ANDREW ELLIOTT​

The Advanced Design Studio explored mixed use architecture relative to individual locations.  This particular project focused efforts on city rehabilitation by creating architecture that would build community within the city of Dayton Ohio.  As a city, Dayton had its share of problems; although its history predicted prosperity with age.  After studying many aspects of the community and the existing site conditions, a new architectural plan was proposed with the goal of boosting the city to meet its potential.

The city of Dayton was once a booming, industry-leading powerhouse.  Within the last 10 years, however, businesses and communities have been on a downhill trend.  It was believed that with a carefully designed city plan incorporating the community, green space and mixed use facilities, Dayton would flourish once more.  The city rehabilitation plan was constructed in phases with the ability to expand or evolve upon necessity.  Phase 1 of the three phases was intended to be the catalyst for the city’s recovery, and therefore, the most important.  This phase included the installation of a new mixed use facility.  The building was set between the baseball stadium and the river, which was a prime location thanks to the views and activities surrounding it.  Once that particular area had improved, Phase 2 would commence with adaptive reuse of existing buildings designated for new purposes.  Naturally, the site was expected to expand to reach the abandoned warehouses and struggling parts of the city.  The final planned phase offered alternate transportation systems.  With the implementation of Phase 3, Dayton may once again become a leader in railway travel.  The river could also expand into the site, allowing water travelers access to the city.

The project was set on high hopes and aspirations.  The design utilized the architectural aspects that Dayton had been known for in the past, and was careful not to overstep the bounds of what was possible.