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Virginia Tech

Relive The Past, Reimagine The Future

Abstract

dc:description.abstract

By shifting from a static, preservation-based approach to one that emphasizes the dynamic process of decay, architecture can be given a second life through a more human-centered perspective. This approach acknowledges the symbiotic relationship between human decay and architectural decay, and can lead to new possibilities for adaptive reuse and revitalization. Architecture and human remains have the potential for new life through the cycle of death and rebirth, so by repurposing abandoned architecture and utilizing human ashes as a sustainable resource, a cemetery can become a vibrant space that celebrates life and the natural world. This approach embraces the cyclical nature of life and the interconnectedness of all things. The cycle of life and death is an inherent part of the human experience, and the built environment is no exception. As buildings and infrastructure age and become obsolete, they are often left to decay and deteriorate. However, this process of decay can be transformed into an opportunity for new life and purpose. A proposed cemetery on the existing ruin that incorporates these principles can become a vibrant space that reflects the cyclical nature of life and provides a sustainable solution for honoring the dead.

Degree

thesis:*
Name thesis:degree_name
Master of Architecture
Level thesis:degree_level
masters
Discipline thesis:degree_discipline
Architecture
Department dc:contributor.department
Architecture
Grantor dc:publisher
Virginia Tech
Year dc:date.issued
2023

Author and committee

dc:creator, dc:contributor.*
Author dc:creator
  • Liu, Susan Siru
Chair dc:contributor.committeechair
  • Jones, Kevin William
Committee members dc:contributor.committeemember
  • Braaten, Ellen B.
  • He, Chenxuan

Subjects

dc:subject × 7

Rights

dc:rights
Statement dc:rights
  • In Copyright
Language dc:language.iso
en

Identifiers

dc:identifier.*
Dc Identifier Other
vt_gsexam:37794
OAI identifier oai:identifier
oai:vtechworks.lib.vt.edu:10919/115749

Chain of custody

source
Harvested from
Virginia Tech
Base URL
vtechworks.lib.vt.edu/oai/request
Last updated
2026-07-22
Source record
OAI-PMH GetRecord
citation

Liu, Susan Siru. Relive The Past, Reimagine The Future. masters thesis, Virginia Tech, 2023. http://hdl.handle.net/10919/115749