RE-ACTIVATE, exploring the potential of media-embedded architecture in reinforcing social interactions

摘要

Modern communication technologies both support and complicate social interaction in public spaces. This thesis, RE-ACTIVATE, is first inspired by observing new modes of social interaction that are aided by tools like the smart phone, and it examines the shifting notion of ???place??? towards an online environment. Considering that architecture has historically served as a framework for social activity, and that there has traditionally been an interwoven relationship between architecture and technology, RE-ACTIVATE urges the integration of architecture with media technology as a strategy for reinvigorating urban spaces and spurring social interaction.The thesis proceeds by engaging in a series of design explorations and producing an array of built prototypes embedded with programmable Arduino microprocessors and proximity sensors. These modular prototypes are designed as components for buildings or installations, which serve to intrigue the senses, imbed information, create spaces, incorporate ubiquitous computing and interface with the Internet.