R-3 Repository :: Browsing by Author "Mitchell, O. Jack"

Browsing by Author "Mitchell, O. Jack"

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A chronological analysis of utopias, urbanism and technology
(1971) Bottorff, James Lynn; Mitchell, O. Jack
This thesis is a comparative analysis of the chronological patterns of utopias, urbanism, and technology that have prevailed throughout European and American history. It analyzes a wide range of carefully selected utopian concepts, and compares them with the dominant urbanistic and technological events existing at similar points in time. The result of this investigation is a theory that utopian activity has responded to urbanistic and technological trends in a recurring sequence, and that this pattern continues up to the nineteenth century. In the nineteenth and twentieth centuries, the recurring pattern becomes complex and less defined because of an increase in utopian concepts. Based on this theory, the thesis concludes that utopian activity has responded to the prevailing urbanistic trends and technological changes of society and-the appearance of utopian activity has signaled society of important changes.
A planning guide for socially responsive redevelopment of low income residential districts
(1970) Cherry, Edith; Mitchell, O. Jack
The purpose of this study is to develop an approach to the planning of low income residential redevelopment which will result in environments which respond, not only to the physical needs of low income residents, but also to their social and psychological needs. It is intended to serve as a guide which planners can follow in outlining a planning procedure for a specific project. Part I, BACKGROUND, establishes the importance of sociological considerations in planning. It makes note of the advice of experienced planners who have had a particular interest in creating socially responsive environments. Tools for planning such environments are discussed. The need for planning procedures which incorporate sociological considerations is noted, and the special need for these considerations in the planning of low income residential districts is pointed out. Planning procedures in general and the selection of the particular context of this study are discussed. Part II, PLANNING GUIDE, examines the various phases of planning the redevelopment of a low income residential district. These phases are: Selection of the Project District or Districts, Description of the Existing Situation, Definition of Goals of Redevelopment, Program and Plan of Action, Implementation, and Evaluation. The emphasis in these phases is not on the conventional aspects of physical planning, but rather on the additional data and efforts required to develop envinonments which respect the life styles and social behavior patterns of the residents. Much emphasis is placed on the importance of resident participation in the planning process. Part III, CONCLUSION, summarizes the preceding sections and reviews the additional efforts required to obtain socially responsive environments. This section is followed by a brief Appendix which makes some very specific recommendations which are not directly a part of the planning process, but which would facilitate its operation.
A study of functionalist theories in architecture
(1966) Griffin, David Miller; Todd, Anderson; Mitchell, O. Jack
This thesis is an analysis of functionalist theories and not of functionalists themselves. I will determine what the theories cover hoping to clear up to some extent the misunderstandings and limited aspects pertaining to the theories. Functionalism is the underlying order in architecture. It embodies and synthesizes the life principle with the universal laws of science; it humanizes architecture and gives it meaning. These thoughts are constantly recurring in the writing of the functionalists, who did not disregard imagination but sought to give it order and meaning in relation to man's physical, intellectual and spiritual needs. The main lesson we can learn from the functionalists is not what they did so much as what they said. Functionalism is not an object, it is a philosophy; a basis for architecture. No one building can be held up as the perfect embodiment of functionalist principles and many (done by functionalists) are quite bad. Start with first hand knowledge rather than second hand experience; that knowledge based on inductive reason and the sense experiences. The conscious following of rules is the surest way to kill freshness. Principles should be fused into the subconscious element of our thought and become one with feeling and intuition; an integral part of our everyday experiences. The functionalists are concerned with the rational approach emphasizing the physical needs of man because this approach is easily explained and demonstrated. The metaphysical aspects of the intellect and spirit are less satisfying since it is impossible to "drive a point home" with a conclusive example. The functionalists repeatedly allude to the intellectual and spiritual needs of man but in compliance with the physical needs. The main difference between functionalism and formalism (form for form's sake) is that through functionalism expression and delight evolve in accordance with the total needs of man. Whereas formalism is an end in itself, compromising the needs of man.
Architectural form from human nature
(1967) Smith, Keller; Mitchell, O. Jack
That Christopher Alexander, Serge Chermayeff, David A. Crane, Aldo van Eyck, Louis I. Kahn, Peter and Allison Smithson and Robert Venturi are evolving a theory of architecture based on human nature and that the accommodation of human nature is a prime determinate of architectural form and that the nature of the human mind is a prime determinate of one's understanding of the satisfaction of man's needs by physical form (design). Argument: First, human nature and the forms that accommodate it are presented as seen in the theories analyzed. Next, limitations of the order derived from human nature is discussed. Finally the structure of man's mind is examined to show that it influences the way one shapes nature to meet his needs. A concise summary of each theory of human nature is then organized for comparison: The theory of human nature is stated. -- The method of disjointing complex needs is stated (analysis). -- The method of synthesizing a complex solution from simple parts is stated (synthesis). Discussion: From a comparison of the theories studied, one sees they are more complementary than opposite. The only important difference between them is whether they may change without also changing the methods of synthesis and analysis. The understanding of human nature that emerges is like an understanding of human aspirations. unlike quantative understanding that may be expressed in numbers, the understanding of aspirations requires that one answer a basic question of existence such as : What patterns of life will accommodate human needs best? By finding answers to this kind of question, the architect makes his unique contribution to building design as well as a framework into which he may fit technology.
Bay street area redevelopment: A restructuring of the waterfront area Brunswick, Georgia
(1974) Worley, Owen Russell; Mitchell, O. Jack
Brunswick has an image and character in its city pattern which gives an organization and sense of purpose to the city. This thesis demonstrates that the physical and historic patterns which contribute to the area's sense of identity are the basis for the conceptual organization of a public framework for redevelopment. The primary objective has been to reinforce those existing features which contribute to the area's sense of identity by strengthening its public image. Fundamental to the various planning decisions was a careful analysis of the existing physical conditions. Various options were analyzed by looking closely at the constraints imposed by site conditions, access and existing historic patterns. The conceptual organization is concerned both with development and preservation. It is a concerted effort to recognize the positive attributes of the downtown area and utilize existing physical and historic patterns to breathe in new life. In approaching problems related to redevelopment, emphasis was placed on the examination of organizational principles and on the ability of the plan to work within a conceptual framework. Various studies were made through a system of overlaying each element of the framework. The basic elements of the framework include: 1. Vehicular Movement 2. Parking/Servicing 3. Pedestrian Movement 4. Open Space System 5. Landscaping Treatment 6. Public Facilities 7. Private Sector Through this system of carefully-developed strategies, the factors which expand the accessibility, diversity and legibility of the community's environment are analyzed. The reality of the plan lies in its system of movement and access and in the ability of these systems to grow and accommodate future change.
Beyond the O-Zone
(Rice Design Alliance, 1991) Blackburn, James B. Jr.; Elliott, Margie C.; Stern, William F.; Mitchell, O. Jack; Klineberg, Stephen L.
Cultural centers in the urban structure
(1968) Hebert, Donald Blaise; Mitchell, O. Jack
Man has need for self-expression, be it language, music or portrayal art. Today, man’s greatest achievement -- the man-made world of the city -- reflects an unflattering, unsatisfactory and unattractive image of himself, placing the pursuit of self-expression in the context of the city in serious jeopardy. The "personality" of a city is expressed in terms of its structure, its spaces and its image. One of the better ways to change and improve the "personality" of the city is through art. An analytical inventory of potentials in a city reveals the relativity of the structure, spaces and image to man and art. A search for potentials exposes undeniable possibilities of change through art. Recognition of these potentials demands direction— a plan. An art place -- a "forum"-- would be established, for the exchange of ideas, methods, philosophies and techniques of art— intensifying interests in the arts. The principal concept is to provide an inner structure for the pursuit of fine arts, inter-woven into the existing urban fabric of Houston.
Drawing the line: An exploration of urban edge conditions (Washington)
(1992) Meisburger, Halliday Watt; Mitchell, O. Jack
The thesis investigates a means of establishing a more meaningful connection between the individual and the city through providing opportunities to experience urban space in an atypical manner. The atypical is created by an architecture which elaborates edge conditions and displaces the individual's conventional circulation within those edge conditions. Alternate methods of circulation are studied through an elaboration of their salient features, the appearance of those features in historical examples and in examples found in Seattle, Washington. A project for a ferry terminal in Seattle, Washington is presented as an illustration of these concepts.
Genius loci: an interpretation of the idea of place in city design
(1985) Murray, Martin A.; Rowe, Peter G.; Mitchell, O. Jack; Wittenberg, Gordon
This thesis is concerned with the establishment of a conceptual framework for the investigation of "place" as it is expressed phenomenologically, that is, through its "genius loci". Part I suggests that by viewing the phenomenon of genius loci according to three specific "perspectives" -- philosophy, myth and poetic expression -- we may formulate a normatively structured interpretative schema. Here, the assumption is that such perspectives contain within them universal values representing man's reaction to "the spirit of place" - such values can form a basis from which to construct the interpretative schema. Part II introduces and develops the proposed schema and suggests a methodology of use through the presentation of a case study. It further suggests that as architecture and urban design is, at its most profound, a "place-creating" act, it too may prove susceptible to such a schema. The intention of the thesis is to show that the notion of place is a fundamental need for man; that genius loci gives rise to the expression of this need as it exists phenomenologically and that this need is representative of a delicate balance between universal wants and localized conditions and dissimilarities. Ultimately in a world where such an equilibrium is disappearing, there is an urgent need for a greater understanding of "genius loci" and a reinterpretation of it in regard to architecture, and urban design.
Housing for the urban poor
(1983) Barot, Anandkumar A.; Rowe, Peter G.; Mitchell, O. Jack; Underhill, Michael
This study, encompassing examples from the complete range of existing dwelling environments in Ahmedabad, India, emphasizes physical aspects of housing and attempts to provide an understanding of existing housing conditions for lower income groups. Several issues emerge from the case study material. Looking at population data, the urgency of the dwelling needs of this large section of the population demands a substantial increase in housing supply. However, with the limited financial resources of the public sector, traditional modes of low-income mass housing seem impossible. Other alternatives, such as site and services projects for squatters, have also usually failed due to their poor location away from employment centers. A partial solution to the problem of housing provision seems to lie in proper development of infrastructure facilities, design of more efficient physical layouts for communities, and comprehensive planning that supports indigenous settlement patterns. Furthermore, efforts to reduce rural-urban migration must be continually emphasized.
Model of the advancement of architectural theory
(1982) Williams, Timothy F.; Rowe, Peter G.; Mitchell, O. Jack; Todd, Anderson
The thesis presents a framework for addressing the corpus of architectural theory and its conceptual evolution. Part I outlines a general description of the functions of architecture according to five "perspectives" -- precedent, social and economic, perception, climate and physiography, and technology -- that together comprise apparent preoccupations of architectural theory. Here, the assumption is that architecture is both a functional synthesis of these multifarious perspectives, and a reconciliation of objective and subjective polarities found within each perspective. Part II sketches a model of the process by which the structure of these perspectives changes in response to external cultural and internal professional influences. In this process advancement proceeds formally, from a critical appraisal of preceding theoretical approaches, toward programmes designed to solve general classes of problems. Subsequently, when formalism becomes dogmatic, attention is once more directed toward concrete problems, and upon a critique or revision of preceding programmes the process recommences.
Proposed physical environment for a specific cultural setting
(1972) Al-Bader, Sami A; Mitchell, O. Jack
The purpose of formulating and implementing development plans has always been, in its outcome, an effort to ensure the continuity and maintenance of cultural growth. Development planners, however, have always concerned themselves with the environmental aspect of development in terms of its social context. They have continued to disregard that aspect of the man-made environment which is manifested through physical form. In this effort, the attempt is concentrated at identifying the nature of the relationship between culture and development. This frame of reference is then employed in viewing cultural change and development in Kuwait over the last two decades. The overriding concern, here, is the endeavor to identify the specific nature of the Kuwaiti cultural milieu through close inspection of the changes that have been affectuated on the major component structures of the Kuwaiti setting, namely: the economic, the social, the political, the psychological and the environmental structure. The quest becomes one for identifying relevant constraints and directions that would guide the process of planning the physical environment relevant to the Kuwaiti conditions of our time, and as these conditions are expected to develop in the near future.
Provision of shelter in urban areas of Ethiopa
(1983) Wegayehu, Fisseha; Rowe, Peter G.; Todd, Anderson; Mitchell, O. Jack
In Ethiopia, the lack of adequate shelter provision has lead to a rapid deterioration of living conditions for the urban poor. To ameliorate this situation will require changes in the structure of public expenditures, and the development of alternative mechanisms for housing delivery. The magnitude of current and likely future housing problems in urban areas was estimated. Programs recently employed to resolve these problems were then documented and alternative approaches suggested, that better meet the needs of the urban poor. What emerged was an awareness that efforts should not be directed solely towards conventional low-income housing programs. Instead, a full range of environment strategies should be considered including: "site and service" schemes, housing rehabilitation and, institutional programs aimed at providing needed support for more autonomous provision of housing.
Some aspects of order in architecture
(1979) Timme, Robert H.; Evans, Elinor; Santos, Antonio deSouza; Mitchell, O. Jack
It is within an understanding of order as an intermediate between perception and meaning that architectural universals can be found. To achieve this understanding we can establish the following three components as a model for comprehension of the complexity of architecture: Components, or the smallest element individually perceived as a whole Order, or relationship of components Semantics, or meaning of the composition Architectural form gives meaning to the space. By meaning, we are talking about "sense" and not "reference". If we are going to discuss form or components in architecture, we have to discuss the sense that those elements give to space. We can establish three form types whose distinction or classification is based upon the effect of form on the extent of space. Columnar - a component or form that acts as a location or fix to one's perception of space, but around which, one's space is uninterrupted. Planar: a component or form that defines a limit or separation between two spaces that are perceived as being contiguous, merely separated by the component. Massive: a component or form that defines the limits or edge of a space. No cognition or perception of the space continuing into or around the form exists. It is important that we realize that color, texture, pattern, scale, etc; are further descriptions of the form of elements and in effect, further descriptions of the character of the nature of space. Each of these qualities can reinforce the general "sense" imparted by the gross physical form of the component. These qualities may also serve to establish a totally new spatial sense which may give either further definition or contrast to the general sense. Complex components can impart multiple meanings which are incredibly rich. There are three basic orders that occur in architecture : Central - information related or ordered to a common location. Linear: information related to one another through a sequence. The reference becomes a line or alignment. Areal: information related to a field; related to a space within which general definition occurs. It must be emphasized that these three orders represent the simplest possible states of syntax. In an actual view of architecture or environment, one might find multiple orders overlaid one upon another; numerous transformations of order and changes in apparent order as the scale increases or decreases. Before we can being to examine such complexities, we must first establish certain fundamental ideas about order. These fundamentals are; 1. The same components have different meanings (senses) depending upon their order. 2. The same components in the same relative location may have multiple orders. 3. The same components in the same relative location may have different meanings (senses) depending upon the order(s) perceived. 4. The same components in the same relative location may simultaneously have multiple meanings (senses) depending upon the multiple orders perceived. Meaning in architecture is a result of the combination of component and order. It is the "sense" of the component and order, not the reference, that conveys the meaning. Sense in architecture makes space and form understandable, and it does so by relating the individual's position and movement through form and space. "Sense" allows the individual to interpret ordered relationships in terms of implied movement. Numerous transformations may occur within universal orders resulting in complex form-space relationships that respond to a variety of specific issues. The results, though far removed from their basic antecedents, can still communicate a strong sense and can still be extremely expressive.
Soug Albarkah :a traditional market
(1987) Al-Nazhah, Hassan M.; Mitchell, O. Jack
Spaces for sound and silence for the Westhafen area in Berlin :an architectural dialogue on thought-fragments of Plato and Wittgenstein
(1988) Mussotter, Michael Peter; Mitchell, O. Jack; Todd, Anderson; Waldman, Peter
Two Spaces for the Westhafen in Berlin. Space 1: Concert Hall for Cantempary Experimental Music. Space 2: Columbarium for 692 Chamber-tombs. An Architectural Dialogue on Thought-fragments of Plato and Wittgenstein.
The crisis of the urban ghettos: the physical, social and psychological problem of minority groups
(1970) Niyogi, Jyotirmoy; Mitchell, O. Jack
The development of a question set to evaluate the effectiveness of buildings
(1967) Landow, Carl W; Caudill, William W.; Mitchell, O. Jack; Cannady, William T.
Architecture is for everybody. The question set is a starting point for those people who want to evaluate and appreciate buildings. The question set is the end result of a searching process which included the examination of some historical influences which affected people's beliefs about architecture: The analysis of two buildings in Houston, Texas, and the development of a fundamental architectural theory. The application of the question set to buildings in Houston, Texas, was tested by students in the School of Architecture, Rice University, and other interested friends.
The effect of regional planning councils on the development of federally assisted housing
(1972) Coffey, Morris Birchfield; Mitchell, O. Jack
Since 1965 the Federal government has increasingly strengthened its support of the establishment of Regional Planning Councils. The Federal government has enacted legislation designating multijurisdictional/multipurpose agencies to serve as ’’clearinghouses11 with authorization: (1) to devise comprehensive regional plans for coordinating development within a region; (2) to review and comment on selected federally assisted programs. With the issuance of Executive Order, OMB Circular A-95 (7/24/69) and later A-95 (revised - 4/1/71), the number of federal programs requiring regional review and coordination was vastly expanded. Included in the new ’’clearinghouse” responsibilities were all federally assisted/insured housing programs. The intent of this study is to show that Regional Planning Councils, because of their area-wide orientation and scope of concerns, have a significant role to play in the development of low and moderate income housing. This role is analyzed in terms of a council’s ability to (1) insure environmental quality, (2) increase production, and (3) direct the distribution of federally assisted housing within a region. From this analysis, it is found that Regional Planning Councils by exercising their planning and review prerogatives can impose guidelines and standards on the development of housing directly affecting the three areas mentioned above. However, the present lack of legislative authority coupled with limitations in the "clearinghouse" review procedures for housing applications (as described in OMB Circular A-95) limit the ability of Councils to implement plans and policies. Councils have the authority to establish regional housing plans and policies, but the extent to which they will be implemented is dependent upon the voluntary support and cooperation of local member governments and federal agencies. Thus, political acceptance of the need for a regional approach to providing low and moderate income housing is a primary determinant of a council’s effectiveness in dealing with housing problems. When such support is not possible, Regional Planning Councils must rely on the strength of their ’’negative" review authority, and on their ability to provide technical assistance and information as a means of indirectly affecting the builder or developer’s decision making processes. The potential for regional planning agencies to assume a more assertive role in the implementation of housing plans and policies will be dependent on added Federal endorsement. One such proposal presently being considered by Congress designates area-wide planning agencies as distributors of federal funds. With this, Councils would have the necessary authority to implement regional housing plans.
The future of urban form and patterns
(1978) Bainbridge, Robert W.; Mitchell, O. Jack
The rapid growth of American cities has brought about an urban society with major problems of congestion, pollution, poverty and crime.- Successful planning for the form and patterns of cities requires reliable methods for anticipating the future. The complexity of cities provides a major technical barrier to the anticipation of the future of cities. The increasing diversity of social goals creates cultural and political barriers to effective planning. During the last decade, a major body of literature has emerged outlining alternative futures for American society. A review of major studies of the future provides a set of divergent societal contexts which place realistic boundaries on the future prospects. The major issues discussed are population growth, economic growth, energy supply, waste absorption capacity, mechanisms of social control, the gap between the rich and poor, and psychological adjustment to change. Resolutions to the major issues are combined into scenarios of optimism, pessimism, and transformation which have major implications for cities. Existing theories in the areas of transportation and urban growth, neighborhoods and land-use districts, and housing, provide a way to convert the alternative scenarios into detailed implications for urban form. Cause and effect relationships have been documented which make linkages between cities and the larger societal context. The relationships are used to generate alternative scenarios of urban form. The scenario of optimism leads to the continued prosperity and growth of cities. Urban form continues to become less concentrated as transportation problems are solved through the combination of technological breakthroughs and affluence. The scenario of pessimism is based on energy shortages and a colder climate. Mass migration, high unemployment, makeshift housing, and the scavenging of buildings for fuel and construction materials are likely. The scenario of transformation involves evolution to a "steady state" society. Many cities are expected to remain stable in population or to decline. Population growth is anticipated in smaller cities: energy conservation is emphasized; and new social structures are developed to achieve personal freedom within the limits imposed by natural scarcities. Explorations of all scenarios are needed to increase public awareness of the future, and to assist in the assessment of the likelihoods of the different scenarios. Currently, transformation is emerging as the dominant scenario. It offers the best opportunity for survival, for maintaining a high standard of living, and for increasing personal freedom. Planning for transformation is the appropriate strategy for addressing current problems of urban form.

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