Dwelling in Memory : Re-associating with the heart of Christchurch

Abstract

How can architecture create a sense of community, and develop improved mental wellbeing in post-disaster Christchurch? The earthquake early of September 4th 2010 sparked 'a series of unfortunate events' for Christchurch. It was followed soon after on the 22nd of February 2011, when a more devastating earthquake occurred. Christchurch city was crippled by this natural disaster. 185 people died and hundreds were injured whilst significant parts, including historic buildings, of the city were left in ruin. Thousands of buildings across the central city were damaged, some beyond repair and the rich historical architecture of the Canterbury region suffered significantly. The effect these events have had on the mental wellbeing of Christchurch residents inspires this thesis. This research investigates the potential effects that the built environment can have on mental health. It provides an understanding of place attachment theory, and considers case studies which are relevant to Christchurch and its fragmented architectural remains. The intention is to provide a context for a rich architectural intervention in the city which links notions of heritage and wellbeing when applied to damaged areas within central Christchurch. The proposed architecture intends to generate a sense of community and place attachment within post-disaster Christchurch city. It is envisaged that this will be done by developing pre-existing conditions on site which have been left partially demolished since the 2011 earthquakes. Thought is focused on creating dwellings within the memory of old Christchurch buildings, allowing for the potential to improve the mental health of residents, as they are introduced to familiar form and function. Providing places for spontaneous socialisation between individuals is key in creating a close- knit community and engenders a sense of community. This could act as a therapeutic place for recovering residents of Christchurch. This architecture will render the spaces in-between equally as important as the buildings themselves. It appears that wellbeing can be enhanced by an architecture that supports a community integrated into the centre of a recovering city. Perhaps this proposition could act as a model for replication to rejuvenate the health of the city, and somehow challenge more convenient housing options such as typical suburban developments on the outer edges of the city or standard box-like apartments, which are current options for residents. This research project explores and creates a housing development that encapsulates architectural elements that promote wellbeing as well as producing a unique community living space.