Landscapes as references for design

Abstract

This is a study of the ways in which the forms in landscapes - natural terrain adapted and inhabited - can serve as references in architectural design. As references for design, landscapes provide a richness of responses to local and evolutionary factors and a richness of associations which are central to our own identity and the identity of places or regions. In this thesis several perspectives on ways in which landscapes serve as references are analyzed. The landscape and surrounding context of each particular site importantly define its character and offer significant references for forms to be extended or generated. More broadly, landscapes can be viewed as sources for forms which can be transposed in multiple ways; the ultimate test of their value being whether they provide habitable, usable spaces. Landscapes can also be studied for the associations which they bring. These associations may explain feelings which we have about the quality and character of places . A series of principles for design are proposed. These principles reflect convergence amongst the several perspectives on how landscapes can serve as references and constitute a collection of suggestions for design. The principles are organized along a continuum of "forms", "processes of addition and change", and "associative qualities". Design studies for a site along the Neponset River at the south edge of Boston have been undertaken to aid in the development of the principles and illustrate their application. A mix of uses and building methods have been studied. The site for the studies is near the village center known as Lower Mills. The natural topography, the river's transition from narrow rapids to open estuary, and the historic collection of industrial buildings form a landscape rich in references and associations.