College Plaza development, Iowa City, Iowa

Abstract

This is not a typical thesis book. It is not a packaged reproduction of a large design project. This book deals with the creation of architecture. It deals with thought provoking issues which are usually ignored in the professional world. These issues are what architecture is all about. If dealt with correctly they will create architecture that makes a positive addition to its context. If ignored, the architect is free to exploit his "knowledge" in creating a monstrosity which he calls "architecture" but is in fact a virus in its environment.The issues are discussed as to how they affect programming and design. The project for which the issues are studied is a mixed-use development consisting of' a department store, a hotel and a bar/restaurant.The issues presented are issues that are present in every design project; they are not exclusive to this project. Interpreting the, issues is the most important step in the design process. As an interpretor, the architect has to define the meaning of the issues as they pertain to a specific project; as a designer he must transform their meaning into architecture. Theoretically the architect should be an objective mediator between the issues and the architecture, but as we all know subjectiveness is always present. It is with these thoughts in mind that this thesis book is created. It is time to deal with the issues which create architecture.