Because these systems embody beliefs that marginalize women, the resulting spaces remain largely unsupportive of women's needs and lifestyles. This dissertation aims to define the conditions and criteria that would inform the built environment in order to be more supportive of women in relation to these social and spatial challenges.
INTRODUCTION
INTRODUCTION
- BACKGROUND
- MOTIVATION/ JUSTIFICATION OF STUDY
- DEFINITION OF THE PROBLEM
- AIMS
- OBJECTIVES
- DELIMITATION OF THE RESEARCH PROBLEM
- DEFINITION OF TERMS
- STATING THE ASSUMPTIONS
- KEY QUESTION
- RESEARCH SUB-QUESTIONS
- Genius Loci
Public spaces and areas, which are mainly informed by the views and beliefs of systems such as Apartheid, Colonialism and patriarchy, do not support the needs and challenges that women face (Bay, 1982:11). The marginalization of women occurs on a large scale in terms of the planning of cities through which urbanization has produced homogeneous and utilitarian environments that separate private and public domains. The romantic classification relates to the unbridled character and mysterious connotations of a place and draws on its meaning of being dynamic and 'alive.' The place seems to derive its character from the landscape and the dialogue between raw elements in nature.
THE IMPACT OF SOCIAL SYSTEMS ON WOMEN
- INTRODUCTION
- CULTURAL ASSOCIATIONS OF WOMEN The Chinese culture is a rich source from which information The Chinese culture is a rich source from which information
- GENDER DYNAMICS AND THE ENVIRONMENT
- ASSOCIATIONS OF WOMEN IN SOUTH AFRICA
In the monogamous marriage (Figure 2.4), the floor plan shows a more linear layout, where the man is placed in a hierarchical position at the entrance, and the space dedicated to women and children serves as the "heart" of the plan. In a polygamous marriage (Figure 2.5), the husband stays near the entrance to the shed, while the quarters for the wives are next to the kitchen (Rapoport, 1969: 56).
CONDITIONS SUPPORTIVE OF WOMEN INFLUENCING THE BUILT ENVIRONMENT INFLUENCING THE BUILT ENVIRONMENT
INTRODUCTION
FUNCTIONALITY
Many of the social and spatial challenges women face stem from aspects of gender and social inequality. This informality is also reflected in the spaces of the building, because the plan radiates notions of freedom. challenges segregation through the use of non-linear forms. Although the non-living elements of the world are lifeless, they contain a hidden consciousness (Shiva, 1988:41).
Another factor that contributes to the concept of security is the image of the space. The aesthetic value and legibility of the civic space is very important in terms of creating a sense of security. The scale of the built environment in relation to man and woman is decisive in creating a pleasant and comfortable environment.
ARCHITECTURE SUPPORTING WOMEN
THE UBUNTU CENTRE
- BACKGROUND
- LOCATION MAP
- HISTORIC AND SOCIAL CONTEXT
- JUSTIFICATION OF PRECEDENT
- EMPIRICAL DATA
- CONCEPT
- HUMAN SCALE
- INTRODUCTION
- LOCATION MAP
- JUSTIFICATION OF PRECEDENT
- EMPIRICAL DATA
- CONCEPT
- SCALE
The actual location of the building is located on an existing pedestrian path created by local residents. The planning of the building takes note of its users' lifestyles and behavior patterns through the careful planning of behavior circuits. The use of gum posts in the area has been practiced quite often and in this way the building takes note of local building methods and materials. The trapezoidal forms give the building character and presence while still maintaining a harmonious dialogue with the graphic environment through the use of strategic materials (Plate 4.9).
Sensitive scale was used extensively throughout the building and was informed by the conditions of the surrounding context. The Women's Center is located in the heart of the Rufisque Nord informal settlement (Plate 4.14) (Varanda, 2004:3). Much of the building's image and character can be attributed to the color used.
CASE STUDIES
KEY CASE STUDY: THE GERMISTON CIVIC CENTRE
- INTRODUCTION
- LOCATION MAP
- HISTORICAL AND SOCIAL CONTEXT OF CASE STUDY
- JUSTIFICATION OF CASE STUDY
- EMPIRICAL DATA
- CONCEPT
- DESIGN LAYOUT
- SCALE
- INTRODUCTION
- JUSTIFICATION OF CASE STUDY
- HISTORICAL AND SOCIAL CONTEXT OF STUDY
Taking advantage of the surrounding context, the building embraces a fluid aesthetic, creating spaces that flow effortlessly into one another, in contrast to the utilitarian and monolithic motifs used by most Civic Centres. The building also utilizes natural elements throughout the perimeter and this acts as an introductory space for users entering the site, a place of peace, activity and tranquility. The building's footprint is similar to the site's triangular footprint, and the interior planning also implements an angular theme. The overall shape and form of the building conveys democratic notions of freedom and unrestrainedness.
The design fulfilled a task that required legislative and administrative functions, it sought to convey power, identity and above all meaning to the people of South Africa. The site is located away from the city center of Nelspruit, tucked away in a magnificent landscape bordering the Nels River and the Crocodile River. The spaces allow an abundance of light to flood the areas, allowing for visual control (Figure 5.23). The building incorporates user-friendly materials and elements designed for human interaction, such as balustrades and foot rails. The customs and gender-specific activities of local women were used to enrich the building's character and identity.
ANALYSIS AND DISCUSSION
- INTRODUCTION
- SUPPORTIVE ENVIRONMENTS
- WOMEN AND PUBLIC SPACE
- SAFETY CONCERNS Safety again proved to be a vital Safety again proved to be a vital
She also stated that many women spend most of their time walking the streets of Durban and that the current physical appearance of the area contributes to a lower self-perception of one's identity. Personal belongings reflect aspects of the individual's personality and this contributes to a sense of familiarity. This aspect of security against threats was absent from all male respondents' responses.
Although public spaces cannot be known as a whole, various design treatments provide clues to the function and character of the space. 86 The female respondents also stated that the cleanliness of the space also affects whether or not they feel comfortable in the environment. The various buildings in the area use human-scale dimensions and objects to reduce the scale of the area.
CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS
DEMOCRATIC SPACE
It is the researchers' belief that, in order to create a democratic environment that supports women, spatial design must take into account the effects that gender dynamics have in public spaces. A space that is not rigid or organizational allows the user to make more of their own choices regarding movement and also gives the user more control over themselves, the way they view others and the way they view themselves. Taking into account facilities and infrastructure that support these factors creates an environment that supports all users and therefore encourages use by these women.
The aesthetic appearance and character of the building conveys symbolism to the user, and it is important that the building conveys the semiotics of a free and democratic society. This deliberate step away from organizational control communicates to the user that diversity and free will are celebrated in the space. An environment that communicates notions of freedom of choice, activity and behavior will add to perceptions of confidence and independence.
MEANINGFUL AND NURTURING ENVIRONMENTS
The scale of spaces and buildings has proven to be a monumental factor in how people experience spaces. Visibility is a crucial factor and the design must consider the fields of view in order to allow individuals to have more control. Using local materials, construction techniques and the natural landscape as design informants will harness the character of the space and convey a true and meaningful identity to its users.
Theories of place identity show how the environment affects the way people perceive themselves, and as a result, a place that provides well-being and survival will have positive impacts. The building should be integrated into the wider context of public movement and participation, so it should be close to areas where public activities take place. As the building is supposed to be part of promoting national identity, it would be beneficial to place the building in a central position in the city, as this is where the social norms of the ruling elite are practiced, observed and enforced.
RECOMMENDED FUTURE RESEARCH
It is also important that the area is recognized as an area of interest and significance; a cultural monument must convey its message clearly and effortlessly.
Marschall, S. (2010) How to Honor a Woman: Commemorating Gender in Post-Apartheid South Africa in the Critical Arts: South North Journal of Cultural and Media Studies, Vol. Sinnot, R (1985) Safety and Security in Building Design. London. 2004).Public space and childhood culture. Mthethwa, M (2001) A study of the relationship between built form and culture: the residence of the executive mayors of Bulawayo and its environment.
BIBLIOGRAPHY
Marschall, S (2010) How to honor a woman: gender mainstreaming in post-apartheid Douth's Africa in the Critical Arts: A South North Journal of Cultural and Media Studies, vol. In Rosaldo , M and Lamphere , L (eds) Women, culture and society , Stanford, CA : Stanford University Press , pp 68 – 87 .
APPENDIX
PERSONAL INFORMATION 1. Age group
- Education
- Religion
- What six aspects of public buildings and spaces do you find most intimidating/unwelcoming ?
- What six aspects of public buildings and spaces do you find most appealing?
- Pick two of the following concerns that you have when venturing out in public buildings/spaces as a woman?
- Do you believe that public buildings and spaces cater for all the needs of women?
- If the following amenities were provided in a safe environment in or nearby to your workplace/institute would the quality of your life improve? Please tick amenities which
- Do you avoid using various public spaces because you feel that they are not friendly or physically supportive of your infants/children?
- Do you believe that women are more vulnerable in public buildings and spaces than men?
- Many spaces contain natural elements as they create a calming and attractive atmosphere. Which two elements do you find most appealing?
- Do you believe that women have lifestyles and behavioural patterns which public buildings do not consider?
- Do you have any other recommendations that would aid in making environments more supportive towards women?
- THEORETICAL FRAMEWORK
- The Shiloh House of Hope is a crisis centre which seeks to aid and support women in vulnerable circumstances. Elderly, abused and harassed women are offered
- Detailed Brief
- ACCOMMODATION SCHEDULE
A meaningful and nurturing identity and the content of a safe and functional interface were considered important guiding factors in the design process. The building must be so well integrated with its surroundings through careful planning that its furnishings and form become part of the context. In physical terms, the ground level must be passive and responsive to disabled women and individuals using baby carriages.
Access to this safe place is possible through the support center and through the security facility in the basement level. Research level to be designed for POWA (People Against the Abuse of Women), including staff, lecture hall and research facilities. This facility should be at an accessible distance to the ground floor exhibition space to maximize movement between the two spaces.
SITE SELECTION
- SITE SELECTION
- OPPORTUNITIES PRESENT ON SITE
- ENVIRONMENTAL STUDY/ PERFORMANCE
Since the restriction and oppression of women has been a tremendous problem throughout the history of the country, the researcher feels that an intervention that reflects the resulting and current issues can be located within this area. However, the site is empty and an urban intervention is needed to maximize the potential of the space. On the north side of the site there is a Shembe worshipers temple, on the east side there is the Gugu Dlamini Park area and existing buildings include the workshop and the virgin active gym.
The existing central pedestrian path is well known and frequently used. Statistics show that the majority of pedestrians in the city are women, an interesting finding that underlines the importance of the issue at hand. This water must be used as gray water in all washings in the proposal. The choice of components and materials also has a major influence on the performance of the building.
DESIGN DEVELOPMENT
- CONCEPT
125 Where wood is to be used in the building, bamboo will be the preferred choice as it is a self-regenerating, rapidly renewable resource that takes five years to reach full maturity as opposed to the usual 60 years for the average tree. A nurturing environment, distanced from noise and unwanted activity, has been shown to have various beneficial factors among women in vulnerable relationships. Except for women who are pregnant, victims of domestic violence and abuse can benefit from a calm and quiet environment that helps with the perceptual development of safety and security.
This trauma is not only found in the victim, but also in the victim's relationships such as family members and friends. The environment, which allows the user more spatial and visual power, conveys the idea of safety and security. Groups such as the Rural Women's Legal Group could also raise awareness of branches and benefits available through the government.
