Thesis – Inclusive Design – Westford ,MA

This thesis explores potential innovations in participatory practices in architecture and design. The process was developed over the course of 1.5 years, and included a series of 8 inclusive design charettes with a group of Westford seniors interested in developing a new, activity focused senior center. The building design evolved between the architectural interests of the BAC thesis panel, and the real needs and interests of the future inhabitants. The Seniors were included in all aspects of the process including establishing and prioritizing the hosted activities and program for the building, program adjacencies and configurations, site design and building placement, concept definition and scheme development, façade composition, and materiality. In this way, the future inhabitants were involved in every step of the design process including the fundamental and artistic inspiration that generated the building form. Review of presentations and interactive models and drawings were employed along the way to test and modify ideas. Each workshop became a design project unto itself, picking up on the previous parameters and designing methods of interaction and idea creation that could be performed with an audience largely unfamiliar with architecture and design processes. Guided by excellent thesis panel members, philosophical and architectural precedents, and rigorous experimentation, the effort resulted in a project that bridged the worlds of high design and local community. The thesis makes a case for a more democratic design process in all major public and civic developments – so that the shaping of the city empowers its inhabitants.

Thesis Workshop Structure and Handouts