANURARY 2009)

ACCESSIBLE COMMUNITY GARDENING 46

CURRENTLY STILL IN A DESIGN DEVELOPMENT PLANNING PHASE, THIS PROJECT IS A
COMBINED VOLUNTEER EFFORT FROM OUR FIRM TO ASSIST A POTENTIAL EAGLE
SCOUT WITH HIS CAPSTONE PROJECT AND TO IMPROVE THE QUALITY OF LIFE FOR
RESIDENTS AT A LOCAL ASSISTED LIVING CARE FACILITY. THE GOAL OF THE PROJECT
WILL BE TO PROVIDE A PLANNED AREA THAT WILL ALLOW ALL RESIDENTS TO GARDEN
TOGETHER IN ATTEMPT TO GROW FOOD FOR THEIR OWN USE AS WELL AS TO HOST A
FARMER‟S MARKET EVENT DURING THE HARVEST SEASON. THIS MODULAR DESIGN IS
INTENDED TO BE HIGHLY FLEXIBLE AND INCREMENTALLY EXPANDABLE FOR FUTURE
GROWTH. VISUAL SCREENING HAS BEEN PLANNED STRATEGICALLY TO CREATE A
POTENTIALLY VERY AESTHETICALLY PLEASING OUTDOOR SPACE. RAINWATER
HARVESTING HAS BEEN CONSIDERED AS A POSSIBILITY TO LIMIT THE NEED FOR
POTABLE WATER REQUIRED FOR IRRIGATION. CONSTRUCTION VIA LOCAL BOYSCOUT
TROOPS AND VOLUNTEER COMMUNITY MEMBERS IS ANTICIPATED TO BEGIN IN MAY.

Figures 1 Cross-section Note. Scale = ¼” = 1’-0”

Figures 3 Site Plan Note. Scale = ¼” = 1’-0”
Figure 2 Conceptual site axonometric and natural daylight study

ACCESSIBLE PLATNER BEDS

ACCESSIBLE COMMUNITY GARDENING 47

Figures 4 Conceptual Perspective Rendering

Figures 5 Photograph of New Paltz, NY Farmer’s Market Figures 6 Photograph of Berkeley Community Garden, Boston, MA Figures 7 Typical Fence Section Plan & Elevation Note. Scale = 1” = 1’-0”

ACCESSIBLE PLATNER BEDS

LABORERS’ VILLAGE 48

ASKED BY OUR CLIENT TO DEVELOP A PARTI FOR A POTENTIAL
NEW RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT, THE FOLLOWING ARE THE
RESULTS OF MY EFFORTS FROM A DAY LONG CHARRETTE. THE
LOCAL UNION WE HAVE DEVELOPED THIS FOR IS SEEKING TO
PROVIDE AFFORDABLE HOUSING UNITS TO MANY OF ITS
JUNIOR MEMBERS. THE SCALE OF THE DESIGN IS MODEST IN
NATURE, FOCUSING ON QUALITY OVER QUANTITY. THESE
RENDERINGS DEPICT 1,600 SQUARE FOOT RESIDENCES.
PORTIONS OF THESE RESIDENCES ARE TO BE CONSTRUCTED
UNFINISHED TO SERVE FOR FLEXIBLE FUTURE EXPANSION.
NARRATIVE DESIGN IS A KEY COMPONENT TO THIS DESIGNS
SUCCESS. MANY OF THE FAMILIES THAT WILL BE POTENTIALLY
OCCUPYING THESE STRUCTURES WILL BE YOUNG GROWING
FAMILIES WHICH WILL REQUIRE THEIR HOME TO BE ABLE TO
EXPAND AND ADAPT AS THEY WILL. MASTER PLANS TO Figures 2 Conceptual Perspective Rendering of Prototype Residence I
EXPAND FROM 1 BEDROOM HOMES TO 4 OR 5 HAVE BEEN
CONSIDERED.

THESE HOMES HAVE ALSO BEEN DESIGNED IN CONTEXT WITH
EACH OTHER. THE SPACES AND RELATIONSHIPS THESE HOMES
DEVELOP WITH EACH OTHER IS JUST AS IMPORTANT, IF NOT
MORE SO, THAN THEIR OWN INDIVIDUAL DESIGN. WE BELIEVE
ESTABLISHING A HUMAN SCALE WILL BE CRITICAL TO THIS
PROJECT‟S SUCCESS. A PRECEDENT I LOOKED TO FOR
INSPIRATION WAS FRANK LLOYD WRIGHT‟S OAK PARK. THIS
PROJECTS‟ SCALE IS MODEST IN NATURE AS PREVIOUSLY
NOTED, MUCH MORE SO THAN OAK PARK‟S, BUT THERE IS A
LOT WE CAN DRAW AND WILL HOPEFULLY CONTINUE TO
DRAW FROM IT.
Figures 3 Conceptual Perspective Rendering of Prototype Residence I

Figures 4 Conceptual Elevation Rendering of Prototype Residences
Figure 1 A Home in a Prairie Town
Note. From Ladies’ Home Journal (1901)

LABORERS‟ VILLAGE

LABORERS’ VILLAGE 49

A LESSON WE CONSIDERED IN OUR CHOICE TO PURSUE
NARRATIVE DESIGN QUALITIES AND A CRAFTSMAN STYLE
COMES THE GREAT LE CORBUSIER. IN 1923, CORBUSIER WAS
COMMISSIONED TO DESIGN A SERIES OF HOUSE FOR HENRY
FRUGES‟ MANUAL WORKERS AND THEIR FAMILIES. THE
PROJECTS‟ DESIGN, MODERN IN NATURE, WAS IN HIGH
CONTRAST TO FRANCE'S EXISTING BUILT ENVIRONMENT.
“HE MOCKED THE ASPIRATIONS OF WHAT HE CALLED THE
„FOLKLORIC BRIGADE‟ - MADE UP OF SENTIMENTALIZING
TRADITIONALISTS – AND DENOUNCED FRENCH SOCIETY‟S
INTRANSIGENT RESISTANCE TO MODERNITY. IN THE HOUSES
HE DESIGNED FOR THE LABOURERS, HIS ADMIRATION FOR Figures 7 Conceptual Perspective Rendering of Prototype Residence II
INDUSTRY AND TECHNOLOGY EXPRESSED ITSELF IN
EXPANSES OF CONCRETE, UNDECORATED SURFACES AND
NAKED LIGHT BULBS… BUT THE NEW TENANTS HAD A VERY
DIFFERENT IDEA OF BEAUTY.” (ALAIN DE BOTTON, THE
ARCHITECTURE OF HAPPINESS, (2006) P.164) THE RESULTS OF
THEIR OCCUPANCY CAN BE SEEN ON THE FIGURES TO THE
LEFT. THE HOME IS A PLACE OF REFUGE WHERE ONE CAN
ESCAPE THE PERILS OF EVERYDAY LIFE. IT SHOULD NOT
SERVE AS AN EXTENSION OF THEM.

WE ARE STILL VERY EARLY ON IN THE DESIGN PROCESS
WITH THIS PROJECT AND HAVE HIGH ASPIRATIONS FOR
ITS POTENTIAL SUCCESS. THERE IS A DIALOG Figures 8 Conceptual Perspective Rendering of Prototype Residence II
OCCURRING WITH THE OWNER CURRENTLY TO
CONSIDER LEED CERTIFICATION FOR THESE HOMES
UNDER USGBC‟S RELATIVELY NEW LEED FOR HOMES
SYSTEM. THIS MAY BE VERY COST EFFECTIVE AS WE
MAY POTENTIALLY BE ABLE TO CERTIFY ALL OF THESE
HOMES UNDER A SINGLE DESIGN. I AM NOT SURE THAT
ANOTHER RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT IS EXACTLY
WHAT ORANGE COUNTY NEW YORK NEEDS, BUT WE
ARE PUTTING FORTH OUR BEST EFFORTS TO SET A NEW
HIGHER STANDARD FOR THOSE BUILT IN THE FUTURE IN
Figures 5-6 Photographs of Le Corbusier’s Labourers’ Homes before
OUR AREA TO HOPEFULLY FOLLOW.
and after occupancy
Note. From The Architecture of Happiness by Alain de Botton (2006) Figures 9 Conceptual Perspective Rendering of Prototype Residence III

LABORERS‟ VILLAGE

INTRODUCTION 50

INTRODUCTION
DECLARATION OF BOSTON
“‟What are you going to be when you grow up?‟ is a question about work. What is your work in the
world going to be? What will be your works? These are not fundamental questions about jobs and pay,
but questions about life. Work is applied effort; it is whatever we put ourselves into, whatever we
AT THE TIME OF BEING ADMITTED AS A MEMBER OF THE DESIGN PROFESSIONS,
expand our energy on for the sake of accomplishing or achieving something. Work in this fundamental
I SOLEMNLY PLEDGE to consecrate my life:
sense is not what we do for a living but what we do with our living.” (Bennett, 1993)
To the service of social justice;
To the stewardship of the environment;
Architecture is one of the great ancient professions. It is the practice of designing the built environment.
To the protection of public health and safety; and
The Architect has the role of leading projects. A strong base of goals and principals define the
Architect‟s ethics. These ethics that compose how the Architect practices inevitably greatly determine To my clients‟ organizational effectiveness
the quality and character of the works the Architect creates.
I WILL PRACTICE my profession with conscience and dignity.
“Architecture is an art not a science… However, it is very different from the other arts, because since its
function is to create appropriate places and contexts of social life its purpose is by definition ethical.
I WILL GIVE to my colleagues the respect and gratitude that is their due.
Architecture is functional: practice and its application form part of the same activity. Decisions taken by
architects in their everyday practice have an ongoing impact on the lives of those affected by their work.
I WILL HOLD the welfare of the community as my first consideration.
These are clearly ethical decisions” (Collier, 2006).

I WILL RESPECT the secrets that are confided in me, even after my client has died.
According to the AIA (American Institute of Architects) there are six cannons, broad principals of
conduct that should be adhered to, which outline the Architects obligations to a variety of institutions.
I WILL MAINTAIN by all the means in my power, the honor and the noble traditions of the
These include the Architects general obligations along with obligations to the public, the client, to the
professions, to colleagues and to the environment. To give further definition to these cannons, Ethical design professions.
Standards (E.S.) and rules are outlined in the document as well. The intent is to help guide the
practitioner to nobly provide his services. I WILL NOT PERMIT considerations of age, disease or disability, creed, ethnic origin, gender,
nationality, political affiliation, race, sexual orientation, social standing or any other factor to
These cannons create a foundation for Architects construct and further define their own personal ethical
preclude me from carrying out my responsibilities.
statements, goals, principals, and rules. This document will outline my own thoughts on these matters
that I have developed thus far based on my educational, professional and personal experiences in
I WILL NOT USE my knowledge to violate human rights, civil liberties, or community well-
relation to the practice and experience of Architecture. It seems we essentially hold responsibilities to
being, even under threat.
three major environments, the built, the natural, and the social.

I MAKE THESE PROMISES solemnly, freely and upon my honor.

Modeled after the medical profession’s Declaration of Geneva, originally fashioned in 1948 and most recently revised in 2006.

Figure 1 Declaration of Boston (above)
Note. Provided for study in BAC Dist. M.Arch History & Theory Course Fall 2008

ETHICS IN THE PRACTICE OF ARCHITECTURE
PROJECT BY JOSEPH THOMPSON, LEED AP UNDER THE DIRECTION OF PROFESSOR HERB CHILDRESS, PHD
(OTHER WORK: DISTANCE M.ARCH PROGRAM; HISTORY AND THEORY I; FALL 2008 SEMESTER)

THE BUILT ENVIRONMENT 51

THE BUILT ENVIRONMENT with only slight alterations which of course bestow the great title of “custom” upon it. People
somehow feel they have truly personalized their home when they are able to choose a different color
“The creation of beauty, once viewed as the central task of the architect, has quietly evaporated from faux stone for the front of their house then their neighbors with the same exact home from the same
serious professional discussion and retreated to a confused private imperative.” (Botton, 2006). exact catalogue have. This does not give their home character.

As architects we have a great control and influence we can assert over the built environment. When a structure lacks character there is nothing tangible a person can relate to in order to develop an
Encompassed in that are responsibilities toward the people in it, which falls under our obligations to the emotional investment in the structure. Typically the only investment made and recognized is monetary
social environment, but also to the built environment itself. Every city, every building, every object holds in nature. Therefore, the lack of emotional care translates to lack of physical care. Many of our well
an artistic quality to it, whether referred to as a work of art or not. Some may be poor in quality, others constructed but not well designed buildings are not given even the slightest bit of regular
great. Our views on beauty have greatly changed throughout history. They also greatly vary from culture maintenance. Lack of maintenance quickly takes its toll on buildings. They rot and decay just as the
to culture and person to person. Beauty is a vague goal to strive for. What truly makes something past notion of taking pride in our built environment has in the minds of many. It is unethical to
beautiful? It is not something I hold the answer to and can clearly state for you, but it is something every demean the art and craft of architecture to reproducibility and cheapen the quality of our built
architect should struggle with. Alain de Botton comments very clearly on the value of beauty in our environment. Although the emphasis of the architect‟s role in creating structures of great beauty and
environment: quality has shifted to that of cost effective and efficient, the aforementioned are still a responsibility
which needs to be acknowledged.
“Even if one does not want to contemplate the values of beauty, as beauty is not an easily definable
status to achieve, we can easily speak on the quality of environments and easily realize their importance
as the negative impacts of neglect of so many of our urban landscapes has become very apparent over
the last half century. “One of the great but often unmentioned causes of both happiness and misery is
the quality of our environment: the kinds of walls, chairs, buildings and streets that surround us. And
yet a concern for architecture and design is too often described as frivolous, even self-indulgent.”
(Botton, 2006).

The general quality of a place or space is a more graspable ways of analyzing the built environment as is
noted in the previous excerpt. An architect should have the ability to appreciate quality in the
environment and, more importantly, be able to translate that appreciation into his own work. A
principle I would like to discuss is that of Quality over Quantity.

A well planned, a well designed and well built building is bound to stand for a great many generations.
Too much of that which is built today is built in a disposable manner. Not so much in a sense that the
methods of construction are inadequate to stand the test of time, but the inherent value people place in
the structures they create cannot. Building as cheaply and as efficiently as possible creates characterless
forms and objects that condemn themselves to the wrath of our throw-away mentality and society.

Figure 2 Photograph of Levittown, PA (above)
“To an ever greater degree the work of art reproduced becomes the work of art designed for
Note. From www.afordablehousinginstitute.org
reproducibility.” (Sennett, 1990) This notion manifests itself in Architecture most clearly to me in the
form of builder/ spec homes. Developments are created everyday where the same home is reproduced 50
Figure 3 Photograph of abandoned factory
times over
window in Walden, NY (right)

ETHICS IN THE PRACTICE OF ARCHITECTURE
PROJECT BY JOSEPH THOMPSON, LEED AP UNDER THE DIRECTION OF PROFESSOR HERB CHILDRESS, PHD
(OTHER WORK: DISTANCE M.ARCH PROGRAM; HISTORY AND THEORY I; FALL 2008 SEMESTER)

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