Architecture + Politics + Homelessness
Homelessness is a complex and politically charged issue—homelessness usually results from personal choices and behavior rather than solely due to economic inequality. Solving homelessness must include individual responsibility with self-sufficiency through the teamwork of architecture and politics.
Various solutions to homelessness that center on architecture and design have been proposed. For example, modular and temporary housing units have been proposed to provide safe and clean housing for the homeless. These units could be quickly assembled and disassembled, making them an efficient solution to the problem. I'm not sure if these temporary solutions have a substantial impact on the users as they could be compared to more sound structures.
Addressing homelessness through architecture alone is not enough. Addressing homelessness requires a holistic approach, including addiction treatment, mental health services, and job training programs. Such programs should be designed to incentivize personal responsibility and self-sufficiency to break cycles that can be generational.
From a political perspective, addressing homelessness is often contentious. Homelessness is a moral imperative, and I support government-funded solutions promoting personal responsibility and self-sufficiency when paired with humanitarians such as architects to design homes. Solving homelessness requires a multifaceted approach that addresses the issue's root causes. Providing architecture that encourages personal responsibility and self-sufficiency is essential to the solution. Still, it must be accompanied by other programs that provide addiction treatment, mental health services, and job training. Addressing homelessness requires a willingness to work across the political aisle to find solutions that benefit everyone.
Great thought Taylor! I agree that architecture or just one faceted topic will solve or address the major issues surrounding homelessness. I think it’s crucial that providing space for every type of user is imperative to the success of space and I love the part about “Providing architecture that encourages personal responsibility and self-sufficiency is essential to the solution.” There is never a one solve to fix all solution and coordination and cooperation is key to helping others.
ReplyDeleteTaylor,
ReplyDeleteI really like your wholistic approach to homelessness. I agree that while sometimes some of the homeless only need somewhere to sleep for a while, most really need more wholistic interventions. Through social media I see a lot of different types of professionals donate their time to help their local homeless communities like designers, hairstylists, and second-hand donation centers. I think if a holistic approach is to be achieved, it would take a powerful entity to bring them all together and create some sort of program that can help these people get back on their feet and regain their self-sufficiency.