Identifier

etd-04292011-092621

Degree

Master of Architecture (MArch)

Department

Architecture

Document Type

Thesis

Abstract

The typical American house is conceived of and constructed as a permanent and singular object. This method of permanent design and construction is not conducive to sustainable resource and material protection. The permanent connections and material customizations used in construction disallow most C&D (construction and demolition) materials from being salvaged, reused or recycled once the house has reached its end-of-life. As a result, residential demolition in America produces for over 19 million tons of material waste each year (US EPA 6). Deconstruction offers a valid alternative to demolition but is not commonly practiced for two main reasons. First, deconstruction remains a more expensive alternative. Second, the perception of the house as a singular and permanent object undermines the reusability of its material constituents. The following thesis includes research of typical construction design and methodology, a proposed construction design and methodology, a precedent analysis of architectural projects designed for deconstruction, and a design case study testing the validity of the proposed construction design and methodology. The research of typical construction design and methodology analyses those aspects that prohibit deconstruction as a viable method for dealing with the end-of-life of residential structures. The subsequent proposed construction design and methodology outlines a design hypothesis that would promote deconstruction over demolition. The precedent research analyzes past architectural projects that were designed with the intention of later being disassembled rather than demolished. The proposed construction design and methodology research is tested through the design process of the two case studies. These studies employ and develop design principles focused on creating a dynamic architectural design system that can adapt to changes in the needs of its inhabitants. The design utilizes locally bought materials that can be reused or recycled completely after use.

Date

2011

Document Availability at the Time of Submission

Secure the entire work for patent and/or proprietary purposes for a period of one year. Student has submitted appropriate documentation which states: During this period the copyright owner also agrees not to exercise her/his ownership rights, including public use in works, without prior authorization from LSU. At the end of the one year period, either we or LSU may request an automatic extension for one additional year. At the end of the one year secure period (or its extension, if such is requested), the work will be released for access worldwide.

Committee Chair

Bertolini, David

DOI

10.31390/gradschool_theses.668

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