Indiana Dunes Environmental Center

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Authors
Summers, Kenneth J.
Advisor
Koester, Robert J.
Issue Date
1987
Keyword
Degree
Thesis (B. Arch.)
Department
College of Architecture and Planning
Other Identifiers
Abstract

The "fit" of society's physical development in and among its "host", the natural environment should and can be improved. Nature offers interpretative patterns, potentials and limitations to more sensitively guide and direct man's design of built environments. If Nature's "design" is analyzed, understood, and respected, physical development, especially architecture, can more efficiently, effectively, and sympathetically serve human needs while supporting positive interaction and maintenance of our precious natural environment. Current environmental design theory seems to support a concept of zoning unlimited and environmentally harsh physical development in concentrated areas while attempting to balance it with quantities or zones of natural preservation. This thesis wishes to challenge such a notion by forwarding the hypothesis that useful, functional yet environmentally sensitive architectural development can be introduced into sensitive natural environments by simply discovering and following the design guidelines implicit in that natural environment.