Landscape viewing in metropolitan Boston

Abstract

This thesis recognizes the importance of landscape viewing, especially as a solitary act of contemplation. It suggests the creation of a place from which to gaze upon a vast landscape. It postulates that an observation structure can act as a border between the natural world and the constructed world in order to accentuate their differences and to acknowledge the importance of each. In addition, this thesis shows why Route One next to the Lynn Woods Reservation in Metropolitan Boston is an excellent place for a landscape viewing structure. The resulting design is an observation wall located between Route 1 and the Lynn Woods Reservation in Saugus. It is composed of two parts. The primary structure of the composition is two tall, tapering concrete walls that rise from beneath the ground. The walls curve through the landscape, disappearing and reappearing. Their character is a complement to the contours of the land. The secondary structure is a light wood and steel frame construction. This system supports the act of solitary landscape viewing by providing individual viewing lookouts in conjunction with a gallery space, a small library, and a small kitchen. The design is organized as a series of episodes along a continuous ramp. The interplay of the two construction systems is meant to evoke combined feelings of transience and persistence as well as the contrast that exists between the two types of landscape on either side of the walls.