Date of Graduation

Spring 5-23-2026

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Arts in Global Studies

College/School

College of Arts and Sciences

Department/Program

Global Studies

First Advisor

John Zarobell

Second Advisor

Ilaria Giglioli

Third Advisor

Bruce Pickering

Abstract

Sustainability is the buzzword for modern global development. In the age of rapidly growing populations, unsustainable building practices, and an ever-present climate crisis, there must be a reorientation in global urban development practices. While experts tend to tout one sustainable initiative as a catch-all solution to the above crises, a multidimensional problem cannot be solved with a one-dimensional approach. In other words, sustainable development can only be achieved through a combination of different practices and approaches. This case study seeks to present adaptive reuse as a viable reaction to the climate crisis, but one that requires a combination of other practices in order to truly be sustainable. By contrasting the practices of Danish functionalism in the Nordhavn neighborhood with Bay Area environmental conservation in the Presidio, this thesis observes the dynamics between built and natural environments in each city, analyzing them through the relationship between functional and environmental development. By uncovering areas of improvement in both cities, the following case study reveals ways that functionalism can work in a cooperative manner with environmental conservation efforts. Through exploration of downtown San Francisco’s future adaptive reuse plans, this thesis conceptualizes development practices that simultaneously address the crises of functionalism and environmental conservation, while contributing to a greater urban sustainability.

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