Abstract:
The object of this thesis project was to explore the potential of underground dwellings on a community basis, and in conjunction with this, to maximize the usage of passive solar energy.Because of the lack of previous examples, a project of this sort has, as a result, prototypical implications. In my design process, I attempted to design for more than just an isolated situation. The project wouldn't be feasible in all circumstances, but, allowing for adaptations to specific site situations, the project could be used in a variety of areas.This project deals with a variety of factors-factors that simultaneously restrict and offer unlimited design opportunities. The major ones were:a. Subterranean dwellings--combatting all negative associations with underground livingb. Passive solar energy--southern orientation requiredc. Development of a community--separating vehicular from pedestrian circulationIn the development of these ideas, the project divided itself generally into 3 different scale"':a. The total site--developed into a community, maximizing the topography o the siteb. Clusters (of 3 to 5 units) which make up the community, and relationship of units in the clusterc. The living unitWorking with these factors and breaking it down at various levels, I tried to develop a design that would provide a comfortable living environment within the community framework.
