James Brosius
jamesbrosius24@gmail.com WebsiteJames is an architectural designer at Eview360 in Royal Oak. Currently he does work in automotive retail design such as dealership brand design, along with designing luxury interiors, mixed use buildings, and luxury car condominium communities. His goal going forward out of college is to achieve his architectural license and work towards managing his own firm in years to come.
TITLE 
Queer(+AR)
MajorArchitecture [M.Arch]
DescriptionIn the wake of the 2020 pandemic, queer spaces have undergone a significant transformation, shifting from physical locations to digital platforms. This change has been amplified by anti-LGBTQ+ legislation and the increasing promotion of heteronormative ideals in suburban America. Consequently, many in the queer community now primarily exist online, leading to a sense of disconnection and a longing for physical spaces where they can truly be themselves.
To understand this shift, it's helpful to consider the concept of "event-spaces" introduced by Bernard Tschumi. These ideas suggest that queer space is not tied to a specific physical location but can occur anywhere, emphasizing the importance of adaptability and inclusivity. However, while the transition to online platforms aligns with the principles of event spaces, it has also posed challenges to community cohesion, particularly in suburban areas where queer individuals may feel isolated and unsupported, especially in a time where the online realm is now being challenged by upcoming legislation.
Data has shown that relying solely on digital spaces can negatively impact mental health and identity formation, especially in the face of ongoing discrimination. Pairing with what has been stated above, there is a growing recognition of the need for hybridized environments that combine physical and digital elements to foster sturdy and meaningful connections within the queer community. Historically, the queer community has embraced new technologies as a means of seeking refuge in hostile environments, making the integration of emerging tech like augmented reality a promising avenue for re-establishing queer connections and community bonds.
To address these concerns, this thesis explores the implementation of augmented reality in existing physical spaces that were once vibrant queer hubs. By blending physical environments with digital enhancements, this approach seeks to create a new iteration of post-pandemic queer space that prioritizes inclusivity, connection, and community building.