Participant Perspective

Abstract

In an industry where success is defined differently by architects and non-architects, communication and interpretation have become fundamental cornerstones in shaping the architectural landscape. This project explores the importance of Participant Design in aiding architectural conversation and investigates how it can be utilized to empower all stakeholders to be a part of the design process. Participant Perspective is a critical exploration concerning facilitating and supporting Participant Design in architecture, utilizing hands-on design and encouraging a clear dialogue in what has become an exclusive and closed off profession. When Participant Design could be employed and encouraged, it has now been reduced to use in practices such as surveying and Strategic Participation, both of which offer minimal contribution to architectural practices. It could also be seen as simply a means to appease to the masses and dictate the client's involvement. This thesis explores and critiques the many processes of Participant Design, exploring their merits and shortcomings in an attempt to design a system whereby architects and non-architects can collaborate and communicate, which then allows the emergence of architecture that better reflects the identity and desires of its inhabitants. The theoretical and conceptual research utilized in this study is an exploration and commentary on the abilities of both the architect and non-architect to visualize, create identity as well as an observation of their behaviour in the process of design. Key findings are derived from a number of experiments that encourage various participants with different backgrounds to design and visualize their own concepts utilizing pre-fabricated physical models as tools. Furthermore, a number of case studies focusing on collaborative architecture and thinking are analysed and further informed by the theoretical writings of theorists such as Foucault and Rudosfky. These experiments and research culminate in a design solution that offers a system that redefines the roles of the architect and nonarchitect but also allows both parties the opportunity to express their ideas and to contribute to architecture in a meaningful way.