Hyperfacility: A live/work arrangement for telecommuters

System s theory and e merging technology can be seen as analogous concepts in the sense that both pertain to en gaging in a relationship on a large scale. Whereas systems theory explores the relationships of the whole rather than the parts, technology on a grand scale is a bout the relationship of emerging ideas to a society rather than an individual. Technologic al advancements are transcending the barriers of time and distance - in a matter of seconds you can communicate face-to-face with someone on the other side of the world. The intent of this project is to explore the idea of global community through the medium of architecture as it pertain s to systems theory and technology. The vehicle through which this idea will be explored is an urban live/work facility capable of providing s mall business owners, entrepreneurs, and telecommuters with the technological means to communicate and work globally. Initially, t he role of the project will b e to provide a starting point for the in corporation of similar units to be developed into a community. The facility w ill respond to " living" functions by integrating 20 units of housing and providing amenities such as outdoor meditation spaces, a cafe wired to the Internet, and communal dining arrangements. Work related functions w ill consist of video conferencing rooms, shared workspaces, and areas designated to serve these functions such as a receptionist desk and copy rooms. The facility is to be located in San Antonio, Texas adjacent to the site of the 1968 World 's Fair. Currently the site is occupied b y a FHA housing project known as Victoria Courts. However , plans are already underway to demo li s h the project as residents are being relocated. Many of San Antonio 's key attractions a re with in walking distance of this site, including the Alamo Dome, Tower of Americas, Institute of Texas Cultures, Rivercenter Mall, and the river walk.