Faculty of Design
Environmental Design - Interior Design Specialization
Chelsea Prime
Urban Connectivity: A Model for Sustainable Futures
Environmental Design
2024
For my thesis project, I have designed a vertical living condo building. In response to the ever-growing population and challenges created by limited space within downtown Toronto, the solution of vertical living works toward the reimagination of urban spaces by using sustainable practices paired with biophilic design that will create a healthy and welcoming environment for the community residing here while working towards creating better well-being and preserving our natural environment. The initiative of vertical living is to expand urban environments vertically rather than horizontally, while also reimplementing greenery and biodiversity that has been taken away from our natural environment through man-made structures. The concept I have used to guide my Project is connectivity, with the metaphor of a Chrysalis. Connectivity represents the bridge between nature and dense city settings, while simultaneously creating connections between nature and the inhabitants of the building. The symbol of a chrysalis is made to protect a caterpillar during its transformation into a butterfly, and by using the objectives of sustainable and biophilic design, like a chrysalis, we can preserve and protect our natural environment, transform the way urban areas are designed, and create greener lifestyles by reducing our carbon footprint.
Celebrate the work of OCAD U’s class of 2023/2024!