The inter-relationship of nature and built form in an urban context

Abstract

How does one mediate between nature and the city as development continues to arise out of necessity? What is the significance of the connection between nature and city and how can they be articulated? What is the relationship between architecture and nature in the context of densely settled area? This thesis attempts to address these questions through the application of environmental consciousness with three different scales: urban, community and individual. The site is known as Boston State Hospital Site in Mattapan where existing dense neighborhoods and abundant natural environments meet. Moreover, Boston Nature Center of Audubon Society is a major component of the site. Given the mixture of dichotomous settings, this thesis attempts to show how inter penetration between built environment and natural setting can proceed to bring urban living quality through Eco-housing development.