| dc.description.abstract | The following research is carried out for an architecture project in a design development phase. The main proposal consists in the refurbishment of a building located in “El paso de la vaca” in San José, Costa Rica. The daily lives of the homeless located in this conflictive place are analyzed in order to grant a detonating program that will begin the process of social and physical change needed in the area.
The document is divided in six chapters.
The first chapter presents the introductory aspects of the project. It provides an introduction to the subject and the problem in study, as well as the social and physical limitations set for the investigation. This same chapter lays out the justification, objectives, and the general and methodological framework of the proposal.
The second chapter is based on some background studies and the relationship between the two main topics: building refurbishment and homelessness. A variety of sources are consulted, which help give a foundation to the issues at hand on a national and international level. In addition, some key concepts and case studies are presented to have a better vision of the extent of the project.
The third chapter, is based on the development of the first objective, focused on the site and location of the project. The physical and spatial context of “El paso de la vaca” is evaluated. At a smaller level, the initial conditions of the Alfa building, chosen for the refurbishment, are also analyzed.
In the fourth chapter the second objective is assessed, consisting in the users of the building. The chapter focuses in three main users: the homeless, the service personal, and the people who work in the zone. For each one there is a diagnosis that will help define their spatial needs to finally develop the architecture program.
The fifth chapter presents the architecture proposal. It focuses in the design phase with the conceptual design, strategies, spatial and structural proposals, as well as the budget overview.
Lastly, chapter six, takes into account the final considerations of the investigation. In addition to some specific conclusions and recommendations, the image and table index, the bibliography and the appendix are given. | |
