ADIRONDACK

ECO-RESORT

Thesis

Presented to

the Faculty of the Department of Architecture & Design

at SUNY Alfred State

In Partial Fulfillment

of the Requirements for the Degree

Bachelor of Architecture

by

NICHOLAS M. TURCK

Prof. Terry Palmiter, Thesis Chair

May 2019
Adirondack Eco-Resort
Acknowledgments
I would like to thank my parents and Kayla for supporting me while I completed
this thesis.

I would also like to thank Christan Jankoluski for his support and help through
this thesis.

I would like to acknowledge Zachary Soper for proof reading.

Finally I would like to thank my thesis advisors Terry Palmiter, David Green and
Rick Tague for their advise and guidance throughout this thesis.
Contents
1 Abstract 02

2 Proposal 06
2.1 Proposal Signature 10

3 Methodology 12

4 Precedent Studies 16

5 Literature Review 32

6 Site Analysis 38

7 Programming 50

8 Schematic Design 58

9 Structural Design 68

10 Completed Design 74
10.1 Renderings & Models 89
10.2 Completed Thesis Signature 102

Endnotes 104
1
Abstract
Brantingham, New York, is located near the Western edge of the Adirondack State
Park. The Adirondacks attracts a large amount of tourism, it is stated that the
Adirondacks welcome an estimated 7-10 million visitors to the region annually.
Brantingham has very limited lodging space to accommodate tourism. Therefore,
a sustainable solution is needed.

The A-frame design concept is inspired from a tent structure. The timber and glass
elements cohesively tie together the exterior and interior of the lodging space.
Due to the site location, it is best to minimize the amount of the site excavation.
Therefore, the tent structures are raised off the ground with glu-laminated
members extending form the roof into the ground. This limits the footprint size of
excavation and each lodging space will be equipped with sustainable systems,
thus making it an eco-resort .

04
2
Proposal
 Problem
Brantingham, New York, on the Western edge of the Adirondack State Park that
attracts a large amount of tourism. It is stated that “the Adirondacks welcome an
estimated 7-10 million visitors to the region annually.” (Adirondacks, USA). Tourists
come to the Adirondacks for the views, the lakes, the hiking, and the camping.
Brantingham has very limited lodging. There is one motel in Brantingham, The
Brantingham Motel, and it only has 6 rooms. The Edge Hotel which has 65 rooms
is another option for tourists, but that is 10 miles away. There are also some lake
houses that can be rented weekly. Brantingham does not have an activity center
that could organize hikes, horseback riding, kayaking, canoing and cycling.
The tourism has its busy and slow seasons. It is said that “about 70 percent of
visitation occurs during the months of May and October.” (Adirondacks, USA).
The months that are considered “off season” really affect the local businesses
and restaurants.

Societal Needs
A resort in Brantingham, New York would provide a tourist with another option
for lodging and an activity center. The resort would provide accommodations
in a hotel setting, campsites, cabins and condominiums that would be able
to accommodate all areas of interest. During the summer months the activity
center would offer hiking, horseback riding, kayaking, canoing, biking trails and
fishing tours. During the winter months they would offer cross country skiing,
snowshoeing, ice skating, ice fishing, downhill skiing and snowmobiling tours.
Providing all these opportunities to the tourists in the Brantingham area would
give them the opportunity to enjoy the beautiful Adirondacks without having to
travel far for their accommodations.

Process
Planning and preparing the process of developing an Adirondack resort will be
put into many steps or phases to come up with the final product. The process is
broken down into five different sections that will help reach the final product. The
process that will be used are research, analysis, design intent, methodology and
documentation. Using a schedule will help to keep the project on the right path
during the semester. The schedule will be broken into phases to help things move
smoothly and to make sure nothing gets forgotten.

07
Research
The research portion will consist of reading articles, documents and other
related topics such as the Adirondacks tourism, similar resorts, the economy
and more. The research will also consist of observing the areas stated above,
to have a personal observation. Also, doing research on the environmental and
climate factors. With the location being in a state park doing research on the park
and its history. Another way research will be conducted is by interviews with
professionals in the areas of resort planning, Adirondack tourism, financial, and
more.

Analysis
The analysis will be everything that comes out of the research and what the
research means. To present the research there will be diagrams to visually see
the research. Also, there would be analysis done for different parts of the project.
Those analysis would be made up of economic analysis, activity analysis, space
analysis, economic analysis and zoning analysis. The analysis will help fine tune
details later in the design intent and methodology process.

Design Intent
The design intent would be based on the results from the research and analysis
gathered. The design would be based on the main reason for developing an
Adirondack resort. Also, coming up with a program for the resort would provide
good design intent. The whole project would be broken down into different
phases. Another part that would take place would be coming up with a schedule
to show how all the phases of the project will take place and layout.

Methodology
The methodology would show how the Adirondack resort could be developed.
This process will be divided into two parts, a reach phase and design phase. The
research phase will take all the information that was collected in the research and
analysis processes and then will be gathered to help with the design phase. The
design phase will be focused on creating an architectural style the best suites
the research and analysis done. This would take everything from the research,
analysis and design intent process to convey it all into the project.

08
 Documentation
The documentation portion would consist of preparing all the final materials.
This would include a printed presentation, final book, and fine tuning the Online
blog. The final book and Online blog would show the process of the whole thesis
from the research, analysis, design intent, methodology and everything that took
place to make the project happen.

Architecture Thesis
It is said by Bjarke Ingels that “Architecture is the art and science of making
sure that our cities and buildings actually fit with the way we want to live our
lives: the process of manifesting our society into our physical world” (Basulto).
The Adirondack resort will provide multiple buildings on the site. The main
lodge will provide lodging, series of restaurants, bars, event spaces, and all the
management spaces needed. It will also include exterior spaces such as patios,
and a swimming pool. Some other buildings that will be proposed are cabins and
condominiums for lodging, maintenance facilities, and storage buildings. Some
other things that would be proposed on the site would be walking paths, trails for
ATVs and snowmobiles, and a private lake. With also taking into effect the issue
and how it will work with the community as on big picture.

Conclusion
The proposal of an Adirondack resort will focus on research and analysis which
will help collaborate information for the final design of the project. The outcome
of this project will provide an excluded resort in an area that gets a great amount
of tourism. With providing jobs for the local residents. It will also help boost the
economy for local businesses and restaurants in the area and surrounding areas.

Deliverables
The project will be presented with a wide rang of deliverables. With providing a
printed presentation, that would include information in text, diagrams, data, two
dimensional and three-dimensional drawings, and renderings. Also, there will be
a video of a walk through and fly around of the resort. There will also be physical
models for the project. The models will include of massing models, conceptual
models, site models, and final models. Another deliverable will be a book that will
show the process on the development of the resort. One other item that will be
used it an Online blog tracking the process of the project.

09
B.Arch. Thesis Proposal Approval Signature Form

"

B.Arch. Program students must obtain approval of their thesis project before beginning the project.
This form should be completed by the end of the third week of the semester in which the student is
enrolled in ARCH 8716 Design Studio 7. Do not modify this form, except to complete the blanks as
directed. An additional form will be required to certify completion of the thesis project at the end of
the spring semester and at the completion of ARCH 8776 Design Studio 8.

Student Name Nicholas M. Turck

__________________________________________________________

Proposed Thesis Title Adirondack Resort

__________________________________________________________

Dates Academic Year 2018-19

I agree to advise the above student and I have reviewed the proposed project (and found it to be
satisfactory). I agree to maintain regular contact with the student and to offer regular feedback over the
course of the academic year and to attend all interim and Þnal critiques. I also agree that I will issue a
mid-term and Þnal course grade for the student both for the fall and spring semesters.

Terry Palmiter 14 Sept. 2018

Thesis Advisor Name ___________________________________ Date ________________

Thesis Advisor e-mail palmitt@alfredstate.edu

__________________________________________________________

Thesis Advisor Signature __________________________________________________________

I agree to advise the above student and I have reviewed the proposed project (and found it to be
satisfactory). I agree to maintain regular contact with the student and to offer regular feedback and to
endeavor to attend interim and Þnal critiques as my schedule permits.

Secondary Advisor Name ____________________________________ Date ________________

Secondary Advisor e-mail __________________________________________________________

Secondary Advisor Signature __________________________________________________________

Professional Advisor Name ____________________________________ Date ________________

Professional Advisor e-mail __________________________________________________________

Professional Advisor Signature __________________________________________________________

10
3
Methodology
 Hypothesis
If a developer was to design an Adirondack resort, then the resort could also
act as an activity center. A resort deign could be done by having all the lodging
accommodations used in the Adirondacks and activities that attract tourist to the
area. The lodging portion of the resort could provide hotel suites, campsites, and
condominiums and the activity center could provide tours for hiking, horseback
riding, fish, and much more.

Prediction
Brantingham, New York, on the Western edge of the Adirondack State Park attracts
a large amount of tourism. “The Adirondacks welcome 7-10 million visitors to the
region annually.” (Roost ADK, 2014). The Adirondacks attract tourist for the views,
lakes, hiking, fishing, hunting, and camping. In Brantingham there is a very limited
lodging accommodations and no place for activities and to go on tours. With the
area having its “busy and slow seasons” due to the winter months, it effects the
tourism. “About 70 percent of visitation occurs during the months of May and
October.” (Roost ADK, 2014). The “slow season” also effects the local businesses
and restaurants. With providing Brantingham, New York with a resort with an
activity center, it would provide the tourist the ability to stay in the Adirondacks
with all their accommodations provided in one location.

Variance
A resort with an activity center will provide all the amenities and entertainment
needed for staying in the Adirondacks. The resort would be located on its own
private lake far enough from the main road where it would be secluded. Having
the resort on a private lake, it would provide the ability to use positions of the
site around the lake for the best views. For the lodging portion of the resort
it would be accommodated by having suite style rooms, campsites, cabins,
and condominiums for extended stays. The dining accommodations would be
provided by multiple restaurants, ranging from a buffet to fine dining. A bar would
be also provided at the resort. Some amenities that could be provided would
be a spa, that will provide a place to relax and rejuvenate after a full day of
activities. There will also be a pool in the centralized area of the resort. For the
activity center of the resort, it would provide tours for the tourist to explore and
enjoy the Adirondacks. The center would offer hiking, horseback riding, kayaking,
canoing, cycling, fishing, and hunting tours in the summer and fall months. During
the winter months the center would offer cross-country skiing, snowshoeing,
ice skating, ice fishing, downhill skiing, and snowmobile tours. The resort will be
13
located on its own private lake in a heavy wooded area. It will be large a facility
to accommodate everything that is going into it. The activity center will have its
own facility near of the resort.

14
4
Precedent Studies
 Double Tree Resort Xishuangbanna
Yunnan, China

Image 1

Summary
DoubleTree Resort by Hilton Hotel Xishuangbanna located in Yunnan, China was
built in 2015 and was designed by OAD. The resort is a multi-purpose resort,
which is built in a secluded area on a hillside. With the resort being just under
500,000 square feet, it has 420 rooms, two restaurants, lounge bar, conference
center, gym and three pools with one of them being an indoor pool. All around the
resort there are breath taking views that look out at the mountains and tropical
environment. The lobby is at the highest point of the resort and has the best
views. With the lobby being the center space, it is very large and open to welcome
guest. The lobby being large it gives it a natural feel with scale and proportion. All
the rooms have a balcony that open to the inner garden, which helps connect the
indoors with the outdoors. This gives a feeling of outdoor living. The inner potion
of the resort has a variety of gardens, reflecting pools, paths and large palm trees
that define their own space. There is also a local flower that is very popular that
grows throughout the resort. The resort is a design style of local architecture
17
and soft contemporary. The public spaces all have the design style of the local
architecture. All the private spaces have a more modern architecture design style
to them. To get the styles of the resort to blend together there is a combination of
materials and color. This creates a dramatic feel. Some of the materials used are
dark woods, warm white walls and stone and wood were used on the floors. Some
other big features that took a large role in the architecture are the large pools and
landscapes. The resorts main goal was to have a secluded hillside resort that
uses the local culture as a design element and location as a geographic stand
point.

Being Applied
With doing a resort proposal there is a lot of options that could be incorporated into
the design of the resort. One thing that really stuck out in the Double Tree Resort
is how the main design styles and elements used with the local architecture style
and the local culture. The proposed resort situated in the Adirondacks would be a
good opportunity to use a design style or feature of the Adirondacks. Something
that could influence the design is the use of heavy timber and stone work. These
two elements were used in the design material used in the Double Tree Resort.
Another design idea would be to use large, rustic, heavy sawn timbers. This was
used in the main lobby of the Double Tree Resort to make it feel like the person
never left the outdoors. One of the main reason’s tourist come to the Adirondacks
is for the environment and the views, so having large spaces done with timber
would be a key figure.

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 Tsingpu Baisha Retreat
Yunnan, China

Image 2

Summary
Tsingpu Baisha Retreat located in Yunnan, China was built in 2017 by Tsutsumi &
Associates. The resort is in a rural area below the snow mountains. The resort
has just under 27,000 square feet, 19 unique rooms, a tea room, art gallery and a
restaurant. Each room is designed different and they are filled with local elements.
The views from the rooms look out to the mountains and over Baisha Village. The
architect was required to keep and use the four existing houses and the main gate
on the site. They also built new buildings with unique shapes that went around the
existing buildings on the site. In the existing structures the timber structure was
exposed to help show that the featured stone was stacked randomly to build up
platforms for the views. Throughout the resort the use of local materials was done
to keep memories. This was done by using aged wood structure and rough masonry
walls to connect the past with the future. One thing that played a big role in the
resort was the roofs. They were regularly placed where the four existing structures
are. This was to let the buildings work with the environment. The roofs were done
19
to keep memories. This was done by using aged wood structure and rough
masonry walls to connect the past with the future. One thing that played a
big role in the resort was the roofs. They were regularly placed where the four
existing structures are. This was to let the buildings work with the environment.
The roofs were done by having the wood exposed and the walls were done with
local stone to make a contrast. The stone walls that were constructed out of the
local stone seem like they are floating. The use of another local material, local
paper, was used on the walls at the end of the corridors. The resort had many
goals with the construction and design and one goal was to use local materials
to bring back old memories.

Being Applied
With proposing a resort, the design technologies used in building the Tsingpu
Baisha Retreat could be incorporated in the Adirondack Retreat. One thing that
would relate to the Adirondacks is how the construction and design was a goal
to bring back old memories. Brantingham lake use to have a famous resort called
“The Brantingham Inn”. The resort burned down in the 1970’s. By using similar
designs and materials used to build The Brantingham Inn, it would help bring
back the past and connect it with the future in the Adirondack Retreat.

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 Meijji Mountain Hot Spring Resort
Liyang, China

Image 3

Summary
Meiji Mountain Hotspring Resort located in Liyang, China was built in 2015 and
designed by Achterboschzantman Architecten. With the resort being just under
65,000 square feet, the resort is capable for ecological and recreational tourism.
With the resort being hidden in the city’s forest it does not damage any of the
local environment. The resort is known for its sustainable designs. One of the
sustainable design elements used are the use of four ecological features such
as the forest, tree houses, hot springs and mountains. With the resort being
built in the mountains and forest, they were able to use 31 trees to build tree
houses for guest rooms. There are private spring pools at each tree house that
are filled with clear water and 20 different kind of minerals that are good to the
health. The trees that are around the springs change colors with the seasons.
The materials used on the tree houses are all-natural materials that will give
the guest a fresh, natural and cozy stay. The resort also has pools and hot
springs scattered around the site and a stream that runs along the mountain.
21
The architect designed the interior and exterior of the buildings with a unique
European architectural style. One of the main sustainability design ideas that
was requested was the originally, ingenious, transparent and delicateness.

Being Applied
With an Adirondack Resort being proposed and with it being in a very environmentally
friendly and preserve state park, there are many design opportunities from Meijji
Mountain Hotspring Resort that can be incorporated. One thing that really stuck
out is how they did not damage any of the environment. One way this was done
was by making rooms in tree houses. By making the condominiums tree houses
it would help on the sustainable side of the resort. It would also give the guest a
feeling like they are in nature.

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 Jeju Bayhill Pool & Villa
Seogwipo-si, South Korea

Image 4

Summary
Jeju Bayhill Pool & Villa located in Seogwipo-si, South Korea was built in 2013
and was designed by Kim Dong-jin and L’eau Desing. The resort sits on a large
site with providing spectacular panoramic views looking over the ocean from
all the buildings. With the resort being just over 21,000 square feet, it has one
hotel building with twenty rooms and nine villas. All the rooms have a unique
concept in the way they were designed. The resort also has two pools, walking
trails, a restaurant and a spa. The orientation of the resort is along the hill, this
was to make the resort part of the village. With having the resort orientated
in this way it gives the possibility to expanded in the future. The resort being
part of the village there is not a boundary, the resort blends right in with the
village. There are four complexes on the site from complex A to complex D.
Complex A is the hotel, complex B is villas that are staked units that have two
units that make up one complex on a slope. This complex could accommodate
up to three families. Complex C have similar characteristics of complex B with
23
the slope, but they share a roof with their neighbor for a courtyard. Complex D
is its own building that has an open layout with circulation that is in the shape
of a zigzag form, there is also a gallery. The materials used throughout the resort
are all natural. Some of the materials are antique brick, stone, and Jeju flagstone,
which is man made. Some other elements used are glass and mirrors. They are
used to help reflect the scenery and unlimitedly of the environment.

Being Applied
One of the key features that stuck out at the Jeju Bayhill Pool & Villa that could
be used in a proposed resort in the Adirondacks is having different buildings or
complexes for all the different uses. This could be by having a main lodge that
would house the lobby, restaurants, spa, small gift shop and all the management.
Another building could be built for hotel style rooms and this building would
also have a restaurant and some other amenities. Also, the condominiums or
villas could have their own location on the site so the guest that our staying an
extended time would not be in a heavy populated area. The activity center would
have its own building to house all the equipment that is needed for the activities
and an entertainment area.

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 Streamstrong Resort
Bowling Green, Florida

Image 5

Summary
Steamsong Resort located in Bowling Green, Florida was built in 2014 and was
designed by Slfonso Architects. The resort is on a 16,000-acre site with natural
lakes, sand dunes are all over the site. The resort has a 228-guest room lodge
and golf course that are on the site. There are four restaurants, multiple bars,
spa, fitness center and a pool next to the lake. For the lodging part of the resort,
this is where the spa with therapeutic pools, fine dining options, and a pool are
located. The lodge looks out over a lake and has a breezeway that goes along
the building in the longitudinal direction. The rooms for the guest have custom
components that are from the floor to the ceiling. These components are made
up of louvers, lighting fixtures, and furniture. Each room has a custom painting
for the décor of the room. The main part of the resort called “The Bank” is
where the public spaces are. The private part of the resort where the rooms
are is called “The Canopy”. There is an elevated walk way that connects these
two parts of the resort. Majority of the resort is elevated to get the best views.
25
The golf course portion of the resort is not near the main lodge. This part of the
resort has a restaurant and twelve private guest rooms that look over a lake.
There is also an entertainment space lounge and a golf shop. Another thing that
is included at the resort is an activity center that provides the guest the ability
to go fishing, a shooting range, hiking trails and outdoor spaces.

Being Applied
With having a site in the Adirondacks with many good views in any direction,
it would be practical to use some design techniques that were used in the
Streamsong Resort. One of those would be to make a long building so that almost
in any part of the building there would be a view looking out over the lake on the
site. Another idea that could be used is having the public and private parts of the
resort in different building. This would give the rooms where the guest would stay
a more peaceful space that has privacy from high populated areas like the lobby
and restaurants.

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 Tourist Center of Anlong Limestone Resort
Guizhou Province, China

Image 6

Summary
Tourist Center of Anlong Limestone Resort located in Guihou Province, China
was built in 2017 and was designed by 3andwich Design / He Wei Studio. With
the resort being 15,000 square feet, it is known for its extreme outdoor sports.
Some activities that can be found are a rock-climbing wall, hot air balloon rides,
paragliding, water sports and off-road vehicles. In the middle of the resort it
houses an entertainment space, restaurant and a bar. The resort is built on top
of a hill that looks over a canyon. The location of the resort was chosen because
of the hill being the highest point to get a good view and so that the resort does
not flood. One of the main problems that was addressed in the design phase
was the relationship between architecture and the environment. Even though
one of the big reasons on why the site was on a hill was for the views, they
also wanted the buildings to tie in with the surrounding environment. One design
feature that was used was to have the four buildings connected with elevated
walkways. This was to help from flooding and to connect the indoors with the
27
outdoors. The entrances for each building are open to the platform and to be
used as communication space for the guest. In the center of the four buildings is
a pavilion that connects all of the buildings. Some architectural design features
used in the resort are floor to ceiling windows. Theses windows allow the visitors
to have a view without anything being in the way. The materials used to construct
the resort was done with the use of timber, brick and local stone. With using
these materials, it helps the resort blend in with the surrounding environment.
Most of the architectural style of the resort came from local buildings. The resort
attracts tourist for the views and all the activities offered.

Being Applied
Proposing a resort with an activity center in the Adirondacks, there are some
elements and ideas from Tourist Center of Anlong Limestone Resort that could
be used throughout the design. One way is how they wanted to make a good
relationship between the environment and architecture. This would be a good
element to use because of the Adirondack park is a protected park. A way to
maybe solve this problem would be to elevate all the buildings off the ground.
Another way would be not to have one large building, to have multiple buildings
on the site. This would also make the resort more sustainable.

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 Ranwu Lake Campsite
Guizhou Province, China

Image 7

Summary
Ranwu Lake Campsite Located in Tibet, China was built in 2017 and was designed
by Xiao Yin Architecture Design Firm. The resort is in one of the best spots on
Ranwu Lake on a slightly sloped site with beautiful scenery. With the resort being
just under 30,000 square feet, it offers nine villas and several camping sites for
tents and RV’s. The resort also has other amenities including a variety of bars,
restaurants and an exhibition center. All the buildings are elevated on the site and
the buildings on the north are at different heights then buildings on the south.
This is so that all the buildings can get a view of the lake. To get the best view
from the main building of the resort they built a long building elevated higher than
the buildings in front of it. On the lake side of the building it is one large glass wall.
With all the changes in elevations of the buildings and vertical shapes it helps
take advantage of the lightly sloped site to make it all connect. On the first floor
of the main building is all the amenities that travelers will need, management
center, convenience store, exhibition center and medical assistance. In front of
29
the main building are the villas. The villas are at different elevation depending on
what the requirements of the views and they are lower than the main building.
They are lower than the main building to provide privacy to the villas. In each villa
there is a special pebble feature on the west side. On the south and east sides,
they have glass walls to provide a view of the lake. The campsites are located
between the villas and lake, they have double tents that are under a small forest
like area. At the shore of the lake is where the restaurant and bar are located on
a platform, with an elevated walk way that connects the main building and villas.
There is one villa that is on the southeast shore of the resort. In any position of
this villa there is a good view. The resort was constructed with steel structures to
help protect it from the environment. With having the buildings constructed out
of steel it made the construction process faster by being prefabricated off site.
The materials used on the resort buildings were cement fiber plates, steel plates,
glass, wood, and local pebbles. The colors of the materials helped highlight
different things depending on what season it was.

Being Applied
With Providing a similar resort in the Adirondacks like the Ranwu Lake Campsite,
it would provide many design features that would fit in the environment of the
Adirondacks. One of those features would be all the building are elevated and
the elevations would vary depending on the use of the building and location to
ensure they do not block each other. The condominiums and rooms would be
located in front of the main lodge. This would provide the best views from all the
buildings

30
5
Literature Review
 Background Information
The Adirondack State Park covers around 6 million acres of New York, which is
the size of Vermont (Roost ADK, 2014). Within that it is made up of private and
public lands that are in a forested region. About 2.6 million acres of the park is
owned by the state and is Forest Preserved, classified as “forever wild” and one
million acres of the Forest preserve is classified as wilderness. The private sector
only populates around three million acres, which is populated widely with only
around 137,000 people that live year around and 200,000 seasonal residents
in the Adirondacks (Roost ADK, 2014). The State Park does not have any cities
within it, but it does have around 100 villages. The park is the largest protected
area in the United States. It is so big that Yellowstone, Everglades, Glacier, and
Grand Canyon National Parks combined are not bigger (Roost ADK, 2014). It is
stated that the State Park has “3,000 lakes and ponds and 1,200 miles of rivers
fed by 30,000 miles of brooks and streams” (Roost ADK, 2014). The Adirondacks
offers hiking, boating, camping, hunting, fishing, downhill skiing, cross country
skiing, and ice skating. It is stated that “60 million people live within a days’ drive
of the Adirondack region” (Roost ADK, 2014).

Brantingham, New York is located on the Western edge of the Adirondack State
Park. Brantingham got the name from Thomas Hopper Brantingham, who was
a merchant in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Thomas bought the land in 1794 for
$23,073. The name was only in effect for about four years. This was because
Thomas was accused for not doing business in a trustworthy manor. The name of
the land where Brantingham is located was changed to Greig in 1832. The name
came from a lawyer from Canandaigua, New York named John Greig who became
owner of the land in 1821. The area where the lake sits was continued to be called
Brantingham Lake.

The lake is populated with many summer cottages and full-time residents.
The population in the area that was recorded in 2016 to be around 408 people
(Brantingham Real Estate, 2017). The lake offers a wide variety of activities
including hiking, fishing, hunting, boating, and trails for horseback riding, and
recreational vehicles. There are also some businesses in the area including a
golf course, summer camp, post office, and four restaurants. In the winter time
Brantingham is snow for the large amount of snow fall, being right near the Tug
Hill region. It is stated from the amount of snow that it is a “popular destination
for winter enthusiasts” (Wikimedia Foundation, 2018). Also, with having the lake
in the Adirondack State Park it also helps bring in tourism. It is stated by Roost
ADK “The Adirondacks welcome an estimated 7-10 million visitors the region
annually” (Roost ADK, 2014). It is also stated by Roost ADK that “about 70 percent
33
of visitation occurs during May and October” (Roost ADK, 2014). This is because
not many tourists like to deal with the amount of snow the Adirondacks receives
in the winter months. The main tourist season is from May to October because it
is during the summer and fall months. Tourist like that time frame because of the
warm weather and all the exploring that can take place, and they like coming to
the Adirondacks in the fall because of how all the vegetation changes colors.

Eco-tourism
Eco-tourism is going to and visiting an environmentally protected area and locals
benefit from it. It is defined by The International Eco-tourism Society (TIES) as
“responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment, sustains
the well-being of the local people, and involves interpretation and education”
(TIES, 2015). This type of tourism is becoming very demanding “in more remote,
less developed tourism areas that Eco-tourists seek which are most vulnerable
to cultural disruption and environmental degradation” (Scheyvens, 1999). Eco-
tourism can be taken about in many different principles. Those principles are; (1)
minimize, social, behavioral, and psychological impacts, (2) build environment
and culture awareness, and respect, (3) provide positive experiences for both
visitors and hosts, (4) provide direct financial benefits for conservation, (5)
generate financial benefits for both local people and private industry, (6) deliver
memorable interpretative experiences to visitors that help raise sensitivity to host
countries’ political, environmental, and social climates, (7) design, construct and
operate low-impact facilities, (8) recognize the rights and spiritual beliefs of the
Indigenous People in your community and work in partnership with them to create
empowerment (TIES, 2015). With these principles it would be smart to incorporate
them into a resort and the local economy in the Brantingham area. The Brantingham
and surrounding areas could be affected in a positive way, on they way Eco-tourism
takes place. It is stated by (Hana, 1995) “virtually every geographical region lends
support to Douglas’ (1992) prediction that the availability of Eco-tourism product
will become a major determination of visitor destinations”. With this there will be
more and more resorts trying to turn over to Eco-resorts to try and accommodate
the majority of Eco-tourist. To be successful at becoming an Eco-resort to
bring in Eco-tourism it is stated “the success of engaging the resort industry in.
International Eco-tourism will also be conducted by the industry’s involvement in
correcting the unsustainable definition of Eco-tourism destinations” (Hana, 1995).

Eco-tourist
Eco-tourist is defined by (TIES) “are also seeking to minimize the carbon
footprint of their travel, traveling with climate in mind by planning wisely and
34
 choosing consciously” (TIES, 2018). This tourist group is very different from a
normal tourist. Almost everyone is a tourist, but the Eco-tourist like to go to more
environmentally friendly areas of interest, place that have more to do with nature
and the environment. They like to go to a resort the is more sustainable, where
they can go enjoy the wilderness, and have local workers that are employed
that are on the same page about the environment. This style of resort can be
known as an “Eco Resort”. A good example of a tourist that falls closely to an
Eco-tourist in the Adirondacks is one that goes camping. It is stated that tourist
are not going to be wanting to go to the warm and sunny resort and that they
are wanting to go to a more environmental place with nature, this is shown in
(Hana, 1995) “Tourism research demonstrates that sunshine and pleasant resort
are ceasing to be primary motivations for international leisure travel and are no
longer likely to be significant factors in the tourists’ choice of foreign destination
– be it in sub-Saharan Africa or the South Pacific (Ankomah and Crompton, 1990;
King, 1992). A Japan Travel Bureau survey confirmed that this new trend applies
even to Japanese travelers, who used to equate resort vacations with sun and
sand; 70% of the respondents indicated that enjoyment of nature and scenery
is now their top priority in going abroad (Owens, 1994)”.

Eco-resort
Eco resort is a resort that has very little impact on the environment. It is defined
by Eco-Resorts that “Eco-Resorts supports the earth-one journey at a time.
Regionally, we promote small, unique East African camps and lodges, which
are involved in assisting their local communities and protecting their local
environments. Locally, our Kenyan offices are completely self-sufficient. We
generate our own power using a wind turbine and solar panels; we also collect
rainwater. Booking with Eco-resorts protects East Africa’s environment and
local cultures from extinction” (Eco Resorts, 2017). A subcategory of and Eco-
resort would be an Eco-lodge. These two are very similar, but the Eco-lodge is
in more of in a secluded area in the environment. For example, this would be in
the Adirondack park is a heavy forested area. One thing about Eco-lodges is that
they depend more on the environment. They are also into nature and wildlife,
being able to educate the tourist that come to visit. It is stated that “The best Eco-
lodges also work to ensure positive relationships with the local people. They train
and employ them at fair wages, take part in community development initiatives,
offer activities that help visitors conserve and appreciate local customs, and
contribute to the local economy” (What is an Eco Lodge? (The Top 10 Eco Lodges
in the World), 2018).
35
Conclusion
Therefore, to make resorts that are friendlier to its environment and its guest, it is
taken about in three categories; Eco-tourism, Eco-tourist, and Eco-resort. These
three categories mainly focus on the environment and its nature. By doing this
with a prosed resort and the economy in Brantingham, New York, located in the
Adirondack State Park, the area will benefit greatly on it. This is because the area
attracts tourist for nature not that much and the enjoyment. Also, in todays world
more and more buildings are going for a more sustainable design and feel. With
being sustainable it falls right into the three “Eco” categories.

36
6
Site Analysis
 Location Map

Brantingham, New York

39
Proposed Site

4 4 3 AC R E S

40
 Topography

41
 Roads & Trails

IL
RA
AL T
CAN
E R IE

L
AI
TR
RY
ER
UB
BL
EATONVILLE ROAD

D
R OA
LLE
EVI
TR IDG
PA R

VAN ARNAM ROAD

LO
BR NG
AN PO
TIN IN
GH TR
AM
RO OA
AD D

N
NO

AD
RT

RO
HS

BR
E
OU

DL

AN
TH

ID

TI
N
M

GH
RO

AM
AD

RO
AD

42
 Sun & Wind Paths

8 AM

4PM

10AM
2PM

12PM

43
Water

44
45
Legal

ADIRONDACK STATE PARK LINE

ADIRONDACK STATE PARK LINE

N
Views

46
 Neighboring

47
Hazards

48
7
Programming
 Lodge
The Adirondack Resort Lodge program will be broken down into different areas to
help separate all the different functions of the resort. The areas that will be used
for the resort are Public Facilities, Room Accommodations, Management, Service
Facilities, and Maintenance. Each of these areas will then be broken down into
sub categories that have areas within that category that belong in that category.

Public Facilities
For the public facilities will be areas of use for both the visitors and employees
from where the visitor enters the resort. The entrance is one of the first things
that a visitor will experiences as they arrive to the resort, so it must be made
welcoming. This can be done by having a “grand” main entrance, that leads into
the reception area. In the reception area it will house the main lobby, front desk,
and guest elevator. Off the reception area could be a lounging area, which could
be used for the guest to lounge as they wait to check in, it would be an area for
the restrooms for the reception area. Also, off or near by the reception area would
be a gift shop. Moving more into the public area would be the dinning portion for
the guest. This would include restaurant, bar, café, and then restrooms nearby.

The entertainment and recreation portion of the public facilities will accommodate
many different areas. For the entertainment there will be a banquet hall with
restrooms nearby. For the recreation there will be a fitness center. For the fitness
center there will be a locker room connected to them for the guest to use. Their
will also be restrooms nearby for everything in the recreation area.

Room Accommodations
For the room accommodations will provide a private area for the guest. This area
will provide guest rooms and circulation. For the rooms there will be double and
king suites, there will also be cabins that sleep five people. Each will provide your
standard amenities all the way to luxury amenities depending on the room. For
the circulation area it will help connect the rooms to the rest of the resort. This
will include hallways or walk ways, stairs, and elevators from service elevators
to guest elevators.

Management
For the management area it will house all the behind sense that runs the resort.
The one area that will be semi located near the public is the front office which will
be behind or near the front desk. There will be offices for the general manager,
51
financing director, human resources director, and food and beverage director.
There will also be a conference room, kitchenette and restrooms.

Service Facilities
For the service facilities it will house where all the guts of the resort are.
The first area will be the food and beverage, and this will have the main kitchen,
auxiliary kitchen, pantry, wine and beverage storage, delivery area, and waste
disposal. There will also be the housekeeping area. There will be lines and
toiletries storage, solid linen storage, cleaning supplies.

Maintenance
For the maintenance it will house all the utilities of the resort. There will the
Internet and cable TV area which will have server rooms, supply room, and
storage. The electrical area will have a main electrical room, emergency power
generator, alternative energy storage, and electrical rooms around the resort.
The mechanical area will have water heaters, solar water heaters, air handling
units, central air conditioning, and water tanks.

Activity Center
The Adirondack Resort Activity Center program will be broken down into different
areas to help with the public and private spaces. The area that will be used for
the activity center are Public Facilities, Management, and Maintenance. Each of
these areas will then be broken down into sub categories that have areas within
that category that belong in that category.

Public Facilities
For the public facilities will be areas of use for both the visitors and employees
from where the they enter to going out and doing the activity they scheduled The
first thing coming up to the activity center will be the entrance into the reception
area. In the reception area will be a lobby, front desk, sitting area, and restrooms.
In the activity area there will be garages and storage for all the activities provided.

Management
For the management area it will house all the behind sense that runs the activity
center, and it will be connected to the lodge management. All these spaces will be
located out of the public. There will be an office for the manager and a restroom
for the employees.

52
 Maintenance
For the maintenance it will house all the utilities of the activity center. There will
be a cable TV and Internet area with a server room and supply room that’s are
connected to the lodge. There also will be an electrical area with a main electrical
room, emergency power generator, and electrical rooms. The mechanical area
will have mechanical room, water heaters, air handling units, and central air
conditioning.

Site
The Adirondack Resort Site program will be broken down into different areas to
help with the describe each area. The area that will be used for the site are
Driveways and Parking, Walkways and Trails, and Landscaping. Each of these
areas will then be broken down into sub categories that have areas within that
category that belong in that category.

Driveway & Parking

For the driveways and parking there will be two types of roadways on the site.
One is the main driveway which would have two lanes for public use the goes in
and out of the resort that is a loop. The other roadway is the one that goes down
to the cabins. There will also be parking at the lodge.

Walkways & Trails

For the walkways and trails they will be scattered around the site. The
walkways will have sidewalks around the lodge and activity center. The
hiking trials will go all round the site. The hiking trials will also connect to
other hiking trails around the area. The trails will be made up of recreational
vehicle trials and horse trials. The recreation vehicle trials will be throughout
the site for ATV, UTV, and snowmobiles. The horse trials will also be throughout
the site. Both theses types of trials will connect to other trials in the area.

53
 Building, Roadway and Trail Location

REREATIONAL VEHICLE TRAIL

HORSE TRAIL
HIKING TRAIL

54
55
LOBBY ROOMS RESTARUANT & BAR ENTERTAINMENT RECREATION & SPA SHOPS STAFF PARKING Lodge Center Space Relationship

LODGE GUEST
PUBLIC GUEST
STAFF
 LOBBY LECTURE ACTIVITIES SHOPS STAFF PARKING Activity Center Space Relationship

LODGE GUEST
PUBLIC GUEST
STAFF

56
8
Schematic Design
 Cabin
LAKE PERSPECTIVE
Lake Perceptive

ENTRY
LIVING /
BATHRO
BEDROO
LOFT
59
 ROAD PERSPECTIVE
Road Perceptive

NTRY
IVING / KITCHENETTE
BATHROOM
BEDROOM
OFT
60
 First Floor Plan

CHENETTE

ROAD
SECOND PERSPECTIVE
FLOOR PLAN
Second Floor Plan

ENTRY
LIVING / KI
BATHROOM
BEDROOM
LOFT

FIRST FLOOR PLAN

Key
ENTRY
LIVING / KITCHENETTE
BATHROOM
BEDROOM
LOFT
61
 LAKE PERSPECTIVE
LAKE Perceptive
Lake PERSPECTIVE Lodge

ROAD PERSPECTIVE
ROAD PERSPECTIVE
Road Perceptive

62
63
SECOND FLOOR PLAN
First Floor Plan A

FIRST FLOOR PLAN FIRST FLOOR P

First Floor Plan B

FIRST FLOOR PLAN 64

 65
ODGE FLOOR PLANS
PUBLIC PRIVATE
CIRCULATION MANAGEMENT
MECHANICAL RESTAURANT
Second Floor Plan A

SECOND FLOOR PLAN

 N
Site Plan
SITE PLAN

66
9
Structural Design
 Lodge Framing Axon

69
Cabin Framing Axon

70
 Column Grid L.L

N L.K

L.J

L.I

L.H

L.G

L.F

L.14

L.13

L.12

L.11

L.10

L.9

L.E L.8

L.7
L.D
L.6

L.5
L.C

L.4

L.B L.3

L.2
L.A
L.1

A.C A.B A.A

A.1
A.2

A.3

A.4

A.5

A.6

A.7

A.8

71
10
Completed Design
Site Plan

76
 Level 1 Floor Plans
N

L.6

L.16

L.5

L.15

L.15
L.13

L.14

L.22

L.23

L.12

L.24

L.7
L.1

A L.10

L.8

L.11
L.3

L.4 L.22
L.9

L.13

L.12

L.21
L.1

C.4 L.23 L.2

B L.20 A
C.3

C.2
B C.1
L.19

L.17

L.22

L.18

A.4 A.1

A.2 A.2

A.6

A.3

A.5

77
 Level 2 Floor Plans
N

L.3

L.4

A
L.2

L.1

B
C.1

B
A

78
 Section A

79
Section B

80
 Lodge South Elevation

81
Lodge West Elevation

82
 Lodge North Elevation

83
Lodge East Elevation

84
 Cabin Axon

85
 Cabin Axon Exploded
Building Features

Insulated Tensile Fabric Roof

Glue Laminated Structure

Low-E Glass

86
 Cabin Sustainable Features
Sustainable Features

Natural Ventilation

Compositing Waste

Rainwater Collection

87
 Lodge Sustainable Features

Natural Ventilation

Photovoltaic Panels

Rainwater Collection

Sustainable Features
88
Renderings & Models
90
91
92
93
94
95
96
97
98
 Site Model

99
Cabin Model

100
Completed B.Arch. Thesis Signature Form

Student Name Nicholas M. Turck

__________________________________________________________

Proposed Thesis Title Adirondack Eco-Resort

__________________________________________________________

Dates Academic Year 2018-19

The above student has adequately and satisfactorily met the requirements of the proposed thesis.
I approve this thesis:

Thesis Advisor Name ___________________________________ Date ________________

Thesis Advisor e-mail __________________________________________________________

Thesis Advisor Signature __________________________________________________________

Secondary Advisor Name David M. Green, AIA, LEED AP BD+C

____________________________________ 2 May 2019
Date ________________

Secondary Advisor e-mail d.m.green2@sunyocc.edu

__________________________________________________________

Secondary Advisor Signature __________________________________________________________

Professional Advisor Name ____________________________________ Date ________________

Professional Advisor e-mail __________________________________________________________

Professional Advisor Signature __________________________________________________________

102
Endnotes
Proposal
1
“ADK USA Media Kit.” Roost ADK, Aug. 2014,
www.roostadk.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/AdksusaMediaKit1.pdf.
2
Basulto, David. “AD Interviews: Bjarke Ingels / BIG.” ArchDaily, 18 Feb. 2014,
www.archdaily.com/477737/ad-interviews-bjarke-ingels-big/.
3
Fox Et Al, M. “Thesis a Survivor’s Guide.” California College of the Arts, 2003,
www.cca.edu/sites/default/files/pdf/08/thesis-guide.pdf.

Methodology
4
Roost ADK. (2014). Adirondack, usa. Retrieved from Roost ADK: http://www.roostadk.com/
wp-content/uploads/2014/08/AdksusaMediaKit1.pdf

Precedent Studies
5
ArchDaily. (2016). Hotel in Xishuangbanna / OAD. Retrieved from ArchDaily: https://www.
archdaily.com/786758/doubletree-by-hilton-xishuangbanna-oad
6
ArchDaily. (2015). Jeju Bayhill Pool & Villa / L’EAU design + Kim Dong-jin. Retrieved from
ArchDaily: https://www.archdaily.com/769474/jeju-bayhill-pool-and-villa-kim-dong-jin-
plus-leau-design
7
ArchDaily. (2018). Meijie Mountain Hotspring Resort / Achterboschzantman Architecten.
Retrieved from ArchDaily: https://www.archdaily.com/896339/meijie-mountain-
hotspring-resort-achterboschzantman-architecten
8
ArcDaily. (2017). Ranwu Lake Campsite／Xiao Yin Architecture Design Firm. Retrieved
from ArchDaily: - https://www.archdaily.com/877966/ranwu-lake-campsite-xiao-yin-
architecture-design-firm
9
ArchDaily. (2014). Streamsong Resort / Alfonso Architects. Retrieved from ArchDaily:
https://www.archdaily.com/524708/streamsong-resort-alfonso-architects
10
ArchDaily. (2018). Tourist Center of Anlong Limestone Resort / 3andwich Design / He Wei
Studio. Retrieved from ArchDaily: https://www.archdaily.com/879929/tourist-center-of-
anlong-limestone-resort-3andwich-design-he-wei-studio
11
ArchDaily. (2018). Tsingpu Baisha Retreat / Tsutsumi & Associates. Retrieved from ArchDaily:
https://www.archdaily.com/895689/tsingpu-baisha-retreat-tsutsumi-and-associates
12
Bayhill. (2018). BAYHILL POOL & VILLA. Retrieved from Bayhill: http://bayhill.co.kr/?page_
id=11&lang=en
13
Block, I. (2017). A tourist centre perches on a platform above a limestone canyon in
China’s Guizhou Province. Retrieved from Dezeen: https://www.dezeen.com/2017/09/29/
tourist-centre-anlong-limestone-resort-3andwich-design-he-wei-studio-guizhou-
province-china/
14
Double Tree By Hilton. (2018). DoubleTree Resort by Hilton Hotel Xishuangbanna.
Retrieved from Double Tree By Hilton: https://doubletree3.hilton.com/en/
hotels/china/doubletree-resort by-hilton-hotel-xishuangbanna-JHGXIDI/index.
html?WT.mc_id=zELWAAA0AP1WW2PSH3Nano4DGBrandx&WT.srch=1&utm_
source=AdWords&utm_medium=ppc&utm_campaign=paidsearch&campaignid=10313
26255&adgroupid=54504993761&targetid=aud-297543351255:kwd-375898636783
15
Greig Township. (n.d.). Retrieved from Lewis County Historical Society: http://www.
lewiscountyhistory.org/histories/GREIGTOWNSHIP.pdf
16
Meijie Mountain Hotspring Resort. (2015). Mountains_Meijie Mountain Hotspring Resort.
Retrieved from Meijie Mountain Hotspring Resort: http://www.meijieresort.com/en/list.
php?pid=2
17
Mr and Mrs Smith. (2018). Tsingpu Baisha Retreat. Retrieved from Mr and Mrs Smith:
https://www.mrandmrssmith.com/luxury-hotels/tsingpu-baisha-retreat?utm_
content=non-brand&gclid=CjwKCAjwio3dBRAqEiwAHWsNVSq2NW7KQ7xDK3gnydBsuA
XeNuJ7cXt6ZBzMm9bYBQeoULgovCOXvhoCN40QAvD_BwE
18
Streamsong Resort. (2018). Streamsong Resort, Florida Golf Resort, Luxury Golf Resort in
Florida. Retrieved from Streamsong Resort: https://www.streamsongresort.com/

106
 Literature Review
19
Brantingham Real Estate. (2017). Retrieved from Berkshire Hathway Home Services:
https://www.berkshirehathawayhs.com/NY/Brantingham
20
Eco Resorts. (2017). About The Firm. Retrieved from Eco-Resorts: http://www.eco-resorts.
com/aboutus.php
21
Greig Township. (n.d.). Retrieved from Lewis County Historical Society: http://www.
lewiscountyhistory.org/histories/GREIGTOWNSHIP.pdf
22
Hana, A. (1995). Ecoresort: a ‘green’ masterpaln for the international resort industry.
International Journal of Hospitality Management, 351-374.
23
Roost ADK. (2014). Adirondack, usa. Retrieved from Roost ADK: http://www.roostadk.com/
wp-content/uploads/2014/08/AdksusaMediaKit1.pdf
24
Scheyvens, R. (1999). Ecotourism and the empowerment of local communities. Tourism
Management, 245-249.
25
TIES. (2015). TIES Announces Ecotourism Principles Revison. Retrieved from The
International Ecotourism Society: http://www.ecotourism.org/news/ties-announces-
ecotourism-principles-revision
26
TIES. (2018). Who are eco-touists? Retrieved from The International Ecotourism Society:
http://www.ecotourism.org/book/who-are-eco-tourists
27
What is an Eco Lodge? (The Top 10 Eco Lodges in the World). (2018). Retrieved from
Green Global Travel: https://greenglobaltravel.com/eco-lodge-green-accommodations
28
Wikimedia Foundation. (2018). Brantingham Lake. Retrieved from Wikipedia: https://
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brantingham_Lake#cite_note-2

107
Images
1
https://www.archdaily.com/786758/doubletree-by-hilton-xishuangbanna-
oad/572936d9e58ece233d0000ad-doubletree-by-hilton-xishuangbanna-oad-photo
2
https://www.archdaily.com/895689/tsingpu-baisha-retreat-tsutsumi-and-associates/5b
14035bf197cc753f000202-tsingpu-baisha-retreat-tsutsumi-and-associates-photo
3
https://www.archdaily.com/896339/meijie-mountain-hotspring-resort-
achterboschzantman-architecten/5b213d30f197cc9c93000177-meijie-mountain-
hotspring-resort-achterboschzantman-architecten-photo
4
https://www.archdaily.com/769474/jeju-bayhill-pool-and-villa-kim-dong-jin-plus-leau-
design/55937254e58ece2c83000353-jeju-bayhill-pool-and-villa-kim-dong-jin-plus-
leau-design-photo
5
http://www.streamsongresort.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/07-lodge.jpg
6
https://www.archdaily.com/879929/tourist-center-of-anlong-limestone-resort-
3andwich-design-he-wei-studio/59c1b997b22e38adb100008d-tourist-center-of-
anlong-limestone-resort-3andwich-design-he-wei-studio-photo
7
https://www.archdaily.com/877966/ranwu-lake-campsite-xiao-yin-architecture-design-
firm/5995654db22e38b7ec000007-ranwu-lake-campsite-xiao-yin-architecture-design-
firm-photo

108
Adirondack Eco-Resort