Architects throughout have been forced to practice design surrounded by a society that generally lacks of architectural awareness and interest. A growing trend to transition from a relatively isolated profession into a field that promotes stronger public involvement is critical for architecture to evolve. Within the past 10 years, the growth of architectural centers have begun to dissolve the barrier between the profession and the general public in that their primary function regardless of what form they represent, is to introduce and educate issues of architecture that are an inescapable part of our built environment. An investigation of architectural research institute precedents, would allow for opportunities to understand how they have engaged professional knowledge with a growing educated public opinion. Promoting the idea of similar functions locally to a skeptic public has to be based on the importance of change, where new technologies are consistently transforming the way we approach design problems. Introducing a variety of techniques to display information, which go beyond any two dimensional format into a three or four dimensional, more tactile, interactive medium, allowing the observer to become engaged in what they are learning is important for individuals to establish meaning. The facility itself would be a catalyst for learning in which design issues are presented and solutions are viewed by the viewer in a multi-sensory way. The ultimate goal would be able to establish a system of memory responses to allow the general public a better connection with architecture. Creating a center of information housed within a singular building would be a beneficial beginning but it is important to express that information beyond any static building into a contextual environment in which it can be further related with. Adding richness to public spaces that promote cases of good architectural design can be an example that would allow the absorption of concepts through participation. Eventually, the results would lead to more knowledgeable public input about how their built environment is viewed and encourage better design.

Upon my arrival at the Washington-Alexandria Architecture Center (WAAC), I experienced significant challenges in finding suitable accommodation and integrating into the community. Recognizing that many fellow students face similar difficulties, I was inspired to leverage the historical and cultural essence of Old Town Alexandria to create a solution. My thesis explores the potential of adaptive reuse to develop a co-living environment specifically designed for students. This project aims to repurpose existing structures to address the scarcity of student housing while fostering a sense of community. Situated less than eight miles from Washington, DC, WAAC offers a unique professional learning environment for Architecture and Urban Design students, characterized by its interdisciplinary, international, and individual focus. By immersing students in the rich historical and cultural context of Old Town Alexandria, the project enhances their educational experience and well-being through exposure to professional and academic opportunities in both Alexandria and Washington, DC. This adaptive reuse initiative not only revives the essence of Old Town in students' daily lives but also demonstrates how historical preservation and modern functionality can coexist, creating a dynamic and supportive living environment that enriches the student journey. / Master of Architecture / Transitioning into new academic environments often presents significant challenges for students, particularly in securing suitable accommodation and integrating into the local community. This thesis investigates the feasibility and benefits of creating an adaptive reuse co-living program for students at Virginia Tech's Washington-Alexandria Architecture Center (WAAC) in Old Town Alexandria, VA. The project aims to repurpose existing structures to address the scarcity of student housing while fostering a sense of belonging and community. By immersing students in the historical and cultural context of Old Town Alexandria, the adaptive reuse initiative enhances their educational experience and well-being. Students are exposed to the abundant professional and academic opportunities available in both Alexandria and Washington, DC, enriching their overall journey. This thesis highlights the potential of adaptive reuse to preserve historical fabric while meeting contemporary needs, creating a supportive and dynamic living environment for students. The project exemplifies how historical preservation and modern functionality can coexist, providing essential housing and fostering a deeper connection between students and the community. Through this integration, the adaptive reuse project revitalizes the essence of Old Town Alexandria in students' daily lives, contributing to a more enriching and holistic educational experience.

<i>Bacchus, Vulcan and Metis walk into a bar . . .</i> The following dialogues took place beginning in January of this year. In a series of investigations through drawing, physical constucts and research, the project began to take shape. With the help of Bacchus, Vulcan and Metis, the building was given a body of its own. Ideas of the way a building ages, as well as the way the parts of the building relate to the whole, are the basis of the thesis. The building is a sort of beast with two heads: the foundry, and the speak-easy [with cunning navigating the straits]. / Master of Architecture

The aim of this thesis is to determine a position and a design for a Preventive Care Center at the Masaryk Memorial Cancer Institute in Brno (MOÚ) as well as to expand the existing Clinic of Radiation Oncology building at the same premises. The plot of land is located at a South-facing slope of Žlutý kopec, with the MOÚ land being enclosed by the Roubalova and Tomešova street. At the land, there are two buildings currently not in use which used to house a regional blood transfusion center coupled with a main building of the town library. The Preventive Care Center concept includes an inpatient ward for mobile patients, medical staff facilities, a proton therapy center, and space for rent. The design of the Preventive Care Center and its immediate surroundings should promote a pleasant and welcoming environment which could serve as a sanctuary area for health protection and prevention. This paper follows from the traffic solution and the development planned for the surrounding municipal premises based on the future Brno spatial plan and subsequent spatial and regulatory studies of newly planned residential area on the southern slopes of Žlutý kopec.