Phase I | John Dickran Portfol

Background Research

Historical Background 1:

Crespi D'adda (1878-1930s)

Architect:

Ernesto Pirovano

Main Concept:

To create a community that promotes harmony between business needs and the needs of workers

Defining Architectural Features:

Gridded layout and circulatory pathing
Each house had gardens & vegetable patches
Use of masonry brick and terracotta
Castle-villa mirrors an imposing medieval castle
Avant-garde worker housing was simple yet pleasant, imitating examples found in Industrial England
Facilities included a school, cemetery, hospital, theater, fire station, and more

Background:

Commissioned by the Crespi family, inspired by English Industrial Revolution housing. They wanted to create a village for cotton mill workers to reside in while they worked. They envisioned for the family villa to be hierarchical, acting almost like a paternal figure. Its purpose was to provide for all of the needs of its workers, inside and outside of the factory.

Historical Background 2:

La Chaux-de-Fonds, Switzerland (19th century)

Architect:

Le Corbusier
Charles L’Èplattenier

Main Concept:

Functionalist urban planning, which was mainly centered on the watchmaking industry.

Defining Architectural Features:

Grid like street plan
Mixed use buildings (workshops and living)
Large windows for natural light
Use of local materials such as limestone

Background:

La Chaux-de-Fonds, Switzerland, was built ideally for the watchmaking industry. In the 19th century, after devastating fires ruined the town, its grid-patterned urban planning and architecture rose. This reconstruction, designed to maximize sunlight for watchmaking workshops, reflected the town’s primary industry and its decided commitment to efficient production. Consequently, La Chaux-de-Fonds solidified its reputation as a leading center for watchmaking.

Short-Stay Living Examples

Example 1:

Westbeth Artists Housing

Architect:

Richard Meier

Main Concept:

To provide affordable living spaces as well as work spaces for aspiring artists. Creating live-work housing.

Defining Architectural Features:

Exposed concrete and brick elements
Large windows and high ceilings
Spacious live-work studios
Simple interior finishes to supply blank walls to artists
Large, open corridors to provide community and collaborations

Background:

Originally in New York, it was the Bell Telephone Laboratories in the late 19th century, where technological innovations like the vacuum tube and early sound transmission technologies were developed. However, by the mid-20th century, the labs relocated, leaving the massive complex vacant. In the late 1960s, through the efforts of the J.M. Kaplan Fund and with the support of the National Endowment for the Arts, the building underwent a transformative conversion. It became affordable housing and studio spaces specifically designed for artists.

Example 2:

New York Habitat

Group:

New York Habitat

Main Concept:

Low-priced, diverse, and quality living spaces that appeal to company & worker needs/preferences

Defining Architectural Features:

Modern/Contemporary style
Large windows; Allow for entry of natural light
Locations in Manhattan, Queens, and Brooklyn
Extra amenities (gym, daily cleaning, etc…) can be requested
Flexible accommodations to match preference & budget

Background:

New York Habitat is an affordable, short-term relocation housing provider, aiming to be an ideal option for a company’s/worker’s needs. They offer a versatile selection of accommodations and amenities with the goal of providing comfort and convenience to their customers. They cater to a variety of different industries, matching the preferences and budget of buyers to align with their needs.