Finding the Identity of a City

Abstract

As people continue to leave cities, the American metropolis has seen a decline in population and, with this loss, a loss of confidence in the city by current and former citizens. The attitude about the metropolis has turned from a prosperous beacon of American economy to a pessimistic view of the city. This change in attitude has created a bleak future for the metropolis. There are still many benefits to living in a city that people may have forgotten about or feel are no longer relevant to our society. The density of the city also brings together people from many cultures and religions in close proximity, providing a vibrant and varied environment. So if the city can offer much more in the way of opportunities to be enriched versus a suburban town for instance, why do people continue to leave the cities across our country? By seeking out the identity of a particular city, architecture could embody this identity and lead to a renewed interest in the city. Drawing in businesses or public uses to vacant buildings can provide the needed jumpstart for cities. Once citizens and people from surrounding areas can see the city in a new light they may reconsider their past attitudes about this place. This analysis would lead to new buildings, restorations, and/or public spaces that would somehow create, enhance or make aware the history and opportunities available in a city. Through the transformation of existing, iconic buildings and structures, revitalization and growth would occur. The architecture will identify the city in which it is built. The site selected will have some historical importance to the city it is in. The program will strive to convey the identity of the city by showcasing the city’s history along with local artists’ work and local retailers. Also a recreational area will be important because it will help draw more people to the project.