VIVID IMAGINATION

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VIVID IMAGINATION

Fagade, Adedeji

URI: http://hdl.handle.net/10429/2555

Date: 2024-04-30

Abstract:

This thesis proposal explores the transformative potential of architecture in community development, focusing on the Dexter Linwood neighborhood in Detroit. The neighborhood, characterized by abandoned homes and stores, prompts the central question of evaluating when a property is beyond revitalization and the optimal use for such spaces

Description:

Driving through the historic streets of Dexter-Linwood, a vivid imagination sparks within, a tale of what once stood tall, echoing the grandeur of magnificent brick structures. The beauty of the past clashes with the stark reality of their abandonment, prompting a reflective query: “Why are these architectural marvels left to the grasp of time?” n this exploration, we navigate the dichotomy of Dexter-Linwood’s landscape – a place where history intertwines with the present, and architectural heritage meets neglect. Despite the abandonment that shadows these structures, a profound truth emerges: the heartbeat of Dexter-Linwood persists. Families, resilient in the face of neglect, call these historic houses home. The walls may wear the scars of time, yet the community spirit within them remains unbroken. Even as these abandoned structures stand silent witnesses to the passage of time, the pulse of life continues within. Families navigate the challenges of living in these architectural relics, a testament to their unwavering connection to the place they call home. The streets, though lined with remnants of abandonment, resonate with a palpable community presence—a vibrancy that refuses to be overshadowed. The essence of Dexter-Linwood lies not just in the architectural remnants of the past but in the people who persist against the odds. Brilliant Detroit, with its unwavering commitment to empowering the youth, organizes events year-round, weaving a tapestry of hope within the community. This chapter uncovers the spirit that breathes life into Dexter-Linwood, showcasing the strength of community bonds that withstand the test of time. As we dissect the contrast between the abandoned magnificence and the thriving community within, the thesis’s central focus comes into sharper relief. “Vivid Imagination” seeks not merely to restore buildings but to honor the living history embedded in every brick and mortar. The goal is to enhance the living standards of Dexter-Linwood residents, recognizing that the strength of a community transcends the physical structures that surround it. Motivated by a deep-seated desire to address the challenges posed by abandoned structures, this thesis envisions Dexter-Linwood not as a relic of the past but as a canvas for transformation. The narrative unfolds beyond the abandoned facades, celebrating the resilience of its inhabitants, and setting the stage for proposed design interventions that aim to preserve both the architectural heritage and the community’s spirit. In the subsequent chapters, we will delve into the intricacies of proposed design interventions and economic opportunities, exploring the potential for Dexter-Linwood to emerge not just as revitalized but as a model of sustainable, community-driven development in the heart of Detroit.

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