Event Stations: A New Narrative for Declining Gas Stations

Abstract

This thesis examines the abandonment and potential of gas stations in Windsor, Ontario. As ubiquitous structures of the urban roadside, gas stations became an important piece of infrastructure for the city and the automobile. The emergence of new technology, alternative fuels, and a shift in attitudes reduces our future dependence on gas stations. As a result, existing gas stations will be at risk of abandonment. As urban infrastructure, this is an opportunity to create new narratives with city events and reintegrate gas stations that engage the neighborhood. Introducing new architectural elements, this thesis seeks to transform the gas station into the Event Station, a public space that is both ordinary (for the everyday) and special (for city events), a place for inhabitation.