Grafik Archistruct explores the widespread phenomenon of abandonment and vacancy in rural towns across America, aiming to raise awareness of urban decay and its impact on the built environment.

By focusing on structural abandonment, Grafik Archistruct encourages a deeper understanding of how these spaces shape our communities. How can we heighten our awareness of our surroundings? How can we foster meaningful discussions about abandonment and vacancy in America? How can we engage with our communities to spark action and revitalize neglected spaces?

Utilizing Google Street View for identification and documentation, Grafik Archistruct amplifies awareness through social media, as well as virtual and physical exhibitions.

Each selected rural town serves as a case study, highlighting buildings chosen for their historical significance and geographic relevance in contrast to their current state of neglect. These case studies pair immersive, dimensional imagery with written narratives detailing the building’s history, past occupants, former uses, and archival records.

Though many abandoned structures have been left behind due to economic shifts, changing consumer behaviors, and population decline in small towns, they still hold untapped potential. How can we reimagine these spaces? How can we foster dialogue that leads to action? How can we reconnect with our communities to breathe new life into forgotten architecture?