JRose_Prose

 How do water features create either a larger sense of place or a larger sense of universal modernism within a urban landscape? Diagrammatic Representation of Water Features Cultivating a Sense of Place    Critical Regionalism Versus Universal Modernism         Ever notice how the majority of water features built today are less literal, and more, for lack of a better term, more modern? Kenneth Frampton in his writing "Prospects for a Critical Regionalism outlines what universal modernism means according to Paul Ricoeur, "while being the advancement of mankind... constitutes a sort of subtle destruction, not only of traditional cultures, which might not be an irreparable wrong, but also of what I shall call for the time being the creative nucleus of great civilizations and culture (pg. 148)." This term juxtaposes with Frampton's newly introduced term critical regionalism, which means to have a "strong desire for realizing an identity (pg. 148)." So, a critic

 How do water features create a larger sense of place within urban fabrics?     Ever gaze upon a water feature and wonder, what does it all this mean within the city context? To a more specific point, does it tie in to the Critical Regionalism of culture, or a wider sense of Universal Modernism? In a way, water features can become a "fourth dimension" to architecture that can tie large urban fabrics together. It can aid in urban heat island effects environmentally, draw together people to create triangulation within communities, draw significance from the historical context, help to build communities, and contains an element of physical attractivity. Diagrammatic Representation of Water Features creating a Sense of Place      The Historical, Cultural, and Environmental Context of a Water Feature     Historically, water features were meant to convey a deep sense of meaning through symbolism and cultural ties (whether literal or figurative). For instance, many of the fountains

 So far... Water, Nature, & Culture by Veronica Strang Exploration of relationships between humans & water throughout history and culture. Agriculture, transportation, & spiritual practices Blue Architecture Water, Design, and Environmental Futures by Brook Muller Environmental concerns for water in urban spaces Stance is that we NEED more water features and goes IN DEPTH with graphical analysis on exactly why water systems built into buildings are necessary for the health and well being of humans and the environment. Other LIT Reviews... The Social Life of Small Urban Spaces by William H. Whyte Book & film observes how people act within large and small public spaces within a large urban setting. KEY ELEMENTS TO A SUCCESSFUL URBAN SPACE  Comfortable seating Food and drink options Mix of activities that cater to a diverse range of people (of all backgrounds and ages). Access is lacking in public water features within the United States! "It is not right to put water

What is the design urban experience of water?       In short, Water Nature and Culture by Veronica Strang alludes to the idea of history and cultures being what draws relationships between water and humans through modes like agriculture, transportation, and spiritual practices. There is a strong need for water features within urban fabric, because it is what meets the needs and desires of people living in large concrete jungles. Without them, people become disconnected from nature and their cultural roots. It also leaves less opportunity for people to engage with one another in some urban spaces depending on the circumstances.     Blue Architecture by Brook Muller discusses urban heat islands, sustainability in architecture/landscape design, and is concerned with creating a culturally rich urban environment. To Muller, water in urban spaces has the ability to craft a much more meaningful and fulfilling urban experience.  What are some ways water features an be incorporated into urban s