Degree

Doctor of Design (DDes)

Department

college of Art and Design

Document Type

Dissertation

Abstract

Over the past century, the global environment has undergone significant changes, characterized by rising temperatures and a sharp increase in greenhouse gas emissions. Parallel to these environmental shifts, the U.S. has witnessed a tripling in energy demands, underscoring the pivotal role of household consumption in the nation's carbon footprint. Within this context, the kitchen, an integral component of the American home, becomes a focal point. Given that Americans predominantly spend their time indoors, it is imperative to understand the dynamics of kitchen usage and its broader implications on energy consumption and environmental impact. To delve into this complex interplay, this doctoral research adopts a mixed-methods approach. The initial phase involves a meticulous analysis of the American Time Use Survey (ATUS) data, zeroing in on activities occurring within kitchens, notably food preparation and kitchen clean-up in American houses. This analysis aims to uncover patterns of kitchen activity and their correlation with various socioeconomic parameters nationwide. Following this, a geospatial examination is conducted using ArcGIS Pro, aligning the kitchen activity data with the geographic nuances of Baton Rouge, Louisiana. This step seeks to identify potential correlations between American behaviors in the kitchen and demographic factors, such as race and income distribution. Building on the geospatial insights, the study progresses to an urban planning analysis. This segment extrapolates the data to explore relationships between kitchen usage trends and the distribution of local amenities, like grocery stores, in different Baton Rouge neighborhoods. Set against the unique sociocultural backdrop of Baton Rouge, and by unraveling how time spent in kitchens aligns with broader energy and environmental patterns, the study positions itself to influence future urban design. The overarching objective is to formulate strategies that can combat the dire implications of climate change, paving the way for a sustainable and resilient urban infrastructure in the face of a rapidly warming planet.

Date

2-19-2024

Committee Chair

Michael Desmond

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