Date of Submission
Spring 5-12-2026
Degree Type
Dissertation/Thesis
Degree Name
Bachelor of Architecture
Department
Architecture
Committee Chair/First Advisor
Sang Pil Lee
Abstract
Both suburban sprawl and urban habitats continue to expand throughout the world, particularly in western civilization. With that expansion, the number of mental health issues have risen to an unprecedented level, leaving many individuals feeling isolated and depressed despite living in the most comfortable era of human history. This isolation is only escalated by the convenience of digital technology which allows us to get groceries, communicate with friends, and catch up on the latest news without ever having to leave our sealed domiciles or interacting with other people in a healthy and meaningful way. Through this self-destructive leisure, our connection with nature and our humanity is severed, and it is the responsibility of the architect to design a space in which that connection can be rejuvenated. Architecture serves not only to remind us of our sense of belonging but also of the life that surrounds us, and this reminder stimulates positive mental attitudes of the people who experience it.
When approaching topics of psychology in architecture, the three main focuses of this research will be the implementation of phenomenology in the design of the spaces, the inclusion of surrounding cultural context and natural phenomena to induce topophilia, and a physical, symbolic representation of humanity and our position in the universe built into an “intentional community”. Architectural phenomenology induces sensory experiences to stimulate emotion, memory, and being in those who experience it. Topophilia, which was coined in the Postmodern period shortly after architectural phenomenology, describes the feel and appreciation of a region or area and one’s own place in it. The intentional community is a designed co-living situation in which the residents share resources for the common good, directly counteracting the isolation of modern living. Combining a positive emotional experience, an appreciation for the world outside one’s own control, and an understanding of the role one plays in life is the key to fighting depression.
With community marking an important part of mental health, the intention of this thesis is to design a community with both temporary and permanent residences for up to 100 people. The scope will include a thorough design of the site involving master planning, unifying structure to help solidify a sense of belonging, and an in-depth investigation into interior design that best serves to increase the overall happiness of the individuals. The architecture will also engage with the surrounding cultural climate to include the design as an authentic part of the larger societal landscape.