Matā'apu, fausaga fa'aopopo i fale ma maota o tagata mai le atu nu'u Samoa / Extensions and additions to the domestic dwellings of Samoan diaspora

Abstract

While Contemporary Pacific Architecture has to some extent has been critically considered in terms of architectural theory and practice in the last two decades the condition of domestic dwelling amongst Samoan Diaspora has remained largely - under researched. This thesis proposes that the value systems and building practices of the Samoan Diaspora have found expression in the construction of structures ancillary to the domestic dwelling. It argues that this practice is the negotiation of external forces and the persisting influence of Samoan social institutions. Analysis of these ancillary structures has required architectural, contextual and historical research. Accordingly, select methodologies collected information pertinent to the thesis research area. "Relational drawing" has been used as an indigenized agency, gathering together research, construction, relationships and contemporary practice. Relational drawing has brought into view the tangible and intangible values of the Samoan Diaspora. Inviting reflexivity and development in order to record a contemporary architectural condition. Retaining aspects of convention and negotiates this with drawing inventions to describe Samoan value systems. The process is one that plaits and intertwines Samoan perspectives and values to present an alternative drawing practice in contemporary Pacific discourse. Moreover, in indigenizing drawing convention, a contemporary indigenous voice has been for describing Samoan value systems as they manifest in domestic architecture.