S.U.N.Y. Fashion Institute of Technology
Attaining an Integrative Design Team
A Master Thesis
Presented to the faculty of the Sustainable Interior Environments at the
School of Graduate Studies, Fashion Institute of Technology
Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the degree of Masters in Sustainable Interior Environments
By
Alina Ana Coca
May 2013
© 2013 by Alina Ana Coca
All rights reserved
This is to certify that the undersigned approve the thesis
submitted by
Alina Ana Coca
In partial fulfillment of the requirements
for the degree of Masters of Arts
in Sustainable Interior Environments
-----------------------------------------------------------------
Grazyna Pilatowicz, Chair Person
-----------------------------------------------------------------
Barbara A. Campagna, Mentor
------------------------------------------------------------------
Mary Davis, Dean, School of Graduate Studies
Dedicated to my husband,
Dragos Andrei Coca
For your kindness, generosity, encouragements, and all the fun you bestow upon me…
AKNOWLEDGEMENTS
The passion, and devotion, of many people are woven into this thesis, and have greatly enriched my
understanding and appreciation for team work. I wish to express my gratitude for the critical and clear thinking
of Professor Grazyna Pilatowicz, who greatly contributed to the organization and coherence of the writing. I was
privileged at the same time to be guided by an inspirational mentor, architect Barbara A. Campagna, whose
experience and advice has significantly enhanced my knowledge. Many thanks to Andrew Seifer, my Professor
from the Interior Design BFA Program, who has never hesitated to help and guide me, with the same honesty and
devotion. I would like to extend my sincere thanks and gratitude to Dr. Mary Kroul McAlpin, Janus Welton, Susan
Kaplan, and Ted Brown. I am also deeply grateful to all my family, friends, and colleagues, who have been so
gracious and supportive through moments of doubts.
Thank you all, for being in my life.
“There is nothing permanent except change.”- Heraclitus
TABLE OF CONTENTS
DEDICATION
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
TABLE OF CONTENTS
LIST OF FIGURES
ABSTRACT…………………………………………………………………………………………………
INTRODUCTION………………………………………………………………………………………….
1
3
INTEGRATIVE DESIGN PROCESS…………………………………………………………………….
HISTORY……………………………………………………………………………………………………
STRUCTURE……………………………………………………………………………………………….
ACHIEVEMENTS………………………………………………………………………………………….
4
4
6
7
PRECEDENTS……………………………………………………………………………………………..
LUNENBURG………………………………………………………………………………………………
HOLLOKO………………………………………………………………………………………………….
OURO PRETO………………………………………………………………………………………………
PREJMER……………………………………………………………………………………………………
ATKA………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
ORCA HOUSE………………………………………………………………………………………………
8
9
11
12
14
15
17
CASE STUDY: SINCA NOUA……………………………………………………………………………
GEOGRAPHY………………………………………………………………………………………………
FLORA AND FAUNA………………………………………………………………………………………
HISTORY……………………………………………………………………………………………………
ISSUES AND NEEDS OF THE COMMUNITY…………………………………………………………...
SPECIFIC TRAITS…………………………………………………………………………………………
CULTURE………………………………………………………………………………………………….
ARCHITECTURE………………………………………………………………………………………….
FUNCTION…………………………………………………………………………………………………
CONCEPT…………………………………………………………………………………………………...
20
20
21
22
23
24
24
24
24
24
DEFINING MAIN CONCEPTS…………………………………………………….................................
BIOPHILIA: VERNACULAR DIMENSION AND CONNECTION TO SPECIFIC PLACE…………….
ANTHROPOLOGY AND ECOLOGY CONNECTEDNESS………………………………………………
ECOTOURISM INTESIFIED KNOWLEDGE……………………………………………………………..
ECO-HOTELS………………………………………………………………………………………………
RANCHO LA PUERTA…………………………………………………………………………………….
ILCHESTER ARMS………………………………………………………………………………………..
25
26
27
30
31
32
33
PROPOSED PROJECT: VALRAS INN………………………………………………………………….
DESCRIPTION…………………………………………………………………………………………….
SUROUNDING AREA DESCRIPTION……………………………………………………………………
PURPOSE……………………………………………………………………………………………………
JUSTIFICATION……………………………………………………………………………………………
SCOPE……………………………………………………………………………………………………….
INITIAL CONCEPTS AND STRATEGIES………………………………………………………………..
USER GROUPS AND BEHAVIORAL ISSUES…………………………………………………………...
INITIAL DESIGN CONCERNS…………………………………………………………………………….
INITIAL DESIGN RECOMMENDATIONS………………………………………………………………
35
35
36
37
37
37
38
39
40
41
ATTAINING AN INTEGRATIVE DESIGN TEAM……………………………………………………
DEFINITION……………………………………………………………………………………………….
MISSION……………………………………………………………………………………………………
GOALS………………………………………………………………………………………………………
PROPOSAL OF STRUCTURE AND COLLABORATION OF AN INTEGRATIVE DESIGN TEAM…
DESIGN OF VALRAS INN - MAIN CONSIDERATIONS………………………………………………..
RELATIONSHIPS………………………………………………………………………………………….
COLLABORATION………………………………………………………………………………………..
LOCAL ENVIRONMENT CONNECTEDNESS………………………………………………………….
INTEGRATIVE CHARRETTE…………………………………………………………………………….
INTEGRATIVE DESIGN TEAM WITH CULTURAL ANTHROPOLOGIST: ROLE AND BENEFITS..
Definition……………………………………………………………………………………………….....
Research methods……………………………………………………………………………………….
42
42
43
43
43
45
46
46
48
49
52
52
53
Ethics……………………………………………………………………………………………................
Role and benefits of cultural anthropologist……………………………………………………………
INEGRATIVE DESGIN TEAM WITH ECOSYSTEM ECOLOGIST: ROLE AND BENEFITS…………
Definition………………………………………………………………………………………………….
Research Methods………………………………………………………………………………………
Ethics…………………………………………………………………………………………….. ……….
Role and benefits of an ecosystem ecologist……………………………………………………………
54
54
55
55
56
57
57
CONCLUSION……………………………………………………………………………………………..
59
BIBLIOGRAPHY………………………………………………………………………………………….
60
APPENDIX…………………………………………………………………………………………………
Ted Brown………………………………………………………………………………………………….
Flucus Dumitru………………………………………………………………………………………………
Mary Kroul McAlpin Ph.D.…………………………………………………………………………………
68
68
70
73
LIST OF FIGURES
Fig Cover: Dorr, C. (2011). Sinca Noua village, Brasov, Romania, Europe. Retrieved on 4/6/2013, from:
http://www.wild-wonders.com/blog/?p=2019
1 Sinca Noua village, Brasov, Romania, Europe. Retrieved on 12/12/12, from: http://www.equussilvania.com/en/facilities.php?lg=en
2 Overview of Sinca Noua, Brasov, Romania, Europe. Retrieved on 3/6/2013, from:
http://www.bing.com/images/search?q=sinca+noua+romania&qpvt=sinca+noua+romania&FORM=IGRE#view
=detail&id=9C5875DCE75A371F8AEBB0C33F89DBE575B92D35&selectedIndex=4
3 Forest in Brasov, Romania, Europe. Retrieved on 12/15/12, from: http://citydestinations.org/wpcontent/uploads/2012/10/Brasov-morning-sun-romania.jpg
4 Lunenburg. Retrieved on 4/6/2013, from: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Lunenburg_Aerial.jpg
5 Holloko. Retrieved on 12/2/12, from:
http://www.ourplaceworldheritage.com/custom.cfm?action=WHsite&whsiteid=78##_self
6 Ouro Preto. Retrieved on 12/2/12, from:
http://www.ourplaceworldheritage.com/custom.cfm?action=WHsite&whsiteid=78##_self
7 Prejmer. Retrieved on 12/15/12, from: http://media-cdn.tripadvisor.com/media/photo-s/02/4c/5a/da/vista-dajanela.jpg
8 Atka Village. Retrieved on 4/18/2013, from: http://www.panoramio.com/photo/2368882
9 Orca House. The Making of an Unangan Home. Retrieved on 4/18/2013, from:
http://www2.buildinggreen.com/blogs/anthropologist-design-team-making-unangan-home
10 Europe-Romania: http://www.google.com/search?tbm=isch&q=europe+maps
11 Romania:http://mapsof.net/uploads/static-maps/europe_nasa_satellite.jpg
12 Geography. Sinca Noua, Brasov, Romania, Europe. Retrieved on 3/6/2012, from Google Earth.
13 Flora and Fauna. Daffodils in Sinca Noua, Brasov, Romania, Europe. Retrieved on 12/15/12, from:
http://www.skytrip.ro/thumbs/a/big/2011/05/03/maiul-in-poienile-cu-narcise-178.jpg
14 Kingdom of Romania. Retrieved on 4/6/2013, from: http://www.nzhistory.net.nz/media/photo/map-kingdomromania-1916
15 Wooden Monastery. Sinca Noua, Brasov, Romania. Retrieved on 4/6/2013, from:
http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Biserica_de_lemn_din_Sinca_Noua01.jpg
16 Wheel of fire in Sinca Noua, Brasov, Romania, Europe. Retrieved on 12/14/12, from:
http://s2.ziareromania.ro/?mmid=50f27b5510f045b9d
17 Sinca Noua-Aerial view of houses’ layout. Retrieved on 3/6/2013, from: Google Earth.
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
32
Dorr, C. (2011). Sinca Noua village. Retrieved on 4/6/2013, from: http://www.wild-wonders.com/blog/?p=2019
Easter celebration, Sinca Noua. Retrieved on 4/6/2013, from:
http://www.bing.com/images/search?q=sinca+noua+romania
Bartocha, S. (2012). Sinca Noua forest. Retrieved on 4/6/2013, from: http://www.wild-wonders.com/blog/?p=6612
Rancho La Puerta. Retrieved on 12/9/2012, from: http://www.rancholapuerta.com/home/photo-tour.html
Ilchester Arms. Retrieved on 4/27/13, from: http://www.google.com/search?tbm=isch&q=Ilchester+Arms
Fagaras Mountain Meadow. Retrived on 12/14/12, from: http://arerromania.blogspot.com/2011/11/invitatie-laactivare-noi-yoff-din-zona.html
Coca, A. (2013). Block allocations.
Piatra Craiului. National Park. Retrieved on 4/27/2013, from:
http://www.bing.com/images/search?q=piatra+craiului+national+park+romania&FORM=HDRSC2#view=detail
&id=612F414AC520A8D23085498EA27191783AE0F2A7&selectedIndex=99
Bartocha, S. (2012). Sinca Noua. Retrieved on 4/6/2013, from: http://www.wild-wonders.com/blog/?p=6612
Bartocha, S. (2012). Sinca Noua. Retrieved on 4/6/2013, from: http://www.wild-wonders.com/blog/?p=6612
Bartocha, S. (2012). Sinca Noua. Retrieved on 4/6/2013, from: http://www.wild-wonders.com/blog/?p=6612
Coca, A. (2013). Charrettes diagram.
Sincans’ traditional folkloric dance. Retrieved on 12/14/12, from:
http://www.dansromanesc.ro/images/curs_international_2013/international_html_m76ac4ca7.jpg
Bartocha, S. (2012). Sinca Noua. Retrieved on 4/6/2013, from: http://www.wild-wonders.com/blog/?p=6612
Blana, M. (2011). Gheorghe Scurtu. Retrived on 4/27/2013, from:
http://jurnaldemandra.blogspot.com/2011/01/gheorghe-scurtu-virtuoz-popular.html
ABSTRACT
We live in an era of climate change, dramatic technological,
cultural, and social changes, new economical and political
realities and developments including creation of European Union
organization, and paradigm shifts in many areas of human
activities. Complexity of issues that we need to address in
specific fields call for updating methodologies, and require
Fig. 1 Sinca Noua Village
consolidated effort of various specialties. The design and
The change of the frame work in designing a building requires
development of the built environment is one of such fields that
not only resetting the thinking process, and accepting the
today necessitate a team of professionals to respond to the 21st
proficiency of experts, but also necessity to address the
century requirements of the building process.
interrelationships and interconnectedness of humans with
In building design and construction one of the major problems is
cultures’ preservation and ecosystems’ protection.
working with traditional teams which cannot respond to today’s
The development of a holistic working structure, which includes
complex design challenges. Therefore traditional design team,
a new process and a new team, would be a valuable proposition
with limited collaboration will result in projects that do not
for the building process. It would be not only an “Integrative
address contemporary needs.
Design Process” (7 Group, 2009, p.xiv), which has already been
1
developed by the 7 Group in 2009, but also an Integrative Design
multidisciplinary collaboration, which will allow conservation of
Team proposed in this study.
natural resources, and continuation of the cultural ideals.
A case study of Sinca Noua village was used to illustrate in this
thesis the necessity of creating and using an Integrative Design
Team in a design and building process. For this process Sinca
Noua community needs were revealed, including its economical
development, and preservation of its valued cultural heritage and
natural ecosystem. This information will be used in planning and
construction of a proposed eco-hotel. For this specific typology
of proposed inn, named Valras, two new key experts: a cultural
anthropologist and an ecosystem ecologist are being
recommended. The concepts of Biophilic design elements and
attributes, the principles of eco-tourism, and five inspirational
precedents were also used to develop appropriate initial approach
Key terms:
for this project.
Integrative Design Process; Integrative Charrette; Integrated
The potential result, attaining an Integrative Design Team model,
Design Process; Cultural anthropologist; Ecosystem;
could lead towards achieving a promising holistic project, on a
Ecosystem ecologist; Biophilic design; Eco-tourism; Ecological
platform that reaches a comprehensive approach, with a
architecture; Sustainability;
2
INTRODUCTION
How to attain an Integrative Design Team for building an ecohotel, with a holistic approach, a concept that would respond to
the requirements of the cultural and ecological legacy
preservation of Sinca Noua village?
The hypothesis is that in addition to a conventional Integrated
Design Team for the particular typology of the project,
introduction of a cultural anthropologist and an ecosystem
ecologist will represent the crucial solution for communication
Fig. 2 Sinca Noua Village
between a local culture, a local ecology and a new built
environment.
The purpose of the study is to illustrate the role of a cultural
This project needs to respond to the particular conditions of
anthropologist and ecosystem ecologist that will benefit the
Sinca Noua village, which has a hermetic culture, and pristine
holistic design process of the eco-tourism project-Valras Inn, to
ecosystems.
be developed for the Sinca Noua village, in the Carpathian
The construction and design of the inn will respond to the local
Mountains.
cultural traditions, sustainable way of life of the villagers,
3
existing vernacular architecture, and ecotourism development
INTEGRATIVE DESIGN PROCESS
requested by the community. The project’s design concepts and
HISTORY
frame work will include biophilic dimensions, and will be
Starting from the master builders, going through the Industrial
informed by the precedents’ structural matrixes, and inspirational
Revolution, and reaching the apparent need to shift to a new
“Integrative Design Process” (7 Group, 2009, p.xiv) as featured
frame of thinking, designers are on the way to finding out what
by 7 Group in their book “The Integrative Design Guide to
in the past did work or didn’t work, and why must we “stop and
Green Building”.
reflect” as 7 Group is asking and proposing throughout their
entire book “The integrative Design Guide to Green Building”.
The Integrative Design Process represents a next step in design
edification. This type of design process, that has a system of
thinking inspired by the distress that we as humans are causing
through acting without fully comprehending the future
implications of our actions.
Although there is no written history per se, like all
developments, Integrative Design Process started somewhere.
That somewhere, as Nadav Malin said in 2004, in one of his
Fig. 3 Brasov forest
articles from Environmental Building News, was located in the
time of 1950s: “Caudill, Rowlett, and Scott, CRS was a Texas
4
architecture firm that revolutionized the work of many architects
introduced an idea of preventive actions, which also had a great
in the 1950s and 1960s by promoting participatory design
impact in the world of design.
workshops with client groups.”(Malin, 2004, P.3). Nadav Malin
Vivian Manasc of Manasc Isaac Architects in Edmonton,
mentions that at Yale University professor Don Watson, FAIA,
Alberta, noted: “Our original approach was always workshop
“traces his first encounters with integrated design to the 1960s”.
based” and credited Nils Larsson and the C-2000 program from
(Malin, 2004, P.4).
Natural Resources Canada with “turning her firm onto integrated
Integrative Design Process took many shapes, went through
design as the way to create green buildings without adding cost.”
many transformations, and could have had very well its roots in
(Malin, 2004, P.3).
the response to the conflict between the emerging order,
Integrative Design Process will refine itself, in the future, and
promoting globalized economic growth, and the increasing of
will add new layers of approaching and understanding that we
ecological disaster on a global scale as reported by the
have at this moment a unique planet with finite resources, and
“Brundtland Report” in 1987. The history continues with the
we have the great responsibility to preserve it.
inspiration from the Green Movement that emerged in the 1980s,
from the “Green Paper on the Urban Environment” that marked
new beginnings of environmental policies in European Union in
the 1990s. The “Maastricht Treaty” developed during the Rio
Earth Summit in 1992 with its precautionary principles, which
5
wide range of issues –including those outside of your immediate
STRUCTURE
area of expertise or purview.” (7 Group, 2009, P. 17).
“Everyone is practicing Integrative Design…at least that’s what
they say”
Integrative Design Process incorporates the Integrated Design
Process with its commissioning, and goes, according to 7 Group,
Barbara Batshalom
Integrative Design Process was defined as a “discovery process”
to the next stage of achieving the “most environmentally
which will interconnect as a whole “human, biotic, and earth
effective and cost-effective green buildings”, by implementing
system with consciousness” that bonds them. (7 Group, 2009, P.
“an evolving process rather than a fixed process”. Integrative
xiii).
process implies that we’re never really done.” (7 Group, 2009,
Pp. xiii-xiv).
Barbara Batshalom is asking the design professionals a key
question: “how integrated is your process?”(7 Group & Bill
In the 7 Group recommendations for system thinking about the
Reed, 2009, P.16). Then she helps to answer this question by
structure of an Integrative Design Process, a discovery phase
presenting the reality of actual design process: blurred project
should start with the “Four Es: Everybody, Engaging,
goals and aspirations; poor communication, plentiful of
Everything, Early.” (7 Group, 2009, Pp. 62-63). 7 Group studies
assumptions; mystery among project participants; lack of value
here types of relationships, construction procedures, team
in charrettes; gaps between team members; decisions without
participants, natural inhabited systems, and advices for
collaboration; and lack of a defined action map. In the end she is
alignment and iterative processes.
saying that you “know you are participating in an Integrative
In addition to standard design process that integrates phases of
Design Process only when “…you are asked for your input on a
discovery, evaluation, conceptual design, development of design,
6
construction documents, bidding, construction, commissioning,
Instead of predictability we need to study new patterns. Instead
and post occupancy evaluation, there will be the Integrative
of control we need engagement. Instead of objective knowledge
Design Process specific feature, that envelops and opens this
we need contextual knowledge. We need to “Ask question before
linear thinking, into what 7 Group calls: “Implementation of
looking for solutions”. (Ashley Muse, 2013).
Process Outline”. That outline has “three part structure”: AA good example of the Integrative Design Process is a project,
discovery, B-design and construction, C-occupancy, operations,
done by 7 Group: the Board of East End Hospice, a New York
and performance feedback. All of these parts depicted through
State Certified Hospice that serves Eastern Suffolk County. The
“four key subsystems”: habitat (both biotic and a-biotic), water,
concept for this project was to create as a high performance
energy, and materials. The entire process will be layered with
building, which would become a “solution greater than the sum
charrettes, “Mental Model Shift”(7 Group,2009, P. 214), and
of its parts”(7 Group, 2006, P.4), and which would assure
significant “biodiversity considerations during land development
restoration of the vitality of the Aspatuck site.
activities” (7 Group, 2009, P. 355).
The example of this charrette performed by 7 Group represents
not only deep thoughtfulness, but also actual layering of thinking
ACHIEVEMENTS
process that can be unfolded, to address complex and refined
Ashley Muse in her lecture regarding the thinking method in
multiple approaches for every detail. The Integrative Design
Integrative Design Process, a transformational progression, is the
Process was employed, with multiple charrettes focused on
realization of critical need of implementing system thinking.
existing site conditions that analyzed: invasion of non-native
Instead of separate parts of a process divided into broken phases
plants; current mismanagement of water; abandoned estate with
we need the whole. Instead of obstacles we need relationships.
7
overgrown ornamental plantings and lawn; other general
PRECEDENTS
neglected structures in wooded area; and existing swamp land.
Five precedents were chosen to illustrate the importance of
Afterwards 7 Group presented possible restorative strategies
attaining an Integrative Design Team. These precedents are
which included: rain gardens, native landscape systems, design
suited because of their specific characters which include
for natural water filtration and aeration; construction of
particular topographical sites integrated within a certain
wastewater rehabilitation; woodland restoration; and integration
landscape, created through distinctive architecture, and
of people into restored native landscape and place. More details
emphasizing a deep sensitivity towards socio-economical and
can be found in
political context of each particular culture and environment. Also
High Performance green Building Design Charrette Report. (7
these precedents show preservation of natural ecosystems
Group, 2006, Pp. 11-16).
interacting with human built environment, illustrating the
The design process included system thinking for all existing
passage of time, as well as the undertaking the reestablishment
aspects, with their future implications and repercussions such as:
the reverence for nature.
solar and local resource, car and pedestrian traffic flow,
community connectivity, emerging finally with new ideas to
The quality of place can be made evident with the help of a
consider, things to avoid, and more next future steps.
template containing in its structure:
8

Description of site

Explanation of specific traits, which recognizes
the most important features, based on: culture,
architecture, functions and concepts.
The precedents chosen to illustrate an inspirational study
template for the case study-Sinca Noua village are: Lunenburgplanned settlement in Canada; Holloko- traditional settlement in
Hungary; Ouro Preto- divers community in Brazil; PrejmerFig. 4 Lunenburg-Canada
fortified church in Romania, and Orca House in Atka - Alaska
proposed project for a self sustained community.
LUNENBURG
Site description:
Lunenburg is located in Canada, Fairhaven Peninsula, on the
west side of Mahone Bay, with geographical coordinates of
latitude: 44° 22′ 37″ North and longitude: 64° 19′ 8″ West. It
covers 401 hectares, is situated at an altitude of 3 feet, and has a
humid continental climate.
Visitors can hike Morse Mountain Preserve, walk through
marshes, or stroll Seawall beach, which is a protected area
hosting more than 70 bird species. (Lunenburg, 2013).
9
It’s special plan has a rectangular grid pattern, inspired by urban
Explanation of specific traits:
planning in the home country, and consisting of six divisions of
Culturally:
eight blocks each, and each bloc being turned into other
Lunenburg’s history started with its foundation in 1753, as a
subdivided fourteen smaller lots, which has been maintained up
British colony. The British government settled here1453
to these days. Throughout centuries its identity with its
Protestants immigrants, who each were offered a town lot, and a
vernacular architecture, represented by wooden private houses
garden allocation outside the town boundaries.
and public buildings, has been preserved. The buildings coulisse
constructed of wooden frames were filled in with horizontal
A mix of Germans, Swiss and Montbeliardian French
planks, a traditional technique that has been maintained for
immigrants have established, relatively isolated, a community
contemporary restorations. (Lunenburg, 2013).
culture with German influences in its language and customs,
which has survived until today.
Functionally:
Lunenburg’s economy was based on fishing, shipbuilding, and
The space planning for the town was designed for smooth
agriculture. Today the town represents the largest fish-processing
working conditions, fortifications’ placements, and distinction
plant, deep-sea trawlers, and the only place where traditional
between urban and non-urban areas, which has been kept as a
shipbuilding skills can be found. In 1995 Lunenburg was
good example of maintaining the same construction pattern for
declared a World Heritage Site. (Lunenburg, 2013)
newer areas of the township. (Lunenburg, 2013)
Architecturally:
Conceptually:
The Lunenburg plan incorporated all the principles of a model
Illustration of an urban community and culture designed for and
town based on rigid gridiron plan with geometrically regular
based on the offshore Atlantic fishery, a type of sustainment
streets and blocks. There were assigned allocations for public
going on for centuries. (Lunenburg, 2013).
spaces, fortifications, and a distinction between urban and nonurban areas.
10
Explanation of specific traits:
Culturally:
Holloko, meaning raven stone, a rural community, started its
existence sometime in the 13th century, and consists of Palocs, a
subgroup of Maghiar population. It developed strongly during
17th and 18th centuries, and it represents another example of
preserved traditional settlement.
The settlement of Holloko has a long history of transformations.
It was invaded by Tartars in the 13th century, by Turks in the
Fig.5 Holloko-Hungary
1500s, and burned by strong fires in 1909. The houses were
rebuilt by 1911, and since then, nothing has changed. Still a
HOLLOKO
farming community is nonetheless a unique example of a
voluntary conservation of traditional village with its natural
Site description:
surroundings (Holloko,2013).
Holloko is a village located in Northern Hungary, Europe, only
Architecturally:
100 miles from the capital city of Budapest. Its geographical
Holloko’s rural architecture of 126 houses only, is based on half-
coordinates are latitude: 47° 59' 48.66" North, and longitude: 19°
timbered houses, on a stone support, with high wooden pillared
galleries, balconies on the street side protected by overhanging
34' 57.36" East. The village is situated on the Cserhat hills.
porch roofs, and roughcast white-washed walls.
(Holloko, 2013).
In 1782 Holloko’s plan was based on a typical one-street village.
In 1885 the topography of the place became what it looks like
11
today: a town with clearly defined grid for built environment and
agricultural lots. (Holloko,2013)
Functionally:
A profound respect for historical authenticity was exhibited as
plots were modified to their original strip shape, as well as
vineyards, orchards, vegetable gardens and forests have been
recreated and revived, restoring the ecological balance.
(Holloko,2013)
Fig. 6 Ouro Preto
Conceptually:
OURO PRETO
The vernacular architecture and space planning of the entire
village bears witness to traditional forms of rural life.
Site description:
Ouro Preto or Black Gold is located 318mi north of Rio de
Janeiro, in Brazil. Its geographical coordinates are latitude 20°
23′ 8″ South, and longitude: 43° 30′ 13″ West. With a population
of approximate 70,000 inhabitants, Ouro Preto occupies a
surface of 481 square feet, is situated at an altitude of 3,783 feet,
and has a humid subtropical climate. (Ouro Preto, 2013). Ouro
Preto, renamed in 1823, had its beginnings in 1698 as Capitania
de Sao Paulo e Minas do Ouro, a rich center for mineral
resources, and it developed as a mining town. In 1823 with the
declining of the natural resources the town changes its status into
12
a higher education establishment. In 1930s it became a tourist
Functionally:
center. (Ouro Preto, 2013)
The urban look is being shaped with a main point, a square, from
which all roads depart, layering further into circles, more or less,
Explanation of specific traits:
with private and secular public buildings, churches considered
Culturally:
Brazilian masterpieces, and noteworthy bridges and fountains.
(Ouro Preto, 2013)
Ouro Preto was borne as a focal point because of the arrival of
gold hunters, became a settlement for thousands of fortune
seekers, upcoming artists, and eventually was transformed in an
Conceptually:
attracting center for higher education establishments. In the 21st
century with all its drastically transformations, the community
In the 21st century Ouro Preto represents an outstanding proof of
continues to stand strongly by becoming a tourist center.
continuous process of transformation and adaptation, responding
to requirements of times, including a population with a wide
Ouro Preto represents an outstanding blend of cultural influences
range and divers occupational undertakings. (Ouro Preto, 2013).
continuing to exist in a perfect harmony. (Ouro Preto, 2013)
Architecturally:
From single or two-storied houses forming irregular urban layout
that followed the contours of the existing landscape, Ouro Preto
was transformed with the help of artists and architects into a
successful fusion between Brazilian influences and European
Baroque and Rococo. (Ouro Preto, 2013)
13
and merchants, mainly from the Rhineland, known as
Transylvanian Saxons.
Because of the geographical position, at the base of Carpathian
Mountains, Prejmer village was exposed to wars between two
great empires Ottoman and Austro-Hungarian, forcing the
community to create a living life based on threat and danger.
Explanation of specific traits:
Culturally:
Dating as far back as 1283, the German-Saxon settlement of the
Fig. 7 Prejmer-Brasov
Austro-Hungarian Empire, Prejmer represents one of the seven
PREJMER
villages founded and characterized by a specific land-use system,
colony pattern, organization of the family farmstead, and cultural
Site Description:
and historical preservation of fortified churches, which illustrate
building styles from the 13th to the 16th century.
Prejmer is a village located in an area of Romania called Brasov.
Its geographical location is latitude: 45° 43′ 31″ North, and
Prejmer holds a culture and civilization that was shaped through
longitude: 25° 46′ 36″ East. With a population of 8,323
different legal, political, religious and social conditions by and
inhabitants, has an area of 26.36 sq miles, set at an altitude of
for their creators, the very inhabitants of the settlement, resulting
1,683 feet, and has a humid continental climate. (Prejmer, 2013).
in a multiethnic imprint. (Prejmer, 2013)
Prejmer started its history in the 13th century when colonization
of the region of Transilvania was encouraged by the Hungarian
Kings with a German speaking population of artisans, farmers,
14
Architecturally:
The construction of Prejmer church has a strong defensive
construction with wide and thick walls that changed
organizational and structure of everyday life. The village is also
characterized by a network of streets with a vast median space,
but with a tightness of space that has been maintained until
current days. The houses’ facades are oriented towards the
streets, having walls bearing pinions.
Functionally:
Fig. 8 Atka Village.
Transylvanian Saxons created a fortress around their church,
enclosing storehouses within the walls, enabling them to
ATKA
withstand long sieges. The outside areas of the village were the
agricultural lots owned by the villagers designed as long pieces
Site description:
of lands. (Prejmer, 2013)
The Atka village is located on an island with the same name,
Conceptually:
which is one of the largest islands of Aleutian Islands of Alaska,
Transylvanian Saxons succeeded in preserving their language,
with geographical coordinates of: latitude 52012′ North, and
customs, and culture throughout the centuries, having their
longitude 174012′ West.
ethnic solidarity balancing between space structure, human
A volcanic island, Atka is a part of the Ring of Fire, which is
connection, surroundings, and historical uniqueness. (Prejmer,
stretching over a thousand miles into the Bering Sea and Pacific
2013)
Ocean. The beaches along the coastline are short and narrow
backed by cliffs rising to volcanic slopes.
15
The fish and marine mammals are abundant in the waters
who they are and let them communicate with one another”(Aleut
surrounding the island: sea lions, whales, salmon, halibut, cod,
culture, 2013)
crab, and shrimp. Among land found here are caribou, and
The Unangan people are not only good fishermen, but talented
mouse, as well as birds like ptarmigan, geese and ducks.
craft artists. Women used grass to create sleep mats, wall
(Aleut culture, 2013).
dividers, hand mitts, foot coverings, and baskets that were woven
so tightly that they were able to contain water. They were also
The Atka village located on the Atka island, has 9 square miles,
skilled in constructing sea vessels called baidarka, well known
and its climate is characterized by winds that can reach 130
for exceptional maneuverability over the ocean, in very hard
miles/hour, abundant rains, and constant fogs.(Atka village,
weather conditions. (Aleut culture, 2013).
2013).
The Unangan community is advised and cared for by the Atka
Explanation of specific traits:
Village Council.
Culturally:
Architecturally:
The Atka village has a Unangan community, with a population
A family, usually with numerous members, lived in one dwelling
of 95, as per 2000 census, and is part of the larger community
named ‘barabaras’, a semi-subterranean construction, covered by
called Aleut People. Because there were no Unangan written
earth and grass, with entries through the roof. Some of the
records, it is believed that the Unangan people migrated across
dwellings were large enough to house few families, and were
the Bering land bridge between 12,000 and 15,000 years ago,
divided by a large center room, as a main division, with other
from Asia. (Aleut culture, 2013)
surrounding smaller rooms. Today, Unangan people continue to
The particular Unangan cultural values are: “respect and
have close relationships with the immediate family members and
awareness of the Creator; knowing their family tree relations,
the community, but prefer constructing and living in single
and people’s history; live with and respect the land, sea, and all
family wood framed houses. (Aleut culture, 2013)
nature; always learn and maintain balance; the language defines
16
Functionally:
ORCA HOUSE
The spatial layout of the village was free of any type of grid,
Architecturally:
with dwellings laid out for easy access to the Bering Sea and
Pacific Ocean for fishing, and clustered for community’s
Orca House Project, proposed by Janus Welton, was one of the
closeness.
top finishing in the design competition compliant with Living
Building Challenge 2.0 compliant, which required entrants to
Conceptually:
design an inspiring, replicable, affordable house for residents of
Atka. (Unangan home, 2013)
The Unanagan community lives isolated, not with a definite
grid for the built human environment, but with close
Concepts such as: Respect for Place, Energy, and Natural
relationships within the community, and with the natural
Resources, Biomimicry, Zero-net-energy, and 100% site self-
ecosystem that they strongly depend upon.
sufficient for water, were proposed to be incorporated, as well as
the use of regionally available sand, peat and reused locally
available shipping pallets. The project had to reflect the
traditional Aleutian barábaras shelter, placed partially in the
earth; open-plan family spaces with more private spaces in the
back of the home; locally-valued covered “porch” for storage of
gear and processing of fish and game catches; separated halfbath and a shower/bath/sink area; lighting design to maximize
the use of daylight and provide a strong sense of connection with
the spectacular ocean and island views; a green roof; earth bag
foundation for seismically stability; proposed rat proof location
for agriculture; deckway for its function as a covered entry
location for people.
Fig 9. Orca House
17
Functionally:
improvement of the health and wellbeing of the Unangan
Orca House project proposal could have been a well suited house
community.
for the Unangan community, or any other Aleutian fishing
Orca House design responded to the needs and requirements of
communities, which required contemporary house with interiors
the Atka villagers, in their endeavor to continue to remain a
“like out of Shelter magazine” as Dr. Mary Kroul mentioned- the
predominantly fishermen community, living within the
cultural anthropologist expert included in the design team
ecosystems’ means, and preserving their Unangan culture.
(Unangan home, 2013). Through the cultural anthropologist’s
Orca House design responded at the same time to Living
researched recommendations, for maintaining the Unangan
Building Challenge requirements, and remain devoted to the
traditions, and vernacular construction patterns, the space
specifics of Unangan traditions and culture because of a
planning had to accommodate specifics to the culture: the
fortuitously added culture expert to the team.
dwelling had to be partially placed within the earth-for climate
considerations; layout of the interior had to be characterized by
Sustainability requires understanding not only the short-term
privacy and openness in the same time; specific spaceful
sacrifices, but also long-term projections and gains. Although
working porch had to be created; separated bathroom facilities
change brings improvements it can also bring confusion between
designed for the numerous family structure; and contemporary-
past and present, making visions and missions of the change
enough appliances and finishes, chosen per villagers’ requests,
disconnected from both place, and nation. Change makes the
had to be installed.
complex process of cultural transfer of rituals and habits, to the
next generation very difficult. These five precedents were chosen
because they represented powerful examples of stoicism over the
Conceptually:
centuries, and each of them exhibited, through their own specific
Orca House needed to be not only an illustration of a deep
creation and existence, endurance and ambition, connectedness
understanding of this specific community with fishery and
with natural ecosystems and stronger identity through tradition.
hunting based type of sustainment, that prevailed the life of the
Lunenburg demonstrated how a strong type of sustainment can
villagers for centuries, but as well an illustration of the
preserve the history and culture of a community for centuries;
18
Holloko proved that a vernacular architecture and space planning
can bear witness to traditional rural life; Ouro Preto can reinvent
itself keeping a powerful social diversification without losing
any of the past experiences; Prejmer has preserved, since the
Middle Ages, land use system and settlement pattern regardless
of all the wars, invaders, and political turmoil; Orca House,
proposed by Janus Welton, a design that responded to the
wellbeing of the villagers of Atka, demonstrates the importance
of understanding the traditions of the local community that
survived in remote area for centuries, and the importance of
respecting the existent specific local ecosystems. Here the
illustration of contemporary intervention, where communication
bridges between the reality of a community needs, and the will
of a designing team to respond with a project, that would
improve the villagers’ quality of life, showed that contemporary
intervention can be done successfully, if there is sensitive and
proper guidance of a cultural anthropologist.
19
CASE STUDY: SINCA NOUA VILLAGE
GEOGRAPHY
Sinca Noua is a small village with a population of 1800
inhabitants, situated in the Southern part of the Carpathian
Mountains of Romania, near the city of Brasov. As geographical
coordinates it has 25 0 14’ 0” longitude North and 450 42’ 0”
latitude East, situated at an altitude of 4593’ feet, and has a
temperate climate with temperatures ranging from 1040F during
summers to -140F in the winters.
Sinca Noua has a surface of 8500 hectares from which 5800
consists of forests, which also represents the water shed of two
Fig. 10 Europe-Romania
tributaries of the Sinca river: Strimba on the west side and
Gaunoasa on the east side. (Stroming Ltd., 2005, p. 13).
The grass lands, completely unfenced with its pastures and
meadows make up one quarter of the landscape surrounding the
village, and provide a rich hay production used for winter
feedings of the animal stock (Stroming Ltd., 2005, p. 20).
The soil of Sinca Noua, has twenty-three very particular habitats
(Danciu et. al., 2008, p. 38). The village is situated on a rich and
amalgamated layers of clay, deposits of stones and sands, topped
with shale and grit stone. At higher altitudes the Tagla mountains
Fig. 11 Romania-Aerial view
are formed of metamorphic rocks. (Danciu et. al., 2008, p. 5).
20
Sinca Noua has a strong fauna that include brown bears, wolves,
foxes, lynx, dears, rabbits, eagles, falcons and storks. The rich
variety of flora starts with deciduous forests populated by Fagus
silvatica, oaks, hazel nut trees, and it continues with a well
known botanical park called Daffodils’ Glade. In the spring in
this region the Siberian Iris can be identified as well. The nearby
national park Piatra Craiului with its rich biodiversity is also
known for including species such as the edelweiss and chamois.
(OEMN, 2004).
Fig. 12 Sinca Noua village-Aerial view
FLORA AND FAUNA
Sinca Noua is located in the ranges of Fagaras and Tagla, which
are smaller sections that belong to the Carpathian Mountains. Its
surroundings are picturesque and abundant with natural beauty.
Surrounded by meadows and forests, Sinca Noua is crossed by
the river with the same name Sinca, which reaches the fertile
agricultural lots. According to One Europe More Nature recent
studies, Sinca Noua has a total of 23 different habitat types, with
545 plant species, a high number of insects (for example 545
species of large butterflies), 99 breeding birds, as well as 10 bats
and 11 carnivore species (OEMN, 2004).
Fig. 13 Daffodils glade-Sinca Noua
21
Austrian Empire, with newly imposed political and religious
demands. They moved up the Sinca River, establishing
themselves around a small Orthodox monastery, and became
what is known today as Sinca Noua. The community and village
developed until the 1945, when the communist government
declared Sinca Noua “Rebel Village” (Flucus, 2012), for not
wanting to participate in the new project called Agricultural
Production Cooperation. Not willing to renounce their properties
the villagers went until 1990 through hard economic times. In
2002 Sinca Noua regained their much wanted independent
status, and started rebuilding itself with the reconstruction of the
elementary school funded by the government. In 2005 the status
of “European Village” brought a new way of understanding the
responsibility of being an independent village: maintaining a
Fig. 14 Kingdom of Romania,
sustainable life. (Flucus, 2012).
This type of sustainable life will be possible through creating its
HISTORY
own 20 year development program (Flucus, 2012), which will
Sinca Village was historically founded around 1200 A.D, and
include: agricultural terrains free of artificial fertilizers, clean fed
underwent various Empire sovereignties such as Austro-
animal stock; preservation of pristine forests, and river waters;
Hungarian, and Ottoman; political turmoil including
and last but not least pursuing: through Ecotourism, as a
communism, and religious unrest between Protestant, Catholic
development strategy, new economic goals.
and Greek-Catholic. Starting with the 18th century the
community reinvented itself, when approximately 90 Romanian
families decided not to respond to Empress Maria Teresa and her
22
The following specific traits’ description of Sinca Noua is based
on a personal visit, that took place during the summer of 2012,
an interview with Mayor Flucus, and was inspired by precedents’
templates as follows: culture, architecture, function, and
concept.
Fig. 15 Wooden monastery-Sinca Noua, cc 1700 AD
ISSUES AND NEEDS OF THE COMMUNITY
The needs of the community of Sinca Noua includes
rehabilitation programs for water distribution; construction and
maintenance of roads, electric distribution system, cultural,
healthcare, and sports centers; new installation of heating and
sanitation systems; renovation and furnishing of the local
kindergarten, and re-design of the actual village center. In the
community opinion all of these issues can be solved through the
development of Ecotourism. (Flucus, 2012).
Fig. 16 Wheel of Fire-Sinca Noua village
23
Culture:
the houses. This specific layout of village might be explained as
a result of religious unrests, gathering around an old religious
The Community of Sinca Noua has a predominantly Romanian
locale, and privately owned land lots. These lots were chosen
population, with a Christian religious orientation, with strong
freely and in this particular order: to serve dwelling
traditional family structure. Its villagers who are farmers,
constructions, to provide agricultural land for sustenance,
sheepherders, wood workers, and milk and meat processors, are
meadows for animals’ grazing, and section of forests for
practicing old religious traditions, which for the past 15- 20
construction materials.
years have been revived with passion. These are Christmas and
Easter celebrations, and more specifically the Wheel of Fire.
Architecture:
As spatial planning Sinca Noua has its houses placed on each
side of a main road, which is today the national road 73 A. The
vernacular architecture of the houses was based on a defensive
type of construction: square shaped, with interior courtyards, and
closed with a fortified wood and metal gate. Local timber, stone,
Fig. 17 Sinca Noua-Aerial view of houses layout
and slaked lime were main materials used for the buildings’
Concept:
construction.
With proving that it can prevail through the tests of time, Sinca
Function:
Noua has embarked on a new mission, which of becoming the
The entire community started its settlement around an existing
first ecological village in Romania, through attempting to create
monastery. The villagers’ houses follow a central road for easy
a different type of economy, based on safeguarding their
access, as well as the contours of the existing landscape. The
centuries old traditions, natural and local resources, and creating
agricultural lots have a long rectangular shape and are set behind
new bridges with the outside world (OEMN, 2004).
24
future and wellbeing of the local
DEFINING MAIN CONCEPTS
community through creating an ecoTo define the underlying set of ideas for the proposed
tourism project.
development of Valras Inn the following concepts are
introduced:

Biophilic design, especially design elements that pertain
to the specific existing conditions in Sinca Noua village,
described in previous chapters.

Cultural anthropology and ecosystem ecology, with
methodologies that will inform the design and
implementation process through analysis of relationships
and interdependencies.

Ecotourism as a path for promoting
stronger contacts between humans and
nature, respectful interactions with local
cultures, and sustainable economic
returns.

Sustainability, in this particular case
Fig. 18 Sinca Noua village, Photo by Cornelia Dorr.
study, can be defined as the process
of preservation for local culture, and
traditions, conserving the quality of
existing ecosystems’ carrying
capacity, and assuring financial
25
Although all of the dimensions, elements, and attributes are of
BIOPHILIA-VERNACULAR DIMENSION AND
the utmost importance, for the purpose of this exploration
CONNECTION TO THE SPECIFIC PLACE
(designing a project like Valras Inn) the focus will be kept only
on two of the biophilic design elements: “place-based” (Kellert,
2008, P.6), or vernacular dimension, and the “evolved human-
For the first time in the history of human kind more than half of
nature relationships”(Kellert, 2008, P.13), both with all their
the world population lives in urban areas. In cities we reside in a
attributes.
concrete and asphalt built environment, we are enveloped in a
The “place-based relationships” (Kellert, 2008, P.12) or the
technical world, and exist far from the connection with nature
vernacular dimension is a complex of interactions between local
that at one time empowered humanity with knowledge and skills.
natural and cultural environments, and humans that are
We don’t realize that we are missing what in biophilic design is
characterized by Dr. Kellert as spiritual belonging,
called “genetic heritage”(Kellert, 2008, P. vii). Therefore
comprehension of what it means to be a responsible guardian of
expressing our “affiliation with nature in the design of the built
the connections between natural ecosystems and built
environment” (Kellert, 2008, P. vii) will be one of the ways to
environment, and the dominating human need for defining home.
change our cultural and ecological connections with places.
Kellert defines further vernacular dimension of the “place-based
Biophilic Design is an “innovative approach that emphasizes the
relationships”(Kellert, 2008, P.12) through the relationships
necessity of maintaining, enhancing, and restoring the beneficial
intertwining human and nature needs and responses, considering
experience of nature in the built environment”(Kellert et. al.,
eleven attributes: “geographic, historic, ecological, cultural
2008, p.vii). Through its two basic dimensions, six design
connection to place”(…) “indigenous materials”(…) “landscape
elements, and numerous design attributes biophilic design can
orientation, features , and ecology”(…) “integration of culture
provide a methodical support for the design based on an “ancient
and ecology” (…) “spirit of place” (…) and “avoiding
assumptions”(Kellert, 2008, P.4) that connection with nature is
placelessness” (Kellert, 2008, P.12).
critical for human physical and psychological wellbeing, and for
The “evolved human-nature relationships”, with its twelve
human capabilities of functioning.
attributes reflects human kinship for nature, and completes what
26
we humans actually consider that gives us our awareness,
ANTHROPOLOGY AND ECOLOGY
worthiness, and confidence:“prospect and refuge; order and
CONNECTEDNESS
complexity; curiosity and enticement; change and
metamorphosis; security and protection; mastery and control;
This chapter will provide a short introduction of Anthropology
affection and attachment; attraction and beauty; exploration and
and Ecology as sciences that represent a powerful connection
discovery; information and cognition; fear and awe; reverence
between traditions, cultures, and natural ecosystems, and human
and spirituality;.” (Kellert, 2008, Pp. 13-14).
built environments. In depth analysis of a cultural anthropologist
and ecosystem ecologist roles and benefits as experts in an
Integrative Design Team is being provided in the subchapters of
“Attaining an Integrative Design Team”.
Anthropology is a science that studies the origins, culture,
physical individuality, biological uniqueness, social customs and
beliefs of humans within different societies (Anthropology,
2012); analyzes and classifies the data from local communities,
and archeological exploration (Anthropology, 2012). This
science has two branches: physical anthropology and cultural
anthropology.
Cultural anthropology is the branch that includes traveling to
remote areas, immersing in, and examining a specific culture in
Fig. 19 Easter celebration, Sinca Noua.
depth through gathering, evaluating, and interpreting data about
development of art, music, dance, religion, beliefs, customs,
values, medicine, and lately media and technology. Its focus is
on human behavior and reasoning within the community.
27

Cultural anthropology provides the ability to discover
Identifying culturally-specific beliefs and customs
relationships among apparently unrelated events, apply general
affecting health status in collaboration with medical and
rules to specific issues, comprehend and communicate
public health officials. (Anthropology, 2012)
information with clarity and sensitivity, discovering knowledge
Cultural anthropology human studies orientation changed in the
of group behavior, dynamics, societal trends and influences,
period of the 1930s through 1950s, from small scale food
human migrations, ethnicity, cultures, history and origins.
producers, to increasing interest in urban oriented societies.
(Anthropology, 2012).
Progressing in time, in the 1960s and 1970s the efforts of
Furthermore, for deeper analysis cultural anthropology employs
studying and understanding human behavior focused more on
knowledge of psychology, philosophy, theology, mathematics,
ethnicity, continuing in the 1980s with even more individual life
law and government, administration and management.
stories, and connections of places and populations. (Kemper &
Rollwagen, 2000, P.6)
In cultural anthropology the focus is on:

Choosing a cultural anthropologist, who has the skills to examine
Collecting information through observation, interviews,
in detail the cultural environment conditions, and “regard culture
and the review of documents, of specific cultural groups,
as encompassing context within which local problems are
communities, and organizations.

framed” (S.A.A., 2001, P. 6) will address the communication
Researching the economic, demographic, health care,
between the community, of the specific village-Sinca Noua, and
social, political, linguistic, and religious institutions of
design of the Valras Inn.
specific cultural groups, communities, and organizations.


Organizing data to support the analysis of detailed
Ecology is the science that studies the interaction of living
personal observational notes
things, among themselves, and with their natural environment,
Advising government agencies, private organizations,
structure and functions of ecosystems. Ecology provides
and communities regarding proposed programs, plans,
information about the processes between the natural world and
and policies and their potential impacts on cultural
humans. There are six types of ecology: organisms, population,
institutions, organizations, and communities.
community, ecosystem, landscape, and global. (Ecologist, 2012)
28
The branch that will be approached for the purpose of this paper
provide food or other materials, and urban ecosystems
will be the ecology of the ecosystems, where species and their
dominated by human-built structures” (Marten, 2008, p.217).
behavioral information can be investigated, studied, analyzed,
and categorized corresponding to the data collected from the
specific site, in this case Sinca Noua village.
The ecosystem can be defined as a complex community with
animals, plants, microbes, and abiotic components of the
environments such as water, air, and mineral soil, characterized
by “hierarchy of organizational levels” (…) “emergent properties
that reflect distinct behaviors” (…), “biological production” (…),
and “food web” (Marten, 2008, p.43).
The examination of an ecosystem includes investigating
Fig. 20 Sinca Noua forest, Photo by Sandra Bartocha
processes of communication among the members of the
community, links between biotic-living, and abiotic-non-living
In ecosystem ecology research is based on values such as
components, researching the cohesiveness of the energy flow,
diversity, inclusiveness, and justice. The processes for
and nutrient sequences, connectedness with other ecosystems,
conservation planning, restoration, and regenerative design
capacity of its services (Marten, 2008, p.115), as well as
represent for ecosystem ecologists the processes which have
interactions with humans.
place-based approach, ethical obligations for their evolution,
consideration for symbiotic relationships, and respectful
There are different ways to categorize the ecosystems, but the
engaging in matters as evolution, resiliency, precautionary
one recommended by Marten in his book “Human Ecology:
principles and tragedy of the commons.
basic concepts for sustainable development” is simple and
comprising: “Natural ecosystems, formed entirely by natural
The ecosystem ecology field surveys can be conducted for the
processes; agricultural ecosystems that are created by people to
purpose of classifying organisms, interpreting data, writing
29
reports, and issuing recommendations, based on findings, that
Ecotourism represents a connectedness between “conservation,
can influence and change the design and building considerations
communities and sustainable travel” (TIES), and is characterized
of human built structures, as well as policies, and legislation.
by the following principles:
(Ecologist, 2012)

Interacting but minimizing the impact.

Developing understanding and esteem for both natural
and built environmental and local culture.
ECOTOURISM-INTESIFIED KNOWLEDGE

Creating financial benefits and empowerment for local
community, and further conservation.

Ecotourism represents a healthy means of empowering a local
Elevating understanding of the host countries' political,
environmental, and social climate.
community to achieve a sustainable development, and to

promote a responsible travel to a well preserved blend of healthy
Generating new and intensified knowledge for both
visitors and hosts.(TIES, 2012)
ecosystems and human built environment. (TIES, 2012)
To bring real benefits ecotourism must be done for the
Ecotourism started in 1990 when Megan Epler Wood, founder
communities and by the communities. It must take into account
and CEO of The International Ecotourism Society (TIES),
“the full business planning cycle for any business venture
launched the world’s first international ecotourism as a tool for
including an analysis of the investment needs of the venture,
conservation and sustainable development (TIES, 2012). With its
market potential, competition, transportation time, food and
great mission of “Engage, Empower, and Inspire” TIES
beverage availability, logistical concerns for making the venture
succeeded for twenty-three years to promote and practice
viable, potential for partnerships, joint promotions, joint
protection, create a “vehicle for empowering local
ventures, and other vital links to the commercial sector of the
communities”, and also provide an understanding of nature, local
tourism industry.”(Wood, 1998).
society and culture. In short, practice Ecotourism.
Along with conventional side of the business, ecotourism could
also be approached through:
30

Accommodating the community gradually

Developing tourism products

Balancing environmental impacts with the benefits of
Based on Ecotourism recommendations and goals, Eco-hotels
the community
can be defined as tourists’ accommodation facilities designed to
Testing strategies for applying ecotourism through
respect principles of ecotourism, to have minimal impact on the
interactions
environment, to respond to economical needs of a community,

Cultivating the feedback
and to offer an educational and participatory experience.

Expanding connections for learning experiences”
Considering sustainability ideals, and Biophilic design elements,
(Wood, 1998)
Eco-hotels might be recommended to use local materials for

ECO-HOTELS
new constructions, or reuse existing buildings; use clean energy
sources, and water and waste systems; offer bedrooms and
common areas that reflect in their design the heritage of the local
culture; provide food from local farmers; offer access to
preserved natural ecosystems containing indigenous flora and
fauna; offer accommodations for outdoor tents; create
opportunities for interaction with local owners, managers, staff,
and other local members; inspire tourists to become responsible
travelers.
The next two establishments described below are examples of
eco-lodges that embody the eco-tourism principles.
31
RANCHO LA PUERTA
Located in a small village, Tecate in California, the Rancho La
Puerta, started sometime in the 1940s, as a retreat for people
running away from the rigors of modern life. It has a small
vineyard and an organic vegetable garden.
In the beginning the guests had to bring their own tent, there was
no running water, only the close-by river, and no electricity. The
guests had access to acres of land, and could hike the
neighboring Mount Kuchumaa, and were offered fresh goat
cheese, from the acquired goat.
Today Rancho La Puerta is offering eighty small houses,
designed with Mexican rustic influences, created for comfort,
and relaxation. It has a spa treatments centers, salons, and quiet
Fig. 21 Rancho la Puerta.
spaces, and offers activities as: yoga, pilates, hiking, hammocks
for resting, evening cooking classes, and vegetarian organic food
prepared from their own resources of six acre organic vegetables
farm. It does not have televisions and phones in every room.
(Ecotourism, 2012) The center promotes relaxation through
natural energy revitalization, and teaches restorative habits as
healthy vegetarian eating.
32
ILCHESTER ARMS
Ilchester Arms Inn is located in Abbotsbury Village, UK, and
has a history that started sometime in 1024. The Ship Inn is
listed under that name in the 1871 and 1875 directories, but the
Ilchester Arms first appears in the 1889 edition (History, 2012).
The interiors of the pub are decorated with quarry tiled and bare
boarded floors, heavy oak beamed ceilings and interconnecting
rooms. The furniture and open log fires in the winter months
completes the rustic character of a traditional pub.
The inn offers the possibility to visit the Swannery, Sub Tropical
Gardens, and the Tithe Barn; to access the Benedictine Abbey,
Fig. 22 Ilchester Arms.
and English Channel; enjoy local arts, crafts shops, and tea
vertical boarded doors, two stories high with reed thatched roofs,
rooms; (History, 2012).
and red-brick chimney stacks. Any improvements or conversion
Abbotsbury is a rural village, with Celtic Fortifications, and a
to existing buildings or any new building must respect and blend
Castle with a triangular shape on a site that extends to some 10
with the vernacular architecture of the village. The width of the
acres. Inside are the outlines of a group of circular huts and two
street varies as the village was not built for motor traffic.
mounds that were probably look-out points.
Tourists can visit galleries, tearooms, and workshops, and buy
seasonal fresh home-grown fruit, vegetables and flowers. The
Some of the cottages in Abbotsbury date back to the 16thC or
tourists can buy anything, and leave the money in a dish
earlier and were built of rubble ironstone with wood or stone
provided. (Abbotsbury, 2012).
lintels over openings, and wooden casement windows with
33
Rancho La Puerta and Ilchester Arms represent two inspirational
examples to be considered in the eco-tourism needs for the
community of Sinca Noua village, which can be embodied in
Valras Inn:
Both eco-hotels are small, located in old villages; create an
interaction between community and tourists; represent a way to
increase communication with local culture, and they both
encourage tourists to develop respect for natural environment.
Through their existence in remote locations, similar to Sinca
Noua village, the eco-hotels continue further conservation and
create financial returns and.
The establishments represent a path for understanding the
particular area’s political, environmental, and social climate,
offering the visitors natural recreational sites, and existent
historical edifices. There is not only the possibility of visitors
and tourists to relax, but also an opportunity to interact with the
community and natural environment with a minimal impact.
Fig. 23 Fagaras Mountain Meadow.
34
PROPOSED PROJECT: VALRAS INN
DESCRIPTION
Valras Inn will become an eco-tourism destination creating an
environment that acknowledges the Sincans history of survival,
vernacular architecture, and local folklore. The project strives to
meet the new One Europe More Nature (OEMN) designation
through maintaining the natural pristine environment, preserving
its traditions, and building bridges with larger European
community. It will be only one floor high for security reasons,
since the area is prone to earthquakes. Based on personal
interviews and observations from the visit to Sinca Noua village,
Fig. 24 Block allocations
during the summer of 2012, the inn will host eco-tourism,
meetings, exhibitions, folkloric profile performances, and will
provide guests’ bedrooms, each with private porches, a large
entertainment hall-sala de mese-with a kitchen, boutique with
Romanian art, small office and reception with sitting area, and a
café that during the warm seasons can be opened entirely to the
outdoors.
35
SUROUNDING AREA DESCRIPTION
Valras Inn will be located in Sinca Noua, on the north side of the
village, with easy access to the main road. It will be constructed
on a higher elevation, with the exact position that will be
determined by a surveyor, and will offer panoramic views of the
entire valley, its magnificent forests, river and village. The
facility’s orientation will be researched to have advantageous sun
exposure, provide much needed natural light, be defended from
strong winter winds, and benefit from cool summer breezes.
Valras Inn will have easy access to buses for convenient
Fig. 25 Piatra Craiului, National Park.
transportation of visitors to the touristic city of Brasov, Bran
Castel, and with the capital of the country- Bucuresti. The access
At a distance of approximately 50 miles, Piatra Craiului has a
to the other closer tourist attractions including the equestrian
height of 6560 ft., and its mountainous ridge is over 15 miles
center, national parks, and hiking trails will be facilitated by the
long. The area has a large biodiversity of wildlife: “about 300
inn through even more environmentally sensitive means of
fungi species, 220 lichen species, 100 different mosses, and 1100
transportation-horse carriages, and bicycles.
species of superior plants, which represents a third of the number
The most enticing site for exploration, besides the village and its
of all plant species found in Romania.” Examples of local fauna
rich flora and fauna in surrounding hills, meadows, and forests,
and flora include “chamois, wild boar, red and roe deer, pine
will be the national parks of Piatra Craiului (The Prince’s
martens and red squirrels (...), some 270 butterflies species, 110
Mountain).
birds species, 17 bats species, and many large carnivores as
wolfs, brown bears, and lynx. (Romsilva, 2013).
36
practical field actions and communication (…) integrating and
PURPOSE
balancing desires of local people with business, consumers and
nature.” (Sylven, M., 2005), (Avis & Brett, 2005).
Valras Inn will offer a place where Sincans and guests can gather
to open new paths for education and inter-cultural dialogues.
Guests will be able to experience specific local wild life and
folklore, eat particular local foods with ingredients locally grown
without artificial pesticides, herbicides, and fertilizers, and learn
about sustainability concepts. Valras Inn will represent the
opportunity to provide economic incentives for the community
of Sinca Noua for further preservation of their culture and
traditions and conservation of local environment.
Fig. 26 Sinca Noua Photo by Sandra Bartocha.
JUSTIFICATION
SCOPE
Valras Inn is a project dedicated not only to consider and value
It is in the intention of all the parties involved that the Valras Inn
the cultural treasures of local people, but also to respond to
will become an ambassador of a sustainable way of life, and a
economic and social needs, and to provide a pragmatic approach
tool for economic growth of the community. Based on the needs
for saving the natural resources of the community of Sinca Noua,
and requests of the community for eco-tourism, and most
through eco-tourism. As part of the One Europe More Nature
importantly on cultural anthropologist studies, the design of the
(OEMN) project, Valras Inn will seek out and “foster and
Valras Inn will respond to the vernacular architecture inspiration.
demonstrate innovative partnerships (…) finding common
It will include guests’ bedrooms with their own individual
ground as the European Union expands (…) looking for
porches destined to foster the bond with the outdoors. ‘Sala de
integrating forest management, with grass land management,
mese’ a large room which will provide space for eating and
agriculture, fresh water (…) integrating policy work with
various community activities, such as performing traditional
37
dances, songs, cultural customs, and other forms of social
healthy design and building: “four key subsystems: habitat (both
gatherings. Additional spaces will include: a café open for all
human, and biotic systems), water, energy, materials” (7 Group,
locals, and visitors; a reception and administration office; as well
2009, Pp. 72-80).
as a gift shop that will offer not only souvenirs, but will also
In its Integrative Design Process, 7 Group proposes designing
provide a great opportunity for local artists to display
within “one subsystem” (7 Group, 2009, Pp. 79-80),
generational crafts and talent, and to generate income. The
recommending all natural resources be budgeted, managed,
surrounding land will be accessible to the visitors, within the
minimized in carbon foot-printing; locally sourced; and
parameters recommended by an ecosystem ecologist.
thoroughly evaluated in all possible “comprehensive
environmental impacts” (7 Group, 2009, Pp. 80).
Valras Inn will respond to the tradition of the community with its
INITIAL CONCEPTS AND STRATEGIES
design, based on a vernacular architecture, with a floor plan
based on a “U” shaped layout, closed in by a fourth wall, that
As interior designers our mission is to create environments that
forms an interior court yard. The enclosing wall will have a
are healthy for both humans and nature. By working to bring
built-in double-door gate, used as an entrance to the entire
balance between the human built environment and biological
complex.
systems we create a project that not only thrives, but also
supports life, as well as cherishes and nourishes the newly
As environmentally responsible design strategies, Valras Inn will
shaped connectedness.
consider maximum use of controlled day-light, indoor air quality
facilitated through the use of natural ventilation, waste water
Considering that the goal of the construction of Valras Inn is to
management, and solar heating systems that respond to a
preserve local culture and existing ecosystems, through a
comprehensive understanding of finite natural resources, need
sensitive approach to the local environment, that will attract eco-
for pollution prevention, and local climate.
tourism, and bring financial satisfaction, the site evaluation will
be approached through the process that 7 Group proposes for a
38
The construction will use local materials, for example: wood,
Listed below is a preliminary overview of user groups and their
harvested by a monitored local program that limits cutting of the
behavioral issues, that will be further developed by the research
trees per person/per year), local river stones, and local slaked-
of the cultural anthropologist.
lime for paint.
User groups:
The furniture will be also sourced locally with vernacular design
constructed by local woodworkers. Other interior accessories
will be acquired from local artists with specific folkloric imprint,

Primary user groups: eco-tourists, and villagers;

Secondary user groups: administration, and employees
of the Inn;
including textiles as bed sets, spreads, covers, and other wall

embellishments that will be created by hand by the local women,
Tertiary users groups: guests, visitors, services
providers.
all being generational versed in weaving, knitting and textile
design.
Behavioral issues will be studied based on proposed relevant
categories:
Historical factors:
USER GROUPS AND BEHAVIORAL ISSUES

Settlement that started around a Christian monastery,
and had a religious character.
User groups and their behavioral issues must be carefully

analyzed, while planning and designing Valras Inn. The research
Dwellings located higher up in the mountains to escape
religious and politic oppressions.
based on a complex process of data gathering, will be performed

by an expert that has been proposed for this specific project- a
House built with enclosed court yards, and strong gates,
for defense against invaders
cultural anthropologist.
Such a professional will be able to provide comprehensive
recommendations based on understanding of the traditional
community organization, cultural traditions, and celebration.
39

Life approach:
Communication and interaction among locals and newly
arriving visitors.

Self-sufficient community with lives based on their own
local agriculture, husbandry, and crafts.
Village organization:
INITIAL DESIGN CONCERNS

Mayor elected from within the village
Ethnicity backgrounds:

Valras Inn construction proposes to embody the essence of a
Traditions and customs celebrated quietly within each
strongly united community, who travelled through history
family today are enjoyed in the open and publicized.
enduring hard challenges, and rejected intrusion of any outside
authority. It will be an example, as described in previous
Current social conditions:
chapters, of efforts to preserve nature in pristine conditions, to


Majority of villagers have no formal education beyond
continue to cherish generational customs, and to respond to a
high school.
strong will to connect with other communities on a grand scale,
Earnings are relatively low
but on its own terms, through eco-tourism.
Expectations for future opportunities through Eco-tourism:

Growth of employment and revenues.

Preservation of local way of life.

Opening new opportunities for artists and performers.

Exchanging educational experiences, and local arts.

Promoting folkloric music, dances, and national
Valras Inn will be designed based on an integrative design
process, with an Integrative Design Team created specifically to
research and preserve culture of the local community, and local
ecosystems of Sinca Noua Village. For this purpose, specific
experts will be suggested in the recommendation of attaining an
Integrative Design Team, and their role and benefits will be
analyzed in the chapters to come.
costumes
40
Development of Valras Inn will promote integrative design
process that impacts all elements: site parameters, solar
orientation, water systems, harvesting natural lighting, heating
supply systems, natural ventilation, and not only their
relationships with each other, but also with the natural
environment. This integrative design process will examine and
mitigate the project’s budget and goals, as well as the
community and its economy.
Although it cannot be assured, following biophilic design
Fig. 27 Sinca Noua. Photo by Sandra Bartocha.
recommendations, Valras Inn will attempt to represent the
Sincans’ resilient character with the “sense of freeness” (Kellert,
2008, P.234), encase the “sensory richness” (Kellert 2008,
INITIAL DESIGN RECOMMENDATIONS
P.229) of surrounding fragrances of wild flowers, and short
summer rains, offer visual vistas that will change every moment
of the day, and “serendipities” (Kellert, 2008, P.231) as sudden
Inspiration, Vernacular Architecture, Design Concept
appearances of creatures that make the encounter truly epic.
Inspiration for designing the Valras Inn as an eco-inn came from
the life that the villagers of Sinca Noua have been abiding by for
centuries. Their love for the land, religious freedom, and respect
for all the gifts of nature surrounding them, provides base for
encouraging the community to continue on the same path, with
an economic support of eco-tourism.
The vernacular architecture and local natural resources of wood,
stone, and slaked-lime, local crafts that express folkloric themes
41
will have a deciding impact on design decisions. Inspiration
taken from local culture will be a driving force that will assure
cultural preservation, and will also provide employment.
The design of Valras Inn as an eco-tourism facility should
envelope the response to cultural and ecological connectedness,
and could have some incipient phase recommendations for its
community:

Historical and spiritual awareness

Natural reverence for nature’s power and gifts

Economical development

Educational potential of sustainability

Renewable solar and air resources’ use

Donations of work and resources

Enhancement of communication, and exchange of
Fig. 28 Sinca Noua Photo by Sandra Bartocha.
ATTAINING AN INTEGRATIVE DESIGN TEAM
DEFINITION
experience

Exchangeable cultural values with European community

Maintaining safety and security of the community

Locally produced food

Preservation of human and ecosystems health

Nourished self respect
An Integrative Design Team could be defined as a group of
experts with different sets of complementary skills, working in
Integrative Design Process, with a dynamic collaboration that
requires commanding energy, and a will to invest full intellectual
capacities, paradigm shift thinking, and share responsibilities
(Boecker & et.al., 2009).
42
An Integrative Design Team has to work together to achieve the
work collaboratively in Integrative Charrettes, with all specific
fruition of a project, through a continuous adaptation to arising
required experts, and through multiple approaches.
circumstances, during Integrative Charrettes, along the entire
The Integrative Design Team will evaluate results periodically
Integrative Design Process. An Integrative Design Team will be
on just finished project, as well as older projects for new lessons.
present through the pre-construction, during construction, and at
the site of the finished project, at different intervals, to assess the
performance of the recommended strategies.
PROPOSAL OF STRUCTURE AND COLLABORATION
MISSION
OF AN
The mission of an Integrative Design Team is to take the
INTEGRATIVE DESIGN TEAM
responsibility for functioning as a promoter of intelligent and
An Integrative Design Team will be defined by new structure,
effective collaboration, and constantly adopt new ways of
and will have to explore, and examine the specifics of the
thinking through acquiring specific experts addressing specific
environmental, social, and economic conditions, of the particular
needs of a project.
project, during Integrative Charrettes, within a cyclic
progression, for the duration of the design evolution, as well as
GOALS
after the client has settled in the completed facility.
Integrative Design Team has the constant ability to change and
To create an Integrative Design Team for the particular project
adapt to specific requirements to which a project development
of Valras Inn a few more considerations were taken into account:
must respond.

Integrative Design Team always considers specific social,
Villagers highly value their ownership of their
agricultural and forest lots.
cultural, and economical conditions, and safeguards human

health and nature’s treasures. It will promote new techniques of
One Europe More Nature (OEMN), a Pilot Project Site
initiated in 2005, included Sinca Noua village, as being
developing relationships with clients and within its core, and will
compatible to apply environmental protection activities
43

such as vegetation and wildlife maintenance, and

Cost estimator
environmental education.

Expeditor
Willingness of villagers to create a stronger economy
Local Community:
through promoting eco-tourism (based on knowledge

gained during the interview with the mayor of Sinca

Mayor
Noua village, in the summer of 2012-see Appendix).

Village’s elected committee
Readiness to start creating cultural bridges with the

Religious counselor representative
European Union under their own terms and control
European Union representative:
(determined during the interview with the mayor of
Sinca Noua village, in the summer of 2012-see

Appendix).
consultant
The following is a structure for Integrative Design Team
suggested for designing and building the project of Valras Inn:
Specific Consultants:

Cultural Anthropologist

Ecosystem ecologist
Architectural team:

Architect

Engineers: mechanical, structural, civil, electrical,
acoustical

Lighting consultant

Interior designer
One Europe More Nature (OEMN) pilot program
44
“something clicks” in our mind, we have the shift. (Meadows,
DESIGN OF VALRAS INN- MAIN CONSIDERATIONS
1997, P.12).
What is “system-thinking”?
As designers and builders we already think using complexity of
design elements with attributes (see Biophilic design), or include
“Once we see the relationship between the structure and
Integrative Design processes that study bio-habitats, materials,
behavior we can begin to understand how systems work…”-
and Life Cycles Analysis (Boecker & et.al., 2009), but to that
Donella Meadows
knowledge we need to add three more “precious gifts bestowed
“System thinking” is a system that can be defined as a complex
upon humans (…) intuition, instinct and imagination…” (7
of elements that interact with a certain purpose, creating a
Group, Saarien, P. 380). This will lead to creation for ourselves a
mission. Thinking is a mind process that for some, is an attentive
“constant process of developing understanding through both
deliberation of thoughts and includes logic, calculated
knowledge and increasing sensitiveness” (7 Group, Meadows, P.
considerations, reasons for all options and all possible outcomes,
380).
and is nonbiased.
Integrative Design Team has the possibility not only to know the
In her article “Places to Intervene in a system” Donella H.
scientific “facts, and figures” (7 Group, Meadows, P.380) of the
Meadows, an environmental scientist and system analyst,
specific place, in this case Sinca Noua village, but it can also
proposes a list of what she calls “leverage points” to intervene in
create the possibility of understanding “how this place works and
a system, using them to explain that small changes can produce
evolved” (7 Group, Meadows, P.380).
grand shifts.
Donella H. Meadows also advices “don’t waste time with
Number 1 in her list relates very well to the Integrative Design
reactionaries, rather you work with active change agents, and
Team approach in thinking:
with the vast middle ground of people who are open-
“1. The mindset or paradigm out of which the system arises.”
minded”(Meadows, 1997, P.12), and we will start to have a
Meadows explains that because as individuals and societies, we
change.
resist change, it is hard to change a paradigm. But the moment
we allow ourselves to change the angle of understanding and
45
Mediating the existing conditions, with future goals, imagination
RELATIONSHIPS
and real scientific applicability, an Integrative Design Team
As 7 Group and Bill Reed (2009) explain in their book “The
should become a moderator between mental aspirations and the
Integrative Design Guide to Green Building”, the conventional
actual realization. Not having the design solutions of the Valras
manner of understanding the results of a project as “return-on-
Inn project all set in an incipient discovery phase creates
investment” ( 7 Group, 2009. Pp. 214-218) is considered an
opportunities to accept ideas and improvements, along the
incomplete method. Therefore they propose a multi-expertise
Integrative Design Process, until all needs are being addressed.
collaboration achieving a “mental model shift” (7 Group, 2009.
COLLABORATION
P. 214), which states that “…allowing ourselves not to have all
the answers…become aware…and apply observation” (7
Integrative Design collaboration is an experience that requires
Group,2009, P. 214).
experts to enhance processes, technology, material resources and
These simple characteristics became inspirational for the
human potential, becoming the vehicle for rethinking, and
Integrative Design Team recommended for the Valras Inn
modifying societies.
project. Listed below are few tools that can help transform a
Collaboration for better results should be assessed considering
conservative thinking into an Integrative thinking:
questions such as:


Reflection and contemplation: take time to appreciate the
necessary for constructive teamwork?
community’s culture and their connectedness for what

nature has created and offered them.

Who will be the facilitator and interpret discussions for
enhancing the collaboration?
Perception and understanding: allowing experts as
cultural anthropologist, and ecosystem ecologist to gift
us with their knowledge, experience, and insights.

How many collaborators and experts would be
Accepting that any solution can be questioned: have an

What is the collaboration vision for the specific project?

How extensive should collaboration become?

Does the collaboration need to be adjusted or expanded
within an Integrative Design Team?
open mind and allow that solutions evolve.
46

How long it will take for all the experts to adapt to
There will also be other considerations and implications
intensive and repetitive Integrative Charrettes?
responsible for an intelligent and multi expertise participant’s
How strategies should be discussed and developed for a
collaboration within a team. For instance on their paper from
holistic approach project success?
Harvard Business Review on “Eight Ways to Build

How should, if necessary, conflicts be managed?
Collaborative Team”, Gratton and Erickson are emphasizing

With so many different fields’ experts and consultants,
“Creating a gift culture” for team members to become more
how should the Integrative Charrettes be scheduled,
relaxed in crossing “corporate boundaries” (Gratton et. al., 2007)
structured, and defined?
P.7; advice for executives to demonstrate their own passion for
How should collaboration within Integrative Charrettes
collaboration; recommend defining the roles of participants in
address matters such as respect for human dignity, and
collaboration, and assign as team leaders experts with “both task
considering dialogues with villagers?
and relationship-oriented” (Gratton et. al., 2007, P.7).
How to introduce in collaboration further sustainable
The above corporate consideration for collaboration can be
approaches via dialogues with villagers?
translated, to the eco-tourism project of Valras Inn.The
How to think about future activity and assessment of
Integrative Design Team needs to: look at the history, life of the
responsiveness to implementations of the specific
specific community, and its natural environment; recommend




specific experts with new roles that will deepen the acquiring of
project?
knowledge and relationships with a community willing to create
new bridges.
All of these questions were inspired by the 7 Group (Boecker &
Collaborating on an integrative level for the success of projects
et.al., 2009) presentation of the need for a new design and
building process, and were based on the need to examine new
requires involved communication, explanations, openness,
possibilities to change the structure and dynamics of a new type
conflict tolerance, will to integrate adjustments, uniqueness in
of team: Integrative Design Team.
vision, and finally passion.
47
resource of beauty’ (Marten,2001, P.134), but “essential
LOCAL ENVIRONMENT CONNECTEDNESS
materials” for all our needs. That the understanding of our
For an Integrative Design Team to understand the importance of
actions’ repercussions is often unchangeable, and that the
its mission, as a promoter of change in thinking, it will be
interconnectedness of human society and ecosystems, with its
important to understand that:
interdependencies will always reflect the bad of our doings, for
generations to come.
“… it’s no small matter to go from letting birds and bass and
seals recover, to taking the giant steps required to rechill the
In other words humanity will not be able to live healthy, in
poles, re-grow the forests, refill seas with fish, save the tropics’
harmony with nature, and use her resources indefinitely, if we do
reefs, stabilize the ocean’s chemistry, secure agriculture, quench
not change our perspectives in thinking, and communication, and
the fire, tame growth, recognize the finite possibilities, lighten
take nature as authority herself.
up, and calm down.”(Safina, 201, P. 351).
The responsibility of an Integrative Design Team as a “system
thinking” and integrative collaboration advocate, should start
before the beginning of any project, and should continue
throughout the designing and construction process, and long
term after the end of the project. In his book “Human Ecology:
Basic Concepts for Sustainable Development, Gerald G. Marten
(2001) in chapter nine, “Perceptions of Nature”, describes
general characteristics of nature. Among them the most complex
and sensitive is “everything in nature is connected” (Marten,
2001, P.122). Marten is teaching all of us that the demands of the
contemporary society, on a fast pace of change, all the different
ecosystems surrounding us are not only providing an “emotional
48

INTEGRATIVE CHARRETTE
Initial discussion of all design upon village’s community
and its ecosystems

An Integrative Charrette can be defined as a meeting assembled
with an Integrative Design Team, that needs to respond to
Discussing the materials and resources necessary for
building Valras Inn

particular projects, with vision and orientation revealed in
Overview of each member role, with the presentation of
agendas which are characterized by sustainable strategies, and
the importance, role, and benefit of the two experts
goals; that proposes the use of experts profiled on exact
recommended for the specific project: cultural
requirements of the targeted project, and works in an Integrative
anthropologist and ecosystem ecologist.

Design Process, as delineated by 7 Group (2009) (Boecker &
et.al., 2009).
Recommend psychological strategies for a collaboration
that needs to respond to a sensitive community, and
completion of the Valras Inn project, that needs to have
After reviewing several options for actual eco-charrettes
future fruitful impacts on both human and natural
(Campagna, 2011) here is a preliminary possible organization for
ecosystems.
an agenda for an Integrative Charrette for Valras Inn project:

Discussing the materials and resources necessary for

Introducing all members of the Integrative Design Team.

Introducing the Valras Inn project.

Presenting the specific frame work that includes:
Integrative Design Charrettes, along the design, and
anthropology, ecology, Biophilic design and two most
construction Integrative Design Process, as well as
important design elements, as well as the eco-tourism.
yearly post-occupancy assessments and possible
Presenting initial information about the existing
changes.

building Valras Inn


conditions of the community and site of the Sinca Noua

Recommend a possible schedule for upcoming
Advice the Integrative Design Team, as well as the
village.
community, of possible results, challenges, and
Scheduling organizational concerns for the necessary
expectations.
activities of the Valras Inn
49
needs, conditions, resources, frame work; future proposed
schedules for design and construction process, as well as next
Integrative Charrettes times and programs; challenges and
expectations; tactic description of psychology of a complex team
structure, types of communication within the team and with
locals; start brainstorming, sharing and developing ideas
together; developing goals for the designing and constructions of
Valras Inn; discussing the budget the Yearly Post Occupancy IC.
This particular integrative Charrette needs to take place only
once at the beginning of the design and construction process.
Ideas IC: charrette where brainstorming will take place: analyze
possible arising problems for the construction; strategize
communication with the community –taking into consideration
the cultural anthropologist and ecosystem ecologist researches;
Fig. 29 Charrettes
listening to the wishes of villagers regarding how Valras Inn
Implementing the above described frame work, for the particular
could be designed, organized, maintained; present cultural
case of Valras Inn there are recommended multiple Integrative
anthropology suggestions for designing the facility; discuss the
Charrettes (IC):
existing conditions of natural ecosystems, and their possible
invasion through construction, and promising ecological
Initial IC: charrette where introductions will take place: newly
restoration, conservation plans, or regenerative considerations;
and specifically created Integrative Design Team; appointed a
developing team missions, and ascertain team goals.
facilitator for directing the future ICs; experts required for
specific project, in this case cultural anthropologist and
Design I IC: charrette where initial proposals for design and
ecosystem ecologist; introductory presentation of specific issues,
construction will be introduced and discussed, based on cultural
50
anthropologist, and ecosystem ecologist data interpretations; the
be included; miss-interpretations and miss-communication
goals of the Valras Inn must become more assertive; perform site
divergences must be solved.
visits and community inclusion as participatory force in
Commissioning IC: charrette where documents created will
dialogues; more brainstorming and different ways to look at the
provide the possibility for future comparisons of initial
possible hidden issues and potential solutions.
commissioning results of the construction of the Valras Inn with
Design II IC: charrette where initial design and construction
future post occupancy commissioning results; brainstorming on
proposals will be discussed in more depth; brainstorming
recommendations on sustainable use of the Valras Inn.
focused on old and new issues; alternative possible solutions
Participants of this Charrette should be all the Integrative Design
will be reanalyzed; reflecting on new issues and other parallel
Team and the chosen community representatives.
possibilities for design solutions; more feedback from cultural
Yearly Post Occupancy IC: charrette held every year, for the
anthropologist and ecosystems ecologist research will be
assessment of the performances of the proposed implementations
considered in depth; as well as performance for different
for Valras Inn. The data will be analyzed, and responded to, as
systems, trials and verifications conducted; community as
required by the new arising particular needs either economical,
participatory force included in dialogues.
traditional or natural ecosystems; participatory energy of the
Construction IC: charrette where construction discussions
initial Integrative Design Team will be required and will include
become important, and a virtual computerized construction (7
the cultural anthropologist, ecosystem ecologist and the chosen
Group, P.322) would be recommended for assessing the arising
community representatives.
problems, in advance of the actual construction; the design
These Integrative Charrettes(IC) represent a proposed model for
solutions should still be left open for unforeseen and possible
design and construction of any project, and can be changed and
changes, and future encountered obstacles, either specific to any
adapted as needed by the specificity of the particular project. The
of the following existing natural ecosystems of Sinca Noua,
Integrative Charrettes have a fine characteristic of being able to
cultural traditions of Sincans, material acquisitions, other un-
continue in a permanent loop, omitting the Initial Charrette (IC).
accounted performance expectations; community presence will
The ICs might be altered, according to the needs of the project,
51
in their number as required by all the parties involved in the
INTEGRATIVE DESIGN TEAM WITH A CULTURAL
designing and construction of the concept. The proposal and
ANTROPOLOGIST: ROLE AND BENEFITS
implementation of Integrative Charrettes has the potential to
create sincere communication, interlace thinking, generate new
Definition
methods of adaptations for arising situations, offering the
possibility for educating and creating paradigm shift in response
This chapter defines in depth the importance of specific experts,
to connectedness of local culture, local nature, and local built
recommended for designing and construction of Valras Inn, such
environment.
as cultural anthropologist and ecosystem ecologist introduced in
the “Anthroplogy and Ecology Conecteness” subchapter.
Based on a conversation with Dr. Mary Kroul Mc.Alpin, (see
Appendix) who is a cultural anthropologist, such a scientist has a
passion for understanding human diversity, and effectively
communicate collected information.
By definition a cultural anthropologist is studying and
comprehending holistically the human experience using
archeology, biology, history, psychology of relationships and
communications within human societies, as well as humans
interacting with animals and plants. It can be said that a cultural
anthropologist is the scientist who has the aptitudes, through
using other sciences, to find out what makes us humans, with the
goal of solving human problems. (AAA, 2013).
Fig. 30 Sincans’ traditional folkloric dance.
The responsibility of a Cultural Anthropologist is for instance:
using archeology, a cultural anthropologist researches the past to
52

understand how humans lived hundreds or thousands of years
Historical analysis where historical documents are being
ago and what was significant for them; using biology to examine
studied to learn how the community of Sinca Noua
genetics, bones, diet, and health, to add more information to the
village lived in the past. This information can explain
specific area of interest. Comparing humans with other animals,
cultural patterns that the anthropologist sees in the
a cultural anthropologist is looking to find out what we all have
present.

in common and what makes us different; comparing humans not
Participant observation, for which the cultural
only within a society, but as well with other human societies to
anthropologist will spend time within the Sinca Noua
decipher the complex types or relationships and communications
village, immersing in people’s daily activities and
that exist, studying economics, laws and policies, health and
observing how they live.

education. (AAA, 2013)
Interviews of the villagers to learn about their beliefs,
and ideas regarding their own community.

Questionnaires that will give the participants the
Research Methods
opportunity to express their own opinions and beliefs.

In the context described by the American Anthropological
Association (AAA) some of the research methods that are at the
Cross-cultural comparisons, with neighboring villages
might also be employed for comparing cultures to come
disposal of the scientists will be appropriate to be used to address
the issues that will be encountered by the Integrative Design
to new insights about the Sinca Noua unique culture.
Team in designing the Valras Inn, with an eco-touristic profile.
(AAA, 2013) (Gusterson, 2012)
In order to submit recommendations for the specific typology of
the proposed construction of Valras Inn, a cultural anthropologist
will have to employ multiple research methods, which might
include:
53
A cultural anthropologist has the responsibility to offer the
Ethics
villagers of Sinca Noua an informed consent containing the
Based on the American Anthropological Association’s final
methods, expected outcomes, and their rights. (Gusterson, H,
version of Statements of Ethics that contains principles of
et.al., May, 2012, p. 7)
professional responsibilities of anthropologists, a cultural
Role and Benefits of cultural anthropologist
anthropologist must:
The collaboration of a cultural anthropologist within an
1. “Do no harm” (Gusterson, 2012)
Integrative Design Team, for the design of the specific typology
A cultural anthropologist has the responsibility to cherish the
project of Valras Inn, needs to respond to the strongly culturally
dignity of Sincans, and not cause any social and physiological
defined community of Sinca Village. This should be achieved
negative impacts, and if there are any “conflicts with other
through gathering specific Romanian traditions data, and will
responsibilities” (Gusterson, H, 2012, p. 4), the research of the
help to create a strong base for recommendation needed in the
Sinca Noua community should stop.
process of designing and building the Valras Inn. The research
can potentially have the following benefits:
2. “Be open and honest regarding cultural anthropological

work” (Gusterson, 2012)
Discover human relationships within Sinca Noua
community.
A cultural anthropologist has the responsibility to be transparent,

obtain all necessary approvals, and must not “fabricate, falsify,
related to the Sinca Noua village surrounding natural
and knowingly misrepresent information or its source”
ecosystems.
(Gusterson, 2012, p. 5).
3.
Determine types of thinking processes of the Sincans

Establish multiple correlations within the
“Obtain informed consent and necessary permissions”
community of Sinca Noua and its built environment,
(Gusterson, 2012)
based on history, religion, traditions, and local laws.

Create communication bridges between the
Integrative Design Team and all the other parties as
54
the Sincans and other officials participating at the
INTEGRATIVE DESIGN TEAM WITH AN
Integrative Charrettes during the entire Integrative
ECOSYSTEM ECOLOGIST: ROLE AND BENEFITS
Design Process.

Provide specific design recommendations based on
scientific Romanian traditions of the Sinca Village
research.
In addition, there may be other potential benefits of employing a
cultural anthropologist on the development of the proposed
Valras Inn project that might come to light during the research,
as well as during the Integrative Charrettes.
Fig. 31 Sinca Noua forest Photo by Sandra Bartoch
Definition
An ecosystem ecologist is a scientist who studies and interprets
the conditions of ecosystems based on knowledge of not only
flora, and fauna, but as well as from other environmental aspects
such as climate, watershed, soil composition, pollution, etc. An
ecosystem ecologist focuses on either specific species or
communities on land, water, and air. Ecosystem ecologist is
studying the life processes within their natural conditions,
55
following their development, transformation and evolution;
of action such as conservation planning, ecological restoration,
diversity of organisms, and movement of energy through
and regenerative design (see Annex).
ecological communities. In assessing scientifically the gathered
The ecosystems of Sinca Noua village are specific and unique to
data, an ecosystem ecologist employs other sciences including
the Southern Carpathian mountains-Fagaras. The research and
biology, zoology, chemistry, mathematics, statistics, and
restoration methods will be adapted, and adjusted to respond to
comparative and experimental interdisciplinary approaches.
the impacts of the specific conditions of the construction of the
(Ecology, 2013)
Valras Inn project, determined at the site, and discussed as soon
The responsibility of an ecosystem ecologist is to provide,
as they surface within Integrative Charrettes, as they will be
through scientific investigations, surveys for data base
researched. Here are a few possible considered methods that
collection, referring to examination of the species within an
might be changed and reassessed as the ecosystem ecologist
ecosystem; to gather behavioral information of the organisms; to
considers necessary, having in consideration new found
classify and interpret data; to write informative reports, and to
conditions:
make recommendations for policies and legislation changes,
“Engage: defined by creating focus groups, design
based on ecological discoveries. (Ecology, 2013)
Charrettes, “Story of place”, community facilitation,
communication and outreach, volunteer coordination.
Discover: defined by landscape classification, ecological
Research methods
studies, field inventories and surveys, natural resource
inventories.
Based on a conversation with Ted Brown, PE, LEED AP and a
water resources engineer, from Biohabitats, (see Annex) an
Design: defined by concept plans, preliminary design, design
ecosystem ecologist might use, in the work and study of
development, cost/benefit analysis, endangered species
processes within the ecosystems in Sinca Noua village, a course
studies, construction documents, and peer reviews.
56
19th, 2012, about what he considers to be good principles for
Build: defined by construction administration, construction
observation, general contracting, natural water treatment,
ecological restoration practice:
Stormwater management.
Inform and educate all parties involved in the designing and
building of Valras Inn project about “alternatives, opportunities,
Monitor: defined by environmental effects, biological
costs and benefits offered by the restoration”(Bowers, 2012).
monitoring, geophysical monitoring, hydrological
monitoring, cultural monitoring, and ecosystem services
Involve all parties in “planning, implementation and monitoring”
evaluations.
(Bowers, 2012).of the ecosystems restoration project in Sinca
Manage: defined by operation and maintenance, system
Noua village.
troubleshooting and evaluation, species recovery
Engage all participants in “definition of boundaries for
management, landscape management, integrated pest
restoration” of ecosystems in Sinca Noua. (Bowers, 2012).
management.
Include in restoration process of the ecosystems of Sinca Noua
Evolve: defined by interdisciplinary research and
development, policy development, lessons learned,
“historical, scientific, local knowledge, and innovative practices.
knowledge transfer, training.” (Biohabitats, 2013)
(Bowers, 2012).
Role and Benefits of ecosystem ecologist
Ethics
The design of the specific typology of Valras Inn needs to
respond to the strongly nature-connected and environmentally
Considering that ecological restoration represents the need to
responsible community of the Sinca village. The employment of
preserve vital natural resources, and that this is a critical practice
and collaboration with an ecosystem ecologist within an
to have healthy and vibrant communities, Keith Bowers, Chair of
Integrative Design Team, can potentially have the following
Society for Ecological Restoration International, wrote on April
benefits:
57


Greater appreciation for the diversity of ecological
In addition there may be some other potential benefits of
ecosystems of the Sincans and eco-tourists as effect of
employing in the Integrative Design Team an ecosystem
the construction of the Valras Inn.
ecologist, which might come to light during the local ecosystems
Positive psychological impact on all the users of Valras
research, Integrative Charrettes, and Integrative Design Process.
Inn.

Building new and rewarding relationships between
Sincans and eco-tourists because of construction of
CONCLUSION
Valras Inn.

Reanalyzed, reinterpreted, and reassessed, the natural
Collaboration is not just a simple act of getting together and
processes of the ecosystems studied within Sinca Noua
emphasizing our knowledge, when a building project has been
can become the benefit of other populations,
acquired. Collaboration is admitting our past mistakes, rising to
communities, and ecosystems.



new questions, study new lessons, changing approaches, and
Restoration of ecosystems from Sinca Noua village can
looking into solutions that are responsive to future
mitigate the adaptation to climate change, enhancing the
circumstances. Collaboration is an offer of a complete altruism,
specific ecosystem services.
respect for the expertise and opinions of all participants, and
Fosters sustainable socioeconomic development,
acceptance that the thinking process has to alter. Collaboration
improving at the same time Sincans’ health and well-
needs to be highly developed for leading to attaining an
being.
Integrative Design Team that could claim to represent the next
Sinca Noua ecosystems restoration, after the
step towards a built environment, which will be closely
construction of Valras Inn, might have greater global
interconnected with ecosystems processes and culture
benefits and positive impacts for the local environment
characteristics. As humans, we cannot function without a stable
and Sincans (Ecological Restoration, 2013).
cultural platform, or achieve survival without resources provided
by our planet.
58
An Integrative Design Team that might be created for specific
projects is a valid proposition to build new knowledge for the
future, which will assure a healthy way to design, without
impacting, but rather intertwining, without destroying, but rather
creating.
Participation of a cultural anthropologist in this particular project
exemplifies the comprehensive role of an Integrative Design
Team. It will allow the nurturing of a “dialogue over risk and
remediation” (S.A.A., 2001, P. 6), through asking the leaders of
Sinca Noua critical questions; respecting equity and
proportionate needs of the community, considering all members’
opinions; setting conditions for responsibilities, and
accountability; and defining what would establish lessons
learned for future. (S.A.A., 2001, P.4).
Treasured communities and cherished ecosystems are the answer
for a healthy life cycle. They can be obtained through using
Integrative Design Team in any building design venture.
Fig. 32 Sincan Photo by Marius Blana
59
60
61
62
63
64
65
66
67
68
69
70
71
72
73
74
75
76
77
78
79
80
BIBLIOGRAPHY:
AAA. (2013, 3 22). Retrieved from America Anthropological Association:
http://www.aaanet.org/profdev/careers/Anthos.cfm
Abbotsbury. (2012, 12 9). Retrieved from www.abbotsbury.co.uk: http://www.abbotsbury.co.uk/abbotsbury-tour.htm
Aleut culture. (2013, 4 18). Retrieved from aleutcorp.com: http://www.aleutcorp.com/culture-a-history
Aleut culture. (2013, 4 20). Retrieved from apicda.com: http://www.apicda.com/aleut_culture.html
Anthropology. (2012, November 11). Retrieved from Answers.com: http://www.answers.com/topic/anthropology
Anthropology. (2012, November 11). Retrieved from Dictionary.reference.com:
http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/anthropology
Anthropology. (2012, 11 7). Retrieved from dictionary.reference: http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/anthropology
Atka village. (2013, 4 18). Retrieved from alaskacoast.state.ak.us:
http://www.alaskacoast.state.ak.us/Explore/AWCRSA_04_07/atka.html
Attmann, O. (2010). Green Architecture: Advanced Technologies and Materials. New York: Mc. Graw Hill.
Avis, C., & Brett, C. (2005, 12). Retrieved from WWF International Baia Mare Romania:
www.panda.org/europe/agriculture
Benyus, J. M. (1997). Bimimicry: Innovation Inspired by Nature. New York, N.Y.: Harper Collins Publishers Inc.
Biohabitats. (2013). Retrieved from biohabitats.com: www.biohabitats.com
Boecker, J., & et.al. (2009). The Integrative Design Guide to Green Building: Redefining The Prractice of
Sustainability.
Borofsky, R. (2002, June). The Four Subfields: Anthropologists as Mythmakers. American Antropologist, New Series,
104(2), 463-480. Retrieved 11 26, 2012, from http://www.jstor.org/page/info/about/policies/terms.jsp
Bowers, K. (2012, 4 19). Ecological restoration. 24(2). Retrieved from biohabitats:
http://www.biohabitats.com/blog/human-systems-2/
Breslow, S. J. (2001, 11 5). Farmers' Perception of Salmon Habitat Restoration Measures: Loss and Contestation. The
Society for Applied Anthropology, The Environment Protection Agency, Seattle. Retrieved November 11, 2012
Brubaker, R., & Feischmidt, M. (2002, October). The Politics of Commemoration in Hungary, Romania, and Slovakia.
Comparative Studies in Society and History, 44(4), 700-744. Retrieved November 26, 2012, from
http://www.jstor.org/stable/3879520
Cacioppe, R. (1998). An Integrated Model and Approach for the design of effective leadership development programs.
Leadership & Organization development Journal, 19(1), 44-53. Retrieved September 2012
Campagna, B. A. (2011). Eco-Charrette. Retrieved from www.barbaracampagna.com
Christiansson, P., Svidt, K., & Sorensen, K. B. (2008). Future Integrated Design Environments. In O. Tulberg, N.
Danwood, & M. Cornell (Ed.), 25th International Conference on Information Technology In Construction (p.
201). Santiago: CIB-W78. Retrieved September 2012
CISCO. (2009, December). Retrieved October 2012, from CISCO: www.cisco.com/go/offices
Danciu, M., Ciocirlan, V., Pop, O., Vezeanu, C., & Indreica, A. (2008). The Flora And The Habitats fron Sinca Noua
(Flora si Habitatatele De LA Sinca Noua). Brasov Romania: Transilvania University.
Demirbas, O. O., & Demirkan, H. (2003, September). Focus on Architectural Design Process through Learning Styles.
Design Studies, 24(5). Retrieved October 2012, from www.elsevier.com
Dr. Jones, L. (2008). Environmentally Responsible Design: Green And Sustainable Design For Interior Designers.
Hoboken, New Jersey: John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Dr. O'Brien, W., PH.D. Soibelman, L., & Ph.D. Elvin, G. (2003). Collaborative Design Processes: An Active and
Reflective learning Course in Multidisciplinary Collaboration. Journal of onstruction Education, 8(2), 78-93.
Retrieved october 2012
Dr. O'Neill, M., & Wymer, T. (2009). Design for Integrated Work. KNOLL. KNOLL, Inc. Retrieved October 2012
Duties-ecologist. (2012, November 8). Retrieved from ehow.com: http://www.ehow.com/facts_5883248_dutiesecologist_html#ixzz2BebA9iFt
Earley, C. P. (2006, November). Leading Cultural Research in the Future: A matter of Paradigms and Taste. Journal of
International Business Studies, 37(6), 922-931. Retrieved December 10, 2012
Eclipse Research Consultants. (2004, March). Retrieved October 2012, from constructingexcellency.org:
www.constructingexcellence.org.uk
Ecological Restoration. (2013, 3 24). Retrieved from ser.org: : http://ser.org/home
Ecologist. (2012, November 8). Retrieved from Thefreedictionary.com: http://www.thefreedictionary.com/ecologist
Ecologist. (2012, 11 8). Retrieved from prospects.ac.uk: http://www.prospects.ac.uk/ecologist_job_description.htm
Ecologist job. (2012, November 8). Retrieved from Prospects.ac.uk:
http://www.prospects.ac.uk/ecologist_job_description.htm
Ecology. (2013, 3 23). Retrieved from esapubs.org: : http://esapubs.org/esapubs/journals/ecology.htm
Ecotourism. (2012, 12 9). Retrieved from ecotourismlogue.com: http://www.ecotourismlogue.com/planning-atrip/rancho-la-puerta-eco-spa-resort-since-1940.html
Fisher, T. (2008). Architectural Design And Ethics: Tools for Survival. New York, N.Y.: Elsevier Ltd.
Franta, G. (2006). A factor 10 Solution: Integrated Design in Architecture. Cambridge: IABSE Henderson Colloquium.
Retrieved September 2012, from http://www.istructe.org/IABSE/Files/Henderson06/Paper_05.pdf
Gratton, L., & Erickson, T. (2007). Eight Ways to Build Collaborative Teams. Harvard Business Review. Retrieved
October 2012, from www.hbrreprints.org
Group, 7. (2004, August 5). Integrative design. Retrieved November 2012, from Sevengroup.com:
http://www.sevengroup.com/integrative-design/
Group, 7. (2006). High Performance green Building Design Charrette Report. 7 Group.
Group, 7. (2007, October 1). Daylightanalysis. Retrieved october 2012, from sevengroup.com:
http://www.sevengroup.com/r-publications/our-publications/
Group, 7. (2007). Publications. Retrieved October 2012, from sevengroup.com: http://www.sevengroup.com/rpublications/our-publications/
Group, 7. (2012, October). Publications. Retrieved from sevengroup.com: http://www.sevengroup.com/rpublications/our-publications/
Group, 7., & Reed, B. G. (2009). The Integrative Design Guide to Green Building: Redefining the Practice of
Sustainability. Hoboken, New Jersey: John Wiley & Sons Inc.
Gusterson, H. (2012, 5). AAA. Retrieved from American Anthropology Association.
Guzowski, M. (2000). Daylighting for Sustainable Design. New York, N.Y.: Mc. Graw Hill.
Hagemann, I. B. (2005). Solar Design in Architecture and Urban Planning. Symposium "Urban Planning-Sustainable
Cities", Tokyo. Retrieved 2012
Harmon-Vaughan, B. (2005). Implications. InformeDesign, 4(3). Retrieved october 2012, from
www.informedesign.umn.edu
Haviland, D. (2001). You and your architect. The American Institute of Architects. Washington: Victor O. Schinnere &
Company Inc. Retrieved October 30, 2012, from www.aia.org
Hayter, S. J., Torcellini, P. A., Hayter, R. B., & Judkoff, R. (2001). Constructing High Performance Buildings. Clima
200 -International Conference, Naples. Retrieved 2012, from www.ashrae.org
History. (2012, 12 9). Retrieved from ilchester-arms.co.uk: http://www.ilchester-arms.co.uk/history.htm
Holloko. (2013, 2 25). Retrieved from UNESCO World Heritage Center List:
(http://www.worldwidepanorama.org/worldwidepanorama/wwp604/html/TamasVarga-477.html
Index. (2012, November 17). Retrieved from ushistory.org: http://www.ushistory.org/index.html
(2007). Integrated Environmental management. Loxembourg: official Publications of the European Commmunities.
Retrieved October 2012, from http://ec.europa.eu/environment/urban/home_en.htm
Johnston, B. R., O'Malley, G., & Liebow, E. (2001). Community Participation in Watershed Management. Society for
Applied Anthropology. Oklahoma: SfAA & U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Retrieved November 11,
2012, from www.sfaa.net
Johnston, B. R., O'Malley, G., & Liebow, E. (2001). Environmental Stewardship in Indian Country. Society for
Applied Anthropology. Oklahoma: SfAA & EPA. Retrieved November 11, 2012, from www.sfaa.net
Johnston, B. R., O'Malley, G., & Liebow, E. (2001). Human Dimensions of Environmental Policy. Oklahoma City:
SfAA & EPA. Retrieved November 11, 2012
Johnston, B. R., O'Malley, G., & Liebow, E. (2001). Restoring the Florida Everglades: Social Impacts. Society for
Applied Anthropology. Oklahoma City: SfAA & EPA. Retrieved November 11, 2012, from www.sfaa.net
Kellert, S. R., Heerwagen, J. H., & Mador, M. L. (2008). Biophilic design:Theory, Science, and Practice of Bringing
Buildings to Life. Hoboken, New Jersey: John Wiley & Sons Inc.
Kemper, R. V., & Rollwagen, J. R. (2000). Encyclopedia of Cultural Anthropology (Vol. 4). (D. Levinson, & M.
Ember, Eds.) New York: Henry Holt and Company. Retrieved November 10, 2011, from www.sfaa.net
Kwok, A. G., & Grondzick, W. T. (2007). The Green Studio Handbook: Environmental Strategies for Schematic
Design. New York, N.Y.: Elsevier Inc.
Kwok, L., Bhagat, R. S., Buchan, N. R., Erez, M., & Gibson, C. B. (2005, July). Culture and International Business:
Recent Advance and Their Implications for Future Research. Journal of International Business Studies, 36(4),
357-358. Retrieved 10 12, 2012, from http://www.jstor.org/stable/3875298 .
Lanzendorfer, J. (2007, February 15). Imitation of life. UPFront, 10. Retrieved September 2012
Larsson, N. (2009). Integrated Design Process: theory, history, demonstration. iiSBE. Retrieved 2012, from
www.iisbe.org
Levis, A. H., & Wagenhals, L. W. (2000, April 25). Developing a process for C41SR Architecture Design. Syetem
Architecture Laboratory. Fairfax, VA: George Mason University.
Lindsey, G., Todd, J. A., & Hayter, S. J. (2003). A handbook for Planning and Conducting Charrettes for HighPerformance Projects. Golden, Colorado: National Technical Information Service. Retrieved October 2012,
from http://www.osti.gov/bridge
Lizardo, O. (2006, October). How Cultural Tastes Shape Personal Networks. American Sociological review, 71(5),
778-807. Retrieved December 10, 2012, from http://www.jstor.org/stable/25472427 .
Louridas, P. (1999). Design Bricolage: Anthropology Meets Design Thinking. Design Studies, 20(6), 517-535.
Retrieved October 2012, from www.elsevierscience.com
Lunenburg. (2013, 2 25). Retrieved from UNESCO World Heritage Center List: http://en.db-city.com/Cabada-NovaScotia-Lunenburg
Malin, N. (2004, November). Integrated Design. Environmental Building News, 13(11). Retrieved 2012
Malin, N., & Wendt, A. (2012, May 1). Integrated Design Meets the Real World. Environmental Building News.
Retrieved october 2012
Malin, N., Melton, P., & Roberts, T. (2012). New Concepts in LEED v4. Environmental Building News. Retrieved
October 1, 2012, from www.usgbc.org
Marten, G. G. (2008). Human Ecology: Basic Concepts For Sustainable Development. Sterling, VA: Earthscan.
Ouro Preto. (2013, 2 25). Retrieved from UNESCO World Heritage Center List: (http://en.db-city.com/Brazil--MinasGerais--Ouro-Preto).
Prejmer. (2013, 2 25). Retrieved from UNESCO World Heritage Center List: (http://en.db-city.com/Romania-Bra%C8%99ov--Prejmer).
Pressman, A. (2006). Professional Practice: Business Strategies and Case Studies in Architecture. Hoboken, New
Jersey: John Wiley & Sons Inc.
Reed, C. (2012). Integrated Campus Design: A Proposal For Colorado College. Colorado. Retrieved October 2012,
from http://www.coloradocollege.edu/
Romsilva. (2013, 4 12). Retrieved from National Forest Adminiatration Romsilva:
http://ypef.eu/files/booklet/ang/romania.pdf
Safina, C. (2011). A Natural Year In An Unnatural World. New York, N.Y.: Henry Holt and Company, LLC.
Scrol, A. (2000). Environmental Anthropology . Retrieved November 10, 2012, from www.sfaa.net
Smith, D. (2009). Collaboration In Design Builds. Retrieved October 2012, from HBCMG Inc.:
http://www.hbmginc.com
Steele, J. (2005). Ecological Architecture: A Critical History. London, England: Thames & Hudson Ltd.
Takeyuki, T. (1999, July 107-124). Ethnicity and the Anthropologist: Negociating Identities in the Field.
Anthropological Quarterly, 71(3). Retrieved October 2012, from http://www.jstor.org/stable/3318081
Task 23. (2003, April). Integrated Design Process: A Guideline for Sustainable and Solar-Optimised Building Design.
Retrieved October 2012, from IEA: www.iea.org
TIES. (2012, 11 8). Retrieved from ecotourism.org/the international ecotourism society:
(http://www.ecotourism.org/ties-overview).
Unangan Home. (2013, 4 18). Retrieved from buildinggreen.com:
http://www2.buildinggreen.com/blogs/anthropologist-design-team-making-unangan-home
Watters, E. (2007, June 4). The Big Idea. PAX Scientific. Retrieved September 2012, from
http://magl.olivesiftware.com/ActiveMagazine/print.asp
Wilson, A. (2006, July 1). Biophilia in Practice: Building that Connect People with Nature. Environmental Building
News. Retrieved October 25, 2012, from http://www.buildinggreen.com/auth/article.cfm/2006/7/9/Biophilia-inPractice-Building
Winchip, S. M. (2007). Sustainable Design for Interior Environments. New York, N. Y.: Fairchild Publications, Inc.
Wing, S. (2011, August 8). Redefining Sustainability. Metropolis Magazine, 30. (M. POV, Ed.) Retrieved September
2012, from http://metropolismag.com/pov/20110808/redefining-sustainability
Wood, E. (1998). eplerwood. Retrieved from eplerwood.com: :(http://www.eplerwood.com/publications.php)
Zhang, J., Gao, L., Chan, F. T., & Li, p. (2003). A holonic architecture of the concurent integrated process planning
system. Journal of Materials Processing Technology(139), 267-272. Retrieved September 2012, from
http://www.jstor
Zimmerman, A. (2001). Integrated Design Process Guide. Toronto: CMHC. Retrieved 2012, from http://www.cmhcschl.gc.ca/en/inpr/bude/himu/coedar/upload/Integrated_Design_GuideENG.pdf
APPENDIX
TED BROWN
Informal interview with Ted Brown, PE, LEED AP and a water resources engineer.
Date: March 21st, 2013
Place: New York, New York
Q: Can you please tell me a little about what is an ecosystem ecologist?
Oh, definition…well, I would define an ecosystem ecologist as the scientists who loves nature, and who
would assumes the responsibility of taking care of our most precious resource of survival-our unique
planet. An ecosystem ecologist would study everything from the life of a small plant, to environmental
impacts such as climate change. They would assess the conditions of an ecosystem considering the
opinions gathered from other scientists such as chemists, mathematicians, biologists, and zoologists.
You also have to known that the ecosystem ecologists are specialized in different fields, and they get
very specific in their research: species of plants or animals, and communities of land, water, and air.
Q: Please tell me a about how do you approach a case study?
A: I’ll tell you just few things. You need to go to our website Biohabitats, because there you’ll find lots
of great information and articles. We have a general concept: engage, discover, design, build, monitor,
manage, and evolve. We guide ourselves by ethics.
Q: Please tell me how would you think to approach Sinca Noua village and its community?
A: The ecosystems of Sinca Noua village are as specific as many other ecosystems. There could be one
of the courses of action such as either conservation planning, or ecological restoration, or regenerative
design, but we need to pay a visit to site, and then we can talk about it.
Q: Do you have specific possible recommendations for designing and constructing an eco-hotel in Sinca
Noua village?
A: In the case of the construction of a small inn, there would be some ideas that we could start with: we
would definitely begin with communication and outreach of the community, and their attitudes towards
their natural resources; classify and evaluate the existing ecosystems; some cost analysis would be
involved as well; recovery management also; recommendations for the care of the ecosystem reinstated,
and some lessons learned, because there is always something new to be discovered. Again, you need to
go to our website. There is plenty of information that you might be able to use. But in the end an
ecosystem ecologist findings might come to light during the local ecosystems’ research. It is all very
specific, to any particular site.
FLUCUS DUMITRU - Mayor
Unstructured interview with the Mayor of Sinca Noua, Brasov, Romania
Date: August 2012
Place: Sinca Noua, Romania, Europe.
Q: Can you please, tell me a little about the history of Sinca Noua?
A: The Historical documents show that Sinca village started its existence sometime around 1200 A.D.
The actual Sinca Noua was created about 1700 A.D. when approximate 90 Romanian families decided
not to be under Empress Maria Teresa, and under Austrian Empire, reign.
They moved higher into the mountains, few kilometers along the Sinca River, established themselves
very close to an Orthodox monastery, and this is where we are today, in 2012.
The village prospered until the communism arrived in 1945, and was declared a “Rebel village”. The
villagers did not want to participate in the new type of organization, a horrible type of cooperation called
Agricultural Production Cooperation. This meant that the villagers would lose their properties: houses,
lands, forests, animals, tools. Hard times followed for the entire village until the 1990s. And we all know
what communism meant to all of us, destruction from so many points, psychologically, socially, and
economically. Let’s just talk about what we are going to do from now on.
Well, in 2002 we regained our status as independent village Sinca Noua. We received funds from the
government and rebuilt the elementary school, village hall, health center, touristic information center,
and our churches. All done with the work of the villagers.
In 2005 we received the status of “European Village” from European Commission, because of our clean
and unspoiled by fertilizers agricultural terrains, pure forests, clean fed animals, and clean river waters.
You should know that the villagers are cutting the wood for construction and winter heating, from their
own private owned forests. This action is based only on a schedule, and a specific predetermined need of
quantity of wood. We are also very proud that actually we are the first village to be declared “Certified
Ecological Village”, in the country. This means that we can sell our clean vegetables, fruits, and meats,
at a good price.
Q: Can you tell me anything about your ancestral customs and celebrations?
A: Oh, yes! Today we are very happy that we are allowed to practice our old ancestral customs. We
have an ancient custom called “The wheel of fire”. This custom is been practiced for hundreds of years,
with the communists years interruption, of course, at Easter time. We build a wheel of wood, dress it up
in hay, fire it up, and let it roll down, from the top of a high hill. It is said that wards off evil spirits,
burns off all that is “dry” and lets the “new” to grow.
The “Wheel of fire” represents passion for life, and love; it represents the end and the beginning.
We also have a choir that sings only very old songs, transmitted from generations to generation. We do
not know who composed the songs. And we have as well a folklore dance group. We have been
competing lately at many European folkloric contests.
Q: Can you tell me how is the village doing economically in 2012?
A: Well, for one we have created a twenty year program for the development of Sinca Noua for many
areas, very detailed. To be honest I am very excited about our program, because we never had this great
opportunity before. Then we developed a close connection with a Wulkow village in Germany. Every
summer we are sending a group of villagers from Sinca Noua to work for few months together with
Wulkow villagers. The exchanges of experiences are based on agricultural processes and methodologies.
The villagers need to see how others are thinking, they need to see that some other alternatives are
possible…
We have in plan to improve our roads, the aqueduct, and the electric system. I want to rebuild the
Cultural Center, to improve the Healthcare Center, to build a new Sports Center. And very important for
us will be to develop the Ecotourism. We need more jobs, diversity, and open to the European
Community.
I want to revive Sinca Noua carefully. I want to preserve the eco (aka sustainable) way of life. I want
people not only to be in charge, to have the possibility to have their opinions, take their own decisions,
but also I want to show them that there are so many possibilities, and I am thinking at Ecotourism, for
development without being afraid that anyone will interfere with their properties, and lives, more than
they agree and accept.
As a community, over the centuries, we have been through so many wars, poverty, and trials that
impacted us in many negative ways. We have only one choice, strait ahead!
Q: How do you see this Ecotourism becoming a part of Sinca Noua community?
A: I want to build an Inn, which will host eco-tourists. We can create many jobs, through construction,
maintenance, and running it. We have majestic surrounding nature! Many areas around Sinca Noua, in
Brasov, are becoming National parks. The tourists can rest, hike, ride horses, eat fresh food, and visit the
castles in our neighborhood, right? The whole world knows about Bran Castle, and Peles Castle. In the
winter they can go skiing in Poiana Brasov. So there is so much to do here without damaging the
ecosystems. So I am telling everyone, come, visit, stay, rest, and who knows, one day you might come,
stay indefinitely, and become a Sincan.
Dr. MARY KROUL McALPIN
Informal interview with cultural anthropologist Dr. Mary Kroul McAlpin:
Date: March 10th, 2013
Place: New York, New York
Q: Can you please tell me a little about what is a cultural anthropologist?
A: We want to understand humans in all aspects of life. It is such a diversity of cultures on this planet.
We want to understand the relationships that are taking place; within a community; with nature; a certain
community with other communities. All other sorts of impacts. We like to communicate our findings,
and we like to help, although this gets very complicated, in any way we can.
Q: Please tell me a about how do you approach a case study?
A: Well, in general we start by hanging out and see how people do things. Simply observe. Make notes.
We need to get acquainted with the area. Apply our skills to find issues. We collect folk tales. Most of
the times people are in the beginning suspicious, and we are not welcomed. We are doing a lot of
research in archeology, history, biology, and psychology. We guide ourselves by a statement of
principles to conduct our practice. We underline all the facts, attitudes. Everything intertwines. We are
doing cross cultural comparisons. We do interviews.
Q: Have you ever worked in architecture, or interior design field?
A: Yes. I worked for a project in Alaska. It was a remote village, Atka, where they would get their mail
delivered just two times a week. They have a complex language. They are completely self-sufficient.
There is a tribal authority within the village. The weather is terrible there, they have 100 mile winds.
Their traditional houses are semi-subterranean. The project was a Living Building Challenge (LBC) and
Aleutian house authority combined efforts to offer the locals something they would need, and be more
comfortable. The LBC wanted to build a vegetable garden, so people could grow their own vegetablesthey need this for their diet which lacks vitamins. They eat only meat. It was not possible because they
have a massive rat infestation, and would devour their gardens. Well, as community they are very
conservative, but through the interviews, as an anthropologist you can find so much other under-lining
information.
Q: Please tell me how would you think to approach Sinca Noua village and its community?
A: I would need time to travel and live there for a while. Need to see the place. Get somewhat accepted
within the community. I would need to look into their language, history, traditions, and stories. All I
have mentioned before. Their needs, their plans, or goals. Need to look at the project, and actually all the
stake holders. I would need to decipher their behavior. They would tell me what to do or not to do,
somehow, in their own way. They seem to be highly conservative if they made such a radical move, by
relocating themselves up the river. I would also consider important into the fact that the village started
close to an existing monastery.
Q: How would you approach Sinca Noua village and its community architecturally?
I would look into what makes a house truly local. I would look at common and local variations. I would
observe their local plan and compare with other villages’ houses layouts. I would look into what is it that
make Sinca Noua layouts special. I would study their vernacular architecture. Well, there is no recipe of
how I would perform my research. Each place is very different and unique.
Q: How would you be able to define functionally Sinca Noua village and its community?
A: There would be societal norms that I would need to discover. When and how their community, and
houses were built. I would need to find out why they built their houses more like a mini fortresses. I
would have to look into the landscape. And all of these are just some conditions that would shape the
functionality of a community. I would need a lot of research, before making any affirmations.
Q: How would you define conceptually Sinca Noua village and its community?
A: This is a very conservative society, who consequently dealt with distress. They are very conscious of
their autonomy. They are very suspicious, and they will definitely be the ones to call the shots. I would
have to study how would be possible for them to integrate, in this new system- EU. There is a question
if they really want the eco-tourism. How would they help themselves?
Q: Do you have specific possible recommendations for designing and constructing of an eco-hotel in
Sinca Noua village?
A: I think that very important for such a society would be to start gradually, and build first a cultural
center; that would be a smoother transition for them to accept the weight of new relationships. As for the
construction of Valras Inn, would be necessary a long and fine research.