Thesis Defence: Stela Popovic

Monday, February 8, 2016 12:00 pm - 12:00 pm EST (GMT -05:00)

Of the thesis entitled:BeyondGenius Loci: An Analysis of Architectural Design Strategies of Place

Abstract:

Thisthesis explores the contributive role of thegenius locus, or “spirit ofplace”, in the identity of cities and the production of meaningful places. Theresearch addresses the analysis ofgenius locias historicalphenomenonas well as their modern role within suburban landscapes. This thesis arguesthat an understanding and response togenius lociis vital not only indistinguishing it from concepts such as a sense ofplace, place-making, andidentity, but as a means to further the maturation of suburban design andanimate the underlying urban forces that combat generic design. Focusing on thesuburban city of Mississauga,urban and architectural failures bring the agencyof architecture into question in order to contest architecturally indifferentdevelopment. The goal is to offer a design methodology that animates thegenerativeforces of thegenius locusin order to achieve a distinct,complex, and grounded urban character. The design intervention embodiesMississauga’sgenius locus– an urban simulacrum born from commerce,speculation, and the resistant debris of city growth – into a matrix ofarchitectural and landscape inserts drawn from portions of idealized masterplans. It takes into account the role of conscious and unconsciousculturalvalue, collective identity, and environmental influences in order to bridge thegap between the ideal city and the built city.

The examining committee is as follows:

Co-Supervisors:

ValRynnimeri, University of ݮƵ

MonaEl Khafif,University of ݮƵ

CommitteeMember:

Andrew Levitt, Universityof ݮƵ

External Reader:

Pat Hanson, gh3


The committee has been approved as authorized by the Graduate Studies Committee.

The Defence Examination will take place:

Monday February 8, 2016
12:00PM

ARC Loft

A copy of the thesis is available for perusal in ARC 2106A.