Design for diversity : a mixed-use design project for Ruggles Street Station

Abstract

The subject of this thesis is the design of a mixed-use project for Parcel 18 in the Roxbury district of Boston. The site is adjacent to the proposed Ruggles Street Station, an intermodal transportation facility, which will accommodate rail and bus passenger services. The design problem is the integration of a variety of housing types, retail space, offices, and a hotel into a synergetic whole. The primary ordering systems, circulation, use location, and structure, are organized to promote an intimate overlap and intermixture of diverse activities. Within the intermixture of uses, an implied goal is to maintain the continuity and integrity of each pattern of activity. The organization of the thesis parallels the design process with the intent of illustrating a theoretical approach to urban design in an area in need of revitalization. The challenge in mixed-use design_ lies in the creation of an environment where human experiences can be rich and meaningful. Human interaction, rather than land, is the focus of attention in this design exploration.