Architecture and the people: a youth social centre for cultural exchange Chitungwiza, Zimbabwe
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Date
2022-01
Authors
Muchingami, Omar
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
University of the Free State
Abstract
The inaction of idleness is a terminal disease in the lives of young people all over Zimbabwe. This social crisis results mostly from the constantly and radically weakening economy, forcing a lot of people to barely survive on a hand-to-mouth basis. Young adults are mostly affected by this conundrum as the urban population keeps increasing, while job opportunities remain unchanged. The United Nations Youth Association of Zimbabwe (UNYAZ) is a youth-oriented organization that empowers young people to become agents of positive change in their local and global communities. Amongst the social tools that they need to solve the rising social dilemma, UNYAZ needs an innovative architectural space where young people can develop their existing skills and generate an income. The aim of this thesis proposal is to provide a place where this can happen in the form of a Youth Center on a vacant parcel of land on the outskirts of Chitungwiza, Zimbabwe. The design proposal is based on three theoretical concepts: biophilic design, terrain vague, and vernacular design. Biophilic design along with the use of vernacular construction methods and local materials results in a program that enables interaction opportunities that improve a sense of community and belongingness for its users. Terrain vague is used as a way both to identify the site typology and as a metaphor for the young adults it intends to serve. The environmentally sustainable design combined with vernacular architecture and biophilia/biomimicry is used to unpack the design intentions in terms of providing a place where the youth can develop an identity, purpose, and belongingness through interaction.
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Keywords
Dissertation (M.Arch. (Architecture))--University of the Free State, 2022, Youth -- Social aspects -- Africa, Youth -- Social conditions, Sustainable architecture -- develop skills, Sustainable architecture -- generate income