Download

Download Full Text (85.5 MB)

  • Download ThesisBook_Hammrich.pdf (5.9 MB)

  • Download ThesisPresentation_Hammrich.pdf (173.3 MB)

  • Download ThesisSupplement_Hammrich.pdf (4.5 MB)

Date of Award

5-2026

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Architecture

College

Arts and Sciences

Department

Architecture

Faculty Advisor

Stephen Wischer

Studio Coordinator

Stephen Wischer

Faculty Chair

Susan Kliman

Publisher

North Dakota State University

Rights

NDSU policy 190.6.2

URI

https://www.ndsu.edu/fileadmin/policy/190.pdf

Abstract

A lack of walkable environments and well-supported public spaces has created a crisis of social disconnection across the United States. Historically, dating back to the public squares of ancient Greece, the public realm was a place of communal ritual from which citizens drew their primary identity. Today, however, modern cities are driven by commerce and technology, rapidly losing the genuine spaces that create face-to-face human interaction. By prioritizing the efficient movement of vehicles and goods over human connection, it has left behind fractured, isolated communities.

This thesis explores architectural strategies to combat this social isolation, focusing specifically on the Near North Minneapolis neighborhood that was severed by the construction of the Olson Memorial Highway and Interstate 94. Once a vibrant community has been reduced to a 12-lane transit corridor designed merely to shorten commute times. By proposing a new social seam for this neighborhood, this project seeks to restore lost community, create human connection, stimulate economic growth, and overall create a sense of belonging.

The Social Seam: Combating Social Isolation Through Architecture

Share

COinS