The effect of changing technologies on the built environment

Throughout history changing needs and developing technologies have affected the workplace and, consequently, the city. Currently, design trends have led to the situation deschbed as "Edge City." We are confronted with major upheavals in the workplace as a result of the exploding development of electronic technology. In major corporations and smaller businesses we find the productivity of the work force increasing through the use of computers. Because of the availability of communication technologies such as modems, fax machines, video telephones, etc, many firms are now using employees located in their homes.

This thesis proposes that, because of this, the form of cities will continue to change as a larger percentage of workers no longer need to leave home in order to earn a living. The written thesis will analyze existing studies in order to document pertinent technological, sociological, and business trends in the contemporary world and their continued effects on the built environment. This research will inform the design thesis and site location for a medical researcher's office and combined residence following the new order.