Outside, In : design for integration
Date
2019Citation:
Hossain, N. M. (2019). Outside, In : design for integration. (Unpublished document submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Architecture (Professional)). Unitec Institute of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand. Retrieved from https://hdl.handle.net/10652/4844Permanent link to Research Bank record:
https://hdl.handle.net/10652/4844Abstract
RESEARCH QUESTION:
How can an architectural intervention assist in integrating refugees into Auckland society?
ABSTRACT:
New Zealand is one of 44 nations that are a part of the UNHCR treaty, that looks to give 1000 refugees a new life each year. In this new life, however, Refugees are in displacement and struggle to integrate into society. Our country has made means to provide basic facilities and skills for communication, yet these skills are taught in an isolated area away from the public.
This proposal aims to integrate refugees by extracting their needs while in the resettlement process. It will explore further interventions that will help refugees integrate by gaining confidence and stability. Current refugee resettlement processes will be reviewed to gain information on where this problem stems. We investigate examples of current refugee typologies, that will help to create an understanding of architecture that either restricts or achieves integration and to work towards it.
The site of Māngere-East is proposed as it includes the existing Māngere Refugee Resettlement Centre. The site is close to the centre, and the surrounding area has a multicultural population which helps the idea of resettling a multicultural group such as refugees. Refugee architecture globally is only limited to temporary spaces in forms of shelters and housing. These spaces have minimal functions that strip refugees to bare life. Refugees require integration to acquire an income that can support their families during the resettling process. Lack of integration and support causes refugees to develop psychological issues which develop from displacement and isolation. It further discourages them to live a happy and healthy life.
The end result of this project hopes to bring a space where refugees and the local community can work together. The objective is to aid refugees to gain a sense of belonging and acceptance while also serving alongside the wider community of Māngere-East. The two groups will view each other as equal contributors to society, leading to acceptance. Architecture should not be restricting but rather providing and equal to every group.