An analysis that examines how a user experiences space sequentially tells us a lot about how we can transform a building. This project is located at the intersection of Vliet Street and 39th Street. Given that it is a corner lot, it can be approached via two directions: north-south entering from Vliet Street and east-west entering from 39th Street. This design adapts the building as a way to make good use of both street edges. Traditionally, the "front" of these buildings are considered to be the ones directly facing Vliet Street. This project explores what happens when we turn the corner and encounter a second entrance that addresses the needs of a new set of users. |
Phase 1:
In addition to the series of storefronts, there is one large commercial space in the interior. This space is easy to arrange to fit different functions. Some of these functions may include a liquor store (current function), a small library / bookstore, or a small grocery store. |
Phase 2:
With adaptive reuse, adding/subtracting interior (non-load bearing) walls can be a quick way to change the function of a space. Expansions can also be made to make the space larger (as shown in this second plan). Some functions of this new layout may include a small diner, coffee shop, a deli, or a bakery. |
The map below shows what Vliet Street could (ideally) look like. The dark grey represents vacant buildings, the light grey properties represent rented out buildings and the white represents owner occupied properties. Compared to current conditions, this is a much better improvement with only residences being rented out, while vacant and commercial spaces are owned and occupied by locals.
Relocating a bus stop on the corner of 39th and Vliet would allow neighbors to stop and support local entrepreneurs on their way to and from work and benefit from the convenience of finding daily goods and services in their immediate neighborhood.
Relocating a bus stop on the corner of 39th and Vliet would allow neighbors to stop and support local entrepreneurs on their way to and from work and benefit from the convenience of finding daily goods and services in their immediate neighborhood.
Currently, the majority of Vliet Street is zoned as Commercial (LB2). Local Business 2 is defined as a district that "provide[s] a wide range of goods and services to a large consumer population coming from an extensive area".
I recommend changing the zoning to Commercial (NS2). Neighborhood Shopping 2 is defined as a district that "provide for residential uses as well as commercial uses that serve the neighborhood. Such commercial uses are necessary to satisfy basic shopping and service needs that occur frequently and must, therefore, be located close to residential areas". Given the information provided for this project, this zoning would better serve the community in providing convenient, quality goods and services. Although Vliet Street is zoned Commercial, there is a mix of Residential zoning that fronts this commercial corridor. In addition, the streets directly North and South of Vliet are both zoned Residential. |
City of Milwaukee. “Zoning Information.” Official Website of the City of Milwaukee. Department of City Development. Web. N.d.