COLLECTION NAME:
Graduate Thesis Collection
Record
Title:
Hidden Communities: Creating a preservation plan for underutilized alleyways as a tool for reactivation
Creator:
Emenhiser, Bethany Mae
Subject:
Thesis (M.F.A.) -- Historic Preservation
Subject:
Savannah College of Art and Design -- Department of Historic Preservation
Rights:
Copyright is retained by the authors or artists of items in this collection, or their descendants, as stipulated by United States copyright law.
Abstract:
"Alleys, a common urban form in many cities across America, are often overlooked, forgotten or thought to be crime-ridden. This thesis, which focuses on alleys and alley dwellings in Washington, D.C., aims to bring awareness to the unique history, legislation that transformed urban form and theories for decades, and the hidden potential alleys provide for cities. Alley dwellings were often constructed in a temporary manner and were thus deemed substandard. As a result, housing reformers and municipal officials put a halt to new construction and eventually called for the demolition of alley dwellings in late nineteenth-century and early twentieth-century legislation. There is little information available regarding the growth of inhabited alleys in the early years due to lack of documentation. Because of this lack of information, it is difficult to piece together early history to make an informed decision when it comes to planning efforts in the twenty-first century. This thesis will address the history and issues that lead into the twenty-first century and how the preservation professional can join the discussion of reinvigorating alleyways. By exploring the hidden communities that emerged in the nineteenth century in Washington, D.C. in conjunction with the legislation and urban theory changes in the mid-twentieth century, preservationists can join the conversation regarding the new roles for alleys in contemporary times. By creating preservation plans specific to alleys it showcases them as a unique urban form and untapped resource."
Abstract:
Keywords: alleys, alley dwellings, Washington, D.C., Federal Housing Administration, urban form, preservation planning, cultural landscape, Brown’s Court S.E.
Publisher:
Savannah, Georgia : Savannah College of Art and Design
Date:
2015-05
Format:
PDF (63 pages): illustrations (some color), color maps