Arc 211 american diversity and design- tenzin dadon

UNIVERSITY AT BUFFALO- STATE UNIVERSITY OF NEW YORK
ARC 211 – AMERICAN DIVERSITY AND DESIGN – SPRING 2017
ONLINE DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
TENZIN DADON
https://www.smashingmagazine.com/wp-
content/uploads/2016/05/better-icon-design-preview-opt.png

Introduction
This thread provides you with an opportunity to "meet" each other and initiate a
connection with participants in your group. In responding to this discussion
thread, please introduce yourself and provide us with one interesting fact about
yourself. After posting your introduction, take a look through and reply to some of
the others. The purpose of this exercise is to develop a sense of community. You
might find that you share similar experiences and can help each other in many ways
throughout the semester
Hi, I am Tenzin! I am a sophomore at UB but in my first year in
Architecture. One interesting fact about myself is that I love to
travel! One interesting fact about myself is that I was born In India and
moved to the states when I was 9 years old. I often visit home every
few years. I speak 3 different languages, Tibetan, Hindi and English
and few dialects. Now I permanently live in NYC and I love it. After
college, I want to travel and document all types of architecture in the
world.

THIS CLASS HELPED ME REALIZE THE RELATIONSHIP OF DESIGN TO THE CHANGING ATMOSPHERE IN OUR
SOCIETY, IT TAUGHT ME HOW DESIGN EFFECTS DIFFERENT PEOPLE N THE U.S AND HOW THESE PEOPLE
HAVE EFFECTED OUR ENVIRONMENT. WE WERE INTRODUCED TO EIGHT DIFFERENT TOPICS THAT’S WERE
ISSUED IN DIVERSITY. EACH WEEK, WE ARE INTRODUCED TO A NEW TOPIC SUCH AS: RACE, ETHNICITY,
GENDER, CLASS, AGE, PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS, COGNITIVE CHARACTERISTICS, AND RELIGION. THIS
COURSE MADE ME REALIZED THE IMPACT DESIGNS DECISIONS HAVE ON DIVERSE POPULATION, BOTH
TODAY AND IN HISTORY. IT ALSO MADE ME REALIZE ITS NOT EASY BEING A DESIGNER BECAUSE THEY ARE
SO MANY DESIRES AND NEEDS ACROSS THE POPULATION THAT CAN’T ALL BE MET. THE DISCUSSION PART
OF THE COURSE IS SOMETHING FOUND PARTICULARLY COMPELLING BECAUSE WE GOT TO USE THE
COURSE TOPIC TO REFINE OUT CRITICAL THINKING AND WRITING SKILLS BUT ALSO TO DEVELOP A DESIGN
PROCESS AND PROPOSAL FOR INCLUSIVE PHYSICAL AND VISUAL ENVIRONMENT AND BUILD ON THAT BY
DISCUSSION WITH FELLOW CLASSMATE DINNERS.
The following pages document my responses to the online discussion questions in the Spring 2017 version of
ARC 211 American Diversity and Design at the University at Buffalo– State University of New York.

"What is design?" from Hello World
On “What is design?” from Hello World: Where Design Meets Life by Alice Rawsthron. The
author opened her chapter with the example of Ying Zheng, the ruler of the Qin empire, one
of the most powerful and enduring empires I the history of China. She explained how
design innovation contributed to Ying Zheng’s success. For example, in the development of
weaponry, he resolved many problems by standardizing parts, and this single innovation
gave his armies great advantage over other armies. For this discussion, let’s move away
from 246 B.C. China, and into the U.S. Describe an innovation or invention (can be current
or historical) that gave advantage to a group of people in the U.S. or to the population as a
whole. What were the social impacts of this innovation? Were any groups negatively
impacted by this innovation? For example, the telegraph, developed and patented in the
United States in 1837 by Samuel Morse, permitted people and commerce to transmit
messages across both continents and oceans almost instantly, with widespread social and
economic impacts. This heightened communication speed allowed business persons to
make decisions with up-to-date information, often resulting in big profits. Those without
access had to rely on outdated information, which put them at a disadvantage.
One of the best innovations in the history of the United States was the creation of paper
currency. The introduction of paper money was a great advancement for America, it
replaced metals, coins and livestock. The existence of money as a means of buying or
selling goods and services goes far back to 3000 B.C when the Sumerians began using
metal coins to buy commodities. The use of paper currency began in China during the
seventh century then spread to Europe and the United States. The first dollar bills were
issued in Maryland in the 1760s, during the American Revolution. Paper currency was the
first step to the monetary system leading to the birth of credit card and electronic banking.
Although, paper currency made the economy grow and benefited the society as a whole, it
has a negative impact on the environment because papers come from trees. As we know,
trees are important to maintaining a balance of nature. Thus, in order to save trees and
prevent the impact of their loss on living organisms, we need to save paper. That’s when
the development of online banking and credit cards came into play and now we can go
paperless and go green!
"Museum of the National Bank of Belgium." Paper money, a Chinese invention? — Museum of the National Bank of Belgium. Accessed May 03, 2017. http://www.nbbmuseum.be/en/2007/09/chinese-invention.htm.

The editors state that “diverse participation in the design process, from both
professionals and public citizens alike, yields more equitable results.” This makes
sense, but typically has not been the case. Nonetheless, many marginalized groups
have impacted design in ways that have changed our visual and physical worlds as
well as our systems, policies, and institutions. For example, in the 1960s, disability
rights advocates designed media events to raise awareness about barriers in the
physical environment. They persisted with their efforts for decades, and, finally, in
1990, the Americans with Disabilities Act became law. It mandated accessibility in
public accommodations such as restaurants and stores, public transportation,
communication, and other areas of public life. This dramatically changed our physical
environment (from curb cuts to ramps to automatic doors) and the results made
public life more equitable. Now it’s your turn. Describe a design that was impacted by
a diversity group. How and why did it change form and/or circumstances? (Note that
a design can be anything requiring planning and development prior to the production
of an action, system, visual, material object, or environment. Also, keep in mind that,
for our purposes, a diversity group is a group of individuals who are underrepresented
in society in some way—children, older adults, the economically disadvantaged, those
with cognitive disabilities, etc.)
A design that had been impacted by a diversity group is the wheelchair. The
first electric-powered wheelchair was invented by a Canadian inventor named
George Klein and his team of engineers. They were working for the National
Research Council of Canada in a program to aid the injured veterans that were
returning from World War II. But today, wheelchairs are accessible to anyone
with a disability. Ramps are now designed so wheelchairs can be used properly
and from a day to day basis instead of having to take the stairs by those who
are disabled.
Bellis, Mary. "The First Wheelchair Was Built for Phillip II of Spain." ThoughtCo. Accessed May 03, 2017.
https://www.thoughtco.com/history-of-the-wheelchair-1992670.
http://lghttp.30059.nexcesscdn.net/80C479/magento/media/catalog/product/cache/1/image/330x330/140720ac204242
09c6bb28e1b7731856/c/i/cirrus-plus-power-wheelchair.j
Understanding Hidden Consequences

In his chapter on industrial design (written in 1987), historian John Heskett claims
that the methods of mass production introduced by Henry Ford in the U.S. involved
new concepts of the standardization and integration of the production line that
were adopted across the world. With Ford’s method, work could be completed by
relatively unskilled workers; it was more efficient and with this method, products
were made more quickly and cheaply than previously possible. What were some
of the social consequences of Ford’s production line? In other words, how did this
system change our U.S. society? Do any of those changes remain with us
today? Now consider Maurice Conti’s TED Talk, and the predictions he makes
about production. How do you think manufacturing processes will change in the
next twenty years? How do you think these changes will affect our U.S. society?
The system changes our U.S society because with Ford’s production line, it
eliminated the need for human labors. Ford used the Assembly line for the first
time and created a system that could be multiplied and use to make more
products within a shorter period of time. This was the introduction to the industrial
era. The production time used to take about 12 hours for a human to make and
now, it takes about 2 hours maximum. When the production time took more time,
cars were expensive and seen to be a luxurious thing to own but with the new
method of production, the cost of cars dropped drastically making it somewhat
affordable for everyone. These changes still remain with us today because instead
of making better models, we are sucked into the consumerist mind of buying
anything that is new or on trend. For an example, at one point, the iPhone was a
breakthrough in history but now Apple just tweaks minor things on the gadget
without making much changes and releases it to the public with great marketing
and tricking consumerist like I into buying it even though the updates are still the
same. I think the manufacturing processes will change in the next twenty years
and become even more technological advanced. The era we live in is already so
industrialized and techy and I think it will only change for the better. Machines are
substituting for humans to make functions and productions easier and faster.
Heskett, John. Industrial design. London: Thames and Hudson, 1991.
https://geekinc.ca/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/112_0807_03z-ford_model_t-assembly_line.jpeg
“Industrial Design” by John Heskett and "The Incredible Inventions of Intuitive AI" by Maurice Conti

Which of the 2016 IDEA Gold Award products seems to defy the Cradle-to-Cradle concept developed by architect William McDonough
and chemist Dr. Michael Braungart? How does this product resist or disregard the concept? Provide an example of any product that
embraces Cradle-to-Cradle design. Please describe and site sources.
Cradle-to-cradle is the new approach to the design of products and systems. It accounts the entire life cycle of a product, enhancing
material health, recyclability, renewable energy use, water efficiency and quality, and social responsibility. This new concept rejects the
concept of waste entirely. The 3 core principles of C2C are waste equal food, use of solar energy and celebrate diversity. An example
that I believe that embraces the cradle to cradle idea design is the Square Contactless + Chip Reader. Square Contactless + Chip
Reader is a commercial & industrial product that enables business to accept payments through apple and android pay and more. It
connects wirelessly to the seller’s square stand. The customer can pay by either holding their device close by or use their card by
inserting the chip. With the advantage of Apple’s touch ID, signatures are not required.
It can be reused in different scenarios when needed. It is practical, easy and affordable. It’s a tool that anyone can use, especially
business owners who no longer need to invest in a whole system of register which can expensive and messy looking. With this new
design, it’s sleek and wireless. It can be taken anywhere. Square Chip Reader design simplified the components of a card machine to
have everything it used to have but in a more efficient way that only takes 2 seconds to complete making the product more universal.
If we could condense a wallet full of cards into a singular cell phone, we would lower the amount of plastic needed in the world.
"Square Contactless Chip Reader." Industrial Designers Society of America - IDSA. August 18, 2016. Accessed May 03, 2017. http://www.idsa.org/awards/idea/commercial-industrial-products/square-contactless-chip-reader.
IDEA Awards and Cradle-to-
Cradle Video

Response to All Module 4 Materials
Your readings and viewings this week present different ways of thinking about architecture. Mies Van der Rohe describes architecture as “The will of
the epoch translated into space.” Andrew Ballantyne describes architecture as the background for life. Jeanne Gang describes it as the act of
building relationships. All agree that architecture can change based on context and culture. Choose two works of architecture from any of your
materials this week—one with sensibilities about the past and one with sensibilities about the present and/or future. How do each of these buildings
either reflect or challenge their cultural contexts? (Use the SEE-IT method to respond to this question.)
One work of architecture that I feel is sensible to the past is the Wainwright Building. It was the first building that reveals in height. It was described
in the video as 10 stories in a “lyrical way.” Skyscrapers began in 1990 in downtown New York and Chicago. Architects were fascinated with the
height of the buildings and were trying to figure out a way to design it. That’s when Skeleton frame construction was discovered, instead of holding
up buildings with thick wall of bricks and stones, they found a new way with thin metal frames. This made skyscrapers possible with elevators too!
Louis Sullivan came up with his approach “it must be every inch a proud and soaring thing.” Now you may ask, how did he make this building
soaring? Well he divided them into three parts, the Tripartite Design. First, you have the two-story base, which makes it look solid and gives humans
a perspective scale. Then, you have the floors of office, drawing your eyes upwards with both horizontal and vertical elements. Lastly, at the top, you
have the Terra Cotta ornaments and he used nature as his inspiration instead of old Greek designs. What made this building so great was that fact
that Louis Sullivan emphasized its skeleton and its essence of the building, showing the symbolism of the time and the technology. Many other
architects before him, thought the steel frames were ugly and always hid them. But, this new method/approach set the tone for the next century of
skyscraper construction showing off the heights and the steel frame work.
Similarly, I believe the Seagram Building located in Park Avenue in NYC is what sets the tone for the future. This building, by many people is passed
up because it looks like an ordinary office building. It was imitated so much but it is not like all. In 1989, the sleek glass skyscrapers were
introduced and it was groundbreaking. The Seagram Building as the U.S headquarter entered a new age. After Sullivan, architects let steel and
transparency of glass speak for themselves. Mies Van der Rohe was the architect that envisioned the glass skyscraper. It made the company look
cutting edge with and efficient with it’s elegant with its clean cut. This building is imitated all over New York and other parts of the country but it’s
the detail that’s in the Seagram building that sets it apart from the rest. The details are subtle but complex. It gives it the illusion that you are seeing
its bare bones of the building. It’s special and unique for its excellence in proportion, material use and the building’s relationship to the site. But the
biggest part that sets this building apart from the rest is its Broad plaza in front of the building. It left a space in the front as a gift for the people to
enjoy, though this was copied by many others, none looks as spectacular as this but rather like a prison yard.

Response to Ballantyne and Zumthor Articles
Andrew Ballantyne and Peter Zumthor present ideas about architecture that seem to value the sensorial
and material elements of life. How are Ballantyne’s and Zumthor’s viewpoints on architecture alike? More
importantly, how do they differ? (Use the SEE-IT method to respond to this question.)
Both Andrew Ballantyne and Peter Zumthor present ideas about architecture that value the sensorial and
material elements of life. Their viewpoints on architecture are alike because they both agree that the
aesthetic and the beauty of a building accommodates people’s lives and how it effects the human body
and its reaction. But more significantly, they differ in a sense that the reaction or the effect is different.
Ballantyne states that the buildings soon blends in and becomes a part of a routine and everyday life while
Zumthor believes that the building can still have an effect throughout time but lessens compared to its first
encounter.
Zumthor, Peter. Thinking architecture. Basel: Birkhauser Verlag, 2006.

Response to Levy Article
John Levy’s article, “An Overview: The Need for Planning,” discussed ways in
which planning can determine the characteristics of a place. For example,
some smaller towns restrict the heights of buildings to maintain a certain
scale. How did planning define the character of the place in which you grew
up?
I grew up in Bushwick, New York and the planning effected the character of the
place I grew up in. In John Levy’s article, “An Overview: The Need for Planning,”
he discussed that “The land-use decisions made by a community shape its very
character--what it is like to walk through, what it is like to drive through, who
lives in it, what types of jobs and businesses exist in it, how well the natural
environment survives, and whether the community is an attractive one or an
ugly one.” Where I lived, we had many 4 story houses and housing above retail
stores. We didn’t have many tall buildings or traffic. It was a very friendly, and
family oriented neighborhood. Due to this, a lot of the businesses that exists
were family owned and lot of the type of businesses that were dominant were
barbershop, salons, restaurants and coffee shops. Lot of the residents
depended on the subway to get around since, Bushwick was considered one of
the lower income neighborhood. The planning of Bushwick defined the
character of the place because it meant that I was heavily influence by family
oriented people and public transportation. It was different from where I live
now in buffalo because here, it is so quiet and peaceful but where I grew up,
people were always out and about and very connected with our community.
Levy, John M. 2006, "An Overview: The Need for Planning." Contemporary Urban Manning. Upper Saddle River, New Jersey: Pearson Prentice-Hall, pp.
1 - 6.
http://www.brooklynintergroup.org/images/zonemap1.gif

Imagine that you are part of a urban planning and design firm working with Emily Talen (author of “Design That Enables Diversity”) and Kent Larson (who
gave the TED Talk "Brilliant Designs to Fit More People In Every City" The thee of you have been tasked with developing a plan to rebuild Pruitt Igoe in St.
Louis. City officials told the three of you that that they want to do it right this time. Identify three strategies for rebuilding Pruitt Igoe in ways that promise to
be more successful. What would Talen do? What would Larson do? What would you do? How would your strategies differ from those of the original urban
planners/designers of the project? Why would your strategies be more effective?
If I were given the task to develop a plan to rebuild Pruitt Igoe in St. Louis. City, I would use these three different strategies for rebuilding Pruitt Igoe that
promises to be more successful. The three strategies I would use are supervision management, innovation and diversity.
Emily Talen (author of “Design That Enables Diversity”) concentrates more on the needs of the residents. She would make sure the community is diverse
both racially and economically. She would stress that children have a place to play, learn and provide a work area for those who work. She would be more
interested in creating properties that would be more diverse and adequate to all residents who come from all different backgrounds.
Oppose to Talen, Larson empathizes the importance of innovation and new design to fit more people in the city. He would favor taller buildings to fit more
residents and incorporate design like moving walls and folding cars to fit more in a smaller space. He wants to maximize the small space to best of its
abilities.
I would use both Talen and Larson method to redesign a plan to rebuild Pruitt Igoe in St. Louis. City. I would rebuild it to be more innovative but at the time
design for the residents and make sure it favor its community first. I would build a plan that can be both maintained and managed. I would have a security
system to watch over and manage the place. This way, the buildings wouldn’t be damaged or destroyed.
Cwavegan. YouTube. September 27, 2015. Accessed May 04, 2017. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xKgZM8y3hso.
https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/originals/e1/7a/25/e17a2578ad45633621cfb1d65dbbae2e.jp
Response to Pruitt Igoe Project, Talen, and Larson

Response to F.L. Olmsted
Displaying his plan at the 1876 Centennial Exposition in Philadelphia, Frederick Law Olmsted stated that "Buffalo is the best planned city, as to
its streets, public places, and grounds, in the United States, if not in the world." What was the basis for this claim? Would Olmsted still make
that claim today? Why or why not?
Frederick Law Olmsted displayed his plan at the 1876 Centennial Exposition in
Philadelphia, stating that "Buffalo is the best planned city, as to its streets, public
places, and grounds, in the United States, if not in the world." The basis of his
claim is that Buffalo had an original plan of a park system that was unique. Back
in 1870, Buffalo was booming in economy and Olmstead designed the first urban
system that connected all parks. It was a very unique design idea that stretched 6
miles with pathways in the heart of buffalo. The park system connected
communities with its pathway so it would not be so segregated. People were
allowed to walk out their homes and immediately be in the park, creating a notion
of city within a park. It was a very unique design idea that stretched 6 miles with
pathways in the heart of Buffalo. Olmstead impact on the western New York grew
beyond just the Buffalo park system, he began working on a natural campaign to
help save Niagara Falls. He was very passionate about what he was doing as a
landscape architect and put tremendous work into his planning for Buffalo Park.
But, I disbelieve that Olmstead would not make this claim today at least, not as
bold as he once said. The park pathway have been replaced by highways. The
industrial buildings have been littered all over the city and into the waterfront. They
have polluted the lakes and the grounds. They are no longer where it used to be
and highways are what people see outside their windows instead of the beautiful
buffalo scenery. Though buffalo is slowly making his recovery from its loss of
business and industries, it is still a slow progress so I don’t think Olmstead will
complete agree with what he once said.
http://www.pbs.org/video/2365468061/.
http://urbandesignproject.ap.buffalo.edu/projects/olmsted/images/bopc_system_sm.jpg

Response to Walter Hood's Work
Identify something that should be memorialized either on UB's campus or in your hometown. Imagine that you are the person who will oversee this project,
and that you are using Walter Hood's 'triad of investigations' as your approach to the project. What would your landscape intervention
commemorate/memorialize? How will you use Hood's 'triad of investigations' to design a new landscape intervention? What do you imagine that the
design will be? (Either written or visual descriptions are acceptable)
Ellicott Complex, a dorm in University at Buffalo, is the center of student life. It opened in 1974 and was formally dedicated in 1976, to eponym Joseph
Ellicott (1760-1826) In just one complex, there are not just one building, but six 10-story towers setting the foundation for the Joseph Ellicott Complex. It
provides aesthetic diversity and is pleasing to look at from both the exterior and interior. From the exterior, it is a mixture of towers and horizontal
buildings and in profile, it could be a medieval Italian village. It gives the aesthetic diversity looking out from Ellicott’s windows since most windows do not
provide the same view on the same area. The complex geometry of Ellicott makes it so that if one looks out from a window you see a different
combination of buildings and a views to Lake LaSalle and the small forest that exists outside of Ellicott. Besides its brilliant and unique idea, students
have often overlooked this project/ building calling it ugly, maze-like, and confusing. Most students tend to get lost in Ellicott since all the buildings are
connected and look the same. A sense of direction is very important in my opinion to make this project/model a successful one. This doesn’t necessarily
mean, have arrows pointing where you are going which can be pretty obnoxious and commercial like for a space that’s purposes residential. I think it can
use a little bit of an improvement. I think they should revamp and redesign the study halls to look different so you are aware of which of Ellicott you are in
and design the corner of each building as different interior color so once again, you will more aware of where you are going. I don’t believe they should
change the building completely and close off the corner connection because that’s what makes it unique but rather focus on those parts to celebrate the
importance of those corners and make is visually appealing and helpful for students and faculties to navigate throughout the entire six buildings.
http://studentaccounts.buffalo.edu/img/main/tuition/bbfees.jpg

Response to the Brookes
The abolitionist poster, the Brookes, is an iconic image that often is included in exhibits that explore issues of race and power. It was commissioned by Thomas
Clarkson in 1788, and the Committee of the Abolition of Slavery used it to inform and shock the public. While some consider the poster as an important
component of the abolitionist campaign, it recently “has been strongly criticized by some individuals and groups of African heritage as providing a very limited view
of the history of the transatlantic slave trade, resistance and abolition (Hudson 2007).” The lesson here is that how a viewer sees an image is dependent upon
his/her social, economic, and cultural position. Keeping this in mind, find another iconic graphic that addresses racial issues and post it for others in your group to
view.(Add it to your response by clicking on the picture in the tools section. Do not add it as an attachment that needs to be opened.) How do you interpret the
graphic? What is its meaning? Now imagine that someone from a racial and cultural background different than your own is looking at the same graphic. Briefly
describe this person. How might s/he interpret its meaning? How might this differ from your interpretation? What are the possible reasons for these
differences? (Consider the three assessment principles mentioned in the article to help you: a technology of vision, an instrument of empathy, and a symbol of
control.)
This photo was taken by Elliot Erwitt in North Carolina, 1950. It
represents the injustice of segregation of black and white people in
America during this time in history. This image expresses how much
change that was needed to be happen. Just by simply looking at the
photo, we do not need much background knowledge because the photo
itself tells a story. The white fountain to the left looks so much more
deluxe than the fountained that’s labeled for colored. This emphasized
the lack of equality of in race. In this photo, you can see the man
glancing over to the “white” fountain to see how much better it is
compared to the fountain he was drinking from. After WWII. The
southern parts of U.S was fully segregated, including schools, hotel, train,
elevators, restaurants, churches and hospitals has separate areas for
white and blacks. Now, imagining someone from a different racial and
cultural background, I still feel like they would view the image the same
way I do. They would interpret the image in a similar way and see the
lack of equality in race
http://www.christies.com/lotfinderimages/D55446/elliott_erwitt_segregated_water_fountains_north
_carolina_1950_d5544674g.jpg

Charles Davis and equityXdesign's Work
Critique either the MLK Memorial or the National Museum of African American History and Culture using equityXdesign’s core beliefs and/or design
principles.
The MLK Memorial is a sanctuary of memories that reflects the year
the Civil Rights Act of 1964 became a law. The foundation of this
structure relates to the underlying theme of belief #1. As using the
quote “With this faith, we will be able to hew out of the mountain of
despair a stone of hope,” from I Have a Dream as reference, the
foundation itself is a carved mountain with a slice pulled out known
as the “Stone of Hope”. The “mountain of despair” incorporates
scrapes that signifies the struggle and movement that the activists
and MLK had to endure. The whole foundation carries the theme of
freedom and the battles that the citizens from that time fought. This
memorial unites the beliefs that still stand today in our diverse
community. It’s a place for every race to feel at peace and equal
amongst one another. The memorial is also a constant reminder of
how times were and how we advanced physically and mentally. Being
a part of such a distinct community, it’s important to understand the
legacy and the traits we inherited that surround the structure itself
EquityXdesign. "Racism and inequity are products of design. They can be redesigned." Medium. November 15, 2016.
Accessed May 04, 2017. https://medium.com/@multiplyequity/racism-and-inequity-are-products-of-design-they-can-be-
redesigned-12188363cc6a.
https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/c/c2/MLK_Memorial_NPS_photo.jp

"Landscape Stories" Chapter
First, let’s start with your own home. Describe a place in your home (indoors and/or outdoors) that you think of as representative of your own ethnic background and
discuss why you consider this place to be ‘ethnic’. –OR-- Describe an object in your home that you think of as representative of your ethnic background and discuss why this
object is considered to be ‘ethnic’. (If possible, add photo/s.) Is this object or place something that you will keep or continue when you establish your own home? Why or
why not?
Now let’s move into your community. In “Landscape Stories,” the authors show how landscape architects develop a historical narrative that sifts through and interprets the
culture and material of underrepresented groups. Think about the community where you grew up. Describe and discuss any evidence of cultural influences on the physical
environment in your community. If possible, describe evidence of the cultural influence of an underrepresented group. (If possible, add photo/s.) Is this cultural influence
being acknowledged or preserved from future generations? Why or why not?
I live in a small apartment in New York with my family. In our space, we have a
prayer room where we keep a Buddhist shrine/altar with different types of
statues that we pray to. The room is very holy-like and respected in our
household. I think this place in our home is a representation of my ethnic
background because I am a Tibetan Buddhist and it’s really important for me to
live by that religion and culture. Being from New York City, it’s a mash of all
different cultural background so it is important for me to recognize mine. In
future, I plan on moving back to NYC and this place is something that I want to
keep when I establish my own home. Having that room for prayer makes me feel
safe and have something to believe in. I grew up with a Tibetan ethnic
background and now it’s my culture to continue what I was raised with.
Where I am from, there are many Latin-Americans and they make a huge
cultural influence in the community. It is definitely obvious when you walk around
the neighborhood because lot of the older generations hang out in the front yard.
Most of the stores are family business and run by them or their children. Almost
every sign is written in Spanish and almost everyone speaks Spanish as their first
language. The cultural influence is definitely being acknowledged especially
during Latin Parade, the streets are filled with people and music.
Halter, Marilyn. Shopping for identity: the marketing of ethnicity. New York: Schocken Books, 2002.
http://education.rma2.org/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/Shrine-Room-Image-1024x726.jpg

Sports Branding
Recent controversies about sports branding focus on ethnicity. The Washington Redskins team is just one example of the larger controversy, but it
receives the most public attention due to the name itself being defined as derogatory or insulting in modern dictionaries, and the prominence of
the team representing the nation’s capital. Should sports team branding designers use ethnic references (Fighting Irish, Boston Celtics, Atlanta
Braves, etc.)? Why? Why not? What are some of the complexities of this issue?
In my opinion, I can argue both sides. I am not clearly sure which
side to support. I feel that the team did not use the name in a
derogatory way. Maybe it isn’t the most idealist or the brightest
idea to use an ethic reference to represent a population that does
not relate. Everyone on the redskin team isn’t necessarily Native
Americans. Many people might not agree with me but in my
personal opinion, I don’t think this is offensive but I could see why
someone might think so. As along as the ethnic references for
sport team brand is acceptable and respectful between the ethic
group and the brand, I see no problem.
Sports, Erik Brady. "The real history of Native American team names." USA Today. August 25, 2016. Accessed May 04,
2017. https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/2016/08/24/real-history-native-american-team-names/89259596/.
http://prod.static.redskins.clubs.nfl.com/nfl-assets/img/gbl-ico-team/WAS/logos/home/large.png

"Visualizing Gender”
In the chapter “Communicating Gender,” Maya Ganesh and Gabi Sobliye discuss two primary visual advocacy approaches: 1) get the
idea, and 2) stories in data. Find a new example of either of the two visual advocacy approaches to gender issues, and post it in this
thread. Cite the source. First, identify the approach. Then explain how the designer uses the approach to communicate a gender
issue. Is the approach effective in this example? Why or why not? How could this graphic be improved?
On February 1, 2017, Audi used the Super bowl AD to
promote gender pay equality with a story about a father
and daughter. It shows a father evaluating how society will
value his daughter’s significance as she competes in a
downhill cart race. He is doubting her value in the world
because she is a female. But the AD ends with her father
hoping that she will treated fairly just as Audi commits to
pay equal for equal work. I think this approach is effective
because it was directed by a woman named Aoife McArdle,
a very well-known director who has carried out a similar
message in the past. Coming from a female, the
advertisement feels a little bit more personal and genuine
rather from a Male perspective who may not know about
women’s suffrage first hand.
AudiofAmerica. YouTube. February 01, 2017. Accessed May 04, 2017.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G6u10YPk_34.
http://talktown.dk/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/10.majfoto.png

Bathroom Bill
Last year, North Carolina Governor Pat McCrory signed into law a bill that repealed local LGBT anti-discrimination laws, and required
people to use the bathroom that corresponded with the biological gender written on their birth certificates. This prompted massive
backlash. McCrory stated, “You know, we all have to make adjustments in life. And we’ve had the proper etiquette situation for
decades in our country, and all of a sudden through political correctness we’re throwing away basic etiquette.” Just this past Thursday,
the North Carolina General Assembly passed a bill to repeal the law while placing a moratorium on nondiscrimination measures.
Should people be required to use the bathroom that corresponds with the biological gender written on their birth certificate? State
why AND state why not. In other words, to receive full credit for this question, you need to present an argument for both sides of the
issue. As a designer, how would you solve this gender dilemma?
I personally think people should not be required to use a
bathroom that corresponds with their biological gender that’s written
on a birth certificate but rather what you identify yourself with the
most. If you are a female but identify yourself as a male and use the
female bathroom, I can see why someone will be uncomfortable with
a “guy” using a women’s restroom and personally, I would be little
thrown off and feel awkward. It can definitely catch some people off
guard. It would be a lot easier if people just used the bathroom that
their biological gender associated with but obviously that has brought
more disagreement so as a designer, a gender neutral bathroom for
those who no longer associate themselves with their biological
gender would help solve this problem of gender dilemma. We have a
gender neutral bathroom at UB capen hall and I think it is a pretty
sweet idea and we should have more of those to further avoid this
conflict.
https://cbschicago.files.wordpress.com/2014/07/gender-neutral.jpg

Hidden Ways
Author Steven Flusty categorized five types of disciplinary architecture that perpetuate what he calls urban spatial injustice: 1) stealthy,
2) slippery, 3) crusty, 4) prickly, and 5) jittery. Go out into the city of Buffalo, and find/photograph two examples from the list of five.
Identify what type of space you’ve photographed and why it might discriminate against a specific population. Identify the location where
you took the photograph, and make certain that you are in at least one of the two photographs.
Buffalo City Hall Observatory is an example of stealthy space because though it is a public space and anyone can go up to the
deck and enjoy the view, it is designed in a way that makes it uneasy to find. When entering the city hall, there isn’t a clear
signage pointing out this space, it is poorly marked and makes it inaccessible to passing pedestrian despite the fact that it is
designed for public use. I understand, because though it is a “public” space, they don’t want it to be super visible where
everyone will go up. I even remember when I went there were security desk that u had to pass by to access the public deck.
This graffiti alley in downtown buffalo near Allentown is an example of a crusty space. It is easy to find and spot but if
it weren’t for the metal fence blocking the way, more people can approach these arts and get a closer look. The gate avoids
people from entering the area even though it is technically a public space.
Jaffe, Eric. "The Hidden Ways Urban Design Segregates The Poor." Co.Design. April 28, 2017. Accessed May 04, 2017. https://www.fastcodesign.com/3034206/slicker-city/the-hidden-ways-urban-design-
segregates-the-poor.

People Like Us
After almost two decades of public assistance, Tammy Crabtree took herself and her family off the welfare rolls. But her job cleaning
bathrooms at a local Burger King barely paid the bills. Crabtree wanted to do better and hopes to go to college and become a
teacher.
Imagine this scenario. You are a designer who works at the well-known firm, iPD(Integrated Planning and Design). You work on a
team with planners, urban designers, policy designers, architects, and social designers. You have been tasked to develop/design a
way for Tammy Crabtree and her family (and others with situations similar to Tammy’s) to move themselves out of poverty. What will
your team to do to help Tammy and her family achieve their goals? What approach will your team take to address this difficult
problem?
While watching this video of Tammy and her family, I noticed that even
though she didn’t have the most luxurious and the most comfortable life,
she still felt content. She even mentioned in that if her father was alive, he
would be proud of that. I found that very touching because living in this
generation, we tend to be brats, materialistic and never seemed to be
satisfied. But, all Tammy cared about was educating herself so she can
provide something for her children.
As a designer, I would develop and design a way for Tammy’s family and
other who are in similar situation to move themselves out of poverty by not
isolating themselves. Tammy lives in isolation with her family. I think
talking to other families and having neighbors would be very beneficial in
her case so she is able to see her dream more vividly. I also building more
workshops where people of lower income can come and share their stories
will be helpful to kids to realize that they aren’t alone and there are ways
of fixing it. Free programs and workshop where they teach you some
working skills can be very useful for both Tammy and her kids to learn so
they can help out the family instead of being a couch potato. It’s not
always simple to make those plans into reality but those are just some
suggestions that I think would help Tammy’s family achieve their goal.
Cnam2000. YouTube. March 30, 2015. Accessed May 04, 2017. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=37ZpauS5Doo.

Carroll Article: “(Re)forming Regent Park: When Policy Does Not Equal
Practice”
The development of Regent Park is phased, and there are several more phases to the project.
What actions could be taken to ensure more social integration for the older people living in the ‘new and improved’ Regent
Park?
In my opinion, the development of Regent Park is a good idea but I have some suggestions and actions that
could be taken to ensure a better integration that accommodate to the elderly. There should be more
incorporations that cater to the elderly crowd. Older people are bored and most of them are just waiting on
their time. Instead of sitting around and having nothing to do, the Regent park should add more activities
that help these elderly get their daily exercise, which mean more places to walk around while having
something pleasant to look at and enjoy. Having free public transportation will be advantageous because it
would inspire them to leave the house and get out and explore. Other amenities would be useful such as a
library, senior center, anything that would help them get out their house and socialize amongst others.
Another suggestion that I have is actually from the TED talk by Enriquez on “What Will Humans Look Like in
100 Years”, where he says one positive thing that comes from aging is experience. Older folks have more
experience and are wiser, so that means they mostly be more useful for giving out advice and being care
takers.
Diamond, Jared. "How societies can grow old better." Jared Diamond: How societies can grow old better | TED Talk | TED.com. Accessed May 04, 2017.
https://www.ted.com/talks/jared_diamond_how_societies_can_grow_old_better?language=en.

Enriquez TED Talk: “What Will Humans Look Like in 100 Years?”
For this question, we will focus on Juan Enriquez’ Life Two civilization, which alters fundamental aspects of the body. We are living
longer than ever before in human history. Enriquez argues that, because of advances in bio-medical technology, the possibility of
living to 120 years of age and beyond is quite possible for many of us in this D+D class. Assuming that his assertion is accurate, how
do you think extended life spans will change our societies and built environments? What new issues might designers face because of
extended life spans?
Assuming that Enriquez assertion on the advances in bio-medical
technology creating a possibility of extended life span is
accurate, it will change our society and built a new environment,
something we are not already use to. Our society will have more
significance to the “elderly” age. The youth that we consider from
the age of 18-25 will no longer be the youth of our society but
instead, it will be an older group. The work force will include older
people than what are already used to. Overall I think, this will set
everything back. Society would not see “wise” at the age of 30
but instead at an older age. This also means that we will be
overpopulated and designers will face new problems to build an
environment where everyone has their space but still fit.
Designers will face other issues regarding age because more
people will be living up to 120 years of age instead of the 80-90
years
Enriquez, Juan. "What will humans look like in 100 years?" Juan Enriquez: What will humans
look like in 100 years? | TED Talk | TED.com. Accessed May 04, 2017.
https://www.ted.com/talks/juan_enriquez_what_will_humans_look_like_in_100_years?lang
uage=en.

PPT, Smithsonian, and Roy
The two most frequently mentioned models of disability are the ‘social’ and the ‘medical’ models. The medical model of disability views disability as a
medical ‘problem’ that belongs to the disabled individual. The social model of disability, in contrast, draws on the idea that it is society that disables
people, through designing everything to meet the needs of the majority of people who are not disabled. There is a recognition within the social model
that there is a great deal that society can do to reduce, and ultimately remove, some of these disabling barriers, and that this task is the responsibility
of society, rather than the disabled person.
In the Smithsonian online exhibition, the story about the superhero hand, and Elise Roy’s TED Talk, you saw examples of ways to engage disability that
use the social model rather than the medical model. In the Disability and Design PowerPoint, you were introduced to the concept of Universal Design
(UD) (sometimes called inclusive design, design-for-all, or human-centered design). Certainly, UD embraces the social model of disability. In this same
PowerPoint, you saw positive and negative examples of each of the seven principles of universal design. For the Module 12 Thread 1, please select one
of the seven universal design principles, and post photographs that show both a positive and a negative example of the principle. Then address the
following question: How do your examples empower or disempower various people? Describe the specific features of the positive example and the
specific features of the negative example. Discuss ways that the positive example could be even further improved.
From the seven universal design principles, I chose equitable use. I think it is important
that design can be equally use among everyone that does not isolate or stigmatize
towards any group. The picture on the left is a drawers with knobs, which excludes
anyone who has arthritis because it requires them to have more physical strength to
open the drawers. On the right is a picture of a drawers with a pull which is much easier
on arthritic hands. The pull design gives more room for the hands to reach under to grab
it and pull it. The knob is small and it forces the hand to be in an uncomfortable and
ammonal position to then pull the small knob. This isolates anyone with a disability to
use drawers with knobs so a pull drawer would be much easier and idealistic for those
with arthritis. But to the further improve this design, I think an automatic drawer would
be a great design that would help anyone with a disability/elderly to open a drawer
without much physical effort.
Roy, Elise. Elise Roy: When we design for disability, we all benefit | TED Talk | TED.com. Accessed May 04, 2017.
https://www.ted.com/talks/elise_roy_when_we_design_for_disability_we_all_benefit.http://images.prod.meredith.com/product/6776f20963693e5038ecd2dd89ffc65d/6489

Survey, FIXED, and Stelarc
Currently, we have the technology for you to choose many of the survey characteristics in your future child, and this ability to choose poses some ethical
questions. Of course, we all want the best for our own child. However, as we move into a more collective situation, we need to consider how the
consequences of majority choices for children might change who we are as a species.
In the film trailer FIXED, you were introduced to the dilemma of living in a culture in which the “science-fiction of human enhancement” has become
almost a way of life, from prenatal genetic screening to bionic body parts. In the video, “A Man with Three Ears” you are introduced to an artist who is
using current technology to move humans beyond their current abilities. Last week, Juan Enriquez asked us if it is ethical to evolve the human body. All
of these videos suggest that the concept of disability ‘as we know it’ could cease to exist in the future.
What lessons do you think we should learn from history when thinking about emerging enhancement technologies and reproductive
technologies? What are some of the possible consequences (both positive and negative) of being able to design our bodies and the bodies of our
children? What ethical quandaries do these technologies pose?
The Reproductive technology incorporates all current and anticipated uses of technology in human and
animal reproduction. Various techniques in technology have been advanced and refined to obtain a large number of offspring
from genetically superior ones. Techniques such as artificial insemination, cryopreservation (freezing) of gametes or embryos,
induction of multiple ovulations, embryo transfer, sex determination of sperm or embryos, cloning, etc. are all ways to enhance
the human self to the best of its capability. This issue has been closely tied to the value and ethics. Many issues of reproductive
technology have given rise to ethics issues because this technology that alters the expectations that is between an existing
systems of sexual and reproductive morality. Everyone is born differently with their unique traits. One might more advanced in
sports rather than their attractiveness and one might be logically intelligent while someone could be creative. These are all traits
that can help us differentiate ourselves from one another and makes us pretty unique specimen from others. There are both
positive and negative consequences of being able to design our bodies and the bodies our children. The positive being that we
can prevent further disease and disability by monitoring and designing a body that’s healthy. One might argue that having all the
great genes is a good thing but that would make all human kinds the same and at the pint, those genes would not be seen as
important or be cherished like how we do today. But at the same time, only those with money can afford this RT and that would
create a huge gap between the ones who are produced naturally from those who are genetically made at a lab. This also poses a
lot of ethical quandaries and those who are religious tend to disagree with the reproductive technology.
MakingChangeMedia1. YouTube. May 11, 2012. Accessed May 04, 2017. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nl4CdnLue-k.=

Thread 1: Response to Titicut Follies
The state of Massachusetts tried to ban the 1967 documentary Titicut Follies, arguing that director Frederick Wiseman had violated
the patients’ rights by not getting written permission to film them. The case went to court, and Wiseman argued that he had consent
from their legal guardian, the institution. After a judge ruled in favor of the state, the legal appeals carried on for several years: in
1969, Massachusetts allowed the film to be shown to doctors, lawyers, and health care professionals; in 1991, a superior court judge
ruled it could be released for the “general public,” as privacy concerns were no longer at issue, so many years later.
Should Wiseman have been allowed to film the residents of Bridgewater Massachusetts Correctional Facility? Why or why not? How
might this film be of value to designers (communication designers, product, designers, architects, interior designers, planners,
landscape designers, systems designers, and/or social designers)? In other words, what might they gain from this film that they could
use in their work?
I believe that the documentary, Titicut Follies, did not violate the patient’s right by not getting a written permission
to film them. The patient’s right is technically given up when they are checked into the correctional facility. I believe
that Wiseman doesn’t need a direct permission from the patients if their legal guardian, the institution, gave
consent. A person under the age of 18, is still considered an adolescent and their rights are not fully theirs because
their parents still have a say and right over them. Similarly, I see this situation as that and though I understand why
this was controversial and feel emphatics towards the patients, I still think the guardian’s consent is valid enough.
Therefore, Wiseman have been allowed to film the residents of Bridgewater Massachusetts Correctional Facility
without a direct permission from the patient. The documentary reveals a lot of inhumane activity that goes in the
facility and the horrible living conditions that these patients live in. It depicts the the empty cell and the dirty walls.
From just a short clip of the film, you can see patients forcefully fed, strip naked and bullied by staff members. The
patients are classified to be “insane” but that does not give anyone the right to treat them any less than a human. I
believe that the The state of Massachusetts tried to ban this film not because they were emphatic towards the
patients but more because they were afraid of the truth getting out about the inhumane actions in Bridgewater
State Hospital. The film can be of value to designers because they can gain a lot of insight from the film to use in
their work. As a product designer, one can design the product to be more suitable for someone with a mental illness
so they don’t end up hurting themselves. As for interior designer, they can design the facility to look less bland and
“prison-like” and make it more appealing with white and splashes of color here and there to motivate and keep the
mood to be positive and inspiring.

Response to PPT, The Architecture of Autism, Public Space
Prelude: Wolf Wolfensberger's seminal work "The Origin and Nature of Our Institutional Models" posited that society characterizes people with intellectual disabilities
as sub-human and burdens of charity, He argued that this dehumanization, and the segregated institutions that result from it, ignored the potential productive
contributions that all people can make to society. He pushed for a shift in policy and practice that recognized the human needs of those with intellectual challenges
and provided the same basic human rights as for the rest of the population.
The Scenario: Imagine that you and your four children live in Amherst, New York in a $650,000 home at the end of a cul-de-sac on the edge of a ten acre woods. The
town has purchased a one acre lot three houses away from yours, and plans to build a group home for ten intellectually challenged adults.
As a resident of the neighborhood, would you support or oppose this proposal and why?
You've learned additional information about the residents of the proposed group home in your neighborhood. In 2013, three of the ten intended residents exhibited
challenging behaviors including screaming, public masturbation, repetitive rocking, and echolalia (elective incontinence). However, these behaviors have not occurred
since then.
How would this change your opinion about the construction of the group home in your neighborhood?
The residents in your neighborhood voted (14-3) to reject the town of Amherst’s proposal to build a group home in the neighborhood. Town officials agreed that the
home would not be built in your neighborhood if you and your neighbors could develop a workable alternative.
What are some possible solutions that would allow the residents of the home to be provided with “the same basic human rights as the rest of the population”?
As a residents of the neighborhood, I would support this proposal as I see no wrong with this. I mean we all
want the perfect environment, with no chaos, but we live in an imperfect world where chaotic exists and to me
that makes it normal and somewhat perfect. The challenging behaviors including screaming, public
masturbation, repetitive rocking, and echolalia (elective incontinence) by the residents of the proposed groups
occurred 4 years ago! That doesn’t mean it cannot happen again but after all, we are all human and I am
willing to take the chance as long as its not physically harmful and threatening towards anyone in the
community. I don’t see nothing negative coming out of this plan at all. People get better and if we don’t neglect
them and disapprove them, these group of 10 wonderful residents have the chance to live better and get
better. Segregating and degrading the group home is wrong and everyone should just support this proposal.
Some possible solutions that would allow the residents of the home to be provided with “the same basic
human rights as the rest of the population” is putting the situation into perspective so they can feel more
compassionate towards the condition.

The Connection Between Religion and Urban Planning by David Engwicht
In his article, David Engwicht discusses the fact that religions (of all types) have played major roles in the development of our cities. Today, places of
worship are primary components of almost all urban centers. Author Lorne Daniel writes “From their often active role in supporting people who live in
city centers to their iconic influence on design and use of space, religious structures tell us a lot about our history, our current needs, and where we
might be headed in the future. This is an aspect of our urban future that planners and urbanists should attend to.”
Identify a place of worship with which you are somewhat familiar. (If you are not familiar with any places of worship, do a bit of research on one in your
own city or town.) Show a photograph of this religious structure. (You may use photographs from the web.) What roles has this place served in the
development of your city/town? How has it influenced the design of the area around it? How has its role changed over time? What roles could this place
of worship play in the future development of your city/town?
Growing up, I went to this Tibetan-Buddhist monastery near me with my
great parents. It played a significant role in the development of our little
town in India, where there was not much to do. Our community is designed
in a very family-oriented way with a lot of grandparents and great grand
parents. The monastery being walking distance from our neighborhood, it
had a great influence on the elderly as it gave them an opportunity to walk
and get their daily exercise and a place to meet up with their friends and
pray together. But overtime, the role has shifted towards a different crowd,
the younger generation. Even though, there are still a lot of elderly still
there, the monastery has set up classes for anyone to learn more about
Buddhism. Many of the younger generation took interest in these classes
and I have seen more of them surrounding the area. This place of worship
should still continue to play these roles in the future development of our
town and hopefully, more classes would be provided with English translation
and other languages so It can reach a wider audience.

Prospects for the Future of Diversity and Design
Consider the quote in your syllabus from educator Michael J. Shannon: “Design, as vision in action--the intersection of understanding and creation--is a universal
human capability that can play a fundamental role in social evolution, in the process that transforms resources, energy, and information to make our
world.”
At the beginning of this course, we discussed the idea that we are all designers regardless of our profession or field of study. We’ve asked some big questions
along the way, and the conclusion section of our textbook raises additional issues that require input from people who might not consider themselves to be part of
the formalized design professions.
Think about your own major and/or future profession. What is the biggest challenge, problem, or question that your field needs to tackle right now? What do you
plan to do to address this challenge, problem, or question either as part of your studies or professional life?
Currently I am majoring in architecture and planning and one of the biggest
challenge for me as of now is the balance between following the rules vs
breaking them for your imagination to flow. By this, I mean when I have
project review days, often time we get mixed feedbacks, some that lie on the
two opposite side of a spectrum. As designers, we are told to follow
instructions and not to break any rules that isn’t necessary but who is to
determine what is necessary or not. I always had trouble letting my creativity
flow because in the back of my head, I knew there was still rules to follow
and grades that was needed to be earned. Architecture is supposed to be
unique, original, aesthetic and stand out from the rest. Many times during my
final reviews, I get so many different feedbacks where one might like one
thing about project but a different reviewer might hate it completely. As a
designer, you will always get different opinion on your work but its important
to realize what you like and dislike about your project first and to move
forward with that. A second pair of eyes are important but it think the best
way to this challenge is first evaluate your work before lending your lenses to
someone else. This way, you aren’t biased towards your work.
https://www.javacodegeeks.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/architecture.jpg

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