Date of Award
Spring 5-30-2020
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Architecture (MArch)
Department
Architecture
First Advisor
Ben Pell
Second Advisor
Lauren Bordes
Abstract
Changes can be subtle, but nevertheless they are ever lasting. When one encounters the other, the experience of the encountering changes us. It not only happens with people but also with spaces. Each space tells a story of it’s own, and when we encounter each space we are changed by it. Each space carries with it different imprint and shows different personalities. Therefore, when we encounter them, we are all listeners and transmitters to carry those stories onwards.
Seeing architecture as fertile and breeding ground to welcome, transmit and exchange ideas, the hidden potentials in common building types and structures should be explored to enhance our daily experience. It is hopeful with this exploded potential, more instances of connectivity would establish through ideas exchange, leading to a more connected and enhanced living environment. The purpose of this Thesis is to inquire into the possibility of common spaces, such as the Providence Place Mall, and to become sources of inspiration and agent for breaking fixed mind set through examining and inventing the details of architecture to enhance user’s experience. With attention to details, care of how spatial qualities are manifested is deeply investigated. And it is meant for this investigation in architecture to serve as a bridge that would connect us to a wider and more diverse world.
The ability to identify the ground for alternation is the beginning for architect to implement change. It is the moment of reckoning that what’s seen is not a wall that separates us but an entry point to a route that leads to places. The more instances that an architect are able to recognize these hidden doorways, the better the design could serve the people experiencing the space. A good designed space is a well-considered space. If enough hidden doorways have opened up, the person experiencing would feel wholly served and being at one with the space. And hopefully as Architect, that is what we can do.
Recommended Citation
Li, Haoning, "Transform through architecture : a journey of discovery at the Providence Place Mall" (2020). Masters Theses. 447.
https://digitalcommons.risd.edu/masterstheses/447
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