Down to Earth

Abstract

My thesis project dives into the question, “Can subterranean architecture create a more sustainable design?” The idea is to submerge the architecture into the landscape for the purpose of creating designs that can be more sustainable than the typical green design. The best way to answer this question with the chosen site is to design a multi-family housing multi-use facility. An apartment complex with additional purposes could support the community to achieve a healthier relationship between landscape and urban spaces. The research methods that will be used to answer this question will consist of an emphasis on case studies to find common trends, historical research to find cultural and past psychological impacts on humans, and a mix of qualitative/quantitative research. The results of the research will initiate the design concept for the project that will be located in Omaha, Nebraska.