Architecture : a catalyst for youth development

Abstract

RESEARCH QUESTION: Using the power of architecture to develop a holistic, integrated youth-focused project; implementing sustainable strategies in order to provide an experimental physical and social environment to improve the current development of youth from low socio-economic conditions in New Zealand.

“The will to win, the desire to succeed, the urge to reach your full potential... these are the keys that will unlock the door to personal excellence.” - Confucius

This design project attempts to explore the relationship between the power of architecture and the successful development of youth originating from low socio-economic backgrounds.

The project integrates sport as the driving factor behind their development, thus involves the design of a sports facility in New Zealand. The design of this facility seeks to investigate how architecture can be used as a cohesive and motivating element towards the social and physical development of these youth in order for them to become successful adults.

Through the provision of this functional facility and the implementation of currently successful and viable social and physical development strategies, the project aims to empower youth to become responsible citizens who are strong and self-confident with sound social awareness. In the long term, this project seeks to develop these youth into the role models of the future.