Borderline

Abstract

Borderline analyzes the political nature of architecture as a line. Lines define space, creating boundaries. This project studies the international border separating the U.S. and Mexico and current detention practices. Borderline proposes a new building type: a family reunification center, a space that reunites migrant guardians to their children. Exploring the relationships between architecture and memory; architecture and politics; and the elasticity of vernacular architecture in its materiality, elegance, flexibility and sustainability; this project proposes the U.S.-Mexico order is vernacular to the area, and as such historic preservation of the border as repurposed or redefined is intrinsic in repairing divides between both countries and developing peaceful relations.