Abstract:

This essay addresses the need of a community to engage in design opportunities within the surroundings of an industrial driven town planned out of conveyance. Alaska’s Kenai Peninsula is home to some of the world’s most beautiful land and natural surroundings. The beauty of the oceans, mountains and lakes has not been reflected in the built environment. The industrial mindset has left a sprawl of dilapidated buildings in the midst of residential and undeveloped nature. A change in perception is needed. Residences need to see an investment in the built environment that will match the beauty of the surrounding nature. Through questioning I will address the need for the community to band together, finding a sense of place that is derived from the community, to establish confidence and guidelines for the future.