Cradle for change : finding the space between home and homelessness
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Abstract
This thesis is about creating a place where the poor and homeless can live without fear of where the money for their living arrangements is coming from and where they can be taught useful skills for reintegrating into society with confidence in their ability to succeed. In doing this, this is an attempt to create more than just a building to suit the physical well-being. It will address the social and emotional well-being of the occupants through the design of architecture. In short, refinement is the key to stability, and we must help those in need to become able to sustain themselves and their families without the distress caused by having nothing left to give. I will explore physical, emotional, and social well-being through the concept of dwelling, both in regards to nomadic cultures, and those who live in the modern sense. Through this exploration I wish to provide better understanding of the concepts of home and homelessness in a more wholistic sense. This will help me to find the space between these different ways of life to better serve the homeless who do not desire the same lifestyle as modern society as well as those striving to reintegrate. This thesis will be located in San Francisco on Harrison Street at Berwick Place, about four blocks south of Market Street on 8th Street. This location was chosen due to its proximity to the homeless population in this area and as an attempt not to relocate them, but to provide a place they can go within their region of comfort.