Despite the clear impact of decades of failed urban development in American cities, the sprawl continues to dominate. It can be countered in cities like Fresno, CA through a new language of development focused on a diversity of housing types, density, and walkability. This thesis seeks to combat the sprawl and make more complete neighborhoods in Fresno by introducing methods of development that are nonexistent in Fresno’s current urban fabric.

 

The Project:

• 4-story mixed-use building module

• 3 empty lots in diverse area (26 ac., 4.5 ac., 2 ac.)

• Sites ideal for future walkability and diversity of income

• Program consists of diverse array of unit plans (Studios, 1bds, 2bds, 3bds, 4bds, townhomes, commercial space) to accommodate mixed groups and incomes

• Ground floor commercial space with flexible plan to serve local diversity and needs

• Shared common spaces (roof deck, common circulation) encourage interaction amongst diverse groups

• Wood-framed with similar units stacked for affordability and ease of construction

• Pedestrian-scaled streets formed in-between modules encourage walkability