Cayler Point: The revitalization of Brownfields

Abstract

Our planet is becoming increasingly urbanized, with roughly half of the human population residing in urban areas. Equipped with infrastructure, public facilities, and sufficient job markets; urban areas attract migrants from all over the world. With such large populations that are continuously growing, the housing supply and infrastructure of urban areas cannot support its population. In an effort to create more housing, many urban areas continue to develop in ways that affect the social and physical well-being of human beings and the environment. This thesis explores how the redevelopment of brownfields can provide a more sustainable solution for housing production in urban areas and demonstrates how these residential developments can be constructed and designed in a way that will benefit both the environment and residents of a community. Through the use of a waterfront site located in the Greenpoint neighborhood of Brooklyn, this thesis demonstrates through design sustainable construction and building practices, housing that will help meet the needs of the community through a mix of affordability rates, and inclusive design strategies that will help reduce segregation in urban areas.