Dense Urban Centers are prone to expand vertically with the use of high rise residential and commercial structures. As a result, public space is... » More

Dense Urban Centers are prone to expand vertically with the use of high rise residential and commercial structures. As a result, public space is being compromised. This study is intended to examine alternative options to the continuing vertical expansion of our dense cities. The goal of this project will be to show the benefits of mixed use building and building revitalization as a method of efficient alternatives to vertical building. The success of these projects have been evaluated on an individual level using criteria of what makes a successful public space through observational studies, surveys of users, interviews of officials, and case study research. I find that alternative building practices of mixed use and restored historic building are more successful in meeting the needs of users and thus are better alternatives to vertical building. Furthermore, I find that that vertical building has adversely affected the public’s use of public space.

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