The barriers that the asylum seekers and refugees face include inadequate food security and unemployment, language barriers, stigma (particularly surrounding the treatment of mental illness), and discrimination. In addition a lack of knowledge of the health care system and fear of deportation make it even more difficult to assimilate. It it is important for displaced people to feel a sense of ‘home’ even though the refugee camp is not necessarily ‘home’ they need to make an effort to continue a sense of place or belonging to feel at ‘home’.
The objective of the project is to propose a long term solution for refugee camps, taking into consideration :
– Personalization: The Bamboo allows for the occupant to hang objects throughout the space to provide a better sense of ‘home’. In addition flexible furniture allow for customization of space based on programmatic needs.
– Cultural Appropriateness: Bamboo is a familiar building material to Burma Refugees. Giving a sense of ‘home’ through the material usage in the architectural design.
– Wellness: The bamboo facade allows for natural ventilation within the space. The corrugated polycarbonate roofing allows for easily accessible rain water collection. These sustainable design features create a healthier environment for the inhabitants.