Keywords
themed experience design, main street design, small town America, urban planning
Abstract
The idea of the American main street is deeply embedded in popular culture, often seen through layers of nostalgia that can obscure the real-world conditions of today. While an idealized nostalgia may benefit some towns, decades of change have left many struggling to fit the mold. This thesis explores how core principles of themed experience design can be integrated into existing American main streets, reimagining the way residents interact and identify with these spaces.
Examining historical upheavals alongside decades of media portrayals brings insight into the different stories embedded in America’s small towns, many of which remain focused on the past. This thesis looks at main streets as they are today and proposes a new design approach that honors the past, celebrates the present, and looks toward the future. The proposal grounds the design elements with urban planning principles and invites broader conversation between disciplines.
The design is presented through a 3D model, showcasing three themed areas and an overarching story that weaves into an existing main street. With a variety of interactives and engagement styles, each area works toward building a new vision of community and identity in America’s main streets.
Completion Date
2025
Semester
Spring
Committee Chair
Weishar, Peter
Degree
Master of Fine Arts (M.F.A.)
College
College of Arts and Humanities
Department
Theater
Identifier
DP0029390
Document Type
Dissertation/Thesis
Campus Location
Orlando (Main) Campus
STARS Citation
Schweiger, Carrie L., "Reimagining Main Street: Themed Experience Design as a Tool for Small Town Revitalization" (2025). Graduate Thesis and Dissertation post-2024. 221.
https://stars.library.ucf.edu/etd2024/221