This is a thesis based on the idea that things in our environment, through neglect or ignorance, become invisible, despite an essence of virtue. The idea stems from the literary work of Fyoder Dostoevsky, particularly his depictions of fallen women. In stories such as “Notes from the Underground,” Liza, the prostitute, is his most virtuous character. My exploration of this idea culminates in the design of an advocacy center for the community of Maywood, California and the Los Angeles River, including a gathering center in which residents of the community and environmentalists may come together on equal social footing.

This is a thesis based on the idea that things in our environment, through neglect or ignorance, become invisible, despite an essence of virtue. The idea stems from the literary work of Fyoder Dostoevsky, particularly his depictions of fallen women. In stories such as “Notes from the Underground,” Liza, the prostitute, is his most virtuous character. My exploration of this idea culminates in the design of an advocacy center for the community of Maywood, California and the Los Angeles River, including a gathering center in which residents of the community and environmentalists may come together on equal social footing.