Resort Hotel

Architecture as a Natural System:
Resort Hotel
for Papago Park
Phoenix, Arizona
by
DARREN MARTINEZ
A THESIS
IN
ARCHITECTURE
Submitted to the Architecture Faculty

of the College of Architecture
of Texas Tech University in
Partial Fulfillment for
the Degree of
BACHELOR OF MICHITECTURE
Chairman of the Committee
Programming Instructor (ARCH 4395): Professor Robert Perl

Design Critic (ARCH 4692): Professor Phillip Mead
Thesis Advisor: Professor James E, White
Accepted
Deati^ College of Architecture
Date
A RESORT HOTEL
BY
DARREN MARTINEZ
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Abstract 2
Chapter I: Thesis Research
Preface 3
Introduction 4
Project statement 6
Thesis Topic 7
Thesis Synthesis 8
Thesis Statement 16
Thesis Vehicle 17
Annotated Bibliography 44
Thesis Case Studies 20
Chapter II: Context Issues

Cultural Context
and Potential Response 45
Psychological Context
Built Context
Natural Context
Context Issues Case Studies 55
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Chapter III. Facility Program

Analysis of Activities
Overview 70
Primary Activities and Participants 73
Secondary Activities and Participants ....76
Analysis of Spaces
Association with Activities 100
Typical Requirements and Characteristics 100
Unique Requirements and Characteristics .100
Relationships of Spaces
Adjacency / Separation 141
Community / Privacy 142
Construction 143
Other Criteria 144
Facility Type Case Studies 147
Chapter IV: Summary of Spaces 101
Chapter V: Economic Analysis 154
Bibliography 157
Appendix 159
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ABSTRACT
The following thesis is an exploration into systems
theory. By using Ervin Laszlo's four guidelines as
to the performance of a natural system, I will
explore if architecture and the environment can be
a balanced integrated system, a natural system.
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PREFACE
Since the beginning of time, man (a natural
system) has had to deal with its environment
whether adapting to it or changing it. The
inquiry into various ways of thinking has given us
a perspective for viewing man and nature. Man's
evolution, settlement patterns, and social
structure can be attributed to the influences of
other systems. Contemporary science tends to
concentrate on organization, not one thing or its
effects, but rather how events are structured and
function in relation to their "environment". Each
system constantly challenges others by responding
itself to challenges. There is interdependence
among the systems. Our ecosystem is not a linear
process of cause and effect, but rather a cyclical
process of numerous feedback effects. Therefore,
The behavior of any one living member of a
system is dependent on the behavior of others.
This denotes the interdependence of one life form
on another.
Man is the only organism that has the ability to
create alternatives within natures complex
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relations. Physical nature is organic and has a

basic structure which responds to man. We must
take our energies, information, and substances and
create an architecture that is energy-sustainable.
INTRODUCTION
This introduction is to give you, the reader an
insight as to how I as the programmer and
designer, arrived at and generated the basis for
this project.
The conception of this project occurred as a
result of my exploration into systems theory. One
of the driving forces was my desire to discover
the relationships of systems. As I researched
this topic I encountered different system views
and various degrees of system interrelationships.
These relations are the focus of thesis.
My search is directed at finding an architecture
that harmonizes man and nature — people and their
environment. Through the use of various design
principles, better environmental responses, and
natural systems philosophical guidelines I want to
design a resort hotel to serve as a model of an
energy-responsive design. The design should
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reflect and give awareness of the potential

ecological and energy conservative issues that you
and I, as inhabitants of the environment, can
address with the purpose to preserve, maintain,
and rebuild the natural settings that we are a
part of.
The need for architecture to find a balance with
its environment is essential. Along with the
recent increase in ecological awareness the demand
for innovative thinking in using nature's
resources is also a must. The search in
discovering new ways of managing our energy is at
its greatest and the architectural realm is not
excluded.
Buildings are not just a series of connected parts
with separate functions but instead are elements
of a larger system. By understanding this we have
the potential to design these components into an
integrated whole responding to the needs of man
and nature which have existed in the past and will
inevitably exist in the future.
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PROJECT STATEMENT
The project I have elected to program is a 120
room resort hotel in Phoenix, Arizona. The site
is located on the edge of the metropolitan suburbs
remote from the hustle and bustle of the inner
city. The site is in a tourist-oriented area and
will facilitate various activities. A key factor
in determining the facility-type was the already
present market and attraction for tourists to this
area. The development of the tourist industry
in the Phoenix metro area has been recognized as a
basic tool for economic growth. The resort hotel
will likewise attract tourists and accommodate
vacationers. The scale of this project will be
relatively small, it will have approximately
102,000 square feet overall and numerous
services. This new structure will seek refuge
from its harsh arid environment and allow a
comfortable, relaxed environment for its guests.
The resort will cater to a variety of visitors,
local and foreign. It will expose the natural
and dramatic context of the Phoenix area with the
purpose of making the stay a comfortable,
exciting, and memorable experience.
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THESIS TOPIC
The topic of this project asks the question — Can
architecture be a natural system? To answer this
question we must first define a "natural system".
According to Ervin Laszlo "a natural system is the
highest level of organizational invariance"^
('natural' is used in contrast to artificial and
not with social). He states that "natural
systems" have real content and are not just alot
of [mumbo-jumbo]. "any system which does not owe
its existence to conscious human planning and
execution is a natural system — including man
himself, and many of the multiperson systems in
which he participates".^ Although the concept of
natural systems is vast and its content is
general, we can say things about natural systems
that set them apart from other things.
Laszlo writes on systems and presents information
relevant to the principles of architecture.
Architecture is more than a collection of separate
elements, more than style, and more than abstract
forms derived from antiquity. Architecture is
derived from the knowledge, understanding, and the
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study of activities, the people, and the
environment.
Instead of looking at a system and deciding if it
is natural or not, it would be more accurate to
analyze the system by using Laszlo's four points.
THESIS SYNTHESIS
The following pages present information on systems
theory based on Ervin Laszlo's book "The Systems
View of the World". "In the history of Western
science, atomistic and holistic ways of thinking
have altered. Early scientific thinking was
holistic but speculative; the modern scientific
temper reacted by being empirical but atomistic.
Neither is free from error, the former because it
replaces factual inquiry with faith and insight,
and the latter because it sacrifices coherence at
the alter of facticity. We witness today another
shift in ways of thinking: the shift toward
rigorous but holistic theories. This means
thinking in terms of facts and events in the
context of wholes, forming integrated sets with
their own properties and relationships. Looking
at the world in terms of such sets of integrated
relations constitutes the systems view."^ This
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view on systems gives us a perspective for viewing
man and nature. And this gives us a mode of
organizing existing findings in reference to the
concept of systems and systematic properties and
relationships. "Instead of reducing phenomena to
the concourse of atoms, we now reduce them to the
behavior of systems."* It is under this view that
the subsystem theory of "natural systems" occurs
in philosophy.
Every theory generalizes certain commonalities —
the recurrent features of phenomena: the
invariances. "the more general the concept, the
more widespread the invariance which it grasps; it
tells us less about the individual peculiarities
of a thing and more about what it shares with
other things." In the systems view, if you want
to know what is truly fundamental about a thing,
"you define [it] as a natural phenomena of
organized complexity — a natural system."^ The
following are four organizational invariances
said to characterize natural systems:
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I. Natural Systems Are Wholes with Irreducible

Properties
"'Wholes' and 'heaps' are not mysterious

metaphysical notions but clearly, even
mathematically, definable states of complex
entities. Wholes are not the simple sum of their
parts, and heaps are... One part more or less
means adding or taking away that particular part's
physical mass and manifest properties, nothing
more."' He continues to say that an entity having
some formal structure built on the basis of an
interdependence among its parts will in its most
basic form consists of two parts, where the
outcome is something more than the simple sum of
the properties of each. This entity is then
classified as a 'whole' and not a 'heap.'
Design Impact
The significance of each design decision should be

taken into consideration knowing that the
decision, whether big or small, will affect the
final product and the performance of the building.
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Architecture should be considered as a whole. The

composition of this whole should not be destroyed
by adding or subtracting any one element. If the
final design is affected by such alterations
then the design cannot be a natural system.
II. Natural Systems Maintain Themselves in a

Changing Environment
The physical world on the whole is approaching a

state of ultimate disorganization. This is due to
the limited energy available in virtue of the way
its components are organized. The principle
expressed by this fundamental law of nature is the
so-called Second Law of Thermodynamics. It states
that within any given isolated system energy
stored in virtue of the organization of the
components gets used up and the system gets
correspondingly disorganized. There is an
exception to this rule "that is, there can be
subsidiary systems within the whole system, and
these subsystems can get more organized as time
goes on, rather than less."' These parts
(subsystems) become organized at the expense of
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the other parts (whole). "If any thing is to

mainta.in itself in proper running condition, it
must act as a subsystem within the total system
which defines its energy supplies. It must be so
organized that it draws energies from its
environment, and burns them up in running itself.
That is, it must take in substances which contain
energies in a form which it can use for its own
purposes. It then puts out waste products in the
form of used-up substances, impoverishing its
environment to that extent. The energies gained
can be used to run the subsystem — something
which inevitably has to be paid for in terms of
the total supply of energy — and to carry out the
necessary maintenance work. All this is directly
involved in sustaining a subsystem over an
appreciable period of time... The particular
configuration of parts and relationships which is
maintained in a self-maintaining and repairing
system is called a 'steady-state.' It is a state
in which energies are continually used to maintain
the relationship of the parts and keep them from
collapsing in decay- This is a dynamic state, not
a dead inert one. The technical definition of a
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natural system is 'open system in a steady-state.'
Openness refers to the import-export activities of
the system, which it needs to 'stay in the same
place,' that is, to maintain its own dynamic
steady-state."' Thus, natural systems can obtain
their own required energy and counteract the decay
of the parts in a manner needed to maintain the
present-state.
Design Impact
In order for a building to be a natural system,

it must generate the required energy necessary to
maintain the functions it was designed for. The
architectural structure must not only take from
the larger system (environment) but also give
something(whether energy for an other subsystem or
the production of an element) to assist in the
maintenance and evolution of the larger system.
III. Natural Systems Create Themselves in

Response to the Challenge of the Environment
"If natural systems were merely to maintain the

'status quo' throughout the range of circumstance
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they encounter there would be no evolution, no
patterns of development, and nothing we could call
progress. Things would either succeed in
remaining what they are, or go under. The
evidence indicates, however, that many things not
only manage to offset the pernicious influences of
forces in their environment but are capable of
development. Natural systems evolve new
structures and new functions; they create
themselves in time."'
There are two forms of change:
The first form is the preprogrammed kind of change
— it does not make up its own patterns of
development but follows already established
pathways. This form is called "ontogenesis." The
second form is "polygenesis", which is the
"creative advance of nature." This is what Laszlo
means by the self-creativity of natural systems.
"It signifies the ability of systems to generate
the very information which codes their structure
and behavior-""
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Design Impact
Architecture must adapt to the ever-changing needs

and values of its users. It must also have the
ability to adapt to the demands of the larger
system (the environment) or be destroyed.
IV. Natural Systems Are Coordinating Interfaces

in Nature's Hierarchy
"Organization in nature comes to resemble a

complex, multilevel pyramid, with many relatively
simple systems at the bottom and a few (and
ultimately one) complex system (s) at the top.
Between these limits all natural systems take
intermediate positions; they link the levels below
and above them. They are wholes in regard to
their parts, and parts with respect to higher-
level wholes.""
"Individual subsystems within a complex system
fill the roles of coordinating interfaces their
function is to pull together the behavior of their
own parts, and to integrate this joint effort with
the behavior of other components in the system.
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This is a function which all natural systems must
perform if they are to maintain themselves.""
Particular parts of a system can influence the
systems by providing new input. "They either
succeed in reforming some strands of coordination
in the whole system, or they cause their own
destruction, either by killing off the system that
supplies them with their vital necessities, or by
making it reject them.""
Design Impact
Architectural decisions influence not only the
immediate area but can also affect perimeter areas
not directly connected. Every decision affects
the whole. The subsystem interfacing of the
design (i.e. the structural, mechanical,
electrical, etc.) can assure a successful design
or be disastrous to the whole. The survival of
the system constitutes a natural system.
THESIS STATEMENT
The purpose of this project is to investigate

through the use of the natural context and the use
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of energy responsive design if architecture can be
a natural system. My intent is to follow Ervin
Laszlo's guidelines presented in his book "The
Systems View of the World" and design a resort
hotel which will bring man and nature into a
balanced system.
THESIS VEHICLE
"Resort hotels are built in the midst of natural

splendors, and success depends upon how well the
design is integrated into the setting. No one
wants to travel to an out-of-the-way place only to
be cut off from the exotic environs by an
anonymous structure that gives little clue to its
locale. A good resort takes advantage of the
landscape, optimizing the natural resources; a
better-resort responds not only to the climate and
topography, but to the cultural history of its
particular place.""
Charles K. Gandee
This description of a resort hotel puts forth a

challenge for designers to respond to the site and
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region giving attention to pressing issues now
confronting the profession while remembering the
ever-present needs of people.
The focus of this program is as resort hotel in
the Phoenix metropolitan area. A significant
aspect of this project is the potential for high
quality development and innovative energy-
responsive design on arid land. The resort will
enrich the environment for people and maintain the
natural characteristics of the site. This
structure will enable me to investigate the
relationship between man and nature integrating
their components into a natural whole.
The resort complex is mainly for visitors and will
impact their stay by portraying the systems theory
as it pertains to energy, materials, and the
environment. The primary function of the complex
requires that the design provide a transition from
all the different walks of life to a unified group
of quests facilitating a variety of activities.
Along with the living units the resort will have a
conference area, a recreational area, a retail
area, and administration offices. The expression
of architecture as a system will envelope the
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complete structure. The architectural elements
will provide a demonstration of the sensitive-
energy-responsive design. This will give the
public the alternative of experiencing the harsh
arid climate or seeing the effects of passive
energy solutions derived by facing our present-
day architectural issues and at the same time
being part of an exploration into systems theory-
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Notes
1 Laszlo. The Systems View of the World, pg. 23
2 Ibid. pg. 23.
3 Ibid. pg. 19.
4 Ibid. pg. 19.

5 Ibid. pg. 24.
6 Ibid. pg. 27.
7 Ibid. pg. 36.

8 Ibid. pg. 37.
9 Ibid. pp. 46-47.
10 Ibid. pg. 47.

11 Ibid. pg. 67.
12 Ibid. pg. 68.
13 Ibid. pg. 70.
14 Architectural Record. July 1980. pg. 110.
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THESIS CASE STUDIES
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THESIS CASE STUDY (1)
Laredo Demonstration Blueprint Farm
This project uses the site as a dominant force and

considers the farm on a global scale allowing the
use of alternative and passive energy systems that
represent possible uses within similar biomes
around the world. It does not exclude already
existing elements found in the different biomes,
such as, mesquite flooring discovered to be widely
used in Argentina or the wind towers indigenous to
Iran. The ability to use various design elements
from around the world and incorporate them into a
design is a good example of what the resort hotel
is wanting to accomplish. Although the Laredo
Farm is different in function, it allowed many
environmental conscious elements to work together
as a system.
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Project: Laredo Demonstration Blueprint

Farm
Facility-type: prototype farm using local
resources and a global concept
Client: Texas Department of Agriculture;
Laredo Junior College
Architect: The Center for Maximum Potential
Building Systems; Austin, Texas
codirectors
— Pliny Fisk III and
— Gail D. A. Vittori
User: local farmers selected to operate
and grow foods (fruits and
vegetables) to sell at community
markets
When and Where: Laredo, Texas; May 1991

Site: It is located next to the Laredo
Junior College and a former army
post. The area is on the local
desert; water is scarce.
Building: It is composed of five "sheds"

surrounded by polyester panels at
the perimeter.
Major Spaces: 1) Offices

2) Classrooms
3) Storage
4) Agricultural production
Budget: $473,000 — $20 per square foot

(building)
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m^'-î
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i?:-i:vn
TYPICAL PACKING SHED
Adapted from structures found in Iran, the DOWNDRAFT EVAF>0RAT(V£ COOLING T0>':£n
sheds' wind towers (top) circulate cool air. RECYCLED OIL-DRILUNG ROD POLES
Porous, moistened intake pads atop a down- STRAW BALE STUCCO WALLS
CONCflETE FOUNDATION (UME P02Z0LAN)
draft tower (section) draw in and cool outside
LIGHTWEIGHT STEEL TRUSSES
air, which circulates through space below
COPHUGATEO SHEET METAL HOOF (IRONj
into an adjacent shed and up through an SLIDING V;OOD DOOflS (MESOUITE'
updraft tower. The a:r exchange rate is con- STABILIZED EARTH FLOOR 'CAUCHEi
trolled by changing ambient temperature and
humidity. Inside downdraft shed (facing
page), delicate folded steel trusses, which
attach to the building's superstructure,
support a roof peeled away at the tower to
let light filter in. Walls of straw bales covered
in sprayed-3n cement provide insulation.
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A^ ^ A^ ^
Waste Treatment and Water Replenishment Wind Power Hyacinth

1. Wind turbines (water pumping) I 1200
2. Wetland marsh (hyacinth)
3. Sedimentation pond
4. Sludge thickening
5. Cisterns (water storage)
6. Compost for solid waste (in shed)
7. Organic solid waste
Low-Energy Materials
6. Recycled oil-well drilling stems
9. Tensile steel cable structures
10. Packing shed (straw, lime, pozzolan, caliche, iron ore)
11. Permeable paving (mesquite)
Cooling/Refrigeration Downdraft Tower

12. Downdraft cooling towers
13. Zeolite refrigeration (nonfreon-based)
14. Continuous shade (reduces open-space temperatures)
^ >
Agricultural Systems
15. Agro-forestry area
16. Vegetable area
17. Farm insectary
"By mapping a v a i l a b l e m a t e r i a l s and technologies,

Max Pot created a s e l f - s u s t a i n i n g farm with
symbolic a g r i c u l t u r a l systems. Shaded areas of the
world represent desert regions bordering
g r a s s l a n d s , where climates are s i m i l a r t o t h a t of
South-west Texas."^
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"Energy sources for refrigeration are wind

generators (view from the southwest, top photo)
Zinc-impregnated polyester awnings (view from the
northeast, bottom photo) block wind and extend
growing seasons."'
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"Under the canopy that shades crops from the sun

(top), temperatures drop 10 to 15 degrees. Two
prominent cisterns collect infrequent rainfall for
irrigation, natural cooling, and dissipating heat
emitted by zeolite refrigeration."^
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Analysis
On Laredo's northwest edge four wind generators

rise up as beacons of an odd experiment. "In the
shadow of these propelled towers, researchers and
laborers marry limited local resources and high
technology to forge a prototype for farming...
Utopian in spirit, the farm is a vivid example of
the architectural and ecological theories of the
Center for Maximum Potential Building Systems."*
"Studying the interrelationships that determine
patterns of building and habitation around the
world, architect Fisk and generalist Vittori
approach each problem — a house, a city plan, or,
as in Laredo, a demonstration farm and market —
through a matrix of overlapping factors such as
geological formations, climatic conditions,
vegetation patterns, building precedents, waste
streams, and useful technological innovations,
beginning always from a global perspective and
working toward a micro, project-specific level...
Fisk says that this 'process framework' addresses
the time-honored environmentalist priority of
preserving the air, land, and water of the planet.
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Maximum Potential also stakes out a strong agenda,
promoting the built environment, such as Blueprint
Farm, as a locus for not just providing food, but
recycling waste, redistributing wealth, and
harnessing urban sprawl."^
"It might seem like overkill to take the whole
world into account just to plan a 2-acre farm.
But because it is considered on a global scale,
the Laredo project represents one biome, or a
particular set of climatic conditions, within
similar biomes scattered around the globe.
Climatically, Laredo sits along a tenuous
transition between the arid Southwest and the
prairie grasslands. The same meeting of arid
desert and temperate grassland also occurs in
South America between Uraguay and Argentina, north
and south Africa, and in southeastern Australia.
The sheds' wind towers were borrowed from models
indigenous to Iran, which occupies a biome similar
to the arid half of Laredo's. Fisk has created a
farm that, once its divergent ideas and processes
are integrated, will open up further options for
design and living in the distant yet similar
biomes that inspired its development. In sharing
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knowledge among biomes, Fisk says, each region
can advance with its climatic partners, whether
First or Third World.
WitJi the completion of Blueprint Farm, Max pot
will soon concentrate on integrating its various
physical elements: wind generators, cisterns,
wastewater treatment areas, farming plots, work
spaces, and storage areas. The farm will serve
two roles, growing fruits and vegetables for sale
to the community and providing a market for local
farmers.
Refrigeration will be powered by four lO-kilowatt
wind generators and will someday rely on the solar
absorptive cooling promised by the common mineral
zeolite (a largely discarded byproduct of mining
for lignite coal near Laredo). The material
absorbs moisture from the air when heated,
providing refrigeration. Absorbed heat can be
removed by a heat exchanger to increase zeolite's
cooling efficiency and to power slow cookers for
the canning process. Although Max Pot understands
the technology, its application at Blueprint Farm
is still a few years away.
In an area on the edge of the desert, water takes
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on a sacred presence in the farm's operation. 'In
a very real sense, it's a game of how long you can
hold water on the site,' says Fisk. Two 2,000-
gallon cisterns occupy primary positions amid the
small building cluster. They collect runoff from
infrequent rains, channelling any excess to wells.
The cisterns moisten porous pads at the intake of
the downdraft wind tower atop two of the sheds,
creating a self-regulating airflow, dictated by
temperature and humidity. The airflow cools
interior spaces before cycling through an updraft
wind tower in an adjacent shed. The cisterns will
also dissipate surplus heat from a future ground-
source heat pump and the zeolite refrigeration.
Water pumped from the Rio Grande will be used for
treating the farm's waste in a sedimentation pond
and march. Fisk argues that similar, larger scale
efforts to clean the water that returns to the
river could reverse years of chemical-fertilizer
runoff that has polluted the Rio Grande.
Max Pot assumes that all knowledge, no matter how
seemingly unrelated, is worth applying,
'knowledge — in principle inexhaustible,' writes
POWERSHIFT author Alvin Toffler, 'is the ultimate
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substitute [for other resources]... The only
reason we now ship huge amounts of raw materials
across the planet is that we lack the knowledge to
convert local materials into substitutes.' Fisk is
mining for the knowledge to capitalize on local
resources such as mesquite, caliche, zeolite, etc.
to sustain settlements on the peripheries of
existing cities."*
Fisk has succeeded in designing a powerful image
providing an alternative to the amorphous, earth-
sheltered cocoons and reflector-laden passive-
solar machines of the 1970's. His concerns are
about conserving resources, promoting local
economies, and integrating buildings into their
surroundings which should also be recycled back
into architecture.
® 8
0*^0 0 ^
O®
o
®®
site schematic:
1. packing area 5. agriculture production
2. offices 6. wind turbines
3. classroom 7. composting area
4. storage 8. fruit production
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Notes
1 Architecture, May 1991. pg. 67

2 Ibid., pg. 67.
3 Ibid., pg. 68.
4 Ibid., pg. 65.
5 Ibid., pg. 65.
6 Ibid., pp. 67 - 70.
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THESIS CASE STUDY (2)
Biosphere II
The initial analysis after looking at Biosphere II

is to say that this project explores the systems
theory in great depth. However, after further
analysis the project seems more like an experiment
in itself and doesn't study the architectural
aspect but rather tries to create an artificial
environment apart from earth. The results
discovered in this environment are very different
from those found in Biosphere I (earth). The main
reason why the difference occurs is because this
artificial environment can not recreate earth,
only a similar model. The project does deal with
the issue of systems yet the result is not like my
desired outcome.
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Project: Biosphere II
Facility-type: model of Earth within an enclosed
environment
Client: Space Biospheres Ventures
Architect: Sarbid Corporation
User: four men and four women along
with 3,800 species of plants and
animals
When and Where: Catalina Mountains, Arizona;
completed on June 1991
Site: The boundary conditions cover
3.15 miles in the Sonoran Desert
Building: The facility encloses 7 million
cubic feet accommodating six
ecological communities or
"biomes", in addition to staff
living areas
Major Spaces: I. Four biomes in the North-South

wing
1) a rain forest
2) a marine biome
3) a savannah
4) a desert
II. West wing
1) an agriculture biome
III. North of West wing
1) a "habitat" biome
a) 10 staff rooms
b) laboratories
******************************************************* 37 ******
***************************************** natural systems *******
c) offices
d) libraries
e) recreational facilities
IV. exterior buildings
1) two rubber diaphragms that
act as lungs to react to
the change of air-pressure
In th6 Biosphere.
2) a 5.5 megawatt power plant
Budget: $150 million (construction)
SITE PLAN
SECTION THROUGH WILDERNESS BIOMES
******************************************************* 38 ******
***************************************** natural systems *******
"A green oasis in the desert with its most dramatic

element the intricate space frame that encloses
more than three acres," ^
******************************************************* 40 ******
***************************************** natural systems *******
A view that captures the saltwater 'ocean' with its

own beach.
******************************************************* 41 ******
***************************************** natural systems *******
Analysis
"It is designed as an airtight container

completely sealed off from the outside world for
two years. Thirty-five electronic sensors linked
to computers will monitor the concentration of
each element of this environment, from temperature
and humidity to more than a dozen gases.
Computers collecting the information will activate
ventilating, heating, cooling, and air, water, and
waste recycling systems."'
Biosphere planners explain that the experience
will offer a tool for understanding life on earth
and serve in applying recycling technologies for
new water and air purification — which may be
applicable to some pollution problems or
3
artificial environments such as space stations.
Biosphere has already earned its place in
architectural history by becoming one of the most
unprecedented structures ever built.
This project does deal with systems theory but
ventures off on its own. The direction of its
designers is different from the perspective of
developing a natural system.
******************************************************* 42 ******
***************************************** natural systems *******
Notes
1 Architecture. May 1991. pg. 77

2 Ibid., pg. 77.
3 Ibid., pg. 78.
* * * * * * ************************************************* 43 ******
***************************************** natural systems *******
ANNOTATED BIBLIOGRAPHY
******************************************************* 44 ******
***************************************** natural systems *******
CONTEXT ANALYSIS
CULTURAL CONTEXT
Phoenix has long been considered the hub of the
Southwest and enjoys one of the fastest growing
populations in the nation. Twenty neighboring
communities join Phoenix and Scottsdale to
comprise the Valley of the Sun. Metropolitan
Phoenix is a study of contrasts where old meets
new and tradition meets trend. Founded in 1870,
Metro Phoenix is a young city now populated by
2.2 million people and holds the distinction of
being the fastest growing metropolitan area over
the last decade. It struggles to preserve the
ways of the past while paving the roads of the
future. The city is saddled between the McDowell,
Superstitions, White Tank and South Mountains. An
open exposure to the West and clear skies, yielded
the nickname, "Valley of the Sun"-
Throughout the communities, there is a myriad of
cultural and sporting events throughout the year
making this a mecca of Southwestern flavor —
liifiiie*************************************************** 45 ******
***************************************** natural systems *******
whether its professional football, baseball or
golf, mass appeal is ensued with abundant
shopping, dining, art festivals and American
Indian cultural celebrations. The area boasts
more Mobil Five Star resorts than any other city,
giving the distinction of being "the resort
capital of the world". Much like the mythical
phoenix bird which is said to have risen from its
ashes, the modern incarnation of Phoenix today is
a reflection of its earlier civilizations. The
culture of ancient Indian tribes is woven into
a intricate society also threaded with the
influences from bordering Mexico and the hearty
pioneers who propagated the cowboy spirit for
which the area is now reputed.
Thus, the probeibility of a resort hotel in the
area is likely since tourism is already
established and the location of t±ie facility being
remote has tihe potential of attracting many
visitors. Access is not a big issue in terms of
arriving but the response to the arrival of
visitors must be considered.
******************************************************* 46 ******
***************************************** natural systems *******
PSYCHOLOGICAL CONTEXT
Live-in Environment
The psychology aspect of the users is significant
in planning the facility. When looking at
resorts, people look for a place that offers
advantages that their home does not have whether
in being comfortable or in facilitating other
activities of recreation or leisure. One way to
create this homelike environment is to include
ample area in the guestrooms providing nice
furniture and amenities of home. Therefore, when
designing 1:he resort, it is essential to provide
linkage between the active and rigorous areas to
the more relaxed areas.
Public / private Spaces

People learn from what they see in the world
around them and usually adapt to any environment.
One of the most important things to
consider of any design is to connect the building
to the site and the outer world. In regard to
space, people like to interact with others and
******************************************************* 47 ******
***************************************** natural systems *******
usually meet in social-oriented activities. These
spaces vary in location and size but are very
necessary to the success of a resort. Thus,
interaction among people should be encouraged and
the spacial arrangement should offer these
opportunities.
Outdoor Areas
People enjoy fresh air and sunshine. Attention
should be given to the landscaping of the outdoor
areas. These areas should provide an openness
from the facility to adjacent recreational or
other functional activities and promote
exercising and walking. The outdoor areas should
be designed carefully to avoid any injuries or
accident:s. The indoor and outdoor spaces need to
be designed to accommodate an easy movement in or
out from these areas optimizing and using natiural
elementis.
Circulation
In resort hotels, the dominant program is for the
guest. Access to all of the facility is necessary
being that most guests are transient and like to
move around at will. Activity areas should be
******************************************************* 48 ******
***************************************** natural systems *******
grouped but not too closely together, people
should have room to move about and observe others.
Circulation should be clear in order to encourage
fast easy movement from one space to another. In
order to avoid ambiguous circulation patterns,
each activity should be surrounded by a meandering
pa1::h so that people can look over a potential
activity. Bypass routes should be provided for a
more direct path avoiding interference from one
activity on another. Circulation should also be
barrier-free for the physically handicapped.
BUILT CONTEXT
The proposed site does not have any significant
developments as of date. It is mostly composed of
natural features. Therefore, the built context
analysis will be omitted until a later time after
a visit to the site is completed.
NATURAL CONTEXT
The proposed site for the resort hotel is located
within the Phoenix metropolitan area. The site is
located in the south-west section of the metro.
Access to the site is mainly vehicular due to its
******************************************************* 49 ******
***************************************** natural systems *******
remote location. Most adjacent land use

surrounding the site is recreational. A reservoir
is at the base of the hills bridging a creek by an
adobe dam used to control collected rain water
released on demand.
Site Impact
There is no foreseeable danger as the result of
this project for the health or safety of the
surrounding population. The project will place
additional traffic load on the surrounding
roadways. Also due to the nature of the project,
the frequency and time of traffic along the
surrounding roadways may alter throughout all
hours of the day and night. The development and
zoning of that area relative to what may already
have been planned may cause land values to
fluctuate. No negative impacts are foreseeable on
existing developments other than the increased
competition between this and other similar
facilities. No financial burdens will fall on the
surrounding community as a result of the
realization of this project.
******************************************************* 50 ******
***************************************** natural systems *******
Climate
Classified as hot-arid, the climate of the Phoenix
area provides mild winters, very pleasant spring
and fall weather, and high summer temperatures.
Typically there is low relative humidity, often
under 20% and low annual precipitation. Sunshine
averages 86 percent of the possible amount,
ranging from a minimum monthly average of about 77
percent in January to 94 percent in June.
There are two distinct rainfall seasons. The
first, from November through March, is
characterized by "light" storms from the Pacific.
The second, called the "monsoon season", is a hot,
humid period in late summer characterized by late
afternoon and evening thunderstorms. Violent dust
storms may precede heavy rains typical of this
season. Total annual rainfall averages below ten
inches, but the intensity of some of the storms is
capable of causing rapid flooding and drainage
difficulties.
The region, in general terms, is not windy.

During the spring months west and southwesterly
breezes predominate. In July and August — the
******************************************************* 51 ******
*******************************4r********* natural systems *******
thunderstorm season — there are often locally
strong, gusty winds; usually, but not always,
flowing from a southeasterly direction.
Throughout the year it is not uncommon to have
long periods of several days in which the wind
does not exceed 10 miles an hour. Summer breezes
are considered an asset.
It is expected to take advantage of opportunities
for possible outdoor activities and use. It is
important to note that protection from the sun is
necessary for much of the day for at least four
months each summer. In contrast, during the
winter months the lower ambient temperatures make
sunshine highly desirable.
Daytime temperatures from October 1 to May 15 are
moderate and conducive to outdoor activities;
heavy clothing is not necessary. Normal daily
highs are frequently between 55 and 65 degrees,
and occasionally warmer. Winter evenings can be
chilly, with low temperatures frequently in the
40's.
From about May 20 through July 10, daytime highs
are typically above 100 degrees, but the dryness
and light breezes combine to make passive outdoor
******************************************************* 52 ******
***************************************** natural systems *******
activities enjoyable. With highs that may reach
115 degrees, shade is imperative for outdoor
comfort.
The "humid" period extends from about July 10
through September 5. While the daytime highs may
be slightly lower than late June and early July,
the higher relative humidity adds considerable
discomfort for any outdoor activity. During these
months evening temperatures can remain in the
90's.
Possibilities for responding to t:his climate
include shading devices, insulation, double roofs,
deep reveals, high ceilings, small windovrs, etc.
Caution must given to the creation of sun pockets,
which are areas where the stui's rays are radiated
emd re-radiated from opposing surfaces. Large
areas of concrete and pavement should be shaded to
make these areas more comfortable. Because of the
climate of Phoenix and the orientation of the
site, the natural energy resources of the site
should be optimized. Solar energy can be utilized
for daylighting and passive heating. Lemdscaping
and building materials can also help in the
design.
******************************************************* 53 ******
***************************************** natural systems *******
Geological Setting
I will assume that surface and subsurface
conditions will allow for excavation and
earthmoving. The bearing capacity of subsurface
soils is adequate for the anticipated
construction.
Phoenix is located in earthquake zone 2.
No land slides, subsidence, or earthquakes are
likely to occur in this area or in areas
immediately relative to the site.
The following table provides the normal maximum,

minimum, and mean monthly temperatures for this
area:
HORMAL MAXIMUM, MINIMUM AND MEAN

TCMPERATURE BY MONTH 1950-1981
fMXIMUM MINIMUM MEAN

January 652 39.5 52.3
February 69.7 42.5 56.1
March 74.5 46.7 60.6
April 83.1 53.0 68.0
May 92.4 61.5 77.0
June 102.3 70.6 86.5
July 105.0 79.5 92.3
August 102.3 77.5 89.9
Sepiember 982 70.9 64.6
October 87.7 59.1 73.4
November 74.3 46.9 60.6
December 66.4 402 53.3
Annual 85.1 57 J 712
Source: National Oceanic and Atmospheric Assoaation, Technical

MemoranriiimNWSWR-177 March 1983.
******************************************************* 54 ******
***************************************** natural systems *******
CONTEXT CASE STUDIES
******************************************************* 55 ******
***************************************** natural systems *******
CONTEXT CASE STUDY (1)
Spring Lake Park Visitors Center
This project is similar to the resort hotel in

that it requires the facility to relate to the
individual user as well as to the group users. It
is to provide for a place to visit expressing a
"sympathetic relationship to the environment.""^
The focus of the facility was intended to be a
environmental educational tool, allowing visitors
a direct look at how the center dealt with its
environment in a manner least detrimental to all.
******************************************************* 56 ******
***************************************** natural systems *******
Project: Spring Lake Park Visitors Center

Paci1ity-type: visitor center
Client: Sonoma County Parks Department
Architect: Obie G. Bowman
User: local Park administration and
visitors
When and Where: Santa Rosa, California; not built
Site: sloping site on a oak and buckeye
forest
It is will house exhibition areas
Building: and administration space for the
Sonoma Parks Department
1) Offices
Major Spaces: 2) exhibition area
3) Amphitheater
unknown
Budget:
******************************************************* 57 ******
***************************************** natural systems *******
CEILING FAN DISCHARGES HOT

AIR THROUGH EAVE VENTS AUTOMATIC LOUVERS
VENT COLLECTOR VIA
ROOF VENTS
COOLING SECTION
SUPPLY MANIFOLD WITH BLOWERS
WOOD-BURNING
STOVE WITH
CATALYTIC
COMBUSTOR
HEATING SECTION
^^***************************************************** 58 ******
************************************î,**** natural systems *******
''I
•III > 1.
r^y
'.'-•/
ja^;^; _y.
******************************************************* 59 ******
***************************************** natural systems *******
Analysis
The Visitors Center is a 2,000-square-foot

pyramidal structure designed by Obie G. Bowman
(the architect of Sea Ranch.) "The client's
primary concern was that the building establish a
sympathetic relationship to the environment.
Accordingly, Bowman set the building down into the
natural grade with concrete retaining walls and
incorporated an amphitheater within the sloping
site. To provide shading while creating a
translucent enclosure with views to the
surrounding landscape, the architect completely
covered the glazed structure with wooden louvers
and topped it with an attic housing, a natural
ventilation system... 'recognizing the California
need for shading,' and 'integrating an appropriate
energy conservation system within the building's
architecture.'
Solar collectors oriented to the southeast take

advantage of heat gain and are augmented by a
wood-burning stove and fans in the attic to
******************************************************* 60 ******
***************************************** natural systems *******
architect developed a series of underground

cooling tubes combined with an attic fan that
sucks the cool air up through the visitors center.
The exhibit area is housed in a central tentlike
structure within the main space, but the entire
center is intended to be a environmental
educational tool in itself, allowing visitors a
behind-the-scenes look at the building's
mechanical systems.
Pedestrian access with remote parking maintains

the character of the site's oak and buckeye
forest. To minimize damage to the sensitive site
during construction, the area will be fenced off
to protect its woodland... Trees and Boulders
removed from the site during construction will be
reused to build a storyteller's cavern
approximately 45 feet southeast of the main
building."'
Site schematic;
1. main area 4. parking
2. attic 5. future cavern
3. amphitheater
******************************************************* 61 ******
***************************************** natural systems *******
CONTEXT CASE STUDY (2)
Phoenix Solar Oasis Model
This project deals with climatic techniques in an

urban environment integrating a public plaza into
a desert community. The design achieves a goal
similar to what the resort needs to accomplish and
that is to create an area that facilitates people
in a harsh environment.
******************************************************* 62 ******
***************************************** natural systems *******
Project: Phoenix Solar Oasis Model

Faci1ity-type: Urban plaza (re-development)
Client: city of Phoenix
Planner: Jeffrey Cook
User: city pedestrians
When and Where: Phoenix, Arizona; (plan)
Site: city center
Building: It is composed of ten cool towers
and a tensile shelter.
Major Space: 1) plaza
2) sitting areas
Budget: unknown (9000 meters sq.)
* * * * * ************************************************** 63 ******
***************************************** n a t u r a l systems *******
******************************************************* 64 ******
***************************************** n a t u r a l systems *******
******************************************************* 65 ******
***************************************** natural systems *******
Analysis
This comprehensive urban design proposal includes

bioclimatic techniques to modify the outdoor
experience on the top of a concrete car parking
structure in the center of one of the hottest
cities of the world. Architectural, biological
and mechanical devices are integrated in a public
plaza that has educational and demonstration
purposes — it is a model for transforming the
urban environment of desert communities.
The solar oasis is a refreshing island of public
space in the city center, an open meeting place
that filters and modulates the harshness of a
desert climate. Two rows of cool towers establish
the east side of the Oasis. Ten cool towers are
18m tall and passively provide a reverse chimney
by evaporating water at the top. The heavier and
cooler humidified air freely drops pulling new air
in the top, and causing a draft of evaporatively
cooled air at the bottom. At plaza level in
midsummer the air to a height of 1.7m is changed
and cooled passively every 20 seconds.
******************************************************* 66 ******
***************************************** natural systems *******
An asymmetrical tensile shelter allows the warmth

of winter morning sun to penetrate, but provides
shade during other times. The dynamic shape has
hot air exhausts at its low points. The diagonal
path protects the main pedestrian route across the
plaza.
******************************************************* 67 ******
***************************************** natural systems *******
End Notes
1 Architecture. May 1991. p. 83.

2 Ibid., p. 83.
3 Progressive Architecture. September 1991
p. 35.
******************************************************* 68 ******
***************************************** natural systems *******
ANALYSIS OF ACTIVITIES
******************************************************* 69 ******
***************************************** natural systems *******
overview of Guest Activities

One must consider the wide array of possible
interests of the resort user before breaking them
down into individual activities. These interests
include the following.
Year Round Activities
These activities take place in the summer as well
as the winter. Year-round activities provide a
homogeneous continuity of resort life during all
seasons of the year.
Social Activities
Social Activities at any resort include eating,
drinking, dancing, talking and relaxing. Social
life, to most vacationers, is the main reason why
they are there.
* Eating is done in an atmosphere that is
comfortable and relaxing. It is one of the
most favorite and required activities.
* Drinking is done almost anywhere at a resort
hotel. It helps people to relax and should be
focused toward social functions and away from
recreational activities.
* Dancing is associated with drinking and
relaxing. It usually takes place in the
bar/pool area where a sound system or band
stand is set up.
* Talking is associated with all the other
activities.
* Relaxing is done in areas of less activity
and leisure.
******************************************************* 70 ******
***************************************** natural systems *******
Recreational Activities
Year-round recreation activities should take place
indoors so they are not affected by the weather.
Recreation provides entertainment and enjoyment to
all participants. It gives a physical outlet for
pressure and tension. These are some recreational
activities.
* Aerobic Exercise is usually done in classes.
This exercise allows men, women, and children
to participate. It is done while listening
to music in the form of dancing.
* Racquetball is an indoor game played by 2 to
4 players. It has become very popular in the
United States.
* Tennis, volleyball, and badminton are indoor
sports (outdoor also) that include team
involvement and relaxation.
* Swimming is one of the most well-rounded
exercises for the respiratory and
cardiovascular systems of the body, as well
as for toning muscles.
Overview of Service Activities
Next important to the activities of the visitors

are the service activities. These are some of the
service activities that take place in a resort.
* Reception includes several activities:
registration (both guest and advance)
cashier and accounting
information, mail, messages, keys
communication (telephone / switch board)
management
* Administration / Accounting
This depart:ment has a selected staff with
training and/or college degrees with the
knowledge of operating a resort hotel.
******************************************************* 71 ******
***************************************** natural systems *******
* Housekeeping
This activity includes a full-time staff at
the service of the user. Housekeeping is
responsible for cleaning rooms daily as
well as keeping the lobby and restaurant
are as clean.
* Food and Beverage (preparation / service)
Activities include cooking for and
preparing banquets and special events.
Also included are the food/bar service in
the restaurant and bar areas.
* Maintenance
Activities include repair and replacement
of broken support equipment in the resort.
The landscape maintenance should also be
incorporated.
* Retail (purchasing department)
This department includes the selling of
items for the entire hotel and resort.
These items would include dry goods and
food for the restaurant, liquors, laundry
supplies, paper and office supplies, and
maintenance parts and supplies.
* Recreational Services
This department includes the preparation an
observation of recreational activities.
Tours, sports instructors, lifeguards, and
other staff should be on hand to schedule
and organize recreational activities.
Pattern of Activities
The activities of the resort hotel are centered
around the guest. All activities are made to
provide an enjoyable and memorable experience for
the guest; someone who wants to escape the every
day confusion of the business world and engage in
one or more activities offered by the resort.
******************************************************* 72 ******
***************************************** natural systems *******
Since guests are transient residents of the resort,

most activities occur in the guest's primary and
public spaces. Social interaction in the resort
environment occurs on all levels: private, semi-
private, and public.
Preliminary activities pertain to the guest's
transition into the resort. Upon arrival, the
guest must identify and be invited into the
registration area. When registration is completed,
the guest will proceed to his primary space;
personal accommodations. The area allows the guest
to take care of all private activities as well as
to prepare and plan for further social interaction.
From his room, the guest behavior pattern cannot be
precisely predicted. The guest is expected to
fulfill the requirements of basic human needs which
include eating, drinking, and sleeping. These
activities can be expected to occur in a daily
cycle. Guests tend to combine social interaction
with these basic needs. The location and
relationship of the various public spaces is
crucial in creating positive behavioral responses
as well as operating efficiently.
Circulation space develops into primary space for
social interaction and serves as a linkage between
activities. The location of income generating
public spaces near main circulation is important to
draw people into the resort to allow further use of
the facility.
Administration and operation spaces are made to
cater to all the needs of the guest, and maintain
an excellent image of the resort. Efficient use of
resources is key to the operations of the resort.
Establishing operational tasks with respect to
guest needs and behavior is the basic issue in the
success of the resort.
******************************************************* 73 ******
***************************************** natural systems *******
User Group
The user of the resort will be derived from all
walks of life and all areas of the world. Visitors
from the west coast to the east coast of the United
States are frequent repeat visitors, while others
may be fulfilling a lifetime dream. The attraction
of a "sun belt resort area"'
Basic Activity Relationships

Public, private, and semi-private functions
interact with one another throughout the resort and
frequently through time.
Private Functions
Personal living activities can be divided into
private and semi-private functions. Semi-private
activities occur in areas of meal preparation and
relaxation such as watching television. The guest
proceeds into private functions beginning with
personal hygiene and ending with sleeping.
Semi-Private Functions
The user group for the Semi-Private activities
consists of employee and support organizations for
the resort itself. These activities can be divided
into Administration and Service facilities.
The administration's function is to advise and
control the public, semi-public, and private
functions. Service organizations are semi-public
and support the resort as a whole, 24 hours a day.
Public Fxinctions
Public functions are the most broadly utilized
group of activities on a resort. The user group
includes tourists, visitors, and local residents.
******************************************************* 74 ******
***************************************** natural systems *******
These activities can occur at the same time, but

usually in different places. A person can enter an
activity through a transition interface into an
activity already in progress. A pattern results
and suggests that public activities all exist in
different areas, spaces and places, but may and do
exist at the same point in time.
******************************************************* 75 ******
***************************************** natural systems *******
Specific Activity Analysis
The following analysis will summerize all of the

activities and divide them into one of three basic
activity groups of a resort: guest, operational,
and administrative. Each activity will be broken
down into the following categories:
Task — (primary) the physical and behavioral

patterns of the activity-
User — the participants of the (task)
activity.
Issue — the goal(s) that the user should and
may encounter during each activity.
Activity — (related or secondary)
perceptions of what the guest
will do.
Relationship — a diagram of activities
related.
******************************************************* 76 ******
***************************************** natural systems *******
Task: Arrival and Departure

User: Guests and Visitors
Issue: The user feels lost and unguided upon
arrival at the resort.
Activity:
* view of resort
* parking
* registration
* baggage loading and loading
* relaxing and meeting
* talking
Relationships:
ARRIVAL
PARKING
BAGGAGE HANDUNG
REGISTRATION
PERSONAL ACCOMODATIONS
******************************************************* 77 ******
******************************^,^,^^,^,^,^,^,^,^^ natural systems *******
Task: Registration / Reception

User: Guest and Staff
Issue: The registration area must be visible and
accessible inviting the user into the
area.
Activity:
* orientation and registration
* information
* key distribution
* mail and messages
* baggage storage
* talking and relaxing
* making telephone calls
Relationships:
ARR VAL ^
BAGGAGE STORAGE
REGISTRATION ^
^ PUBLIC SPACE
ADMINISTRATION ^ PRIVATE SPACE
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *i,*if*.f,*if If JQ * * * * ^ *
***************************************** natural systems *******
Task: Baggage Handling

User: Staff
Issue: Most guests prefer to retain sight of
their baggage for fear that it may lost or
stolen.
Activity:
* parking
* loading and unloading
* greeting
* directing and informing
Relationships:
* see registration diagram
******************************************************* 79 ******
***************************************** natural systems *******
Task: Waiting
Issue: The user feels ignored and becomes
irritable if forced to wait too long.
Activity:
* relaxing
* socializing
* reading and contemplation
* drinking and snacking
* communication by phone
Relationships:
WAITING
CIRCULATION
A- A: A.
DINING LOUNGING REGISTRATION PUBLIC ACTIVITIES RECREATION
******************************************************* 80 ******
***************************************** natural systems *******
Task: Lounging and Drinking

Issue: The guest needs to be served and catered
to so as to feel in a friendly
environment.
Activity:
* eating and drinking
* waiting and relaxing
* socializing
* talking
* dancing
Relationships:
CIRCULATION
iti.
WAITING
JT 3^
LOUNGE DINING
3IZ
FOOD & BEVERAGE PREPARATION
******************************************************* 81 ******
***************************************** natural systems *******
Task: Dining
Issue: Resort guests need multiple choices of
atmospheres and food selections at all
times of the day.
Activity:
* observing
* public interaction
* private interaction
* entertainment
* business / pleasure
Relationships:
* see lounge diagram
******************************************************* 82 ******
***************************************** natural systems *******
Task: Assembly / Meeting

Issue: Make resort attractive and available for
conventions throughout the year especially
off season months.
Activity:
* conventions
* weddings / receptions
* exhibitions
* dances / performances
* banquets / lectures
* food and beverage
Relationships:
PARKING
CIRCULATION
A.
RESTROOMS
WAITING e
_N/
ASSEMBLY
F(X)D PREPARATION ^ ^ SUPPORT FACILITY

sl^
STORAGE
******************************************************* 83 ******
***************************************** natural systems *******
Task: Recreation (active)

Issue: Provide for recreational functions so that
the users feel comfortable and relaxed.
Activity:
* water sports
* tennis
* jogging / biking
* aerobics
* organized sports
* hot tub / spa
* volleyball
* music
* changing dress attire
Relationships:
PUBLIC SPACE PRIVATE SPACE
CIRCULATION
GUEST SUPPORT ACTIVITIES

jiLi.
SPECIFIC ACITIVITIES
STORAGE e-^ MAINTENANCE
******************************************************* 84 ******
***************************************** natural systems *******
Task: Recreation (passive)

Issue: Provide for less active functions adjacent
to recreation areas where user can sit and
cool down or observe.
Activity:
* relaxation
* observation
* sunbathing
* socializing
* food and beverage
* reading
Relationships:
* see recreation (active) diagram
******************************************************* 85 ******
***************************************** natural systems *******
Task: Personal Accommodations

User: Guests
Issue: Provide a restful environment for the user
to feel comfort and privacy.
Activity:
* sleeping
* dressing / ironing
* watching television
* telephone
* personal hygiene
* personal storage
* shaving / bathing
* relaxing
Relationships:
PUBLIC SAPCE
CIRCULATION
\/_
PRIVATE SPACE
S''
GUESTROOMS
jJL ^ 3ti.
STORAGE HOUSEKEEPING MAINTENANCE
******************************************************* 86 ******
*************************^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ natural systems *******
Task: Administration / Management
User: Administrative staff
Issue: Provide a warm, receptive environment with

easy access to information and
communication systems. It is important to
keep the resort running efficiently,
smoothly, and economically without
customer complaints.
Activity:
* registration
* supervision
* operation of resort
* telephone communication
* employment / recruitment
* staff interaction
* meeting / greeting
Relationships:
REGISTRATION
ACCOUNTING e
RECEPTION
PURCHASING ^ ^ CATERING
CLERICAL
MANAGEMENT ^ -iJ^ ^ SERVICES
-2j^
ADMINISTRATION
COMMUNICA' IONS ^ e . OFFICES
-^
^ RECEIVING
s/
CX)MPUTERS ^ ^STORAGES ^ LOADING DOCK
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * y , * y , ^ j ^ * ^ y t * * * * * * * * * * * * * * 37 i,i,i,^^^
******************:****>;***^^^^^^^^^^^^j^^^ natural systems *******
Task: Bookkeeping / Accounting
User: Administrative Staff

Issue: To run an efficient accounting department
capable of handling the resort's books.
Activity:
* management
* accounts payable / receivable
* financial reports
* auditing
* keeping ledger
* registration
Relationships:
* see administration / management diagram
******************************************************* 88 ******
********-k*****-k******-k*-k***-ki,-k*iît-k-ki!ititi!*i, natural systems *******
Task: Secretarial / Clerical / Office
Issue: The clerical staff is in charge of

registration, reservation, and cashier
duties. Their environment should be
comfortable in order that they may
function in a professional manner.
Activity:
* typing / filing
* computer skills
* xeroxing / mailing
* reception
* telephone use
* relaying messages
* storage
Relationships:
******************************************************* 89 ******
************-k-k**-k*-k*-k****-k*ici,-k*-k-k****-k-k** natural systems *******
Task: Purchasing
Issue: To receive goods and purchases and process

them in an efficient manner.
Activity:
* purchasing supplies
* inventory
* supervision
* security
* delivering / receiving
* loading / unloading
Relationships:
******************************************************* 90 ******
**************************^;^;i^*^^^^^^^^yt^^ natural systems *******
Task: Catering
User: Staff
Issue: To deliver services to guests on time.

Activity:
* room service
* preparation of food
* coordination of food services
* storing tableware / linens
* deliveries
Relationships:
******************************************************* 91 ******
****************;(cyt*yt^^^^^yj^y^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ natural systems *******
Task: Back-of-House Areas
User: Operational staff

Issue: To maintain a high quality of work by
creating pleasant workable conditions.
Activity:
* supervise s e r v i c e s
* supervise work schedules
* maintain a l l p u b l i c and p r i v a t e a r e a s
Relationships:
-)|tiOUSEKEEPINGh
^ LAUNDRY
PRIVATE SPACE ^ > SERVICES

- CIRCULATION - ) STORAGE
PUBLIC SPACE ^ ) RECEIVING
^ MAINTENANCE
s/_
FOOD & BEVERAGE PREPARATION
******************************************************* 92 ******
*-k**-k-k*ir*-k-k-k-ki!-k-ki^-k-kiK-k-kiK*-k*-k-k-k-k-ki(ifk*i!-k-k-k-k-k natural systems
*******
Task: Housekeeping
User: Operational Staff

Issue: To promote high production level and
positive work attitude.
Activity:
* supervise housekeeping staff
* clean all areas of guestrooms
* clean and store supplies / linens
* waste disposal
Relationships:
* see back-of-house-area diagram
******************************************************* 93 ******
********-k**-k-k*-k-k-k-k-k-kickicit*-k-ki,i,icMitici,iîîtiîî(it natural systems *******
Task: Laundry
User: Operational Staff
Issue: To receive, wash, dry, clean, fold, store,

and return clean laundry in the least
amount of time.
Activity:
* washing
* drying
* folding / ironing
* mending / altering
* service storage
* distributing clean laundry
Relationships:
* see back-of-house area diagram
******************************************************* 94 ******
*********-k*-k-k-k-k**-k-k*-k*:*it****-k-ki!-iî!-kit-ki,itifk-k natural systems *******
Task: Preparing and Serving

(food and beverages)
User: Food Service Staff
Issue: To quickly prepare and serve food and

drinks to the guests.
Activity:
* lounging and dining service
* guestroom service
* service storage
* preparation of food and beverages
* serving
* cleaning tables / bar
Relationships:
******************************************************* 95 ******
*********-k****-k-ki,-k-k-k-k-ki,-k-k-k-ki,-î,i,i,i,.^.^.î,i,i,.i,.^ natural systems *******
Task: Maintenance
User: Maintenance Staff
Issue: To efficiently maintain the building and

its mechanical areas in an orderly and
professional manner.
Activity:
* inspection
* repairs
* preventive and corrective maintenance
* storage of equipment
* safety checks
* emergency
Relationships:
******************************************************* 9g ******
*********-k**-k-k***-ki,-Mi,i,i,i,i,i,i,i,4,i,^^^^^^^^^^^ natural systems *******
Task: Staff Preparation
User: Resort Staff
Issue: To provide an area for the staff to relax.

Activity:
* dressing
* personal hygiene
* rest and relaxation
* personal storage areas
* check in / check out
Relationships:
PARKING
JiJii.
ENTRY
STAFF PREPARATION
BACK-OF-HOUSE AREA
PRIVATE SPACE e^—^ PUBLIC SPACE
****************************************vt************** 97 ******
***************************************** natural systems * * * * * * *
Task: Security
User: Security Staff
Issue: To provide check points throughout the
resort for surveillance and protection.
Activity:
* supervision over property
* monitoring of entrances and exits
* supervision over guests and staff
* storage for all valuables
Relationships:
SECURITY
J:^ Nl/
INTERIOR EXTERIOR
RESORT RESORT
PROPERTY PROPERTY
******************************************************* 98 ******
*****************************^^^^^^^^^^^^ natural systems *******
Task: Circulation
User: Guests, Visitors, and Staff
Issue: The resort should provide pleasant

patterns of movement between primary
activities; both vertical and horizontal
It should access all environments to all
people while creating interest in
circulation paths.
Activity:
* guest interaction
* patterns
* movement throughout entire site
Relationships:
ENTRY
~PF—
PUBLIC SPACE ^ ADMINISTRATION
CIRCULATION
PRIVATE SPACE ^ ) STORAGE
\/'
BACK-OF-HOUSE AREAS
******************************************************* 99 ******
***************************************** natural systems *******
ANALYSIS OF SPACES
******************************************************* 100 ******

**********************^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ natural systems *******
SPACE SUMMARY
This space list is to help the designer in

approaching all the individual areas in the resort.
Each space is identified into categories that will
distinguish the properties of the space.
PERSONAL ACCOMMODATIONS:
Guest Rooms 39,704 s.f.
Corridors 4,000 s.f.
Maid / Linen 400 s.f.
44,104 s.f.
LOBBY AREA:
Lobby 1,800 s.f.

Front Desk 300 s.f.
Baggage Storage 160 s.f.
1,700 s.f.
ADMINISTRATION:
General Manager's Office 200 s.f.
Secretary's Office 150 s.f.
Assistant Manager's Office 150 s.f.
Clerical Office 350 s.f.
Reservation Office 200 s.f.
:***************************************************** 101 ******

******************************j^^^^^^j^jij^^^ natural systems *******
Front Desk Office 150 s.f.
Director of Catering Office 150 s.f.
Director of Security Office 150 s.f.

Personnel Office 200 s.f.
Housekeeping Office 150 s.f.
Accounting Office 400 s.f.
Record Storage 150 s.f.

2,400 s.f.
FOOD AND BEVERAGE AREAS:

Lounge / Bar 900 s.f.
Restaurant 1,400 s.f.

Snack Bar 150 s.f.
2,450 s.f.
MEETING AREA:
Ballroom 2,400 s.f.
Ballroom Foyer 400 s.f.
Meeting Rooms 1,000 s.f.
Banquet Room 560 s.f.
Storage 400 s.f.
4,760 s.f.
******************************************************* 102 ******

***************************************** natural systems ******'
BACK-OF-THE-HOUSE AREAS:
Main Kitchen 800 s.f.
Staff Lounge 216 s.f.
Employee Locker Room 800 s.f.
Laundry Room 1,600 s.f.
Receiving Area 900 s.f.
Trash Area (included in rec.)
General Storage 400 s.f.
Food and Beverage Storage 100 s.f.
Maintenance and Engineering 1,000 s.f.
Chief Engineer (included in engr.)
Communication Room (included in engr.)
Personnel Office 300 s.f.
Mechanical Room 1,000 s.f.

7,116 s.f.
RETAIL:
Rental Spaces 400 s.f.
Rental Storage 200 s.f.
Gift Shop / Florist 300 s.f.
Newsstand 150 s.f.
Game Room 400 s.f.
Rental Car 200 s.f.
1,650 s.f.
******************************************************* 103 ******

***************************************** natural systems * * * * * * *
MISCELLANEOUS:
Entry Vestibule 1,000 s.f.

Public Restrooms 320 s.f.
Public Phones 50 s.f.
Registration and Coat Room 600 s.f.

Elevator Area 140 s.f.
Storage 200 s.f.
Vending / Ice room 100 s.f.

2,410 s.f.
CIRCULATION
Public Circulation 2,000 s.f
Back-of-House Circulation 1,200 s.f.
3,200 s.f.
RECREATIONAL:
Indoor / Outdoor
Swimming Pool and Spa 3,800 s.f.
Pool Equipment 300 s.f.
Tennis Courts 3,600 s.f.
Weight Training 400 s.f.
Exercise Studio 600 s.f.
Lockers and Steam Room 620 s.f.
Storage 200 s.f.
9,520 s.f.
******************************************************* 104 ******
*****************************^^^^^^^^^^yp^ natural systems *******
PARKING
Restaurant 15 spaces
Meeting Rooms 21 spaces
Visitor 24 spaces
Staff 24 spaces
84 spaces
Guest Parking 58 spaces

Total spaces 142 spaces
Total sq. ft. 49,700 s.f.
******************************************************* 105 ******

*******************************ytyt^^yj^*^** natural systems *******
PERSONAL ACCOMMODATIONS
Guestrooms
Space: Double-Double Guestrooms
Presidential Suites
Hospitality Suites
Suites
Area Required:
Double-Double Room size:
24' x 12' = 288'
108 @ 288' = 31,104 s.f
Presidential Room size:

34' X 34' = 1,156'
2 @ 1,156' = 2,312 s.f.
Hospitality Room size:

28' X 30' = 840'
2 @ 840' = 1,680 s.f
Suites Room size:

24' X 24' = 576'
8 @ 576' = 4,608 s.f.
Functional Description:
Guests personal accommodation. The
Double/Double guestroom is meant to
accommodate 1 - 4 guests.
Design Objectives:
* accommodate all personal needs
* adapt to human needs
* provide private outdoor space
* flexibility
Occupants:
* varies from room to room
******************************************************* 106 ******

****************************************^ natural systems *******
Space: Corridors
Area Required:
10% of guestrooms = 10% x 39,704 s.f.

= 4,000 s.f.
Provide circulation for guests, service and
administration areas.
Design Objectives:
* provide entry way for each guest room
* separate guests from service areas
* provide alcoves for vending machines
* conform to safety regulations (codes)
Occupants:
* all guests and staff
******************************************************* 107 ******

******************************j^^^^^y^y^^**^ natural systems *******
Space: Maid / Linen
Area Required: 400 s.f.

Center of housekeeping and storage for
equipment and supplies
Design Objectives:
* provide access to guest rooms
* provide access to all the resort
* maximize efforts of employees
Occupants:
* varies but mostly janitors
******************************************************* 108 ******

**-k*ifk-k-k*-k-ki,-ki^-k-k-k-k-k-k-k-k**-k-k*-kifA-k-kic-k**-k-k-k-k-k natural systems *******
LOBBY AREA
Space: Lobby
Area Required:
Most hotels provide 6 -10 square feet / guest

of floor area in the lobby.
10 X 120 (# of rooms) = 1,200 s.f."^

Description:
Area for initial guest entry which provides

areas for guest interaction
Design Objectives:
* create a pleasant first impression
* be inviting to guests
* establish an "ambience" to resort
* service main circulation
Occupants:
* varies; depends on traffic periods
FUHcnat Room \
ADMIHISTRATIOM RESTAURAKT
FROHTDESK LOUMCB
R£TJUL SHOn LOBBY BUESTROOm
GJUUGC / : \ RBCREATttm
******************************************************* 10 9 * * * * * *
***************yjyjy,^^^y^y^y^y^ ^ . ^ ^ ^ ^ ^
TtTfxx*************** natural systems *******
Space: Front Desk
Area which contains registration and business

activities of the guests
Design Objectives:
* Allow 6 feet per station + 1 for ea, 150

rooms.
* should be easy to identify
* present good impression and image
* free of structural columns
* reservations and operators are near
* separate registration and cashier
Occupants:
* 2 - 3 staff
FROHTOFF.MGR
RESBRV.MGR COUNTRM CASHIER
RESCRVATIOHS
h SAFEDEPOSn RMS ASST MGR
WORK AREA
h RECEPTION
. ^
ASSTMGR
FRONT DESK
SOURCE: Rutes, page 170

^ ^
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * y , ^ y ^ y . y ^ ^ y ^ y ^ y ^ y ^ y ^ ^ y ^ ^ y ^ ^ ^ ^ ^ j ^ Q ^ ^ ^ ^ ^ ^
*****************************yjy^yj^yjyjyj^yjyj^^ natural systems *******
Space: Baggage Storage
Long and short-term storage of luggage
To unload, store and deliver guest baggage
Design Objectives:
* provide a bellman station near front desk
* provide public phone, house phone, paging,
and electrical outlets
* provide separate rooms with shelves for
baggage and carts and direct access to curb
Occupants:
* none
******************************************************* 111 ******

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * ^ y j
********************** natural systems *******
ADMINISTRATION
Space: Administration Areas (12 units)
Area Required: 2,400 s.f,^
Manage all resort administrative activities.
Office area.
Design Objectives:
* need to be easily accessible to guests

* need to be accessible to administrative
areas
* provide a good work atmosphere to employees
Occupants:
* varies according to each office
o w . OF
PUBUC REL. \
TOILETS SECY I SAl£S DIR. I
F&B ASST MGR SAUS REPS

J
]-
SALES i CATERING
SECRETARY RECEPTION FUNCTION BK.
SECTS
GEN'L MGR
Z\
CATERING
MORS
]
CONF. RM BANQUET MGR
S O U R C E : Rutes, page 167 COHV.SERV.
****************************************************** 112 * * * * * *
*******************************^yj^y^yjy,y^^y,y, natural systems *******
FOOD AND BEVERAGE AREAS
Space: Food and Beverage Areas

Area Required:
Lounge / Bar size: 900 s.f.
Restaurant size: 1,400 s.f.

Snack Bar size: 150 s.f.
To provide flexible areas for eating and
drinking allowing a range of moods catering
to the guests
Design Objectives:
* allow for public and private interaction
* stimulate social interaction
* provide entertainment
* provide intimate spaces
Occupants:
* Lounge / Bar:
60 seats @ 15 s.f.
= 900 s.f.
* Restaurant:
restaurant 160 x 6 s.f. = 960 s.f.
ballroom 160 x 2 s.f. = 320 s.f.
# of rooms 120 x 1 s.f. = 120 s.f.°
Total = 1,400 s.f.
* Snack Bar: 150 s.f.
******************************************************* 113 ******

***************************************** natural systems *******
MEETING AREA
Space: Ballroom
Area Required:
Generally, 15 square feet per guest is
acceptable. 15 s.f. x 160 bays = 2,400 s.f.
To provide a function space for guests to
hold conventions, banquets, weddings, and
parties.
Design Objectives:
* allow flexibility for various activities
* provide a separate function entrance from
the street or the parking area.
* locate close to and easily accessible to
the lobby.
Occupants:
* maximum capacity of 200 people
BAOROOM b
FOYER \ -
BAllROOM
1 STORAGE 1
BANQUET k
[> ROOMS
1 mCHEM 1
1rOILITS, !_ MEETING k BACK-OF-HOUSE |

(:OATS I ROOMS
1 AREAS 1
SALES |_ EXHIBmON k
^^^ OFFICE I HAU
J
******************************************************* 114 *****'

*********-k*-kit*-k-k-k-k-k-k-k-k-ki,-k-k-ki,-k-k-k-kiîî^-k-kit*-k* natural systems *******
Space: Ballroom Foyer

Area Required:
Generally, the ballroom foyer is one sixth
times the size of the Banquet/Ballroom area.
1/6 X 2,400 s.f. = 400 s.f.^
To serve as a space to lounge as well as an

enclosed entrance to maintain acoustic and
visual separation between resort circulation,
areas. Entry to ballroom and meeting rooms.
Design Objectives:
* must be adjacent to lobby and ballroom
Occupants:
* varies with each activity
******************************************************* 115 ******

*******-k*:-k***-k*-k-k-k-k-k-k-k*ic*it*-ki<-k*-k****-k-k**-k natural systems *******
Space: Meeting Rooms

Banquet Room
Area Required:
Meeting Room 2 @ 500 s.f. = 1,000 s.f.^

Banquet Room 1 @ 560 s.f. = 560 s.f.
To provide space for smaller groups to meet

for sales promotions, instruction, and meals.
To hold conventions, banquets, and parties.
Design Objective:
* Divisibility - allow subdivisions

* need to be flexible
Occupants:
* varies from occasion to occasion
* maximum capacity of 165 in each meeting
room.
Space: Storage
Functional description:
Storage for assembly equipment.
Design Objectives:
* provide security for storage
* adjacent to back-of-the house
Occupants: none
******************************************************* 116 ******

***************************************** natural systems *******
BACK-OF-THE-HOUSE AREAS
Space: Main Kitchen
Area Requirement: 800 s.f.
Among all of the service areas, food
preparation is the most critical in terms of
efficient operations and guest satisfaction.
The essential connection is to storage,
restaurant, elevators, and banquet areas.
Design Objectives:
* provide efficient and compact centers

* provide service to all dining areas
* minimize distance between kitchen and
restaurant
* provide fire protection systems
Occupants:
* 5 - 6
BiUMOM
BANQUET BANOUn ROOM SERVICE SERVICE \

ROOMS
} PANTRY AREA ElIVATORS I
COFFEE SHOP
PREFUNCVON COFFEE SHOP
PANTRY
EMPLOYEE MAIN RESTAURANT

DINING KITCHEN
COCKTAIL
FOOD t BEV. LOUNGE
STORAGE
TRASH RECEIVING
******************************************************* 117 * * * * * *
***************************************** natural systems *******
Space: Staff Lounge

Area Required:
1.8 s.f. X 120 bays = 216 s.f."
An area for personnel to relax and eat
breakfast, lunch, and dinner as well as take
breaks.
Design Objectives:
* provide a pleasant, relaxing atmosphere
* plan area near kitchen and employee locker
rooms
* include vending and coffee machines
Occupants:
******************************************************* 118 ******

***************************************** natural systems *******
Space: Employee Locker Room

Area Required:
Men 350 s.f
Women 450 s.f.
Total 800 s.f.
To provide space for employees to keep their
personal belongings, change clothes, rest and
relax. It is a preparation area for
employees
Design Objectives:
* provide facilities sized according to the
staff program and shift schedule.
* plan separate access to toilet area without
going through lockers.
Occupants:
******************************************************* 119******
***************************************** natural systems *******
Space: Laundry Room

Area Required: 1,600 s.f.
A space to clean and sort laundry for guests
linen and employee uniforms. Laundry service
for all areas of the resort.
Design Objectives:
* provide linen chute for soiled laundry
accessible by housekeeping on all floors.^^
* place uniform issue close to housekeeping
* create separate access for night shift
Occupants:
* 4 - 6
******************************************************* 120 ******

***************************************** natural systems *******
Space: Receiving / Trash Area

Area to receive shipments of supplies as well
as to dispose of trash."
Design Objectives:
Receiving
* provide raised dock to accommodate 2 semi
trailers
* enclose 30 ft long dock, 15 ft office
area."
* access should avoid cross traffic
Trash
* provide refrigerated area for garbage
* provide area for washing cans and mats
Occupants:
* varies
Â*****************************************************12i ******
**********************************^*i,icifific natural systems *******
Space: General Storage

Area to store deliveries, office supplies,
and other dry goods.
Design Objectives:
* locate adjacent to back-of-the-house areas
as well as dock.
* provide security and bolted door locks.
Occupants:
* none
Space: Food and Beverage Storage

Area Required:
13% of main kitchen = 100 s.f."
Storage of banquet equipment, dry foods,
serving counters and refrigerated units.
Design Objectives:
* provide storage shelves for dry foods,
alcoholic beverages, china, paper products,
and silverware.
Occupants:
* none
******************************************************* 122 ******

***************************************** natural systems *******
Space: Maintenance and Engineering

Chief Engineer
Communications area
Area for engineers and maintenance to operate
usually 24 hours a day. Need to be adjacent
to back-of-the-house areas and service
elevators. Houses maintenance, repair, and
engineering activities.
Design Objectives:
* place work shops in a compact manner
* provide exhaust system
* allow natural light
* locate close to exit or dock.
Occupants:
* 6 - 8
******************************************************* 123 ******

*********************************i,ififififif*i, natural systems *******
Space: Personnel Office

Area to house personnel, security staff,
timeclock, and interviewing area.
Design Objectives:
* include private office for interviewing,
training, and counseling employees.
* provide visual control of the entrance and
main corridor.
* provide a relaxing atmosphere
Occupants:
* 20 - 25
Space: Mechanical Room

Area to house transformers, boilers, and
maintenance, repair, and engineering
activities. Will operate 24 hours a day and
needs to be adjacent to back-of-the-house
areas and services elevators.
Design Objectives:
* locate work areas adjacent to one another.
* possible location at basement or lower
level.
* can use north light for work stations
Occupants:
* 4 - 6
******************************************************* 124 ******

***************************************** natural systems *******
RETAIL:
Space: Rental Spaces

Area Required: 2 @ 200 s.f. = 400 s.f.
Lease space available for little shops
Design Objectives:
* allow flexibility for each area
* should be located adjacent to main entry
* accessible to guests
* arrange in manner to secure easily
Occupants:
* varies per lease space
Space: Rental Storage

Area Required: 2 @ 100 s.f. = 200 s.f.
Storage for lease space
Design Objectives:
* locate adjacent to rental spaces
* allow for adaptability
* identify each lease space
Occupants:
* none
^cîcii*************************************************** 125******
***************************************** natural systems *******
Space: Gift Shop / Florist

Provide flower service for guests and sell
small memorable items.
Design Objectives:
* locate adjacent to rental spaces
* allow daylight in shop and maintain
temperatures to sustain plant life.
Occupants:
* varies
Space: Newsstand
Provide newspaper and magazine service to
resort and guests.
Design Objectives:
* make easily accessible from entrance
* locate adjacent to public area
Occupants:
* varies
^****************************************************** ±26 ******

***************************************** natural systems *******
Space: Game Room

Provide video games, ping-pong, pool, and
pastime alternative to guests.
Design Objectives:
* locate in adjacent to recreational area
* provide security and supervision
Occupants:
* varies during the day
Space: Rental Car

Provide car rental for guests. Extends the
vacation scope to other tourist attractions
in the area.
Design Objectives:
* locate close to parking
* may be adjacent to basement underground
parking
* easy access to lobby area
Occupants:
* varies
******************************************************* 127 ******

**********************************^s*ic*i,** natural systems *******
MISCELLANEOUS:
Space: Entry Vestibule

Area for initial guest entry which provides
areas for guest interaction.
Design Objectives:
* provide a covered drop off area at main
entrance to protect guests from weather.
* provide space for taxis and busses, loading
and unloading of baggage, short term
waiting and valet delivered cars.^^
* develop revolving doors to limit
temperature fluctuations.
* provide ramps for disabled guests and heavy
luggage.
Occupants:
* will vary; levels will change throughout
the day.
******************************************************* 128 ******

***************************************** natural systems *******
Space: Public Restrooms

Area Required:
Men 120 s.f.
Women 200 s.f.
Total 320 s.f."
Public restrooms are for the convenience and
needs of the patrons.
Design Objectives:
* make handicap accessible
* chief concern is convenience to patrons
* locate close to entry
Occupants:
* varies
******************************************************* 129 ******

***************************************** natural systems *******
Space: Public Phones

Area Required:
Minimum 1 pay phone for every 100
rooms. Therefore, need 50 s.f."
Easy access for the users and employees to
make telephone calls to outside the hotel.
Design Objectives:
* include house phones close to lobby
* include public payphones
* 3 ft for each phone
* 2 payphones, 1 calling card phone, and 3
house phones
Occupants:
* varies; maximum of 6 people
******************************************************* 130 ******

***************************************** natural systems *******
Space: Registration and coat Room

Area Required:
Generally the front office requires 5 ft. per
guestroom.
5 X 120 = 600 s.f.'°
Support to cashier functions, assembly
registration and storage area for coats and
bags.
Design Objectives:
* allow 6 ft per station + 1 for each 150
rooms."
* make visible from entrance and guests
* cluster reception and work areas
* place luggage and bellman near front desk
* locate near cashier
Occupants:
* 4 - 6
******************************************************* 131 ******

***************************************** natural systems *******
Space: Elevator
Area Required:
Public Elevator 100 s.f.
Service Elevator 40 s.f.
Storage 200 s.f.
Total 340 s.f.
Public
Provide transportation to different levels in
the resort to move guests.
Service
Provide transportation to different levels in
the resort to move equipment and deliveries
that are unacceptable to transport in guest
elevators.
Storage
elevator equipment storage
Design Objectives:
Public
* locate near guest corridors
* locate along circulation paths
Service
* locate adjacent to room service, receiving
areas, and laundry room housekeeping
Storage
* store elevator equipment
Occupants:
* varies per time of day
******************************************************* 132******
***************************************** natural systems *******
Space: Vending / Ice Room
Area Required:
4 rooms @ 25 s.f. = 100 s.f.
A place for guests to have access to ice,
soft drinks and snacks at any time of the
day.
Design Objectives:
* Design all ice rooms near the elevators
* provide niches along halls
Occupants:
* varies
CIRCULATION
Space: Public Circulation

Circulation throughout all areas of the
resort
Design Objectives:
* provide access to handicap
* use natural lighting
* allow for interaction and socializing
* allow good visibility and access to guests
Occupants:
* varies
******************************************************* 133 ******

***************************************** natural systems *******
Space: Back-of-the-house Circulation

Circulation throughout all Back-of-the-House
areas
Design Objectives:
* provide access to service functions
* allow effective and efficient layout
* exit to back area and dock
Occupants:
* varies
******************************************************* 134 ******

***************************************** natural systems *******
RECREATIONAL
Space: Indoor / Outdoor Pool and Spa

and Pool Equipment
Area Required:
main pool 25' x 60' = 1,500 s.f.
spa = 200 s.f.
pool deck (10' perimeter) = 2,100 s.f.
pool equipment = 300 s.f.
Total = 4,100 s.f.'
Recreational area
Design Objectives:
* pool should accommodate the swimming and
sunbathing needs of the guests with at
least 10 ft deck space around the
perimeter of the pool.
* provide for storage of pool equipment
Occupants:
* varies per time of day
******************************************************* 135 ******

***************************************** natural systems *******
Space: Tennis Courts

Area Required:
Recommended ground space is approx. 1,800
s.f. to the playable perimeter fence."
1,800 s.f. X 2 courts = 3,600 s.f.
Area to provide tennis courts for the guests
to enjoy.
Design Objectives:
* preferred orientation is for the long axis
to be north-south. Surface is to be
concrete or bituminous material with
protective coating. Drainage is to be end
to end, side to side, or corner to corner
diagonal at a minimal slope of 1 inch to 10
ft."
* in arid environment provide shading
* dimensions are 20' x 44' plus 8' space on
each end and a 5' space on each side."
Occupants:
* maximum of 4 players on court
******************************************************* 136 ******

********************************ic*ifif^îfffic natural systems *******
Space: Weight Training

Work out and weight lifting area
Design Objectives:
* provide ventilation
* provide equipment for weight training
* items include: exercise mats, mirrors,
music system, check in desk.
* locate near locker rooms
Occupants:
* maximum capacity of 8
Space: Exercise Studio

Area for aerobic exercise and workouts
Design Objectives:
* provide fans, ventilation, and exhaust
system devices
* provide exercise bars, mirrors, mats, and
music system
* locate near locker room
Occupants:
* maximum capacity of 10
******************************************************* 137 ******

***************************************** natural systems *******
Space: Lockers and Sauna
Area Required:
Men's lockers 130 s.f
Shower / toilets 100 s.f.
Women's lockers 130 s.f.
Shower / toilets 100 s.f.
Men's sauna 80 s.f.
Women's sauna 80 s.f.
Total 620 s.f.
Lockers
Area to provide space for guests to store
clothing and shower. Preparation before and
after workouts.
Sauna
Area to raise body temperature to perspire
and loose weight.
Design Objectives:
Lockers
* plan separate access toilets without
passing through locker and dressing areas.
* provide areas for showers and dressing
* design for ventilation
Sauna
* locate close to pool and locker room
* locate within locker area
Occupants:
* varies during day
******************************************************* 138 ******

***************************************** natural systems *******
Space: Storage
A place to store equipment for weight
training and sauna activities.
Design Objectives:
* allow for shelves, racks, and other
equipment to be stored.
* locate adjacent to training and aerobics
room
Occupants:
* none
******************************************************* 139 ******

***************************************** natural systems *******
PARKING
Space: Parking lot

Area Required:
Parking lots, exclusive of drives for
entering them, require roughly 350 sq. ft.
per car."
Area for temporary parking of cars. These
belonging to guests, employees, etc.
Design Objectives:
* minimize destruction of natural features
* avoid interaction between vehicular and
pedestrian traffic.
* provide underground parking or shade
parking
* design to obscure car parking lot
* provide indigenous vegetation
Parking analysis:
Number of Rooms 120
Percent occupancy 85%
People per Room 1.4
Percent arriving by car 60%
People per car 1.5
Guest Parking and calculation:^^
(rooms)X(%occupancy)x(people/room)x(%by car)
(People/car)
120 x .85 X 1.4 x .60

= 57.12 cars
1.5
******************************************************* 140 ******

***************************************** natural systems *******
Restaurant .25 X 58 = 15 cars
Meeting Rooms .35 X 58 = 21 cars
Visitor .40 X 58 = 24 cars
Staff .40 X 58 = 24 cars
= 8 4 car spaces
142 spaces X 350 (s.f. per car) = 49,700 s.f.
******************************************************* 141 ******

***************************************** natural systems *******
ADJACENCY MATRIX
ICE
ICE
0) O
UI
UJ
- UJ £ U.
II o z
CO CO U.
^ S S^ ^
OUNTING O
> u. < & O
KERS ROO
AGERS OF
MVI/SAUN/)
ES/ PURCH
O
LTH CLUB
CO
n
Sr s u . o UJ F-
LAREA
g O UL O (9 CO z
< o O _l z UJ <
S a. a: _i UJ 3 o o
O n rg UJ UJ O I- z
O S i z >- 3 z U -J U U UJ
III
o < Q:
-!
§
>
^
H
O q 11. o
CO - 1 u .
O < < O IS O t<
O CD < & CO CL X -J co
_J Q: UJ DC (L tf
< UJ ju ui s ?
COAT ROOM o © (b o E:^ b
CD CO S Ei CO
CL UJ
&
Elh E^ Ci E:^
0 b b b
BALLROOM FOYER o ofeG G E:i [ i Ei D> Ei b b b b b b
BALLROOM
o o o<h c» E:^ E:i Cli Eî Ci b Eli Eli Eli b b b b
SERVING PANTRY
d. <b o O c:i b D» b Eli Ei b b b b
MEETING ROOMS
o(b o G 0 0 E:^
&
Ei [i Q E:i b b b b
PERSONEL OFFICE b
Q o oQ (b (b
Ci D £i
&
b b b b b
EMPLOYEE LOCKERS b
O o(b G (b (b
E^ b t^ Ci Ei b b b b
STAFF LOUNGE ti
G O o (b (b (b (b
t:^ Ci Eii [^ b b b
(b
Q b Ci b b
FRONT DESK & 0 [^
G G & & O O O (b
Dk Ci Ci
ACCOUNTING OFFICE Ci Ci
(b & & O O O Eli b b b b
MANAGERS OFFICE Ei Ci Q Ci Ci
(b & (b O O O Q b b b G
SALES/ PURCHASING Q Ci Ci Eik Q
(b & (b O O o Eli b b b b
POOL AREA b E^ b Ci Ci E^k Ci E^ E^ b
G Ei oooo
HEALTH CLUB Ci Q b Ei Ci Ei E^ Eli
(b E:i E:^ [^ O ooo
LOCKERS ROOMS ti Ei Ci Ci Q Ci E:^ Eiii Ci Eî Eî b
O o oo
STEAM/ SAUNA b E^ Ci [^ E:^ b b Eli Eî b
Ei t i
o0 o o
ATTENDANTS OFFICE Ci Eili c^ b E:^ t i b Eii
&
E:^
^G oooo
O MUST BE ADJACENT
(b SHOULD BE IN CLOSE CLOSE PROXIMITY
G SHOULD BE IN GENERAL AREA
'^ NO NECESSARY CONNECTION
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * 142 ******
***************************************** n a t u r a l systems *******
BACK-OF-THE-HOUSE MATRIX
CLEANING CART STOR

FURNITURE STORAGE
TRANSFORMER ROOM
MECHANICAL ROOM
GENERAL STORAGE
FOOR & BEV. STOR.

RECEIVING DOCK
SERVICE ELEV.
MAINTENANCE
LAUNDRY
KITCHEN
b b
FURNITURE STORAGE d000 b b
O @
GENERAL STORAGE O G b O b O7 0 0 b b
KITCHEN b
Q b b b00 Q b b
b b b
LAUNDRY (bO b (b0 b b
MAINTENANCE (bO b (b oa b 0 G G
CLEANING CART STOR. b b b
Oo b b 0 b b
& (bo
b
FOOR & BEV. STOR. Q b 0 (b b b
RECEIVING DOCK o oo(b d b 0 0 b &b
SERVICE ELEV. ob ob ob ob O ob (bb 0b Q
MECHANICAL ROOM Q 0 0
b b b bQ b b
TRANSFORMER ROOM G7 b 0
O MUST BE ADJACENT
(b SHOULD BE IN CLOSE CLOSE PROXIMITY
b NO NECESSARY CONNECTION
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * 143 ******
***************************************** natural systems *******
PUBLIC SPACE ADJACENCY MATRIX
CO Z
UJ
-J
s
3
3
CD 8 0)
S
UJ £ O
CO OC CO 1= O (0 S o
UJ < CO UJ 0)
X O s QC ^ < o
o > UJ DC Z UJ
CO DC o S UJ OD OQ QC
5 O O OC »- o O X >- H
OC I- < >- t ? <rJ
J < CO
UJ OC 3 _ U_ ffl
S 3 < OCO UJ
< z S S > Si ^ UJ 3 UJ
•- O 2 O
0. UJ (9 CO UJ -I SI OC
< O -J UJ 3 o o < _l CO _J I-
OQ _l UJ I- (L
PARKING
O o oa Q (b b b b G d b
b b
ENTRY VESTIBULE o o oo(b G Q bb bb (bb bb bb Qb bb
BAGGAGE AREA o O oo(b G Q b
LOBBY G oo o o © O a o(b G-oG
ELEVATORS Q (b o o (b (b b o(b b b b a b
TELEPHONES b
(b (b oG & a b b o (b Q o G
b C\
PUBLIC RESTROOMS Q G (b (b b b b (b Q Q (b G
RETAIL SHOPS O0 QO ba G b b
o Q Q o Ci
GUESTROOMS b b b
Q o b b b oQ b b a b
b b b b
ICE ROOMS (b b b b b D b b b D
ATRIUM RESTAURANT b
(b b O b G (b o b b G b (bo
LOUNGE b b b
(b b (b Q Q b b & (b (b o
SNACK BAR Q b b
(b b b
QQ b b
(b oo
LOBBY BAR Q b b
o b o(b O Gb b (b (bO o
b b
TOILET ROOMS b b
^Q 0 Q •^ o O oo
O MUST BE ADJACENT
Qp SHOULD BE IN CLOSE CLOSE PROXIMITY
•^ NO NECESSARY CONNECTION
******************************************************* 144 ******

**********************************icif*itîfic natural systems *******
End Notes
1 Rutes, Walker A., Hotel Planning and Design.

(New York: Watson-Guptill Publications, 1985) p.
169
2 Jeanne Davern, Places for People (New York:

McGraw Hill Inc., 1976) p. 63.
3 DeChiara, Joesph. Timesaver Standards for

Building Types. (New York: McGraw Hill, 1980)
p. 897.
4 Rutes, Administrative Space, p. 179.

5 DeChiara, p. 899.
6 DeChiara, Kitchens. p. 353.

7 Architect's Journal, Principals of Hotel
Design. (London: The Architectural Press, 1970.) p.
123.
8 Gee, Chuck Y. Resort Development and

Management. (East Lansing, MI.: Educational
Institute of American Hotel and Motel Association.
1981) p. 43.
9 DeChiara, p. 881.
10 Kinzey, Bertram. Environmental Technologies
in Architecture. (Englewood Cliffs: Prentice-Hall,
Inc. 1963) p. 46.
11 Rutes, Back-to-the-House. p. 205.
12 Ibid, p. 204.
13 Littlefield, David. Ski Resort in Colorado.
(Thesis, Texas Tech University. 1983)
p. 46.
14 DeChiara, Commercial Kitchens, p. 345.
15 DeChiara, p. 897.
******************************************************* 145 ******
***************************************** natural systems *******
16 Ibid., p. 896.
17 Ibid., p. 898.
18 Ibid., p. 898.
19 Rutes, Administration Space, p. 179.
20 DeChiara, p. 897.
21 Cozine, K. Tennis: The Sport. (New York:
Scribner & Sons. 1983) p. 33.
22 Ibid., p. 40.
23 Ibid., p. 43.
24 Rutes, p. 194.
25 Rutes, p. 194.
******************************************************* 146 ******

***************************************** natural systems *******
FACILITY TYPE CASE STUDIES
******************************************************* 147 ******

********************************4,ifi,ifin,i,*ic natural systems *******
FACILITY TYPE CASE STUDY (1)
The Arizona Biltmore
The Arizona Biltmore is similar to the proposed

resort because it allows the site and the building
to impact each other in an integrated manner.
Frank Lloyd Wright displayed his theory of
"Organic Architecture" and captured the spirit of
the desertscape composing a natural whole.
******************************************************* 148 ******

***************************************** natural systems *******
Project: The Arizona Biltmore

Facility-type: Resort Hotel
Client: The McArthur brothers
Architect: Albert Chase McArthur is credited
by the June issue of Architectural
Record as the architect. He
requested the assistance of his
mentor - Frank Lloyd Wright.
User: vacationers
When and Where: 1929; Phoenix, Arizona.
Site: Arizona desert
Building: Has undergone additions but still
maintains its original splendor.
Major Spaces; 1) Lobby
2) Orangerie
3) Aztec Lounge
4) Ballroom
5) Conference Center
6) Cottages
7) Valley Wing
8) Paradise Wing
9) Pool
10) Foyer
Budget: not known
******************************************************* 149 ******

***************************************** n a t u r a l systems *******
1 Lobby
2 Orangerie V"* '
3 Aztec Lounge
4 Ballroom
5 Conference Center
6 Cotuges
7 VaUey Wing 1979
8 Paradise WWig 1975
9 Pod
H) Foyer
Site Layout of the Biltmore Resort
******************************************************* 150 ******

***************************************** natural systems *******
Analysis
"Wright's theories about an architecture

synchronized with the landscape could have found
no better proving ground than the Arizona
Biltmore; the hotel rises discreetly from an arid
mesa, and is composed of forms and materials that
are clearly derived from the desert terrain and
the indigenous flora. In keeping with the spirit
and texture of the desertscape, Wright used the
humble concrete block as the primary interior and
exterior material."^
The resort complex was crowned "jewel of the
desert" for its success in achieving an integral
level of design surpassed by none at the time.
This is an important aspect of this design. It
was a forerunner like its designer, to
environmental planning.
Wright's theory will not be abandoned but instead
will be incorporated into the design of this
project in the area of innovative energy use and
responding to climate in a natural way resulting
in a model for other projects.
According to Olivanna Lloyd Wright, "To spare the

******************************************************* 151 ******
***************************************** natural systems *******
destruction of the landscape had in fact been my

husband's lifelong dreams in relation to what is
now termed environmental."^ A low portico
connects the driveway to a foyer that welcomes
guests with a symbolic mini-oasis, a freestanding
cluster of columns, plants, and a waterfall.
******************************************************* 152 ******

***************************************** natural systems *******
End Notes
1 Architectural Record. The Arizona Biltmore.

Phoenix, Arizona. Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation
(London: The Architecture Press, 1980) p. 117-120
******************************************************* 153 ******

***************************************** natural systems *******
ECONOMIC ANALYSIS
******************************************************* 154 ******

***************************************** natural systems *******
Economic Analysis
The economic analysis will attempt to determine the

total building construction and the total project
value. The revenues and expenditures of the
resort's operation assist in determining the net
income the project will generate.
NET TO GROSS CONVERSION
Net to Gross
Net s.f. Ratio Gross S.f.
General
Hotel 20,836 .85 24,512
Guest
Rooms 44,104 .92 47,939
Food &
Beverage 2,450 .85 2,882
Admin-
istration 2,400 .85 2,823
Pool 1,700 1.00 1,700

Deck 2,100 1.00 2,100
Equipment
Room 300 .85 353
Health &
Fitness 5,400 .85 6,353
Tennis
Courts 3,600 1.00 3,600
Outdoor
Space 10,500 1.00 10,500
Parking 49,700 1.00 49,700
Total 120 rooms 102,762
CAPITAL COST OUTLINE

******************************************************* 155******
***************************************** natural systems *******
Item Estimate Basis Dollar Amount

Site Acquisition
$70,000 X 20 acres $ 1,400,000
General Construction / Site Development
Basic Building Cost
$102,762 s.f. X $ 70/s.f. =$ 1,200,000
Sitework
3% of Building cost = $36,000
Sidewalks and Terraces
Surface Parking
142 cars X 350 s.f./car
@ $.75/s.f. = $37,275
Landscaping
Utilities
Outdoor Lighting
Interior Finishes
120 bays X $2,000 ea. = $240,000
Total Cost = $1,609,275
SOURCE: Rutes, Walter A. Hotel Planning and Design.

(New York: Watson-Guptill Publications. 1985.) p.
229-
BIBLIOGRAPHY
******************************************************* 156 ******
***************************************** natural systems *******
Abraben, E. Resort Hotels Planning and Management.
New York: Reinhold Publishing Corporation,
1965.
Architect's Journal, ed. Principals of Hotel
Design. London: The Architectural Press. 1970
Architecture. May 1991. p. 64-71.
Architecture Record. The Arizona Biltmore. New
York: McGraw Hill, Inc..
Churchman, C. West. The Systems Approach. Dell
Publishing Co., New York. 1968.
Davern, Jeanne M. Places for People. New York:
McGraw Hill, Inc., 1976
DeChiara, Joesph and Callender, John Hancock, ed.
et. al.. Time Saver Standards for Building
Types. New York: McGraw Hill. 1980.
Gee, Chuck Y. Resort Development and Management.
East Lansing, MI.: Educational Institute of
American Hotel and Motel Association. 1981
Hornbeck, James s., ed. Motels, Hotels,
Restaurants and Bars. F.W. Dodge Corporation.
1953.
Kinzey, Bertram Y., et. al. Environmental
Technologies in Architecture. Englewood
Cliffs: Prentice-Hall, Inc. 1963.
Laszlo, Ervin. Introduction to Systems Philosophy=
Garden and Breach, Science Publishers; New
York. 1972.
Laszlo, Ervin. The Systems View of The World.
George Braziller, New York. 1972.
******************************************************* 157 ******

***************************************** natural systems *******
Lawson, Fred. Hotels, Motels, and Condominiums.

London: The Architectural Press. 1976.
Littlefield, David. Ski Resort in Colorado. Thesis
1983. Texas Tech University.
Packard, Robert T., ed. et. al., Ramsey/Sleeper.
Architectural Graphic Standards. New York:
John Wiley and Sons. 1981.
Rutes, Walter A. and Richard Penner. Hotel
Planning and Design. New York: Watson-Guptill
Publications. 1985.
******************************************************* 158******
Thesis Documentation
Darren Martinez
December 11, 1998
"Architecture as a natural system"
"any system that does not owe its existence to conscious human planning and execution
is a natural system".
This definition implies that humans can be the only possible natural systems in existence.
If we look at the four points or characteristics said to constitute a natural system we can
then use them as a guideline and apply them to architecture.
Natural systems:
(1) are wholes with irreducible properties.
(2) maintain themselves in a changing environment.
(3) create themselves in a changing environment.
(4) are coordinating interfaces in nature's hierarchy.
Due to new trends toward environmental awareness there has been a rise in demand for
nature-safe products and places. As a result of these changes in lifestyles and its impact
on economic and social values there is a greater demand for architecture to provide new
alternatives. The resort designed in my thesis would be prototype to the region in using
alternative energy. The facility would promote and support human activity from relaxing
to working out as well as provide accommodations to individual and group vacationers as
well as other organizations.
Site
The site is located at Papago park which is located in the middle of the metro area
between Phoenix, Scottsdale , and Tempe Arizona. The site provides other recreational
activities within walking distance. These are: Botanical Gardens with beautiflil
landscapes, 2 different golf courses. Phoenix Zoo and Barnes Butte. This would
encourage people to walk and bike instead of driving thus, encouraging health-oriented
activities.
Concept
My concept uses the natural environment as a guide, using the site-topography,
orientation, winds, sun angles, etc. to drive the design. Integration and sustainability are
essential to the design. The site was chosen because of the harsh arid environment.
Slides 101-103 show the complementary setting. One of the first goals was to integrate
the natural with man made. The interplay of the elements would challenge the design.
The resort hotel and the Butte represent these two elements in the design.
My goals were to:

(1) promote bicycling, hiking, climbing and walking.
(2) harmonize and integrate the physical and cultural environments
(3) balance the facility with its environment.
(4) preserve, maintain and rebuild the natural settings around the resort.
(5) use alternative and passive energy systems
(ex. solar collectors, daylighting, water reclamation for irrigation).
(6) use natural environs to shap and drive layouts.
Design Solutions
One of the first decisions was to try and keep the guestrooms connected to the main hotel
complex. This would make most of the facility accessible fi'om the parking areas which
in order to make less the impact on land were located in the basement levels of the hotel.
This allowed guests various methods of entry or exit using the idea of paths. Other
activities such as the recreation center and sun terrace would be separate from the main
complex only to allow movement through and around the natural site giving a fi'ee-flow
to spaces. Slides 104-105 show earlier model studies in discovering different axis and
angles to connect these areas.
Hierarchy was also an important concept in the development of the layout. It occurs in a
stepping down fashion such as 1) the butte, 2) the main complex and guestroom wings, 3)
the indoor/outdoor courtyard, 4) the recreational center and other outdoor related
activities (such as, biking- hiking trails, hot tubs, sun terrace, etc.)
The 's' configuration for the main complex was derived from the contour lines of the site
as shown in slides 109-110 (site concept and diagram). The main complex housed the
lobby, indoor/ outdoor courtyard, guestroom wings, small restauraunt or cafeteria, health
club or lounge, ballroom and meeting rooms. The roof of the main complex would have a
roof garden. Also, outdoor terraces were placed at the end of each guestroom wing to
provide connection of indoor/ outdoor concept. All of the back-of-the-house fiinctions as
well as the main kitchen and other service areas were connected together by separate
corridor and elevators. This separation would fijnction better giving guests and
employees ample room to move about.
***************************************** natural systems *******
APPENDIX
******************************************************* 159 ******

PHOENIX FACT SHEET
IISTORY
letropolitan Phoenix, also referred to as the Valley of the Sim, is made iqj of 23 cities ranging in population size from 2240 in Youngtown
1,036,000 in Phoenix. The Valley covers more than 9,000 square miles and is cun-ently the eighth largest metropolitan area in the country.
jr almost 25,000 years Irxlians were the exclusive residents of Arizona Archeotogical evidence leads to the existence of three major tribal
tjups: the Anasazi of the state's northan plateau highlands; the Mogollon People of the northeastern mountain belt; and the Hohokam.
oday there are 23 reservations in Arizona, more than in any other state. These reservations are home to an estimated 50,000 Native
jnericans from 17 different tribes.
hoenix wiginated in 1850 on the banks of the Salt River and became the capital of the Arizona Territoy in 1889. It was not until 1912
lai Arizona became a state.
lie city of Phoenix received its name from an eariy settler who predicted that a great city would rise from the ancient ruins of the Hohokam
ndians. The legendary Phoenix bird was said to have risen from its own ashes in much the same manner Phoenix has risen frtxn the
hohokam ruins.
[he fiiture of Phoenix, recently named an All American City by the National Civic League, is a promising one, as new "settlers" and visitors
lock to the VaUey to enjoy the Southwestem lifestyle in the metropolitan area many are calling this country's New Frontier.
DEMOGRAPHICS
Metropolitan Phoenix
Current Population 2,103300

Median Adult Age 40.7
Retired 20%
College Educated 52%
Median Household Income $34,600
Median Home Value $80,100
AGE 18-24: 14%

25-34: 24%
35-49: 27%
SEX ^ê- 48%

Female: 52%
Source:
laside Metro Phoenix. 1990
TABLE 17: MAJOR HOTEL OPENINGS
Metro Phoenix 1988 thru 1991
Number
Hotel General Location of Rooms
1988
Q)urtyard by Marriott - Mesa South Westwood, Mesa 149
Howârd Johnson Plaza Hotel East University Drive, Phoenix 163
Hampton Inn - Phoenix 1-17 Metrocenter, Phoenix 150
Marriott Suites - Scottsdale Downtown Scottsdale 251
The Phoenician Resort East Camelback Road, Phoenbc/Scottsdale 605
Residence Irm by Marriott Metrocenter, Phoenix 128
Ramada Iiu\ 1-17 & Union Hills, Phoenix 166
The Ritz-Carlton, Phoenix 24th Street & Camelback, Phoenix 301
Scottsdale Princess Resort North Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale 525
Windmill Inn at Sun Qty West BeU Road, Sun Qty 127
Coachman Irm Westside, ToUeson 120
Lexington Hotel Suites Elliott Road, Tempe 139
1989
Orange Tree Golf & Corvference Resort 56th Street & Shea, Scottsdale 160
Q)urtyard by Marriott - Mayo Clinic East Shea, Scottsdale 124
Phoenix Airport Hilton Hohokam & University 255
Ramada Inn Gateway 44 th Street & Van Buren, Phoenix 214
Rodeway Inn Tempe Airport, Phoer\ix/Temf)e 100
Travelers Inn West I-IO & 51st Avenue, Phoenix 120
1990
Travelers Inn 1-17 1-17 & Northern, Phoenix 120
Fairfield Inn Scottsdale Scottsdale Road & Thunderbird 133
Courtyard by Marriott 20th Street & Camelback 155
Hilton Suites at Knoll Center Central & Thomas 225
I99I
Residence Inn Scottsdale Scottsdale Road & McDonald 122
Residence Inn Tempe I-IO & Baseline 126
Note:
For this report, only properties with 100 or more rooms are included.
Sources:
Phoenix & Valley of the Sun Convention & Visitors Bureau, Young Wamick Cunningham & Co.,
R.A. Rauch & Associates, Pannell Kerr Forstcr.
TOURISM 1989
Southwest United States
California Arizona
San Orange Los Long

Diego County Angeles Beach Phoenix Tucson
Purpose of Visit
Pleasure/Vacation 55% 71% 56% 36% 38% 38%
Visiting Friends/Relatives 20% 11% 25% 17% 23% 24%
Business 8% 4% 9% 22% 21% 13%
Convention 16% 13% 9% 23% 18% 10%
Accommodations
Hotel 37% 37% 35% 29% 37% 23%
Motel 21% 19% 6% 8% 12% 24%
Private Household 22% 14% 23% 20% 37% 26%
Day Visitors 14% 27% 35% 40% 1% 14%
Length of Stay
Average Stay (Nights) 4.6 4.1 3.8 3.1 10.7 5.6
Plans to Return
Will Return Within 2 yrs. 62% N/A 69% 70% 82% 69%
Won't Return Within 2 yrs. 18% N/A 16% 17% 18% 28%
Unsure 20% N/A 15% 13% 3%
Visitor Composition
Groups With Children 18% 42% N/A N/A 10% 14%
Groups Without Children 82% 58% N/A N/A 90% 86%
Age
Median Age (Years) 38.4 37 38 38.8 46 49.9
Income
Median Income ($) $45,000 $45,243 N/A N/A $59,507 $49,574
Residence
Northeast 13% 7% 16% 14% 16% 14%
South 13% 8% 14% 13% 16% 16%
North Central 18% 13% 19% 20% 27% 22%
Southern California 17% 20% 11% 10% 10% 9%
Northern California 6% 12% 9% 12% 5% 5%
Other West 17% 23% 13% 14% 16% 24%
Foreign 16% 17% 18% 17% 10% 10%
Source:
a C Research Inc., 1990.
VISITOR PROFILE
Metro Phoerux
PURPOSE OF VISIT - All Visitors
% 40
87/88
88/89
Pleasure/Vacation Visit Friends Convention Business
PURPOSE OF VISIT - Hotel/Motel Visitors
87/88
*50n
00 00
Pleasure/Vacation Visit Friends Convention Business
Source: QC Research Inc., 1989

VISITOR PROFILE
Metro Phoenix
LEISURE AcrrvrriES
1987/88
* 40
1988/89
Sightseeing Swim/Sunbath Shopping Golf Visit Friends Dining Out Sports Relaxing
Note: The above table includes multiple responses. Only resp>onses mentioned frequently are
included.
Hotel/Motel/Resort Visitors
ANNUAL INCOME All Visitors ^
% 30n
20-
10-
Under$20 $20-29.9 $30-39.9 $40-59.9 $60-74.9 $75 or more

Income Croups (in $ thousands)
Notes: Source: CIC Research Inc., 1989

1. Total median income $62,621
2. Total median income $59,507
VISITOR PROFILE
Metro Phoerux
RESIDENCE OF ALL VISITORS BY STATE

Top 10 Rai\ked States - 87/88
13.2
Minnesota H H H H
slew Jersey H H ^ I^ ^-^

IJ3.6
Ohio I ^ H H I
Colorado m i ^ l^ 3 - 6
^ 3 5
Arizorut I H H ^ l
Texas | i | H ^ I ^ *
^ ^ 4 . 7
Michigan m m |
New York H H ^ B ^^S *-^
1 7.9
Illinois • H H H H H H H w
^^^«14«
1 ' 1 ' 1 ' 1

% 0 5 10 15 20
RESIDENCE OF ALL VISITORS BY STATE

Top 10 Ranked States - 88/89
Ohio IHJI ^S ^-^

Washington H H ^s ^^
^ ^ 3
Michigan | | H i
^Â 3.5
Pennsylvania ^ • H
Colorado p l H
i^rti 3.6
^m^ 3.7
Minnesota jHHi
^ M ^ ^ 4.7
Texas a ^ H
^^^^^M 5-9
New York ^ ^ H
^ ^ ^ ^ ^ ^ ^ 6 . 9
Illinois ^ ^ H
^ ^ ^ 14.6
California H H i
I 1
f. 0 5 10 15 20
Note: Total does not equal 100 due to lack of total representation of all states and those visiting
from foreign countries.
Source: CIC Research Inc., 1989

VISITOR PROHLE
Metro Phoenix
CATEGORICAL SPENDING SUMMARY

All Visitors for 88/89
26%
• Shopping
B Lodging
@ Attractions
0 Transportation
9% D Food/Beverage
88/89 DAILY SPENDING PER PERSON By Purpose of Visit
$112
88/89 DAILY SPENDING PER PERSON By Accommodations
Campers
Hotel/Resort/Motel Note: Expenditures per person per day = $84.00

Average party size = 2.0 persons
Average nights stayed = 10.7 nights
35
Source: CIC Research Inc., 1989

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Architecture as a Natural System:

Submitted to the Architecture Faculty

Chairman of the Committee

Programming Instructor (ARCH 4395): Professor Robert Perl

Deati^ College of Architecture

Chapter II: Context Issues

Chapter III. Facility Program

Chapter IV: Summary of Spaces 101

Chapter V: Economic Analysis 154

relations. Physical nature is organic and has a

reflect and give awareness of the potential

I. Natural Systems Are Wholes with Irreducible

"'Wholes' and 'heaps' are not mysterious

The significance of each design decision should be

Architecture should be considered as a whole. The

II. Natural Systems Maintain Themselves in a

The physical world on the whole is approaching a

the other parts (whole). "If any thing is to

In order for a building to be a natural system,

III. Natural Systems Create Themselves in

"If natural systems were merely to maintain the

Architecture must adapt to the ever-changing needs

IV. Natural Systems Are Coordinating Interfaces

"Organization in nature comes to resemble a

The purpose of this project is to investigate

"Resort hotels are built in the midst of natural

This description of a resort hotel puts forth a

1 Laszlo. The Systems View of the World, pg. 23

2 Ibid. pg. 23.

3 Ibid. pg. 19.

4 Ibid. pg. 19.

7 Ibid. pg. 36.

10 Ibid. pg. 47.

THESIS CASE STUDIES

THESIS CASE STUDY (1)

Laredo Demonstration Blueprint Farm

This project uses the site as a dominant force and

Project: Laredo Demonstration Blueprint

When and Where: Laredo, Texas; May 1991

Building: It is composed of five "sheds"

Major Spaces: 1) Offices

Budget: $473,000 — $20 per square foot

TYPICAL PACKING SHED

Waste Treatment and Water Replenishment Wind Power Hyacinth

Cooling/Refrigeration Downdraft Tower

"By mapping a v a i l a b l e m a t e r i a l s and technologies,

"Energy sources for refrigeration are wind

"Under the canopy that shades crops from the sun

On Laredo's northwest edge four wind generators

1 Architecture, May 1991. pg. 67

THESIS CASE STUDY (2)

The initial analysis after looking at Biosphere II

Major Spaces: I. Four biomes in the North-South

SECTION THROUGH WILDERNESS BIOMES

"A green oasis in the desert with its most dramatic

A view that captures the saltwater 'ocean' with its

"It is designed as an airtight container

1 Architecture. May 1991. pg. 77

Public / private Spaces

remote location. Most adjacent land use

The region, in general terms, is not windy.

The following table provides the normal maximum,

HORMAL MAXIMUM, MINIMUM AND MEAN

fMXIMUM MINIMUM MEAN

Annual 85.1 57 J 712

Source: National Oceanic and Atmospheric Assoaation, Technical

CONTEXT CASE STUDIES

************************************************* 100