(IN)TANGIBLE HERITAGE(S)

Abstract

Technology is generally seen as a positive advancement; however, when it comes to trade, its integration has had mixed consequences. In recent years, progress has allowed the industry to streamline many tasks in the supply chain and consumer experience areas, though, it has had unintended effects on the long-standing traditions of the marketplace itself. Throughout history, areas of commerce have been spaces where the public can congregate, places of sharing and socializing but this use has been changing recently, as a result of technology, with the advent of the internet and online ordering. Many neighborhoods continue to depend on retail establishments as essential threads of the collective and historic fabric of their communities but towns are faltering to maintain their identity amidst the ease of in-home shopping. In order to continue to serve the community, brick and mortar retail stores need to make significant changes to their designs. What can be modified to bring the online shopper back to dying main streets across the nation? A design problem tackling this issue was undertaken by junior level interior design studios in 2020 and 2021 through the examination of an adaptive reuse project in the small town of New Hope, PA, residing half way between Philadelphia and New York City. Students conducted research to understand the history, local needs and demographics in the town, which was originally established in the early eighteenth century. One of the main goals of this ten-week retail project was to create social spaces for the community, beyond those at home or work, otherwise known as third places, within the design. Additionally, they needed to include appropriate technology, particularly examples that were specific to an in-person environment. Student work was highly successful, with designs featuring solutions that incorporated education, craft, nourishment, and entertainment.