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ETD Abstract Container

Abstract Header

Defining and Achieving Sense of Place in New Developments in Existing Urban Contexts

Szymanski, Brian
http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=ucin1307322834

Abstract Details

2011, MCP, University of Cincinnati, Design, Architecture, Art and Planning: Community Planning.
The term sense of place is frequently used by designers and developers of new urban spaces as a quality or characteristic instantly created through new construction. While critics frequently argue that many places today are being developed that lack a sense of place, much of the literature argues different definitions of the term making it difficult to determine how to address the problem. This thesis synthesizes various definitions and qualities of sense of place and questions whether sense of place can be created by a new design intervention in an existing urban context. Through an analysis of literature on sense of place and the study of communities that can be said to have strong a sense of place, this thesis argues that sense of place involves three important elements. Strong places allow for a clear sense of the place, or a feeling of being in differentiated space and a feeling of spatial orientation and understanding. They also allow for a connection to and understanding of the spirit of the place; the unique qualities that make up the soul of the place or its genius loci. Furthermore, sense of place involves an attachment to the place, or a subjective perception of and personal connection to a place based on personal experiences in the place. This sense of place framework is used to analyze Worcester, Massachusetts as part of the expanded design process for a new development in the city’s downtown. The current proposal for development in the city will be analyzed based on its potential to facilitate sense of place. By understanding what sense of place is and the factors that contribute to it, it is possible to suggest ways in which designers can facilitate a stronger sense of place in the design of newly established urban settings.
Menelaos Triantafillou, MLA (Committee Chair)
George Bible, MCiv.Eng (Committee Member)
120 p.
Urban Planning
Sense of Place

Recommended Citations

Citations

  • Szymanski, B. (2011). Defining and Achieving Sense of Place in New Developments in Existing Urban Contexts [Master's thesis, University of Cincinnati]. OhioLINK Electronic Theses and Dissertations Center. http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=ucin1307322834

    APA Style (7th edition)

  • Szymanski, Brian. Defining and Achieving Sense of Place in New Developments in Existing Urban Contexts. 2011. University of Cincinnati, Master's thesis. OhioLINK Electronic Theses and Dissertations Center, http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=ucin1307322834.

    MLA Style (8th edition)

  • Szymanski, Brian. "Defining and Achieving Sense of Place in New Developments in Existing Urban Contexts." Master's thesis, University of Cincinnati, 2011. http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=ucin1307322834

    Chicago Manual of Style (17th edition)

ucin1307322834
390
© 2011, all rights reserved.
This open access ETD is published by University of Cincinnati and OhioLINK.