abstract (7/23/03)
For my thesis abstract proposal, I have been researching castle construction and how that could be integrated into a more inviting modern-day structure without being intimidating. My building type is a place of worship: a complex for both worship and education.
The main architectural issues that I plan to address include sustainable design, castle architecture, and spirituality. Sustainable design, or green development, has been important to the United States and the rest of the world for several decades now (for example: the U.S. Department of Energy). The DOE has created the Smart Communities Network which discusses the benefits for green development: reduced capital costs, reduced operating costs, health and productivity benefits, higher perceived value and quality, and staying ahead of regulations. Green architecture is normally associated with residential construction, but authors such as Ken Yeang have discussed how large commercial buildings, even skyscrapers, have even more potential for sustainability and recycling possibilities. The U.S. Green Building Council’s LEED Rating System will be an important resource to follow. I plan to incorporate these issues into my complex by using natural materials, methods and designs that will increase the efficiency of energy use and attempt to create a cyclical pattern of resources. My ideas for materials to be used are based on the original design of medieval castles: mainly stone.
Castle construction theories can be important to sustainability due to its environmentally-friendly materials used and its extremely long lifespan of holding up to the elements (although initial costs may be significant). The high point for castles was between 900 and 1500 A.D. A castle’s original function was not for protection, but for domination. The castle’s range of influence typically included a minimal twenty-five-mile radius. I intend my castle complex to be a dominant structure in the Detroit area and be an influential part of society; it will be inviting and alluring, and will spark people’s curiosity. Medieval castles were also personal – belonging to a king or baron; monasteries were also built in the same style and construction. Religion and spirituality were important parts of people’s lives centuries ago, and have undergone many changes throughout the years.
As a way to attract people to the complex, and even more important – to learn about Christianity, the spirituality of the facility will be a major focus (and difficult to ignore). The concept would be to draw on people’s curiosity, but not to intimidate anyone with outlandish themes. Another aspect ties into the “sustainability” of architecture and how that can relate to the sustainability of man (and also sustainability of the human spirit). I specifically chose to make the church a Wesleyan church because that is the denomination that I a member of.
For the site of my complex, I have investigated Michigan’s Renaissance Zones. Property in the city of Detroit’s Renaissance Zones is eligible for a 100% exemption for most property taxes, state and city income taxes, and the Single Business Tax for twelve years. One of the nine sub-zones is a 67.8-acre area in Detroit’s Central City. I have chosen an area of approximately 20 acres nearest the northwest interchange of interstates I-75 and I-94 (Tentatively set as 900 Harper Avenue). This location allows the reuse of existing land in the city of Detroit and is important to my complex in that it is in a highly visible location next to two major highways. The preparation of this site will include some demolition of existing abandoned buildings that are in very poor condition. I will investigate all that is required and involved with the demolition of existing buildings, specifically with city of Detroit requirements and fees.
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