Transcending Borders
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Abstract
Despite the popularity of border issues in today’s media, the spatial transformation, which borders
create remain unrecognized. The Thesis discusses the relationship between architecture and
borders. Borders are much more than a thin line that divides two nations, they are instrumental
transitions between social and personal experiences that are essential in structuring psychological
processes. We cross borders every day, whether it is psychologically or physically. The year 2020
has arrived. If 20/20 vision is the goal, then what should the year 2020 entail? Inclusivity? Peaceful
opposition? Let us take one step back to look ten steps further into the future. Borders: enabling
their transcendence, creates common ground where exclusive societies can cross borders as
one. This is architecturally expressed as a museum on a historical site intersecting national and
international borders. The thesis proves, through qualitative and historical research, that borders
can transform design by creating spatial unity and community while maintaining a cultural identity,
diversity, security, and a sense of place.