Abstract:
The construction industry is regulated through ever-tightening
building codes as governments manage urban development. Financially
disadvantaged groups who are unable to meet the expectations of such
codes compromise living conditions which reinforces cyclical poverty.
Architectural disobediences emerge in informal settlements as homes
that comply with regulatory frameworks become inaccessible for the lowincome demographic.
This thesis investigates domestic self-building within provincial Aotearoa.
DIY aspirations foster participatory design to reduce costs, yet the perceived
unpredictability of amateur construction presently stands in tension with
the building code. Construction autonomy has become synonymous with
liability, as governments are reluctant to accept the risk of self-built housing
projects.
Kaikohe, located in New Zealand’s Far North District, is a provincial town
of limited affluence. Its residential fabric has fallen victim to decay, the
integrity of local infrastructure depreciating as industry standards increase.
Despite this, overwhelming respect for tapu and a profound celebration
of indigenous culture reveals an expectant community. The mauri of this
research is grounded in a design methodology allowing people to reclaim
mana over their own living spaces through incremental, self-build practice.
It asks, can architecture balance the desire for construction autonomy in
lower socio-economic communities within a highly regulated environment?
The thesis delivers architectural solutions by deconstructing typical
suburban houses relocated from Auckland. A new recycled vernacular
is developed through the fragmentation and reconstruction of these
dwellings, creating better suited homes for whānau. Supplied with an initial
core, dwellings are grown with salvaged materials, nurtured by inhabitants
who become active contributors in the construction of their housing. This
application of self-building engages construction professionals to upskill
the local community, providing expertise to ensure that relationships with
industry standards are made more meaningful and accessible. The proposal
introduces accountability to improve social mobility and encourage a
productive and resilient community.