Filling the Void: Mixed-Use Social Housing Development

Abstract

The question being asked is how can vulnerable, underserved communities feel safe economically, physically, mentally, and culturally through architecture. This question provokes the thought of rethinking the term "architect"� as an advocative, enabling body, and what it means to serve all people rather than perceiving architects, architecture, and sustainability as a luxury item. The importance in this question lies in its goals to design a solution that proposes accessibility to these luxury items, and the benefit that is given to those that currently do not have access. Conceptual goals of providing these facets of safety to vulnerable communities can be answered by the theory of a cave: longevity in safety and protection. In modern times, vulnerable communities in poverty have limited access to safe spaces due to financial reasons; because of this, their economic, physical, and mental safeties become disproportionately endangered. With gentrification programs rising and the social divide between economies growing, the safety of these communities is lost along with their cultural identity. This calls for a revitalization of place through architecture that can withstand weathering, provide affordability, benefit physical well-being, and boost mental well-being while providing a space showcasing the cultural identity of a community.