Architecture, Art, and Planning By

ii This thesis examines a particular phenomenon of urban conflict, specifically when it’s in response to the appropriation of a space. The definition of appropriation as it relates to this thesis is; to take possession of, or make use of exclusively for oneself, often without permission. Examples of this has manifest in many forms and scales. Although I refer too many, there is one occurrence I’ve given particular attention too, a local eminent domain battle in Norwood, Ohio. A shift in State Supreme Court rulings on the use of Eminent Domain has sparked legal battles across the nation. In many states it is now legal for a city to use the power of eminent domain, cease your property and turn it over to a private developer. This shift in law has reignited a national debate regarding land use. How do we balance the boundaries of private land ownership and an individual right, versus what is deemed as the communal greater good? How do we define the ter