At Home with a View: Exploring Notions of Landscape

10.26686/wgtn.16997854.v1 ◽

2021 ◽

Author(s):

◽

Hester Blyth Borren

Keyword(s):

New Zealand ◽

Architectural Design ◽

Western Society ◽

Design Strategies ◽

Single View ◽

Landscape Art ◽

Final Design ◽

Surrounding Landscape ◽

Different Characteristics ◽

Contemporary Architecture

The aim of this thesis is to gain an understanding of the role and value of a view of landscape with respect to the interior of New Zealand houses. It explores the all-or-nothing manner in which contemporary architecture presents surrounding scenery. Through a translation of New Zealand landscape paintings, it presents alternative approaches for connecting the interior and exterior of a house in such a way that can enhance both the experience of a view and a house. In doing so this thesis contends that artistic themes and techniques can enrich views of landscapes, especially of nature, through the architecture of New Zealand houses. This thesis employs three research approaches to achieve its aim. The first research section, a literature review, provides an examination of historical and contemporary western attitudes towards a view. This confirms that much of western society has learnt to appreciate and benefit from, a view, and that the nature of people's response is deeply ingrained. The second section focuses on domestic views in both international and Wellington houses. Each study is analysed to gain understanding of the design strategies in respect to architectural presentations of a view. The last section pursues a more integrated designresearch approach, separated in two parts. Firstly, it explores a possible connection between the artistic treatment of landscape paintings and architectural treatments of houses. Four spaces are presented as studio residences for artists, focusing on four very different characteristics of land. Secondly, two further house designs are developed which employ techniques produced from the first design part as well as research from the previous sections. It aims to present two opposite spatial approaches to a depiction of surrounding landscape in an architectural design, one that presents a single view to look at and one that presents a series of views to engage with. This final design section explores the above contention. It presents how a connection between landscape art and architecture can offer guidance to the way in which a view is experienced from New Zealand homes. This is achieved on a theoretical as well as practical level, generating a range of techniques for further exploration.

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Homeless. Self-Build Housing for Wellington's Transitionally Homeless

10.26686/wgtn.17142344.v1 ◽

2021 ◽

Author(s):

◽

Jake Goodger

Keyword(s):

New Zealand ◽

Affordable Housing ◽

Architectural Design ◽

Well Being ◽

Design Guidelines ◽

Design Strategies ◽

Physical And Mental Health ◽

Screening Process ◽

Business Innovation ◽

New Zealanders

Housing is an important precondition for people to live healthy and prosperous lives. Access to suitable housing is an essential factor in the overall well-being of individuals, families, and communities. Housing suitability and quality has ramifications for physical and mental health, education, employment, social cohesion and intergenerational mobility. These outcomes directly impact the functioning of communities, broader society, and the economy (Ministry of Business Innovation & Employment). Per capita, New Zealand has one of the highest rates of homelessness in the world. At 1% of the total population, it is estimated that approximately 42,000 New Zealanders are experiencing some form of homelessness. These individuals are either in temporary or insecure accommodation (OECD). Our capital’s housing supply is evidentially not meeting demand. Wellington is currently 9312 dwellings short of what is required, resulting in multiple tenants residing in singular rooms, and an increase in homelessness (Ministry of Business, Innovation & Employment). This issue arises when there is an intermediate population deemed ‘too rich’ for social housing by the Ministry of Social Development screening process. However, due to low current median incomes this group are not able to afford Wellington’s rental prices, leaving them with little to no options in securing healthy and stable accommodation. Those fortunate enough to secure tenancy find themselves marginalised by society as they are not in permanent ‘homes’ but transitional residences on the city fringes. This thesis explores a novel approach to our capital’s housing crisis, with the specific intention of provoking conversation about alternative approaches to the re-housing of New Zealanders most at need. Giving individuals the opportunity to up-skill, combined with the ability to craft their own permanent home will provide the helping hand needed to get them back on their feet and re-introduced into productive society. Interviews with Wellington’s housing providers and those working directly with the homeless have informed the key considerations for providing housing for the transitionally homeless. The literature review highlights the importance of creating and enhancing a sense of belonging through architectural design strategies. Precedent studies are analysed to understand the importance of location, planning, appearance and the materiality of housing units as well as assessing the validity of self-build housing for New Zealand. This research develops a universal design response to affordable housing in Wellington. A non-exclusive approach facilitates residents as a whole rather than focusing on site specifics, thus achieving a more holistic design concept. This model can be implemented in a broader context to ultimately support the provision of quality and affordable housing to those in most need. The outcomes of this thesis include; a set of design guidelines for those involved in the provision of housing for the transitionally homeless, and a detailed design proposal for a conceptual housing intervention in urban Wellington.

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Rise, Ruin & Regeneration: An Examination of the Regeneration of Post-War Suburban State Housing in New Zealand

10.26686/wgtn.17003356.v1 ◽

2021 ◽

Author(s):

◽

James Arps

Keyword(s):

New Zealand ◽

Architectural Design ◽

Design Strategies ◽

Specific Design ◽

Design Case ◽

Regenerative Design ◽

Post War ◽

Design Case Study

Over 70 years since it was completed, the house at 12 Fife Lane, Miramar, New Zealand’s first state house, looks unchanged. However, the intervening years have seen the failure of some state housing models, the deteriorating condition of others, as well as shifting and increasing housing demands. This thesis examines the urban and architectural design, and the subsequent redevelopment, both private and state-initiated, of post-war suburban state housing in New Zealand. The objective of this thesis is to understand through analysis of existing literature, case study fieldwork, and redevelopment examples, the evolving urban and architectural design of these areas and dwellings, which have arguably shaped the residential face of the nation. The outcomes of this thesis are a series of design strategies for the regeneration of post-war suburban state housing in New Zealand. The purpose of these regenerative design strategies is to address a range of significant issues that the Housing New Zealand Corporation faces, while acknowledging the remaining value of the original investment in post-war suburban state housing. The regenerative design strategies are developed from the earlier research, and are broken into three distinct, but inter-related topics. These are suburban environments, state properties, and state houses, and are examined through a specific design case study. The design case study articulates the potential of regeneration to address a number of issues which became apparent through the research. This thesis concludes that while state housing may never again signify in every sense the ‘very heart of the New Zealand dream’ (Ferguson, 1994, p.117), through regeneration it can, once again, be a certain benchmark for housing generally, and can continue to provide for the nation for at least another 70 years.

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Recharting The Philosophy of Technology in Contemporary Architecture

SHS Web of Conferences ◽

10.1051/shsconf/20184104012 ◽

2018 ◽

Vol 41 ◽

pp. 04012

Author(s):

Revianto Budi Santosa

Keyword(s):

Architectural Design ◽

Philosophy Of Technology ◽

Le Corbusier ◽

Modern Technology ◽

Appropriate Technology ◽

Western Society ◽

Human Effort ◽

Early Modern Era ◽

Contemporary Architecture ◽

Modern Era

Technology is an indispensable aspect of architecture. In fact, it is being an essential part of the human effort in making architecture. Since the early modern era, technology that rapidly change has been seen as the sign of progress, not only pertaining to the technology itself, but also architecture and even civilization. Modern architectural theoreticians, from Sant’Elia to Le Corbusier, enthusiastically embraced the progressive side of technology and engineering. Philosophically, however, modern technology is regarded pessimistically. Heidegger and Jaspers considered technology as the source of alienation to the human being themselves and to the reality they face. To overcome this gap, Alan Drengson, proposed the four philosophy of technology to rechart the variety of tendency towards technology in Western society, consisting of (1) technological anarchy, (2) technophilia, (3) technophobia, and (4) technological appropriateness. In this explanation, he coined the terms “creative philosophy” to include many aspects and ways of thinking which might be incorporated in the creative activities like architectural design. This paper attempts to evaluate the appropriatenes of Drengson’s philosophical scheme as a platform for architectural education in Indonesia in general, by relating his framework with the architectural theories and practices in Indonesia. The result of this effort is while the formulation of his scheme is the very inclusive and closely related with creative activity like architectural design, it contains bias of industrial technology appearing in the Asian scene brought by Western European colonials. Discussing philosophy underlying Gandhi’s movement in India to reject oppressive technology, we may arrive at the conclusion that the philosopy of non-violence, truth and justice based on the principle of self restrained are relevant to figure out the ideal of appropriate technology in Asia.

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Homeless. Self-Build Housing for Wellington's Transitionally Homeless

10.26686/wgtn.17142344 ◽

2021 ◽

Author(s):

◽

Jake Goodger

Keyword(s):

New Zealand ◽

Affordable Housing ◽

Architectural Design ◽

Well Being ◽

Design Guidelines ◽

Design Strategies ◽

Physical And Mental Health ◽

Screening Process ◽

Business Innovation ◽

New Zealanders

Housing is an important precondition for people to live healthy and prosperous lives. Access to suitable housing is an essential factor in the overall well-being of individuals, families, and communities. Housing suitability and quality has ramifications for physical and mental health, education, employment, social cohesion and intergenerational mobility. These outcomes directly impact the functioning of communities, broader society, and the economy (Ministry of Business Innovation & Employment). Per capita, New Zealand has one of the highest rates of homelessness in the world. At 1% of the total population, it is estimated that approximately 42,000 New Zealanders are experiencing some form of homelessness. These individuals are either in temporary or insecure accommodation (OECD). Our capital’s housing supply is evidentially not meeting demand. Wellington is currently 9312 dwellings short of what is required, resulting in multiple tenants residing in singular rooms, and an increase in homelessness (Ministry of Business, Innovation & Employment). This issue arises when there is an intermediate population deemed ‘too rich’ for social housing by the Ministry of Social Development screening process. However, due to low current median incomes this group are not able to afford Wellington’s rental prices, leaving them with little to no options in securing healthy and stable accommodation. Those fortunate enough to secure tenancy find themselves marginalised by society as they are not in permanent ‘homes’ but transitional residences on the city fringes. This thesis explores a novel approach to our capital’s housing crisis, with the specific intention of provoking conversation about alternative approaches to the re-housing of New Zealanders most at need. Giving individuals the opportunity to up-skill, combined with the ability to craft their own permanent home will provide the helping hand needed to get them back on their feet and re-introduced into productive society. Interviews with Wellington’s housing providers and those working directly with the homeless have informed the key considerations for providing housing for the transitionally homeless. The literature review highlights the importance of creating and enhancing a sense of belonging through architectural design strategies. Precedent studies are analysed to understand the importance of location, planning, appearance and the materiality of housing units as well as assessing the validity of self-build housing for New Zealand. This research develops a universal design response to affordable housing in Wellington. A non-exclusive approach facilitates residents as a whole rather than focusing on site specifics, thus achieving a more holistic design concept. This model can be implemented in a broader context to ultimately support the provision of quality and affordable housing to those in most need. The outcomes of this thesis include; a set of design guidelines for those involved in the provision of housing for the transitionally homeless, and a detailed design proposal for a conceptual housing intervention in urban Wellington.

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Whenua Ora: Land Healing. Designing Architecture that Incorporates Nature and Mātauranga Māori

10.26686/wgtn.17131913.v1 ◽

2021 ◽

Author(s):

◽

Katy Phillips

Keyword(s):

New Zealand ◽

Community Involvement ◽

Architectural Design ◽

Strong Relationship ◽

Increased Risk ◽

Designed Environment ◽

Final Design ◽

Architectural Knowledge ◽

Mainstream Culture

In 2006, 86% of New Zealanders lived in urban centres, a number that is expected to have risen (“Urban and rural migration”). Urban lifestyles have been linked to increased risk of obesity, stress, cardiovascular diseases and cancers among other things (Murray). As this percentage continues to rise, New Zealand faces the challenge of creating urban environ- ments that do not adversely affect mental and physical wellbeing. It can be argued that one factor leading to this loss of wellbeing in urban centres is the disconnection to nature and the healing effects that nature provides. In New Zealand, Māori have developed a strong relationship with the land. The under- standing that nature benefits health is deeply embedded within their culture. This research attempts to address the role of architecture in facilitating urban health and wellbeing is- sues through the incorporation of Mātauranga Māori (Māori knowledge) of healing and nature. The integration of Mātauranga Māori into this thesis comes from the recognition that our wellbeing can be greatly affected by our relationship with nature and that Māori culture best embodies this in a New Zealand context. Currently, Māori knowledge is under- represented in New Zealand’s predominantly western mainstream culture. This research is significant as it explores the role of architecture in facilitating a connection with nature in a bicultural urban environment, an area that is currently underexplored. Incorporating these values into design generates the potential to increase Māori representation in the designed environment as well as expand the architectural knowledge of designing for wellbeing. The chosen site, Birdwood Reserve is an underutilised bush reserve in the suburb of Karori, Wellington. Birdwood Reserve is situated in the nation’s capital, adjacent to Zealandia, an eco-sanctuary that is frequented by tourists. It is a steep valley with access to dense bush and the disturbed Kaiwharawhara stream. Flanked on two sides by environmentally active communities, it offers the potential for community involvement in the healing of the land- scape, helping restore the reserve while healing itself. The intentions of this thesis are addressed through the design of a bicultural wellbeing cen- tre. Through the process of this design, the role of Māori culture in New Zealand architec- ture will be analysed, as well as the potential to reconnect people to nature through design. The final design will explore how to embody the developed framework of bicultural values relevant to architectural design for wellbeing.

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Rise, Ruin & Regeneration: An Examination of the Regeneration of Post-War Suburban State Housing in New Zealand

10.26686/wgtn.17003356 ◽

2021 ◽

Author(s):

◽

James Arps

Keyword(s):

New Zealand ◽

Architectural Design ◽

Design Strategies ◽

Specific Design ◽

Design Case ◽

Regenerative Design ◽

Post War ◽

Design Case Study

Over 70 years since it was completed, the house at 12 Fife Lane, Miramar, New Zealand’s first state house, looks unchanged. However, the intervening years have seen the failure of some state housing models, the deteriorating condition of others, as well as shifting and increasing housing demands. This thesis examines the urban and architectural design, and the subsequent redevelopment, both private and state-initiated, of post-war suburban state housing in New Zealand. The objective of this thesis is to understand through analysis of existing literature, case study fieldwork, and redevelopment examples, the evolving urban and architectural design of these areas and dwellings, which have arguably shaped the residential face of the nation. The outcomes of this thesis are a series of design strategies for the regeneration of post-war suburban state housing in New Zealand. The purpose of these regenerative design strategies is to address a range of significant issues that the Housing New Zealand Corporation faces, while acknowledging the remaining value of the original investment in post-war suburban state housing. The regenerative design strategies are developed from the earlier research, and are broken into three distinct, but inter-related topics. These are suburban environments, state properties, and state houses, and are examined through a specific design case study. The design case study articulates the potential of regeneration to address a number of issues which became apparent through the research. This thesis concludes that while state housing may never again signify in every sense the ‘very heart of the New Zealand dream’ (Ferguson, 1994, p.117), through regeneration it can, once again, be a certain benchmark for housing generally, and can continue to provide for the nation for at least another 70 years.

Download Full-text

Whenua Ora: Land Healing. Designing Architecture that Incorporates Nature and Mātauranga Māori

10.26686/wgtn.17131913 ◽

2021 ◽

Author(s):

◽

Katy Phillips

Keyword(s):

New Zealand ◽

Community Involvement ◽

Architectural Design ◽

Strong Relationship ◽

Increased Risk ◽

Designed Environment ◽

Final Design ◽

Architectural Knowledge ◽

Mainstream Culture

In 2006, 86% of New Zealanders lived in urban centres, a number that is expected to have risen (“Urban and rural migration”). Urban lifestyles have been linked to increased risk of obesity, stress, cardiovascular diseases and cancers among other things (Murray). As this percentage continues to rise, New Zealand faces the challenge of creating urban environ- ments that do not adversely affect mental and physical wellbeing. It can be argued that one factor leading to this loss of wellbeing in urban centres is the disconnection to nature and the healing effects that nature provides. In New Zealand, Māori have developed a strong relationship with the land. The under- standing that nature benefits health is deeply embedded within their culture. This research attempts to address the role of architecture in facilitating urban health and wellbeing is- sues through the incorporation of Mātauranga Māori (Māori knowledge) of healing and nature. The integration of Mātauranga Māori into this thesis comes from the recognition that our wellbeing can be greatly affected by our relationship with nature and that Māori culture best embodies this in a New Zealand context. Currently, Māori knowledge is under- represented in New Zealand’s predominantly western mainstream culture. This research is significant as it explores the role of architecture in facilitating a connection with nature in a bicultural urban environment, an area that is currently underexplored. Incorporating these values into design generates the potential to increase Māori representation in the designed environment as well as expand the architectural knowledge of designing for wellbeing. The chosen site, Birdwood Reserve is an underutilised bush reserve in the suburb of Karori, Wellington. Birdwood Reserve is situated in the nation’s capital, adjacent to Zealandia, an eco-sanctuary that is frequented by tourists. It is a steep valley with access to dense bush and the disturbed Kaiwharawhara stream. Flanked on two sides by environmentally active communities, it offers the potential for community involvement in the healing of the land- scape, helping restore the reserve while healing itself. The intentions of this thesis are addressed through the design of a bicultural wellbeing cen- tre. Through the process of this design, the role of Māori culture in New Zealand architec- ture will be analysed, as well as the potential to reconnect people to nature through design. The final design will explore how to embody the developed framework of bicultural values relevant to architectural design for wellbeing.

Download Full-text