Killing a park?: A multi-use facility in Boston, Massachusetts

Thesis Statement: Through the ideas of green design, we can drastically improve our environment, health, well being, and our overall quality of life. Buildings are responsible for more pollution that any other product, making them the most urgent of problems that can be addressed through green design. Energy consumption, waste, use of resources, recycling, and life cycle costing are all issues that must be considered in the design process. The principles of green design should not be side issues of architectural design, but an integral part of the design process. These ideals applied to a multi-use facility will transform a former highway system into a vibrant and environmentally healthy urban community, contained within a single building. Scope: The 480,000 sq. ft. facility will consist of 20% retail, 20% office, and 60% residential. The project will address the design of the skin, how the building meets the sky, how the building meets the street, and focus on some key uses of the building. The connections to the Central Artery, intersecting streets and Rowe's Wharf help define the space. Facility Statement: The building will focus on an architectural firm, residential units, and leaseable office and retail space. The residential units will accommodate a diverse population of users according to age, ethnicity, income and number of occupants. The spaces within maintain high adaptability of use and size while the connections heighten the inhabitants' awareness of the various facilities available. Context Statement: < DC O O DC Located on the South East side of the Financial District in Boston, Massachusetts, the building sits on parcel 18 of the Central Artery Project (The Big Dig). Parcel 18 stretches along Purchase St. between Oliver Street and High Street. To the Eastern side, is Rowe's Wharf and the Boston Harbor with International Place to the West.