Abstract:
This research paper examines the current spatio-political obstacles faced by most
contemporary universities in establishing camaraderie among students and engages with the transition towards a capitalist approach in the education world.
The study focuses on the University of Auckland’s mission towards creating a sustainable and communal campus, while throwing light on the lack of required programs and suitable
infrastructure that are essential in achieving this mission. Three key factors are identified that are hurdles in the current university framework: Transport, Academic Capitalism and the
transition towards digital communication. Successful aspects of the digital world are drawn upon to help establish programs for the design proposal.
This study proposes the conversion of part of Symonds Street that currently bifurcates the main core of the University into a regenerative green corridor that accommodates various
student-run spaces that help foster a sense of agency and community among the students of the University of Auckland. The proposal looks at the Hākari structure as an inspiration for a series of campus hub buildings designed along Symonds Street housing a variety of interactive and gathering spaces. Communal gardening is introduced as a sustainable practice on campus as a key program in bringing together peers from different departments of the University, while also exploring its therapeutic advantages in improving the overall wellbeing of the students.
The design proposition aims to be a model for how architecture and urban design can
contribute to the daily life of contemporary students while incorporating essential Māori design values such as Manaakitanga, Wairuatanga and Whanaungatanga.
