Spontaneous Structures: The Life of Vacant Spaces

Abstract

Spontaneous Structures: The Life of Vacant Spaces is about the vacant public land of Seattle. The City of Seattle defines “vacant land” as land that is not used for its intended purpose. This definition begs the question, what is the intended purpose of these sites? Is it possible they are not being used properly? What would be a better use? This thesis proposes that a better use for vacant public land is to sell the parcels to non-profit organizations. With a parcel in hand, various NPOs can develop their lots in order to fulfill their social goals. This thesis focuses on low-income housing, and proposes a design for high-density housing on a narrow lots.