Date of Submission
Spring 5-9-2022
Degree Type
Undergraduate Thesis
Degree Name
Bachelor of Architecture
Department
Architecture
Committee Chair/First Advisor
Zamila Karimi, M. Arch, MFA
Secondary Advisor
M. Saleh Uddin, Ph.D.
Abstract
How often do we consider the physical, emotional, and social needs of youth when determining ways to better society? When deciding actions in a community, the needs of the next generation should be put as a top priority. This thesis will research and develop ways of doing this through architecture.
This project will create a modular and transportable structure that will focus on teens ages 11-15. The structure will be developed using a kit of parts so that it can be placed onto any site while also containing a site-specific program. The program will contain three categories with subcategories to establish the individual functions. Each category will be centered around activities crucial to this age group: educational, recreational, and creative. The program will be integrated into different modular pieces that will develop the kit of parts, which will be panelbased containing planar elements. Through the integration of these activities with modular components, the project can be placed anywhere in the world to better benefit the youths of that area and the community.
Clarkston, Georgia will be the selected site for the prototype. It is located outside of Atlanta in DeKalb County and is known for its diversity. However, the area currently has a poverty rate of 30.94%, which is higher than both the state average (19.5%) and the national average (14.6%). The area is lacking a space designed specifically for this age group. The goal of this project is that nonprofits, missionaries, and other organizations can buy the space and easily build and install it anywhere in the world. For this prototype, it will be placed on the green space of the Clarkston International Bible Church. Through the development of this project, both construction and operation costs will be reduced, making it more efficient short-term as well as long-term. A Kit for Kids will improve the lives of the children and teens living in the area, as well as make a more economical, efficient, and affordable facility for these youths.