Adaptive Reuse Thesis Project

INTERIOR ARCHITECTURE THESIS

FUSION TOWER

N © 2024 Cynthia Melameka All rights reserved

ABSTRACT

Adaptive reuse is explored as a strategy to mitigate urban isolation by repurposing existing structures. This approach not only preserves architectural heritage and reduces environmental impact but also transforms underutilized spaces into vibrant communal hubs. The project aims to revitalize these spaces and foster a sense of community. Through design proposals, it demonstrates how adaptive reuse can create inclusive and engaging communal areas within the urban environment.

This thesis examines the hypothesis that communal spaces can counteract urban isolation by fostering social interaction and community engagement.

ADAPTIVE REUSE - OFFICE VACANCY

A Thesis Presented to the Undergraduate Faculty of The NewSchool of Architecture & Design

By Cynthia Melameka

Approved by Undergraduate Chair: Elena Pacenti

Date:

Studio Instructor: John McMahon

Date:

CONTENT

I II

COPYRIGHT ABSTRACT

IV

APPROVALS PAGE

V

ACKNOLEDGEMENT

VII

DEDICATION

13

INTRODUCTION

14

THESIS STATEMENT

15

PURPOSE OF STUDY

18

SITE

20 DEMOGRAPHY

50

RENDERING AMPHITHEATER

22

SITE STUDY

51

INTERIOR ELEVATION AMPHITHEATER

23 TRAVEL TIME

52

INTERIOR ELEVATION RETAIL MARKET

24 SUN ANALYSIS

53

RENDERING RETAIL MARKET

28 CONCEPT

54

INTERIOR ELEVATION SNACK BAR

30 DESIGN CONCEPTBOARD

55

RENDERING SNACK BAR

32 PROGRAMMING

56

RENDERING OUTDOOR AREA

34 PROCESS SKETCHES

57

ELEVATION OUTDOOR AREA

36 SCHEMATIC DRAWINGS

59

CONCLUSION

38 RETAIL MARKET 40 SNACK BAR & OUTDOOR AREA 41

CULINARY KITCHEN & AMPHITHEATER

46

FLOOR PLAN & LIGHTING PLAN

48

RENDERING CULINARY KITCHEN

49

INTERIOR ELEVATION CULINARY KITCHEN

INTRODUCTION

The adaptive reuse of vacant office

buildings presents a unique opportunity to address urban isolation creatively and sustainably. These structures, often centrally located and well-connected, can be transformed into dynamic hubs. By reimagining these underused spaces, cities can introduce a variety of communal facilities. Transforming vacant office buildings into communal spaces can break the cycle of isolation by creating environments that encourage spontaneous encounters and organized activities. Addressing urban isolation requires a shift towards human-centric design—a philosophy that places human well-being and social interaction at the forefront of urban planning and architecture. By creating spaces that encourage interaction, such as accessible communal areas, multiuse spaces, and inviting environments,

cities can foster stronger communities.

This approach aligns with the principles of environmental psychology, emphasizing the profound impact of our physical surroundings on behavior and social interactions.

In addition, the rise of digital technology, while a boon for connectivity, often replaces deeper, face-to-face interactions with superficial online communications. During the COVID-19 pandemic, this was exacerbated as social restrictions forced a pivot to virtual platforms, impacting young adults significantly. The sudden shift left many feeling detached from their usual social networks and physical environments, leading to increased mental health challenges, including depression and anxiety​​.

13

PROBLEM STATEMENT As office vacancy rates rise in various cities across the USA, including San Diego, there is a growing need to repurpose office buildings into more efficient spaces that better serve the community and neighborhood. The high vacancy rates present an opportunity to rethink and redesign these underutilized properties, transforming them into vibrant, multi-functional spaces that can address contemporary urban challenges.

This thesis addresses the problem of Urban Isolation, a significant challenge in modern society, where the personal and communal wellbeing of individuals is at risk due to diminishing social contacts. This issue is compounded by the design of urban spaces, which often prioritize efficiency and economic function over social connectivity.

Urban environments can be densely populated yet host an undercurrent of loneliness if the spaces do not facilitate or encourage meaningful social engagement. For example, communal areas that are too open without intimate settings can deter personal conversations, while overcrowded or poorly maintained areas might not be inviting, discouraging people from spending time there.

This thesis examines the hypothesis that urban isolation can be overcome through the implementation of communal spaces designed for immersive experiences and social connection, going beyond the traditional norms of restaurants and bars.

14

PUPOSE OF STUDY The purpose of this study is to conceptualize and design environments that catalyze engagement, nurture connections, and facilitate communitybuilding activities. By addressing a critical societal challenge, this research proposes communal spaces as a countermeasure to the isolating dynamics of contemporary urban life.

Urban isolation, characterized by diminishing social interactions, poses significant disconnection to individual and communal well-being. The study aims to tackle this pervasive issue by reimagining urban spaces as hubs of social activity and community engagement.

Central to this research is the idea that thoughtfully designed environments can transform how people interact within urban settings. By creating accessible, versatile, and welcoming communal areas, cities can counteract the trends of urban isolation. These spaces can include multipurpose venues for social gatherings, cultural events, and recreational activities, designed to be comfortable and inviting yet intimate enough to foster meaningful connections.

Ultimately, this study aims to provide a framework for creating human-centric environments that address urban isolation, repurpose underused buildings, and enhance the overall resilience and vibrancy of urban life.

15

PART I: SITE ANALYSIS

SITE The selected location for this initiative is 610 W Ash Street in Little Italy, San Diego.

This neighborhood, characterized by its youthful spirit and dynamic ambiance, is the chosen crucible for this social experiment.

Urban isolation manifests uniquely in every city, tailored by its architecture, social structure, and community dynamics. In the vibrant district of Little Italy, San Diego, this isolation can be paradoxically juxtaposed against the backdrop of a lively neighborhood that thrives on its cultural and social events.

Despite the district’s energetic atmosphere and existing community engagement, urban isolation could remains a critical concern, especially for the younger adult population who dominate the area.

18

Address: 610 W Ash St, San Diego, CA, 92101 Year Built: 1986 Floors: 19 Class: A Neighborhood: Little Italy NRA - Property type: Office Tenant: ESET Building Size: 189,243 SF Floor plate size: 13,763 SF Ceiling Height: 9’

19

DEMO GRAPHY Drawing from demographic insights, the design targets young adults who dominate the area—singles seeking companionship and couples desiring shared enriching experiences.

The Demographic Statistical Atlas of the United States Statistical Atlas. (n.d.).

20

This demographic often experiences transitions in educational and professional stages, making them particularly vulnerable to feelings of loneliness and isolation.

Additionally, The presence of other individuals does not automatically alleviate feelings of loneliness; the quality and nature of interactions are crucial.

Factors Contributing to Urban Isolation

Transitional Nature of the Population: Little Italy attracts a transient population, including young professionals, and recent graduates, many of whom move frequently for career or educational opportunities. This transient lifestyle can hinder the development of long-term social connections and community bonds.

High Cost of Living: The rising cost of living in Little Italy, driven by its desirability and central location, can lead to financial stress and limited social opportunities. Young adults may struggle to afford social activities or gatherings, further exacerbating feelings of isolation.

Work-Life Balance: The demanding work schedules and long hours common among young professionals can leave little time for socializing or community engagement. The pressure to succeed professionally can overshadow the importance of building personal relationships and participating in communal activities.

Digital Connectivity vs. Physical Connectivity: While digital platforms provide a means for virtual connection, they can also contribute to physical disconnection. Young adults may spend significant time online, leading to reduced face-to-face interactions and a sense of real-world isolation.

21

SITE STUDY Restaurants & Bars y St

W Iv

Site

orn

W

th Haw

St

e St

rap

WG

ir St

WF

W Date St

W Cedar St

W Beech St

W Ash St State St

Columbia St

W A St

India St

Kettner Blvd

Pacific Hwy

22

TRAVEL TIME TRAIN STATION 4 MIN

GASLAMP 5 MIN

AIRPORT 5MIN

This site study delves into the contextual nuances surrounding the building located at 610 W Ash St, San Diego, CA, 92101, set amidst a tapestry of restaurants, bars, farmers market and convenient trolley access. This location is primed to support the proposed vision due to its delighted neighborhood, making it an ideal setting to bring the vision to life.

CORONADO 5MIN

UTC 20 MIN

Indigo Grill

DELMAR 25MIN

ENCINITAS 45 MIN

Salt & straw/ Parakeet cafe/ coco maya

Music venue & Restaurant Topside terrace kitchen

Craft & Commerce restaurant/bar Ironside fish & oyster

Santa Fe Depot Transit center Site: ESET Building 610 West Ash

Waterfront Park

Piazza Della Famiglia

King and Queen cantina Restaurant/ bar

Morning glory

Princess PUB

Born & Raised

Barbusa

23

SUN ANALYSIS

Sun Analysis 4:58 AM

6:51 PM

W W

E

5:02 PM

6:55 AM

July 20

7:00 AM

W

E

January 18 7:00 AM

S

S

N

N

4:58 AM

6:51 PM

W W

E

July 20

W

E 10:00 AM

5:02 PM 6:55 AM

January 18

10:00 AM

S

S

N

N

4:58 AM

6:51 PM

W W

E

W

E

12:00PM

5:02 PM

6:55 AM

January 18 7:00 AM

12:00 AM

24

July 20

S

S

N

N

4:58 AM

6:51 PM

W

E

July 20

W

E

12:00PM

5:02 PM

6:55 AM

January 18 7:00 AM

12:00 AM

S

S

N

N

4:58 AM

6:51 PM

W W

E

W

July 20

E

4:00PM

5:02 PM 6:55 AM

January 18

2:00 PM

S

S

N

N

4:58 AM

6:51 PM

July 20

6:00PM

W W

E

W

E

5:02 PM 6:55 AM

January 18

4:00 PM

S

S

The solar analysis has helped on the early stages of the building programming. The solar analysis provided valuable insights into solar exposure, shading patterns, and energy potential, which informed design decisions related to building orientation, and layout.

25

PART II: CONCEPT DEVELOPMENT

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The concept of “Fusion” is explored as an architectural and social strategy that integrates multifunctional spaces to create engagement and social connectivity. The concept in this context implies delving deeper into the variety of retail practices, community building activities, and interactions among individuals.

The vision is to have a design that employs organic and geometric shapes to create a fusion effect, blending contemporary aesthetics with classic influences to achieve a visually captivating and cohesive space.

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SION CONCEPT

The structure incorporates diverse spaces such as:

• • • • • • •

Retail Market Communal Kitchen Amphitheater Snack bar Media Production Center share space for residents Condominium

29

DESIGN CONCEPT BOARD

30

31

ondo 1

ondo 2

ondo 3

ondo 4

ondo 5

ondo 6

ondo 7

ondo 8

Lobby

Media Production Center

Open Areas/ open below

Parking Garage

Community Market

Lift & Straiway

Communal multi-space

Shared Courtyard for Residents Condominium

Floor Plan L2

Floor Plan L1

Parking ramp

Parking ramp

4582 SF

4519 SF

3520 SF

Media production center

Open below

Communal Kitchen + Ampitheather & bar 6726 SF

Community Market

11178 SF

2157 SF

Lobby 609 SF

Open Area 2159 SF

Media production center Open below Parking ramp Culinary Hub Cultural venue Lobby Open Area Parking ramp

Floor Plan L7

Floor Plan L3-L6

Open shared space for residents 4490 SF

Shared space for residents 13315 SF

Parking Garage 17123 SF

Parking Garage

Open shared space for residents Shared space for residents

Floor Plan L8-L19

Condo 1

Condo 7

Condo 8

1071 SF

984 SF

964 SF

Condo 2

Condo 9

914 SF

1073 SF

Condo 3

Condo 10

962 SF

32

1073 SF Condo 4

Condo 5

Condo 6

1187 SF

1205 SF

1078 SF

PRO GRAMMING

19 18 17 16 15 14 13 12 11

Condominium

10 9 8 7

Shared space for residents

6 5 4

Parking garage

3 2

Media production

1 Communal multi-space

Lobby

Retail market

33

PRO CESS SKETCHES

Option I

Option II

Option III

34

Communal multi-space

Retail market

Visual representations of the proposed ideas of focus, are the retail market, and the communal multi-space.

35

SCHEMATIC

DRAWINGS

38

Retail Market

39

Snack bar

Outdoor area

40

Culinary Kitchen

Amphitheater

41

PART III: FINAL DESIGN

W Ash St

India St

Storage

Storage

1 A01

Dressing room Retail market

Lobby

Floor Plan L1

Entrance 2

Main entrance

Landscape 1

A05

Lighting Plan L1 46

A04 2

Stage

-4

1

A04

-3

He

rb

-2

sL

ibr

ar

y

-1

UP

St or a

ge

0

A03 1

A03 A02 A02

2

1

3 A02

2

Culinary Kitchen

Snack bar + beverage

Entrance 3

Legend Surface mounted light

Pendant light

surface mounted LED light

Legend Legend

LED strip

Surface mounted light Surface mounted light

Pendant light light Pendant

Surface mounted LED light

surface mounted LED light

LED strip

LED strip

47

Culinary Kitchen

Rattan (ceiling)

Versaille wood flooring

Marble pistachio (table)

48

9' - 0"

3' - 0"

3' - 0" 3' - 0"

1' - 6"

1' - 6"

1

3' - 0"

2' - 0"

3"

2' - 9"

5' - 0"

2' - 0"

3"

2' - 9"

2

5' - 0"

•

The culinary kitchen offers an immersive and educational experience where vendors can host workshop sessions focused on various cuisines. These workshops provide individuals with the opportunity to learn about the origins of the food they purchase, along with hands-on cooking lessons.

•

Each workshop begins with an introduction to a specific cuisine, covering its history, cultural significance, and key ingredients. This sets the stage for participants to understand the context and importance of the dishes they will learn to prepare.

•

Participants engage in hands-on cooking sessions guided by expert vendors. These sessions cover fundamental cooking techniques, traditional recipes, and innovative twists on classic dishes. Each participant gets to prepare and cook their own meal, fostering a practical learning and community building experience.

Storage

A04

Storage

2

Stage

-4

1

A04

-3

He

rb

-2

1 A01

Dressing room

sL

ibr

ar

y

-1 0

or

ag

e

Retail market

Lobby

UP

St

9' - 0"

8' - 2 5/8"

8' - 2 5/8"

9 3/8"

9 3/8"

Interior elevation Culinary Kitchen

A03 1

A03 A02 A02

Entrance 2

Main entrance

2

1

3 A02

2

Culinary Kitchen

Snack bar + beverage

Entrance 3 Landscape 1

A05

49

Amphitheater

Polished conccrete

Oak wood plank flooring

50

1' - 6"

4" 7" 1' - 2" 2" 4' - 0"

1' - 6"

1' - 6"

15' - 0"

9' - 0"

6' - 0"

Interior elevation Amphitheater

1' - 6"

6' - 0"

2"

7" 1' - 2"

4"

9' - 0"

1

2 The amphitheater is a versatile, open space designed to serve multiple purposes, including a performance stage, cinema, and seminar venue. It is a key feature of the communal space, providing a dynamic area for visitors, residents, and vendors to gather for various events and activities.

•

The ceiling of the amphitheater features integrated LED lights, which reflect beautifully off the gypsum board drop ceiling, creating a mesmerizing visual effect. These lights can be customized to enhance the mood and ambiance of any event. Surrounding the stage are semi-transparent curtains, which serve dual purposes: they provide a sense of intimacy for the audience, allowing each event to feel personal and immersive, while also contributing to the acoustics by helping to manage sound reflections within the space.

4' - 0"

•

1' - 6"

1' - 6"

15' - 0"

9' - 0"

•

As a performance stage, the amphitheater could host live music, theater productions, dance performances, and other cultural events.

Storage

A04

Storage

2

Stage

-4

1

A04

-3

He

rb

-2

1 A01

Dressing room

sL

ibr

ar

y

-1 0

ag

e

Retail market

or

The amphitheater transforms into an open cinema, offering regular film screenings. Film nights can include a mix of classic films, recent releases, documentaries, and independent films, catering to diverse tastes.

Lobby

UP

St

•

A03 1

A03 A02 A02

•

The amphitheater is also an ideal venue for educational seminars, and presentations. It can host talks and lectures by guest speakers, and panel discussions.

Entrance 2

Main entrance

2

1

3 A02

2

Culinary Kitchen

Snack bar + beverage

Entrance 3 Landscape 1

A05

51

5' - 0"

3"

17' - 6 3/4"

Interior elevation Retail Market

1

•

The venue is envisioned as a vibrant, permanent, daily marketplace that extends the traditional farmers’ market experience into a dynamic and multifaceted destination. It will offer a diverse range of products including art, jewelry, clothing, and other unique goods. Additionally, the space will accommodate workshop sessions and pop-up shops, which would replace the flexible and movable tables provided for individual vendors. This venue will be more than just a store; it will be a hub of creativity and connection.

•

The marketplace operates six day a week providing a consistent and reliable venue for traditional farmers’ market vendors to showcase and sell their products. This permanence allows vendors to build a loyal customer base and establish a strong presence in the community.

•

The marketplace features pop-up shop areas that can be easily reconfigured.

These pop-up spaces allow for short-term, rotating vendors to showcase their products and services. This keeps the marketplace dynamic and ever-changing, offering new experiences to visitors regularly.

Amphitheater can be used as performance stage, cinema, and seminars

Storage

Storage Stage

-4 -3

He

rb

-2 Dressing room

sL

ibr

ar

y

-1 0 shelves and counter

Lobby

Entrance 2

Main entrance

UP

St

or

ag

e

Table can be displaced and replaced with pop-up shops

Culinary Kitchen

Snack bar + beverage

Entrance 3 Landscape

52

Retail Market

Wallcovering

Lime wash paint finish (ceiling)

Terrazzo cement tile

53

3' - 6"

3' - 6"

Interior elevation Snack bar

1

3' - 6"

2' - 10"

1' - 6" 2"

1' - 6" 2" 5"

3' - 0"

1' - 6"

1 1/2"

1' - 6"

3' - 6"

2' - 8"

3' - 6"

3' - 6"

3' - 0" 5"

3' - 6"

1 1/2"

5"

1' - 6"

3' - 0"

3' - 6"

1' - 6"

1 1/2"5"

1' - 6"

2' - 8"

3' - 0"

1' - 6"

1 1/2"

3' - 6"

3' - 0" 5" 3' - 6" 3' - 6"

1' - 6"

5"

1' - 6"

3

1' - 6"

3' - 6"

2' - 8"

3' - 0"

3' - 6" 9' - 0"

2' - 8"

4' - 6"

1' - 0"

5"

5"1' - 6" 3' - 0" 1' - 6" 2" 1' - 6"

3' - 0"

2' - 10"

3' - 6" 4' - 6"

9' - 0" 9' - 0"

3' - 6"

1' - 4'0"- 6"

1' - 6"

3' - 6"

9' - 0"

2' - 10"

1' - 6" 2"

1' - 0"

4' - 6"

1' - 0"

2' - 10"

2 •

Situated next to the communal kitchen, the snack bar and beverage area is designed to offer a convenient and enjoyable place for visitors to grab a quick bite or refreshment. This space complements the communal kitchen by providing light appetizers, beverages, and a relaxed seating area, enhancing the overall experience for visitors.

•

The snack bar and beverage area is strategically located adjacent to the communal kitchen. This proximity allows for a seamless flow between the two spaces, making it easy for visitors to transition from participating in cooking workshops or communal meals to enjoying a snack or drink with others.

Storage

A04

Storage

2

Stage

-4

1

A04

-3

He

rb

-2

1 A01

Dressing room

sL

ibr

ar

y

-1 0

Lobby

UP

St o

ra g

e

Retail market

A03 1

A03 A02 A02

Entrance 2

Main entrance

2

1

3 A02

2

Culinary Kitchen

Snack bar + beverage

Entrance 3 Landscape 1

A05

54

Snack bar

Vetrazzo: cement + recycle glass (counter top)

Oak wood plank flooring

Ceramic tile

55

Outdoor area

Poured concrete

56

1' - 6"

19' - 2"

Elevation Outdoor area

1

•

The outdoor landscape is designed to enhance the overall ambiance of the marketplace, providing serene and inviting seating areas. This area serve as an extension of the indoor facilities, offering visitors a place to relax, socialize, and enjoy the natural surroundings.

•

The outdoor landscape enhance the overall appeal and functionality of the marketplace, creating a lively and inviting community space.

Storage

A04

Storage

2

Stage

-4

1

A04

-3

He

rb

-2

1 A01

Dressing room

sL

ibr

ar

y

-1 0

Lobby

UP

St

or

ag

e

Retail market

A03 1

A03 A02 A02

Entrance 2

Main entrance

2

1

3 A02

2

Culinary Kitchen

Snack bar + beverage

Entrance 3 Landscape 1

A05

57

CONCLUSION

This project demonstrates the transformative potential of adaptive reuse in mitigating urban isolation and fostering vibrant, human-centered communities. By repurposing underutilized spaces, we can preserve architectural heritage, reduce environmental impact, and create inclusive communal hubs that enhance social interaction and community engagement.

The design proposals presented in this project illustrate how various elements—such as the culinary workshop series, permanent marketplace, snack bar and beverage area, amphitheater, and outdoor landscapes with seating areas—can be integrated to create dynamic environments that cater to the diverse needs of urban residents and visitors.

These spaces not only provide practical and enjoyable amenities but also elevate the overall experience by providing opportunities for entertainment, learning, and artistic expression and overall, acting as a consistent venue for social interactions.

The hypothesis that communal spaces can counteract urban isolation by fostering social interaction and community engagement is supported by both analysis and design solutions. The proposed framework emphasizes creating flexible and adaptable spaces, with a strong focus on prioritizing connectivity and inclusivity.

Ultimately, this project provides a roadmap for creating human-centric environments that address urban isolation, repurpose underused buildings, and contribute to the overall resilience and vibrancy of urban life. By reimagining and revitalizing our urban spaces, we can build stronger, more connected communities that thrive both socially and economically.

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ABOUT THE DESIGNER

From the Democratic Republic of the Congo to my education in San diego, I have gained an appreciation for diverse perspectives and approaches to life and design. The same commitment and dedication it took to travel halfway across the world to study design and become fluent in a foreign language, I bring to every project I work on. I strive to bring fresh perspectives to my work by combining creativity with dedication.

Cynthia Melameka Undergraduate Interior Architecture & Design Thesis project 2024