Economy in Relation to Design:

The next and final system that we will be investigating prior to our final 5-week project is the idea of Economy and how it relates to urban design.  As we advanced through prior systems we realized that economy came to be a heavy consideration in each of the design concepts, and in some ways could be considered one of the most influential aspects of design given its tie with real-world authority.  As a group of 2, my partner and I will be investigating the open-minded area of Tremont (just west of the city center).  While we are just in the beginning stages of research, we feel as if this region has a vast amount of potential for the future given its many unique attributes and demographics.  It is a district known for its progressive thinking, diverse user group, and cultural/artistic background.  In terms of economy, Tremont has several unique approaches to maintaining its strong roots while still vastly attracting new users to activate the area.  Concepts of mixed-use development and varied-income cohabitation are being proposed as a way to promote diversity of both users and program.  As noted before, economy itself has a very diverse and flexible influence and therefore allows for a myriad of possible approaches to these 1.5 weeks of research.  In terms of mapping we foresee a significant emphasis placed on ideas of demographics, transportation, connections, vacancies/open space, land use/cover, as well as considering existing propositions made by current developers and community members of the region.  While our exact approach is still unknown, I am excited to be investigating such an opportunistic area that clearly welcomes ideas of change and efficiency, which then as a result greatly impacts the Greater Cleveland Region for the better.