RetroFILL : residual spaces as urban infill

Abstract

In any city there are small slivers and chunks of awkward spaces - in between buildings, occupying edge conditions, not large enough to warrant many forms of traditional use - which can be termed residual. These areas of the built environment represent sites for possible architectural invention that have been misunderstood, underused, ignored and generally not exploited to their full potential. Boston is a city with a large youthful population, as well being home to a considerable number of architecture firms. There is a distinct lack of both interesting new architecture and non-traditional building types. One explanation for the migration of the large population of college graduates out of the city and a failure to draw young professionals in to the area is the lack of unconvential and distinct places that create neighborhood identity and character. This thesis proposes an evaluation and activation of these residual spaces, using environmental and social cues to create vibrant infill architecture. The emphasis is on creating a multi-faceted responsive environment the respects both the user and public experience in the building. The design methodology includes the analysis and cataloging of a variety of residual site scenarios, culminating in a complete design proposal for one specific site, which will create a model and method for urban intervention.