Abstract:
While the representation of vulnerable communities has been widely contested and debated in a political margin, the underlying themes remain under-explored in architectural literature. This thesis aims to uncover how feminist architectural theories can be used as an archetype to generate a socially conscious design for the marginalised users of Karangahape Road. Within academia, the understanding of architectural feminism will be governed by theorists: Kimberlé Crenshaw, Jane Jacobs, Jane Rendell, Jennifer Bloomer, and Lori Brown. Using these paradigms, this thesis will navigate the movement of a space which intends to help mitigate negative conversation, and drive growth and support for these communities. Through providing a nurturing homogenous space for the collective users of Karangahape Road, this piece of architecture becomes a place where the vulnerable can see themselves in others. They can seek support, guidance, or act as mentors to others in need. For the individual users of the building, the facilities will offer an intimate architectural journey of celebrating their diversity. The approach includes conversations with existing community organisations who articulate the urgency for aid within a metropolis like Tāmaki Makaurau. Participating in these conversations helps to identify both the design interventions required to accommodate the needs of the users, and what transitional developments are required for the urban landscape to support these needs. This thesis will act as a step towards acknowledging an alternative typology to re-define vulnerable urbanity, confronting the vulnerability of its inhabitants, and alleviating the stigma behind their way of life.
