Nth Space
Opportunity
One of the defining characteristics of cities is the centralization of work, social interactions, and commerce. Unfortunately, this model creates a tangle of mobility issues, particularly those related to time, sustainability, and wellbeing.
We can encourage the decentralization of cities through the creation of a network of local destinations.
These destinations—called Nth Spaces—are neither homes nor offices. Instead, they’re satellite spaces that support our situational needs. Hence, Nth Spaces can give back time, enable a range of new life-affirming behaviors around work and play, and bolster sustainability.
The age of vehicle electrification begs an important question: What will happen to gas stations? One solution is to transform them into Nth Space testing grounds. Their abundance, strategic positioning on street corners, and recognizability as fixtures in the urban fabric make them ideal for this purpose.
In the USA, there are 145,000 gas stations, equaling more than 3.6 billion square feet of real estate.
Transit-Oriented Development
Development Along Linear Corridors
Mobility-Oriented Development
Development Across a Distributed Field
Gas stations also offer distribution across the urban landscape. This means they can serve as critical pieces of the infrastructure needed for urban decentralization—if they’re transformed from pass-through sites to meaningful destinations.
Circulation & Flow
Future Concept
For gas stations to morph into successful Nth Spaces, they’ll have to address a range of situational needs. One way to accomplish that is to design Nth Spaces for specific functions, such as mindfulness, social interactions, or work, with vehicle charging serving as a secondary function.
Refuel & Recharge:
The Zone
Designed for recharging not just your vehicle but also your whole self, the Zone is envisioned as a place of mindfulness and introspection. Featuring soothing, natural elements and spaces for you to indulge in meditation, yoga, or spa treatments, the Zone could also allow vehicles to slot into the structure and serve as Zen pods.
Productivity:
The Booster
Conceived of as a productivity hub, the Booster would function as a space for focused work or professional interactions, such as networking or formal meetings. Potential amenities could include Wi-Fi, various meeting spaces (including integrated vehicles), and an assistant to handle deliveries, scheduling, and other administrative tasks.
Socialize:
The Clubhouse
Here you’ll find a communal space that’s energizing, mood enhancing, and engaging. With the potential to serve as a venue for concerts or films, provide abundant dining options, and enable cars to plug in and function as lounges or entertainment areas, the Club House can be a truly desirable and unique urban destination.
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