Abstract:
Through globalization, the world has witnessed increasing
levels of cultural flow exchanged between countries
through migratory processes. Epitomizing this scenario,
Auckland has been subject to various waves of migration
– and subsequent diverse cultural influences – over
time. This has transformed the population composition
and local built environment. Consequently, Auckland is
now identified as the fourth most ethnically diverse city
globally (International Organization for Migration, 2015).
Whilst this diversification has enriched the city’s profile,
the confrontation or lack of interaction between the
many cultures existing within Auckland has resulted in
numerous issues including misrepresentation, inequality,
and marginalization of immigrants. Central to these
discourses is the lack of understanding, facilitation,
and acceptance of cultural identity – both individual
and collective.
Thus, the objective of this research is to interrogate the
complexities of resettlement and explore solutions which
can support the expression of unique and varied cultural
identities and/or facilitate congruency between cultures.
Therefore, this thesis is curated from the exploration
into, and the symbiosis of, two key positions I hold when
viewing the world: an immigrant and an architect. The
former provides insights and critiques I have gained
about intersectionality through my personal experience
of resettlement. The latter guides the translation of
knowledge gained from my reflections into a design
methodology that enables the establishment of places
of belonging and interaction for diverse communities