BIOPHILIC DESIGN FOR THE ELDERLY: DESIGN OF A SENIOR LIVING
COMMUNITY ALONG THE DELAWARE
A Thesis
Presented to the Faculty
of Philadelphia University
in Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Degree of
Master of Science in Sustainable Design
By
Harshika Bhatt
May 2015
i
ABSTRACT
There is an increase in demand of housing for the elderly. While there are
communities and organizations that cater to this age group, more effort to integrate
them to the larger community is required. Most senior living communities are
institutionalized and made to feel like a facility rather than a home. The elderly are
going through a lot of changes in this stage of their life and tend to suffer from
depression and a feeling of isolation. Putting them in an environment that feels like an
institution would exacerbate their depression and may lead to other problems, such as
deterioration in their health.
The Biophilia Hypothesis suggests that humans have an instinctive bond with nature
and that people tend to show a positive response when they experience a connection
with nature. It states that since humans originated from savannah-like environments
they have “the urge to affiliate with other forms of life” (Kellert & Wilson, 1995). When
connected with nature and natural systems, humans can feel more emotionally
content and this has the potential to increase their life span.
However, architecture since the Industrial Revolution has been alienated from nature.
The built environment and the natural environment have become separate entities.
People’s association with nature is lost and their knowledge of nature and the way it
works is limited.
This thesis explores the positive effects of biophilia and incorporates biophilic design
based on existing resources to develop a community that caters primarily to the
elderly but also to other age groups. It evaluates the positive effects of each pattern of
biophilic design and creates an example of biophilic design that can be used in the
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future by urban planners, designers and researchers as a theoretical case study to
design similar environments. The design attempts to create a healthy environment in
which people live in harmony with each other and with nature, and it tries to integrate
humans with nature making them a part of the natural system rather than just a by-
stander.
“Study nature, love nature, stay close to nature. It will never fail you” (Wright, n.d.).
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ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
To Professor Fryer and Professor Fleming who have been patient with me and guided
me throughout the process by providing me with the right advice and resources to take
me forward at every step in the thesis.
This project would not have been possible without the help of my advisor Ms. Helena
Van Vliet, who guided me through the design process and shared her expertise on
Biophilic Design, in spite of her busy schedule and was a key to the development of
the project.
I would also like to thank my classmates and the members of the Atria Senior Living
Community who were very welcoming and actively participated in the charrette,
sharing their views with us without any hesitation.
Finally, I would like to thank my friends and family for encouraging me through the
process and for their unconditional love and support. Thanks to my parents who have
trusted, supported and believed in me. A special mention to my grandparents who
inspired me to pursue this topic for my thesis.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
ABSTRACT .................................................................................................................. i
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS ............................................................................................. iii
LIST OF FIGURES ..................................................................................................... v
CHAPTER ONE: INTRODUCTION ............................................................................ 1
CHAPTER TWO: AGING ........................................................................................... 4
CHAPTER THREE: DISCONNECTION OF OLDER ADULTS TO NATURE ..... 8
CHAPTER FOUR: BIOPHILIC DESIGN FOR THE ELDERLY ................................. 10
Community Living ..................................................................................................... 10
What is Biophilia ....................................................................................................... 11
Healing Through Nature ........................................................................................... 17
Site Selection ........................................................................................................... 21
Site Analysis and Programming ............................................................................... 24
The Design ............................................................................................................... 28
Biophilic Patterns used in the Design ....................................................................... 38
Guidelines ................................................................................................................ 48
CHAPTER FIVE: CONCLUSION .............................................................................. 50
BIBLIOGRAPHY ....................................................................................................... 53
APPENDIX ............................................................................................................... 56
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LIST OF FIGURES
Figure 1: Number of Persons 66+, 1900-2030 (numbers in millions) .................... 1
Figure 2: Deaths Attributed to 19 Leading Risk Factors, by Country Income Level 2004 ................................................................................................................... 7
Figure 3: Net Gain vs Net Loss of Wetlands in Coastal Louisiana...................... 12
Figure 4: Comparison of Self-esteem in both the walks...................................... 14
Figure 5: Comparison of Depression in both the Walks ...................................... 14
Figure 6: Table Showing the Positive Effects of Biophilic Design ....................... 16
Figure 7: Flyer used for the Charrette ................................................................. 17
Figure 8: Picture Taken During the Charrette ..................................................... 18
Figure 9: Picture Taken During the Charrette .................................................... 18
Figure 10: Table Showing the Site Selection Process ........................................ 22
Figure 11: Site Location – 1533 South Christopher Columbus Boulevard .......... 23
Figure 12: View of Columbus Boulevard Facing South....................................... 24
Figure 13: View of Reed St. and the I-95 ............................................................ 25
Figure 14: View of the Site from Columbus Boulevard ....................................... 26
Figure 15: Programming ..................................................................................... 27
Figure 16: Site Zoning ........................................................................................ 29
Figure 17: Circulation in the Open Spaces ......................................................... 30
Figure 18: Vehicular and Pedestrian Circulation ................................................ 31
Figure 19: Proposed Master Plan ....................................................................... 32
Figure 20: View of the Site .................................................................................. 33
Figure 21: View of the Street Intersection ........................................................... 33
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Figure 22: Amphitheater at the Entrance ............................................................ 34
Figure 23: View of the Entrance ......................................................................... 34
Figure 24: View of the Garden at the Entrance ................................................... 35
Figure 25: View of the Intersection near the Entrance ........................................ 35
Figure 26: View of the Entrance to the Recreation Center.................................. 36
Figure 27: View of the Water Feature near the Recreation Center ..................... 36
Figure 28: View of the Central Activity Area ....................................................... 37
Figure 29: View of the Site from the Apartment .................................................. 37 Figure 30: Visual Connection to Nature .............................................................. 39
Figure 31: Diffused Lighting in the Seating Area in the Garden at the Entrance 42
Figure 32: Diffused Lighting in the Seating Area on the Recreation Center ....... 42
Figure 33: Dry Streams Flowing Through the Community .................................. 43
Figure 34: Entire Site Perceived as Prospect and Refuge .................................. 44
Figure 35: View of the Courtyard ........................................................................ 45
Figure 36: Seating Area as Prospect and Refuge .............................................. 46
Figure 37: View of Central Area of Activity ......................................................... 46
Figure 38: View of the River from the Central Area ............................................ 47
Figure 39: View from the Apartment ................................................................... 48
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CHAPTER 1
INTRODUCTION
There is an increase in demand for housing that caters to the elderly because the
senior population is increasing. This population, - people that are 65years or
older, - numbered 39.6 million in 2009 (the latest year for which data is
available). As shown in Figure 1, the population of people 65 years or older is
only expected to increase.
Figure 1: Number of Persons 65+, 1900-2030 (numbers in millions)
Source: (Administration for Community Living, 2011)
They represented 12.9% of the U.S. population, about one in every eight
Americans. By 2030, there will be about 72.1 million older persons, more than
twice their number in 2000. People 65+ represented 12.4% of the population in
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the year 2000 but are expected to grow to be 19% of the population by 2030
(Administration for Community Living, 2011).
“Retirement is no longer an individual’s last few declining years but rather the
beginning of a significant portion of an individual’s life” (Wassum, 2013) . A
person can be expected to live at least two more decades after retirement.
Improved medical care, development of new drugs and cures to diseases have
caused a drastic increase in life expectancy in the late 21st century.
Development in the fields of medicine and technology, will only lead to an
increase in life expectancy and thus an increasing population of the elderly.
However, aging could be depressing and lonely if the environment provided for
the elderly is not supportive. Old age is accompanied by many problems such as
physical or mental disabilities due to aging, loss of a loved one, feeling of
isolation, and the inability to perform daily activities as easily as they once could.
Research says that staying connected to nature and elements of nature helps in
healing. Natural environments also help to improve sleeping patterns, reduce
pain, speed up recovery and even increase longevity (Rodiek, 2010). The
biophilia hypothesis introduced by Edward O Wilson, in his book Biophilia,
suggests that there is an innate connection between humans and nature. This is
the reason most people prefer savannah-like landscapes (Kellert & Wilson,
1995).
This thesis demonstrates an approach to design that may help seniors feel more
emotionally satisfied and increase their overall well-being. This approach uses a
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biophilic design process to create a healing environment. Furthermore, the thesis
intends to demonstrate, to architects and designers, one example of how to
create environments that heal through design. While water consumption, energy
consumption and materials used are very important aspects of sustainable
design, a key element of making people comfortable and creating a feeling of
belonging often takes a backseat, when instead it is an important benefit of
sustainable design.
The project aims at designing a community in Philadelphia that specifically caters
to people over 60 years of age. The site selected is a 16.5 acre site on South
Columbus Boulevard by the Delaware River. The community shall cater to
people of all age groups with residences reserved depending on the age groups.
Through its design the community shall be focused on creating opportunities for
socialization and interaction.
This study aims at Designing a retirement community based on the principles of
biophilia will help architects understand the positive effects of biophilic design.
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CHAPTER 2
AGING
Old age is the start of a new phase of life. As people age they have to face many
changes. Most of these changes might not be positive and so they could lead to
a feeling of depression. According to a report by the National Alliance on Mental
Illness, “Depression affects more than 6.5 million of the 35 million Americans
aged 65 years or older. Depression in older persons is closely associated with
dependency and disability and causes great suffering for the individual and the
family” (National Alliance on Mental Illness, 2009, p. 1).Depression could be
caused due changes in the biological, personal, cultural, mental and economic
aspects of their life (Simon, 1951). In his book, Caring Environments for Frail
Elderly People, Geoffrey Salmon describes some of the major physiological
aspects of aging by classifying them into the following categories:
a. Muscular Skeletal - Movement, Balance, Flexibility, Strength and
Control: This includes bone and joint disorders affecting posture, mobility,
flexibility and dexterity. Arthritis and osteoporosis are two examples of this
kind of disorder. They lead to difficulty in walking, turning over in the bed,
difficulty in bending arms and cause a lot of pain.
Older adults also experience a weakening of their leg muscles which affects
their ability to sit and get up with ease. Another important everyday activity
that is affected due to old age is walking. A frail old male adult takes 16 times
longer to walk in comparison with an average healthy male adult.
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In case of a sudden change in equilibrium, it is difficult for them to regain their
balance as quickly as younger adults making them more susceptible to fall
(Salmon, 1994).
b. Cardio-vascular and respiratory - Endurance and stamina: People over
the age of 65 are more likely to be affected by a cardiovascular disease. This
may lead to limited activity or the need for complete bed rest. Respiratory
disorders could lead to shortness in breath and difficulty in breathing (Salmon,
1994).
c. Psychiatric – Memory, Mental Health and a sense of well-being: This is
mostly caused due to changes in the personal lives. The children moving out
of the house or the recent loss of a loved one could make them feel more
lonely and sad. Relocation to a facility or a senior living community could
make them feel bereft and rejected. Retirement means loss of a job, which
implies loss of a source of income. It could mean that they might have lost the
purpose in life and feel dejected. Dementia and Alzheimer’s are examples of
mental ailment that a person could be suffering with. This could lead to
deficiency in social skills, tendencies to wander and reduced control of the
environment.
d. Perception and Sensory – Environmental Perception and
Communication: The efficiency of most of the parts of the body is reduced
due to their age. Their senses are not as sharp as they used to be, reflex and
reaction time is delayed, daily activities that were accomplished with ease
become tasking and tiring. They need assistance to complete simple tasks,
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which could make them feel dependent. By age 45, the photoreceptors of an
average adult receive just 50% of light needed to fully stimulate circadian
rhythm. By age 55, this dips to 37%. By age 75, this is a mere 17% (Scott &
Harrington, 2014). There also could be changes in sleep patterns and
circadian rhythms. Also, certain loss of hearing, especially of high
frequencies is common due to aging. However, the degree of loss of senses
varies across different people.
They also have a lot of extra time at hand and reduced opportunities for social
interaction. There is also a need to come to terms with the gradual cultural
changes due to the generation gap. For instance, an elderly person might not
be comfortable using technology (computer, mobile devices etc.). Also, if a
person leads a sedentary life, he/she increases his chances of having
problems in his/her health in the future. These changes make them feel
isolated and out-of-place. These could also be reasons for a person to loose
contact with the larger community (Ball, et al., 2000).“No one is too old to
enjoy the benefits of regular physical activity” (U.S. Department of Health and
Human Services, 1996, p. 1).
There is plenty of recent research on the health risks of leading a sedentary
life. It is said that “sitting is the new smoking” (Carmody, 2015, p. 1). In
today’s world, people spend most of their day sitting, either at work or at
home. Sedentary adults double their health risks in comparison to all day
smokers. As shown in Figure 2, the World Health Organization (W.H.O) has
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identified physical inactivity as the fourth biggest killer – ahead of obesity
(World Health Organization, 2009).
Figure 2: Deaths attributed to 19 leading risk factors, by country income
level, 2004
Source: (World Health Organization, 2009, p. 16)
A sedentary lifestyle leads to slower metabolism, circulation and weakness
and stiffness in the muscles. Physical activity on the other hand, keeps the
lymph fluid circulating and boosting the immune system. Exercise helps the
body get rid of toxins. Constant exercise helps in instigating the hormones
that sharpens thinking and elevates the mood reducing depression (Ude,
2013).
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CHAPTER 3
DISCONNECTION OF OLDER ADULTS TO NATURE
The second problem addressed in this thesis is the disconnect of older adults
with nature. As of 2008, more than half the world’s population lives in cities
(UNFPA, 2007). The general conception of a city today is something that is
totally disconnected from nature or natural elements. Nature and urban settings
have become two separate entities. However, while selecting a holiday spot or a
weekend getaway most people choose a place or an activity associated with
nature like going to the beach or hiking.
While there is a lot of research that says it very important for children to stay
connected to nature, there is very little research that stresses the importance for
older adults to stay connected to nature. In his book, The Last Child in the
Woods, Richard Louv, discusses the Nature Deficit Disorder (Louv, The Last
Child in the Woods, 2005). It is a hypothesis where he says that a lack of regular
connection with nature could lead to stunted academic and developmental
growth in children. In his book, The Nature Principle he extends this
phenomenon to adults. He says that growing disconnect with nature can dull our
senses eventually making them blunt to sensations (Louv, The Nature Principle:
Human Restoration and the End of Nature Deficit Disorder, 2011).
With growing developments in the field of technology, people immerse
themselves in a world created by humans. In his book, Louv wonders how life
could be different, if people would be immersed in nature instead. While
technology is important and necessary in our lives, it is also important to have a
9
balance. Humans might be getting ahead of themselves by having all their faith in
technology and turning away from nature. He also says that the future will belong
to the “nature-smart”. The loss of connection to nature threatens health, spirit,
economy and the future stewardship of the environment (Louv, The Nature
Principle: Human Restoration and the End of Nature Deficit Disorder, 2011).
There is a wide range of green-building rating systems like LEED, ASHRAE,
Passivhaus and others that deal with water and energy efficiency. While these
are very important aspects of sustainable development, a balance with the user
experience and human health and well-being is lost. There are very few rating
systems like the Living Building Challenge and WELL that address and insist on
reconnecting the built environment with nature. This is changing gradually and
people will want to stay in a building that is aesthetically pleasing and creates a
healthy environment.
While recent trends in sustainability have developed methods to reduce the
impact of the built environment on nature, attempts at reconnecting humans to
nature are few (Kellert, Heerwagen , & Mador, 2011). While LEED, Energy Star,
Passivhaus and other building rating systems concentrate on improving the
efficiency of the building, the connection of the building to the users is lost. Most
people spend 80% of their time indoors, inside a building. It is either their house,
their work-place or a mall. This makes it even more important for designers to
take into consideration, the effect the building will have on its users (Boluda,
2011).
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CHAPTER 4
BIOPHILIC DESIGN FOR THE ELDERLY
Community Living or Co-housing
An integrated community catering to people of different age groups would be the
best possible solution to this problem. A community with people of different age
groups would be a major step towards preventing the elderly from feeling isolated
and would help them feel like an integral part of the society. The proposed
community shall have individual dwellings with shared facilities and amenities.
This helps the people maintain their individuality and keep their privacy while
they are still the part of a larger community in which the facilities and amenities
are maintained by the administration. Integrated housing facilities will offer the
seniors more opportunities to be integrated with society when compared to
housing catering specifically for the elderly. The need to stay connected to nature
is not just an option but a necessity (Beatley, 2011).
The proposed solution is to reconnect community with nature by designing a
biophilic community that caters primarily to the elderly. The design of the
community shall help the residents to gradually shift their lifestyles and lead a
healthy life by staying connected to nature and natural systems.
The World Health Organization (W.H.O) defines health as: “a state of complete
physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or
infirmity” (World Health Organization, 1948, p. 100). Hence, healthy community
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shall be designed not only to promote the physical and mental health of its
residents but also provide scope for social interaction.
What is Biophilia?
Bio means life and philia in Greek means fondness. Biophilia is a term coined by
Erich Fromm in his book The Anatomy of Human Destructiveness (Fromm,
1973). Edward O Wilson popularized the hypothesis in his book The Biophilia
Hypothesis. He suggests that humans originate from nature and hence have the
innate tendency to get attracted to life and life-like processes (Wilson & Kellert,
1995). Biophilic design is the design of spaces in a manner that promotes and
encourages the interaction of humans with nature and natural systems. It is the
experience with nature and natural elements that a person has while in natural
environment. The flow of water, being able to see the changes in the times of the
day and experience the changes in seasons are some examples of connections
to nature. It is not just important for humans to stay connected to nature but also
interact with it and be a part of the natural process. This connection would make
a person feel that they are a part of a bigger system creating empathy for the
system, which in turn creates a shift in their thinking from “I” to “we”.
However, there are some aspects of nature that are not very appealing to
humans and can cause adverse reactions. This is known as biophobia. Some
common elements that instigate biphobic reactions are rats, spiders, predators
and heights. Care should be taken to avoid these biophobic reactions.
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Biophilic Design not only helps improve human health but also the health of the
environment. It helps in making the community more resilient. Ecosystem
services are the natural conditions and processes that humans rely on.
(Millenium Ecosystem Assesment, 2005). According to a report by the Ecological
Society of America, New Orleans could have avoided some expenses during
hurricane Katrina if the natural wetlands had been preserved (Costanza, Mitsch,
& Day Jr, 2006) . The wetlands surrounding New Orleans had been preventing
storm surges. Figure 3 shows the net wetland loss over the last 6000 years.
Figure 3: Net gain vs net loss of wetlands in costal Louisiana
Source: (Costanza, Mitsch, & Day Jr, 2006)
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Trees and green cover clear the air of pollutants by absorbing the carbon dioxide
present in the air and releasing oxygen into the air hence helping to reduce the
carbon emissions. An acre of tree plantation absorbs the carbon dioxide amount
equivalent to the CO2 produced when a car is driven for 26000miles. They also
help to cool the surroundings through evapo-transpiration and by blocking direct
sun-light and providing shade. The cooling provided by a single tree equals that
of 10 air-conditioners running 20 hours a day. Trees also help reduce urban
storm-water runoff by absorbing the water and recharging the ground water
system (Evans, 2002).
Nature also helps in nurturing a sense of place. Sense of place is a phrase used
to describe a person’s relationship or association with a place and a community
attachment to the place (Cross, 2001). Once a person has an association to a
place, he or she tries to protect and preserve the place.
Green neighborhoods and natural environments have been associated with
stress reduction and improved physical and mental health. There is plenty of
research and evidence to support this claim. One such research is by an
organization called MIND in the United Kingdom. In this research the results of
people taking a walk in a shopping center was compared with the results of the
same group of people taking a walk in the park. Figure 4 shows that the feeling of
self-esteem increased when they went for a walk in the park. Figure 5 shows the
decrease in depression while in the park (Mind, 2007).
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Figure 4: Comparison of self-esteem in both the walks
Source: (Mind, 2007)
Figure 5: Comparison of depression in both the walks.
Source: (Mind, 2007)
15
Biophilic design is the design of any kind of space that promotes health by
creating connections with nature. In their report, The 14 Patterns of Biophilic
Design, Terrapin Bright Green has enlisted 14 patterns of nature and how each
pattern helps in promoting human health. Each pattern has a citation along with it
that provides the research for the pattern. Figure 6 shall be used as a benchmark
for the design.
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Figure 6: Table showing the positive effects of Biophilic Design
Source: (Terrapin Bright Green , 2014)
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Healing through Nature
In order to understand the requirements of the elderly and get their opinion on
biophilic design, a charrette was conducted in the Atria Senior Living Community,
Philadelphia, PA. Figure 7 shows the flyer used to invite the people in community
for the charrette. Figures 8 and 9 show some pictures from the charrette.
Figure 7: Flyer used in the charrette
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At the end of the charrette, the group had a list of preferences as given by the
seniors in the community. These preferences were later segregated into different
categories to develop a set of guiding principles.
Health
It should be green as possible. Natural materials should be used.
There should be plenty of green spaces.
The community needs to be restful and peaceful
The facility should have plants and small trees.
Operable windows with views of greenery is preferred. Views into other
buildings should be avoided
Maximize the use of available natural daylighting.
The community could have a flower garden and rooftop gardens.
A vegetable garden to grow your own food.
Solar energy and photovoltaic panels to generate energy
Energy efficient appliances.
Based on these points the first guiding principle was “creating a nurturing and
healthy environment by providing access to natural elements”.
Social Aspect
Community spaces where people can interact with each other.
Spaces for lectures, theaters and music concerts
Small restaurants throughout the facility.
Display art
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The second guiding principle which would promote the social well-being of the
residents is “Enhancing community connections by providing spaces that create
opportunities for social interaction”.
Equity
Outdoor and indoor spaces that are accessible to all.
Special outlets for oxygen and space for tanks.
Design to enhance the senses.
The third guiding principle that is a major step to include everyone is “Encourage
equity by creating spaces that are accessible and could be experienced by
everyone”
Safety and Privacy
Privacy
Allowance for independence.
Safety
A very important aspect for a residential community the fourth guiding principle is
“providing a sense of safety and privacy by suing connection to nature”.
Response to Site
The fifth guiding principle was one that was not developed through the charrette.
Biophilic design is also called restorative design. While the first four guiding
principles deal with the health of the humans, the fifth guiding principle addresses
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the health of the site. “To create a restorative environment by providing a site
sensitive design”.
These guiding principles, along with the benchmarks, help inform the design and
make it respond to the users, the surroundings and the environment.
Site Selection
Based on the availability of land and proximity to certain facilities four sites were
short-listed. Figure 10 lists out the criteria for site selection. The green shows
criteria that is the most favorable for the project and the red shows the least
favorable criteria.
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Figure 10: Table showing the site selection process
Site Selection
Criteria
4900 W
Jefferson St
GRAYS FERRY AVE.
& 34TH ST. –
University City
1533 S Christopher
Columbus Blvd –
Between Tasker and
Reed Street
7777 STATE ROAD
– former Marine
Terminal –
Site Area 7.2acres 7.5 acres 16.5 acres 70acres
Current zoning Medium
Industrial (I-2)
Medium Industrial (I-2) Community
Commercial Mixed
Use (CMX-3)
Residential Mixed
Use (RMX)
Proximity to
public transport
3 bus stops
adjacent to the
site and a train
station @ 0.8
miles
4 bus stops adjacent to
the site and a AMTRAK
station @ 2.5 miles
6 bus stops adjacent
to the site and a train
station @ 3.1 miles
Nearest bust stop
0.3 miles from the
site and a train
station @ 0.5 miles
Proximity to a
Hospital
1.1 miles 0.8 miles 0.6 miles Health center @ 1.2
miles
Proximity to a
grocery
0.3 miles 0.3 miles 0.6 miles 1.3 miles
Proximity to
center city
4.9 miles 3 miles 2.4 miles 10 miles
Proximity to
parks/ green
spaces
0.7 miles 0.4 miles Delaware river trail
that runs across the
site, 0.5 miles to the
nearest park
1.3 miles
Ranking based on
site selection
criteria
4 2 1 3
23
Based in the criteria shown in Figure 10, the selected site was 1533 South
Columbus Boulevard, Philadelphia, PA 19148.This site was selected mainly due
to its proximity to various services and facilities that would be important for the
residents. The site lies between Tasker St. and Reed St. Initially, Foxwoods
proposed for a casino to be built on the site. Due to protests by the residents of
the Pennsport community, the casino was moved to The Gallery at Market East
(Parmley, 2006). Figure 11 shows the location of the site. The site lies along the
Delaware River with a shopping complex to its south. The shopping complex
includes Walmart and a HomeDepot. The I95 runs parallel to Christopher
Columbus Boulevard to the West. The United Artists Theater is right across the
road to the west of the site.
Figure 11: Site Location – 1533 S Christopher Columbus Boulevard
Source: (Google Earth, 2015)
N
24
Site Analysis and Programming
Figure 12: View of Columbus Boulevard facing south
Christopher Columbus Boulevard caters to fast moving traffic. Figure 12 shows a
view of Christopher Columbus Boulevard with traffic.It would be intimidating for
pedestrians to cross the road to get to the site.
Figure 13 shows the I95 that runs parallel to the Columbus Boulevard. The
presence of the I95 and the Columbus Boulevard (both catering to fast moving
traffic) would make the periphery of the site noisy.
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Figure 13: View of Reed St. and the I95
The presence of the shopping complex near the site should be taken advantage
of by providing easy access to it. Also, with the United Artist’s theater opposite
the site, there is the opportunity for some parts of the site to be accessible to the
public to make the surroundings livelier and connect the neighborhood to the
river. Figure 14 shows a view of the site from Columbus Boulevard facing south.
As seen in the figure, the existing site condition is not favorable for pedestrians.
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Figure 14: View of the site from Columbus Boulevard
With the Delaware River to the east and a view of the city skyline to the north-
west most of the site has desirable views. A part of the site lies in the 100year
flood plain and hence cannot be used for construction. The prevailing wind
direction in the winter is from the south-west in the winter. Hence, the western
part of the site needs a noise barrier. A river trail runs across the site. A
connection to this trail would encourage activity on the site.
Based on standards and existing prototypes, a program for the community was
developed as shown in Figure 15
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Figure 15: Programming
Requirements/ spaces Spaces Areas Total
Area
number of
occupants
1 50 individual units 2bhk, 1bhk (20+30) 1000sft/1bhk + 1600sft/2bhk (house). 1300/lot for 1bhk +
2080/lot for 2bhk-
80600 50-70
2 Apartment(2 blocks) 2bhk, 1bhk and shared housing
(20+40+40)
1600sft/2bhk +1000sft/1bhk + 1300sft/shared housing =
14260sft/block
142600 140-160
3 Health and Recreation Center gymnasium 2000sft (20ppl) including showers and toilets for swimming
pool
7995
Clinic 200sft
meditation center 13sft/person = 520sft
Pool 1200
Library 1000sft
Multipurpose spaces for lectures,
movie screenings, live bands
2500sft
Lounge 25sft/person = 575sft (20ppl)
4 Community Kitchen and dining Kitchen +community kitchen 50% of dining =400sft
1150 Community dining with barbeque area
(2-3 spread out)
16sft/person =750sft 40ppl
Community garden to grow vegetables
5 Green House
6 Administration Reception space 500sft
1060
Office space 400sft
Conference Hall (2) 100sft
Pantry 60sft
7 Parking 70+45 spots = 115 153sft/spot 17595
Access driveways and aisles min 25% 4398.75
8 Apartment blocks(2 blocks with
50 units in each)
1bhk, 2bhk and 3bhk (20+50+30) 1000sft/1bhk+1600sft/2bhk+2000sft/3bhk 184000
28
The Design
Figure 16 shows the basic zoning of the site. The entrance is through the corner
of Reed Street and Columbus Boulevard. This entrance was chosen because the
other roads are too busy, and having an entrance on those roads would increase
the already existing traffic congestion. The amphitheater with a water feature to
the northwest of the site could serve as a public place where people could come
and spend some time while waiting to watch a movie or just walk along the site
and go to the river. The administration block is also to the north-west of the site
just east of the amphitheater. The location of the administration is such that a
vehicle will need do drive around the administration block to drive into the
community. The views of the river are to the east of the site. Hence, the tallest
buildings, i.e the apartment blocks are to the west of the site and the individual
units are to the east. The individual units in the front are aligned facing the river
along the contour of the 100 year flood plain. The units continue to become two
separate clusters. The recreation center is in the center of the site so that it is
close to all the residents and can serve as a central area for socialization. A
central axis connects the apartments through the recreation center to the
Delaware River trail that runs along the site. The green house and vegetable
garden is located to the south to take advantage of the sun light. Since there are
many birds that migrate along the Delaware, a bird sanctuary is proposed on this
part of the site.
29
Figure 16: Site Zoning
The outdoor spaces gives form to the buildings around it. The outdoor spaces
are designed in such a way that they are protected by buildings on all the sides
and each outdoor space opens up into the next space as illustrated in Figure 17.
30
Figure 17: Circulation of open spaces
Figure 18 shows the vehicular and pedestrian circulation on the site. The roads
are designed in a manner that a vehicle would need to slow down to navigate
through the space. This is done so that the pedestrians are not intimidated by the
fast moving traffic. An exit is provided to the eastern end of the site to provide
easy access to the shopping center. Both the pedestrian and vehicular paths are
paved with the same brick paving so that the vehicles can slow down.
33
Figure 20: View of the Site
Figure 21 shows a redesigned view of the street intersection. The intersection
has been redesigned to make it more pedestrian friendly.
Figure 21: View of Street Intersection
34
Figure 22 shows a view of the amphitheater and the water feature at the
amphitheater.
Figure 22: Amphitheater at the Entrance
Figure 23: View of the Entrance
35
Figure 24: View of the Garden at the Entrance
Figure 25 shows a view of the intersection near the entrance. The bocce ball
court is to the left and the apartments are to the right.
Figure 25: View of Intersection near the Entrance
36
Figure 26: View of entrance to the recreation center
Figure 27: View of water feature near the recreation center
37
Figure 28: View of central area in front of the recreation center.
Figure 29: View of the site from the apartment
38
Biophilic Patterns used in the Design
1. Visual connection to Nature
In Figure 30, the red lines are the view lines showing the views to the river. As
already mentioned in the table, research shows that visual connection to nature
lowers blood pressure and heart rate. It also improves mental engagement and
attentiveness and impacts positive attitude and overall happiness. The impact of
the nature does not increase with the quantity of views but the quality of the view.
The more variety and biodiversity in the view the more is the impact of the
pattern (Terrapin Bright Green , 2014). Studies show that a visual connection to
nature helps people gain a sense of place and provides an environment that
helps them shift their focus and relax the eye muscles. Views of biodiversity is
preferred over the quantity of land provided for view (Terrapin Bright Green ,
2014). With the site being located along the Delaware River, it provides an
excellent opportunity to attract migratory birds, seagulls and other species of
wildlife. Many species inhabiting the lower and upper Delaware have been listed
as endangered or threatened species. (Bird and Wildlife Watching, n.d.). The bird
sanctuary extends to the rooftops and the whole site acts as a bird sanctuary.
The green roofs on the individual units shall be designed to attract birds. Below is
a list of birds that are native to or migrate to the Delaware River.
Spring – Bay breasted warbler, Canada Warbler, Henslow’s sparrow, ovenbird,
Prairie Warbler
39
Fall – Black-throated Blue Warbler, Nashville Warbler, Pine Warbler, and Prairie
Warbler (Spring and Fall Migration Time Table, n.d.)
Native species – Brant, Canada Goose (feed primarily on mowed grass in
athletic fields, golf courses, park lawns, median strips etc. while using wetlands,
lakes, and rivers mainly as resting and roosting areas), American Black Duck,
Mallard, Ring-necked duck, Greater Scaup, Lesser Scaup, White-winged scoter,
Long-tailed duck, Bufflehead, Common goldeneye, red-breasted merganser, red
throated loon, common loon, red-necked grebe, double crested cormorant, great
blue heron, American kestrel, Laughing Gull, Bonaparte’s gull, Great Black-
backed Gull, Caspian Tern, Fish Crow, Bank Swallow, American Pipit.
A list of birds that pass by the Delaware and their preferred habitats is mentioned
in the Appendix
Figure 30: Visual Connection to nature
40
Non-visual Connection with Nature
Sounds of nature make a person more motivated and energetic. The smell of
plant oils and herbs help in healing. Gardening reduces joint pain and helps in
relaxation. Non-visual connection helps in reducing systolic and stress
hormones. There is also a perceived improvement in mental health and
tranquility (Terrapin Bright Green , 2014).
This design has features with moving water – the water fountain at the entrance,
the dry streams that run through the site and the water feature near the
swimming pool. The sounds of birds also serves as a non-visual connection with
nature.
The garden at the entrance shall be designed to have flowering plants in the
center and sweet smelling blueberry shrubs at the entrance so that the wind
brings in the smell of blueberry. The vegetable garden would be resident run and
provides a space where people could grow their own food. Also, all the building
materials used shall have a natural finish so that they are inviting to touch.
Presence of Water
Water has a high restorative response. Research says that a view of a natural
setting without water and the view of an urban setting with a water feature has
the same response. This pattern helps reduce stress, increases a feeling of
tranquility and lowers heart rate and blood pressure. It also evokes a positive
emotional response (Terrapin Bright Green , 2014).
41
As shown in Figures 23, 26 and 28 there is a strong presence of water
throughout the community. The water feature at the amphitheater shall bring the
neighborhood together, fostering social interaction. An example of this is the
water feature at the Millennium Park in Chicago.
Dynamic and Diffused Daylighting
The use of this pattern in design provides better sleep quality, reduces
depression and elevates the mood. It deals with variations in lighting patterns.
The main aim is to create a gradual change in the pattern of lighting so that there
is not a huge variation in lighting or monotonous lighting. This pattern also
impacts the circadian system and increases visual comfort (Terrapin Bright
Green , 2014). Seating areas and entrances, where people are likely to spend an
extended period of time, are provided with trellises to provide visual as well as
thermal comfort. Figures 31 and 32 represent some examples of diffused
daylighting used in the design.
42
Figure 31: Diffused Lighting in the Seating Area in the Garden at the Entrance
Figure 32: Diffused Lighting in the Seating Area on the Recreation Center
43
Connection with Natural Systems
This is perhaps of the most important pattern. It helps foster empathy leading to
a shift in perspective from “I” to “we”. It makes the residents feel like they are a
part of a bigger system. It enhances positive health responses and helps change
the people’s perception of the environment.
In this design, there are many connections to natural systems. The dry streams is
the connection to the natural storm water systems. Figure 33 shows the dry
streams flowing through the site. These are an integral part of the community and
can be seen everywhere while walking through the community.
Figure 33: Dry streams flowing through the community
44
The dry streams are used to manage the storm water on the site. All the storm
water is directed to flow, and to be reused, in the various water features on the
site. In case of overflow, it is directed to the wetland.
Another interesting natural system experienced on the site is the migration of
birds along the Delaware. This would make the residents more educated about
the birds and also help nurture a bond between the birds and the people.
The growth and decay of plants is another system that is a part of the
community. The vegetable garden would help the people bond with their own
food.
Prospect and Refuge
This pattern is a very important pattern with respect to the way a person feels
while he/she is in a space. Humans are predators and hence like to be in cave
like spaces that overlook some kind of activity. The cave-like space is called the
refuge and the overlook is called the prospect. The whole site is designed to be a
refuge with everything to the east being the prospect. As seen in Figure 34, the
taller buildings to the west provide shelter to the smaller buildings to the east.
45
Figure 34: Entire Site perceived as Prospect and Refuge
Figure 35 shows the design of the courtyard in the apartment blocks the taller
part is to the back with the open area overlooking the outdoor spaces in the front.
The tree in the center represents a sculpture that would depict nature or a natural
element.
Figure 35: View of Courtyard
46
Figure 36 shows the seating area that is sheltered by the taller apartments and
overlooking the croquet court. This feature repeats itself in different parts of the
design. Some seating area overlooks the bocce ball court, some faces the
croquet court and some faces water feature near the recreation center.
Figure 36: Seating Area as Prospect and Refuge
Figure 37 shows the space in front of the recreation center that is sheltered by
the recreation center, facing the river. This is the central area of activity with a
campfire in the center that could be used in the winters to attract people
outdoors. The space under the stairs also acts as a refuge area.
47
Figure 37: View of Central Area of Activity
Figure 38 shows a view of the river when a person is standing at the top of the
stairs.
Figure 38: View of the River from the Central Area
Figure 39 shows a view of site from the apartment. The stairs beside the
recreation center also acts as a refuge space where people can sit and watch
people playing bocce ball or croquet without being seen. This pattern helps
reduce stress, boredom, irritation and fatigue. It also improves comfort and
perceived safety (Terrapin Bright Green , 2014).
48
Figure 39: View from Apartment
Since the community is designed to help the residents maintain their individuality,
the individual units shall be designed as per the client’s requirements. However,
to maintain the whole experience of the site and to ensure that the design of the
individual units do not deviate from the principles of the community, a set of
guidelines has been developed.
Guidelines
Guidelines for the design of the individual units:
1. No individual unit shall be more than 12’ high.
2. All units shall be designed so they have at least one point indoors from where
they get a view of the river.
3. For houses that do not get a view of the river, views to desirable outdoor
spaces could be provided.
49
4. No windows should open to face another house.
5. All habitable rooms should have at least 2 windows that are on different
directions.
6. Windows shall be designed to bring in diffused light from the east and south
and direct dynamic light from the north.
7. All open spaces or courtyards shall be provided to the south of the parcel of
land.
8. All rooms should have at least 1 set of operable windows.
9. All materials used should have a natural textured finish or should be made of
natural material.
10. All flat roofs should be green roofs with plants that attract birds or butterflies
or should serve as a vegetable garden.
11. No garage or space for parking shall be provided in the individual units.
12. Every unit must have storm water infrastructure to collect the 1st inch of
rainwater that needs to be stored and reused.
50
CHAPTER 5
CONCLUSION
This design is an example of how biophilic principles can be used in the design of
a community to help the residents live a healthy life. It stands by the guiding
principles. Based on previous research it has many of the biophilic patterns
which would create a huge impact on the users.
It connects the people to nature at many different levels. The connections with
nature are meaningful, such as natural organic patterns, connections to the
natural systems and processes such as changes in seasons and growth and
decay. The environment will strive only when the residents are involved in its
growth. For example, the vegetable garden would need the residents to help and
maintain it while getting the benefit of being able to watch their food grow. It not
only helps the residents be a part of nature but also helps them learn about
nature and its processes. The bird sanctuary would play a major role in this
aspect. It could become a point of interest and bring people from different parts
of the world to watch birds. It also attempts at creating a healthy environment not
only by encouraging physical activity but also through fresh food, fresh air,
sounds of water, walking or cycling by the river.
It also promotes physiological health by providing social spaces that foster
interaction with nature at large, and with humans and other species. Most of the
spaces throughout the design are spaces where a person could either walk past
51
or stop and linger around for a while. Some spaces are designed so that people
to stay in the space for a longer period of time.
All the spaces are designed so that they are accessible to everyone. All the
slopes and grades are provided so that they are never steeper than 1:12 ratio of
slope i.e. for every 1” elevated the length of the slope is 12”. The variations in the
flow of water throughout the site will help the people who are visually impaired.
The use of natural materials would help in guiding people through touch. The
different smells from the healing garden to the smell of rainwater flowing through
the dry streams to the smell of the vegetable garden and finally the smell of the
river will help direct people through the site.
Care has been taken to provide privacy and safety throughout the site. The
individual units have been designed so that they have their own private
backyards. The use of prospect and refuge in the design leads to perceived
safety.
The design is extremely site sensitive. While some techniques could be
replicated and used in other designs, this design is not a prototype that can be
regenerated on a site other than the current location. The design attempts at
restoring a tiny part of the damage done to the environment through different
decisions made at different points in the design process. These decisions have
been enlisted at various points in the report.
This project could be taken further by using the biophilic design principles to
design the apartment buildings.
52
Humans are a part of nature’s system. Hence it is important for us to work within
that system for our survival.
53
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Appendix
Bird Preferred Habitat Food Picture Type
Brant Salt marshes and
estuaries , feed on
eelgrass or aquatic
invertebrates,
Migratory from costal
Alaska and Arctic Canada,
Migrate from Alaska to
California. How are they
found here?
Canada
Goose
Water, grassy fields,
and grain fields.
Particularly drawn to
lawns
In spring and
summer, geese
concentrate their
feeding on grasses
and sedges, including
skunk cabbage leaves
and eelgrass. During
fall and winter, they
rely more on berries
and seeds, including
agricultural grains,
and seem especially
fond of blueberries.
They’re very efficient
at removing kernels
from dry corn cobs.
Native
American
Black Duck
freshwater wetlands,
including beaver ponds,
brooks lined by
speckled alder, shallow
lakes with reeds and
sedges, bogs in boreal
forests, and wooded
swamps, salt marshes,
riverine habitats
Plant foods include
seeds, roots, tubers,
stems and leaves of
plants growing in
moist soil and
underwater,
Native
57
Mallard almost any wetland
habitats, including
permanent wetlands
such as marshes, bogs,
riverine floodplains,
beaver ponds, lakes,
reservoirs, ponds, city
parks, farms, and
estuaries.
Seeds and aquatic
vegetation, During the
breeding season, they
eat mainly animal
matter including
aquatic insect larvae,
earthworms, snails
and freshwater
shrimp. In city parks,
they readily accept
handouts from park
goers.
Native
Ring-necked
duck
During the winter, look
for them in swamps,
river floodplains,
brackish portions of
estuaries, shallow inland
lakes, sloughs,
marshes, reservoirs,
and other managed
freshwater
impoundments.
Feed on mollusks,
invertebrates, and
submerged aquatic
vegetation. The plants
they eat include
leaves, stems, seeds,
and tubers of
pondweed, water
lilies, wild celery, wild
rice, millet, sedges,
and arrowhead.
Winter (non- breeding)
Greater
Scaup
Found on lakes, ponds,
and bays. Mostly marine
in winter
Clams, snails,
crustaceans, aquatic
insects, seeds, and
aquatic plants
Migratory
Lesser Scaup Found on lakes and
ponds. Winters in fresh
or brackish water
Nesting - Bowl of
grasses or other
vegetation, lined with
down. Placed on ground
Clams, snails,
crustaceans, aquatic
insects, seeds, and
aquatic plants
Migratory
58
or in mound of
vegetation over water.
White winged
scoter
Breeds on large
freshwater or brackish
lakes and ponds.
Winters in coastal
estuaries, bays, and
open coastline with
shallow water over
shellfish beds
Nesting- Hollow in
ground in dense cover
away from water, lined
with down and twigs
Mollusks (especially
clams and mussels),
crustaceans, and
insects; occasionally
aquatic plants and
fish
Migratory
Long tailed
duck
Breeds in ponds,
streams, and other
arctic wetlands. Winters
on open ocean or on
large freshwater lakes
Nesting - Shallow
scrape in the ground,
lined with willow and
birch leaves and then
with down. Placed at the
water's edge, often on
islands or peninsulas,
close to other Long-
tailed Duck nests
Mostly aquatic
invertebrates,
including insects and
crustaceans. Also
some bivalves, fish,
fish eggs, and plant
matter
Migratory
Bufflehead Old flicker nests that
larger ducks such as
goldeneyes and
mergansers cannot fit
into. In winter they occur
mainly near the coast
(although they can be
Bufflehead forage in
open, shallow water
over sparse
submerged vegetation
or over mudflats that
would be exposed at
low tide. They eat
Migratory
59
found in smaller
numbers inland). They
use shallow, sheltered
coves, harbors,
estuaries, or beaches,
avoiding open
coastlines. Inland, they
use ponds, lakes,
impoundments, or bays
along slow-moving
rivers. During spring
migration they spend
time on major rivers or
valley lakes, often in the
first spots to become
free of ice
some plant matter in
fall and winter, mainly
seeds of pondweeds
and bulrushes. In
saltwater, Bufflehead
eat shrimp, crabs,
amphipods, isopods,
snails, mussels,
herring eggs,
sculpins, and
ratfishes. Downy
ducklings sometimes
dabble at the surface
rather than diving.
Common
Goldeneye
Winters primarily in
marine waters, bays and
harbors, as well as in
large inland lakes and
rivers
Aquatic invertebrates,
and occasionally
small fish and
vegetation
Winter(non-breeding)
Red-breasted
Merganser
Mostly fish; also
crustaceans, insects,
and tadpoles
Migratory
Red-throated
loon
Breeds in low tundra
wetlands, bogs, and
ponds in forests. In
migration, flocks stage
on large lakes. Winters
in relatively shallow,
sheltered marine
habitat.
Marine and
freshwater fish,
Migratory
60
Common
Loon
Require crystal-clear
lakes (which makes it
easier for them to see
prey underwater) with
abundant populations of
small fish. Lakes with
coves and islands are
preferred as they
provide cover from
predators while resting
and nesting. They also
require lakes with
enough surface area for
their flapping-and-
running takeoffs across
the water. In their winter
range along ocean
coasts, they occur fairly
close to shore and in
bays and estuaries.
They are only rarely
found more than several
miles offshore.
Mostly fish,
particularly perch and
sunfish on their
northern lakes. If fish
are scarce or water is
too murky for fishing,
they will catch
crustaceans, snails,
leeches and even
aquatic insect larvae
their fishing pursuits
underwater are
something to behold
Migratory
Double
crested
cormorant
Often stand in the sun
with their wings spread
out to dry. In addition to
fishing waters,
cormorants need
perching areas for the
considerable amount of
time they spend resting
each day. After fishing,
cormorants retire to
high, airy perches to dry
off and digest their
They eat a wide
variety of fish (more
than 250 species
have been reported)
Migratory
61
meals—rocks, wires,
tops of dead trees, ship
masts
When at rest, a
cormorant will choose
an exposed spot on a
bare branch or a
windblown rock, and
often spread its wings
out, which is thought to
be a means of drying
their feathers after
fishing.
Great Blue
Heron
Live in both freshwater
and saltwater habitats,
and also forage in
grasslands and
agricultural fields, where
they stalk frogs and
mammals. Most
breeding colonies are
located within 2 to 4
miles of feeding areas,
often in isolated
swamps or on islands,
and near lakes and
ponds bordered by
forests.
does not breed in
Philadelphia
Eat nearly anything
within striking
distance, including
fish, amphibians,
reptiles, small
mammals, insects,
and other birds.
Native
America
Kestrel
Favor open areas with
short ground vegetation
and sparse trees. You’ll
find them in meadows,
grasslands, deserts,
Eat mostly insects
and other
invertebrates, as well
as small rodents and
birds. Common foods
Native
62
parks, farm fields, cities,
and suburbs.
When breeding, kestrels
need access to at least
a few trees or structures
that provide appropriate
nesting cavities.
American Kestrels are
attracted to many
habitats modified by
humans, including
pastures and parkland,
and are often found
near areas of human
activity including towns
and cities.
include grasshoppers,
cicadas, beetles, and
dragonflies; scorpions
and spiders;
butterflies and moths;
voles, mice, shrews,
bats, and small
songbirds. American
Kestrels also
sometimes eat small
snakes, lizards, and
frogs. And some
people have reported
seeing American
Kestrels take larger
prey, including red
squirrels and Northern
Flickers.
Laughing
Gull
Rarely found far inland.
They nest in
saltmarshes, on islands
including artificial ones
created from dredge
spoils.
They eat many
invertebrates,
including earthworms,
insects (including
flying ones), snails,
crabs, and crab eggs,
as well as fish, squid,
berries, garbage,
offal, and handouts
from beachgoers.
They occasionally eat
eggs of other birds
(though not as
frequently as larger
gulls do)
Migratory
63
Bonaparte’s
Gull
Breeds around lakes
and marshes in boreal
forest.
Nesting - Open cup of
twigs, small branches,
and bark, lined with
mosses and lichens.
Placed in tree or bent-
over rushes.
Small fish and large
invertebrates,
including insects.
Does not eat garbage
or carrion.
Migratory
Great Black-
backed gull
They rest or “loaf” in
open areas such as
parking lots, fields,
runways, and piers.
During the winter Great
Black-backed Gulls
move more widely along
the Atlantic coast and
may travel inland along
major rivers.
Great Black-backed
Gulls hunt mussels,
crabs, sea urchins,
other marine
invertebrates, fish and
birds. They also
scavenge dead fish,
carrion, and trash,
and steal food from
other animals
(including diving
ducks, terns, puffins,
murres, shorebirds,
eagles, and sharks).
Along rocky shores,
Great Black-backed
Gulls forage for
invertebrates in
shallow water. On
mudflats they follow
the retreating tide to
capture worms and
small bivalves. They
also forage at
garbage dumps, more
so during the winter
Winter (non-breeding)
64
than during the
breeding season.
Great Black-backed
Gulls eat eggs,
chicks, and adults of
other birds, including
Atlantic Puffins,
Common Murres,
Herring Gulls,
Common Terns,
Roseate Terns, Manx
Shearwaters, Horned
Grebes, and migrant
songbirds.
Caspian Tern Breeds in wide variety of
habitats along water,
such as salt marshes,
barrier islands, dredge
spoil islands, freshwater
lake islands, and river
islands. Roosts on
islands and isolated
spits. Nesting - A scrape
in ground. Nesting
colonies occur on island
beaches, often near
colonies of other bird
species. using man-
made dredge spoil
islands and dikes for
breeding
Almost entirely fish;
occasionally crayfish
and insects.
Migratory
Fish Crow Fish Crows live along
beaches, marshes,
estuaries, lakes, and
rivers. In addition to
Eat almost anything,
including carrion,
trash, nestlings and
eggs of other birds,
Native
65
waterfront habitats, look
for them inland around
agricultural fields, urban
and suburban areas,
golf courses and
wooded neighborhoods.
Nesting - Fish Crows
put their nests near the
tops of evergreens,
deciduous trees, palms,
and mangroves
depending on what’s
available. Pairs may
nest within 100 yards of
each other, particularly
in marshes where nest
trees are scarce.
berries, fruit, and
grain, and any items
they can steal from
other birds. Their
association with water
leads them to eat
crabs, marine
invertebrates, and
turtle eggs more than
other crows. They are
well-known predators
of other birds’ nests
and may specialize on
raiding the nests of
colonial waterbirds,
including Double-
crested Cormorants,
ibis, herons, gulls,
and terns, as well as
solitary-nesting
species such as rails,
ducks, plovers, and
songbirds such as
Blue Jays, Northern
Mockingbirds, Brown
Thrashers, Common
Grackles, and Red-
winged Blackbirds.
Bank
Swallow
Low areas along rivers,
streams, ocean coasts,
or reservoirs. Their
territories usually
include vertical cliffs or
banks where they nest
in colonies of 10 to
Eat flying or jumping
insects, such as bees,
wasps, ants,
butterflies or moths.
Summer (breeding)
66
2,000 nests. these
swallows populate
human-made sites, such
as sand and gravel
quarries or road cuts.
Nesting - dig burrows
that will lead to a nest
chamber. The burrows
are perpendicular to the
ground level and, when
finished, are dug about
25 inches into the side
of the bank. Usually
made in fairly loose soils
that are easy for the
birds to burrow into, and
are located near large
bodies of water so that
there is ample room for
vertical flying.
American
Pipit
In migration and winter
uses coastal beaches
and marshes, stubble
fields, recently plowed
fields, mudflats, and
river courses.
Nesting - Placed on
ground, with
overhanging vegetation.
Insects and seeds.
Migratory
Source: (The Cornell Lab of Ornithology, 2007)