Scholarly Commons @ MiamiOH

Scholarly Commons is a service of the Miami University libraries. Research and scholarly output included here has been selected and deposited by the individual university departments and centers on campus. To learn more about Scholarly Commons, please visit our FAQ page.

 

Recent Submissions

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Restoring memory through architecture: urban interventions to revitalize Cincinnati's West End neighborhood

(2026) Mohamed, Omar;
The mid-20th century witnessed a devastating pattern of urban renewal across the United States. The construction of interstate highways systematically fractured and isolated primarily minority neighborhoods. Cincinnati’s West End is one example of a neighborhood that has suffered this loss through decades of subsequent urban decay, displacement, and disinvestment. Central to this thesis is the core question: How can architectural and urban interventions simultaneously preserve the neighborhood's rich history, protect current residents, and create new opportunities for meaningful visitor engagement? By proposing a multi-faceted approach, this thesis introduces programmatic solutions designed to holistically uplift the community. Key interventions include expanding public transportation networks to seamlessly connect the West End with the broader Cincinnati area, developing sustainable low-income housing to prevent resident displacement, and integrating community gallery and art spaces to celebrate local identity. These strategic programs aim to empower marginalized residents while inviting visitors to engage with the neighborhood's history, thereby increasing public awareness and economic vitality.
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Assessing generative artificial intelligence tools for analyzing bird banding data

(2026-03) Boehme, Ginny; Russell, Jill; Russell, David
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No place like home: reclaiming historic urban spaces into a community of care

(2026) Aridano, Seth;
This architectural thesis explores the adaptive reuse of an abandoned site surrounding an existing church, repurposing it for community programs and surrounding it with intergenerational, low-income, and accessible housing. This project reimagines the church site as a vibrant community anchor, preserving cultural heritage while integrating essential services and medical staff, and providing public amenities. Through sustainable design and intentional land use, the proposal establishes a resilient model of housing and healing that strengthens social connection and supports diverse populations. By integrating therapeutic design principles with existing architectural design theories, this study will propose a new framework for community care that is both adaptive and human-centered, redefining how built environments can enhance quality of life for individuals within the community. It challenges conventional housing models by demonstrating how the built environment can serve as a platform for healing and social cohesion.