Transforming Forgotten Lands into Living Buildings: A ‘Living Building Challenge’ Approach in a Warm Humid Tropical Environment

Abstract

This thesis examines how the Living Building Challenge (LBC) can be used to transform abandoned remnant lots into sustainable living spaces in Puerto Rico's warm, humid tropical climate. The research focuses on addressing the unique infrastructural challenges of these unused spaces and aims to show how the LBC principles can be effectively applied to create self-sufficient, eco-friendly buildings. It also explores the holistic and rigorous approach of the LBC, looking at its seven performance petals—Place, Water, Energy, Health + Happiness, Materials, Equity, and Beauty—and how they can be used in the local context. Additionally, it compares sustainable building practices, emphasizing the LBC's comprehensiveness over other certification systems like BREEAM and LEED. The thesis also considers the social aspect of sustainability, particularly the growing elderly population in Puerto Rico, and suggests that transforming remnant lots into living buildings can address both the environmental and social needs of the community. Through detailed case studies and proposed strategies tailored to the Puerto Rican environment, the research provides a roadmap for achieving LBC certification and promoting resilient, sustainable urban development. By integrating LBC principles with the local ecological and social context, this thesis aims to inspire future architectural projects in Puerto Rico to adopt more sustainable and regenerative design practices.