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A New American Dream: Reconciling Anytown, U.S.A. with a New Attitude Toward Resources

Tillmaand, Saretta D.

Abstract Details

2010, MARCH, University of Cincinnati, Design, Architecture, Art and Planning : Architecture (Master of).

There is a growing gap between those who embrace the so-called “American Dream” and its excesses, and those who reject this way of life. As global warming, sustainability, and eco-consciousness become more widespread beliefs and understandings, it is apparent that a middle-ground is missing for those who are interested in change, but are unwilling to entirely give up their way of life. There must be a meeting point that embraces the underlying ideals and values of the American Dream without the excess and wastefulness of middle-class suburban living today. This can be achieved by employing a holistic strategy for sustainable design: a new model for neighborhood and housing design that encompasses environmental, social, and economic issues.

It is necessary to examine and understand three areas: the history and ideals of the American Dream and other parallel dreams; the principles of a socially, economically and environmentally sustainable community; and how much space is necessary for a comfortable American home. These subjects are examined through the lens of sustainability, and applied to the conditions found at a particular site.

This new model does not refute the American Dream, but sends it in a different direction. It adds the element of sustainability – of planning more carefully for the future today – and returns to the community ethic that was apparent in earlier American neighborhoods.

Elizabeth Riorden, MARCH (Committee Chair)
Nnamdi Elleh, PhD (Committee Chair)
85 p.

Recommended Citations

Citations

  • Tillmaand, S. D. (2010). A New American Dream: Reconciling Anytown, U.S.A. with a New Attitude Toward Resources [Master's thesis, University of Cincinnati]. OhioLINK Electronic Theses and Dissertations Center. http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=ucin1276954704

    APA Style (7th edition)

  • Tillmaand, Saretta. A New American Dream: Reconciling Anytown, U.S.A. with a New Attitude Toward Resources. 2010. University of Cincinnati, Master's thesis. OhioLINK Electronic Theses and Dissertations Center, http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=ucin1276954704.

    MLA Style (8th edition)

  • Tillmaand, Saretta. "A New American Dream: Reconciling Anytown, U.S.A. with a New Attitude Toward Resources." Master's thesis, University of Cincinnati, 2010. http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=ucin1276954704

    Chicago Manual of Style (17th edition)