Preserving a form : a reinterpretation of the New England farm for multi-family living

Abstract

The intention of this thesis is to present residential development based on a farm model as an alternative to subdivision in a rural context. The farm is not to be replicated exactly but the overall form is to be recognizable as a reinterpretation of the existing vernacular form of the New England farm. The thesis presents a statement of dissatisfaction in the suburbanization of exurban areas. It suggests a design which respects the previous use of the land. References are drawn upon to implement the vision of a collective form in the landscape. Both formally and socially, the re-use of the farm buildings and relationships offer an alternative to suburban sprawl. The five parts to this thesis are: -- Personal Statement: a statement of observations and dissatisfactions with suburban land-use. -- Design Intent: the description of goals set forth in the farm model as an alternative. -- References: a presentation of inspirational and contextual references. -- Design Explanation: the implementation of intentions on a site outside Hanover, New Hampshire. -- Design Critique: a discussion of the success of the proposal.