LinkScape

Graduate Design Studio | Fall 2023 | Carmel, IN

A redesigned suburban prototype that reimagines mixed-use living for contemporary households in Carmel, Indiana.

Professors : Ellen Dunham-Jones, Didem Ekici

Softwares Used : AutoCAD, Rhino, Sketchup, Photoshop, InDesign, Lumion, Enscape

LinkScape challenges outdated suburban models by transforming a vacant mall into a vibrant, inclusive neighborhood hub. This project addresses the needs of evolving household structures, including working parents, aging populations, and diverse family configurations, through an integrated mix of housing, workplaces, recreation, and communal spaces.

The design features townhouses, coworking areas, sunset terraces, children’s zones, and green infrastructure, such as bioswales and permeable pavements, all of which foster community engagement and environmental resilience. Gender-sensitive strategies and shared courtyards promote interaction, visibility, and safety, ultimately enhancing the quality of life for residents.

LinkScape prioritizes walkability, climate-conscious practices, and social cohesion, serving as a model for equitable suburban retrofits. Its adaptive design reflects a progressive response to the changing demographics and lifestyles in American suburbia.