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A Barometer of High and Low: Re-defining the Skyscraper as a Vertical City

In the face of rapid urbanization, megacities have witnessed the rise of skyscrapers as central social hubs. However, the predominant design approach for these towering structures has primarily focused on practical considerations, often overlooking the spiritual well-being of individuals. This oversight has led to detrimental consequences such as mental health challenges, pervasive social isolation, and increased crime rates. While halting skyscraper construction is not a practical solution, a compelling need emerges for a fresh design approach. A paradigm shift in skyscraper design is proposed, drawing inspiration from the organic formation of neighborhoods. This approach advocates for creating vertical settings within skyscrapers, which aim to offer rejuvenating experiences through abundant social spaces. These vertical neighborhoods blend communal learning areas, recreational zones, relaxation spaces, and green areas that foster natural human connections. By strongly emphasizing enclosed and open public spaces and implementing programs encouraging interaction, the envisioned design seeks to nurture healthy relationships and facilitate genuine human connections, ultimately fostering a more cohesive and closely-knit society. / Master of Architecture / Skyscrapers, while iconic in urban areas, often overlook the spiritual needs of individuals, leading to negative consequences like mental health issues, social isolation, and increased crime rates. Instead of halting skyscraper construction, a transformative design approach is needed. Imagine a skyscraper that resembles a horizontal neighborhood with blocks, streets, and social spaces. Inspired by the natural formation of districts, this concept proposes vertical neighborhoods that offer abundant social spaces and a healing experience. The design integrates communal learning areas, recreational zones, relaxation spaces, and green areas, promoting natural human connections and addressing the prevalent isolation in megacities. This design aims to nurture healthy relationships and facilitate genuine human connections by emphasizing enclosed and open public spaces and programs that encourage interaction, ultimately fostering a more united and connected society. This innovative approach seeks to redefine the purpose of skyscrapers, transforming them into vibrant communities that prioritize people's well-being and spiritual fulfillment.

Identiferoai:union.ndltd.org:VTETD/oai:vtechworks.lib.vt.edu:10919/115442
Date15 June 2023
CreatorsKastan, Beyza
ContributorsArchitecture, Emmons, Paul F., Feuerstein, Marcia F., Dreher, Matthew David
PublisherVirginia Tech
Source SetsVirginia Tech Theses and Dissertation
LanguageEnglish
Detected LanguageEnglish
TypeThesis
FormatETD, application/pdf
RightsIn Copyright, http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/InC/1.0/

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