Thesis (M. S.)--Architecture, Georgia Institute of Technology, 2009. / Committee Chair: Flowers, Benjamin; Committee Member: Craig, Robert; Committee Member: Sharp, Leslie.

By using the Collier Heights neighborhood in the west side of Atlanta as a case study, this thesis will examine questions which arise at the intersection of architecture and racial equality. Research will focus on the years between 1952, when Collier Heights was annexed into the City of Atlanta, and 1968, the last year of major development in the area. According to one historian, Collier Heights is regarded as "the country's preeminent mid-century African American developed suburb." This statement can be attributed to numerous factors including its importance in the realm of African American cultural heritage, community planning, and social history. As well, its architecture is noteworthy for its exceptionally intact collection of mid-twentieth century houses, which were built from custom design and stock plans.