Kava at the intersection of the fale and vaka

Abstract

Kava at the Intersection of Fale and Vaka explores the cultural interpenetration of indigenous and modern architecture from the perspective of the indigenous, which in this case is Tonga. It discusses the socio-cultural institution that is kava in relation to the fale house and vaka canoe, and informed by space, time, form, content and function. This discussion is furthered by an examination of cultural expression and identity in relation to history and mythology. This ultimately leads to a design proposal for a new Parliament building in Nuku’alofa, Tonga.