Master of Architecture Research Conference, School of Design, QUT, Brisbane, 18 November 2011
Urban Identity and Development in Dili, Timor-Leste: An interdisciplinary study informing architecture and urban design strategy and practice in Timor-Leste. JESSICA CLARE GRAHAM, MANUELA TABOADA. School of Design, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia ABSTRACT: This paper relates research from various disciplines including history, urban planning, architecture and the social sciences in order to develop a framework for designer to interpret and respond to the built environment in Dili and greater Timor-Leste. As a structure designed to underpin design practice, the framework shall respond to the unique physical development requirements of the city through also encouraging the expression and reinterpretation of local cultural identity and traditions. From the arrival of the Portuguese in 1515 to their independence in 2002, urban development in Timor-Leste has reflected the cultural ideals of the occupying country in power. As a now independent republic, Timor-Leste is in a position to create and implement new culturally reflective frameworks for urban development and design. This project identifies an opportunity to initiate and promote discussion of the cultural values and physical needs of both local residents and nationally significant needs of Dili as a capital city. It is anticipated that discussion within professional groups and the broader community of Timor-Leste on issues such as those presented in this paper could provide the foundations for a “contemporary vernacular” of Timor-Leste to arise in the future. It is through establishing design practices and frameworks for understanding and delivering urban development that take a holistic view and are aligned with the unique cultural identity of the place and its people that future could arise. Keywords: Timor-Leste, Dili, urban development, vernacular architecture, cultural identity, urban identity
INTRODUCTION This paper investigates how architectural and urban design practice may engage with contemporary cultural identity, knowledge and technology, and in so doing; act as a crucial element to ensuring the social, environmental and economic sustainability of the city of Dili in Timor-Leste (Fig. 1). Through fieldwork and indepth interviews with a variety of local and international academics and professionals, this paper aims to deliver a framework for understanding and interpreting the city within its unique cultural, environmental and economic context.
Figure 1: Timor-Leste in regional context.
In addition to widespread violence and domination, years of foreign colonisation and occupation threatened culture by removing the rights to self-determination and cultural expression from the people of Timor-Leste. Now, in post-independence Timor-Leste, a lack of planning and design regulations, alongside significant design influence held by international governments and corporations completing design and construction work in Dili, continue to threaten the representation of Timorese culture in the “fabric” of the developing urban environment. Fundamental to the design of the study is the goal of “sustainable development”, a concept that has continued to evolve since its original definition in the 1987 Brundtland Commission Report … “development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.” More recently, sustainability research assesses the importance of social and cultural, economic and environmental sustainability, each as an important contributing factor to the sustainment of a society. It is upon this understanding of the multi-faceted nature of sustainability that the study is built and aims to contribute to an important discussion which could see the culture, environment and economy of Timor-Leste flourish in years to come.
Whilst a vast and detailed knowledge base exists within the global design community regarding climatically appropriate design principles, sustainable use of materials, etcetera, the depth of studies inquiring in the cultural dimension of sustainability in developing urban environments is limited. Due to the extensive rebuilding and development work required throughout the city of Dili, designers, decision-makers and citizens are faced with an opportunity to debate and dwell in questions of how it is possible to develop cities in a way that is uniquely “Timorese”, an opportunity to create cities and villages which respond to the unique environmental, cultural and economic conditions of the area. It is with this is mind that this work has been completed, in the hope that it may encourage a rigorous and productive discussion of how these culturally reflective frameworks for urban design and architecture may be implemented in the city of Dili and beyond. In order to prompt this discussion, the research asks, “What factors are to be considered in designing for holistic sustainability in Dili?” and, “What are the unique implications of these factors as they relate to design practice?” It is suggested that the evolution of such a discussion will inevitably evoke the imagination of a “contemporary vernacular architecture” for Timor-Leste. Such an opportunity for self-determination of the built vernacular is rare in contemporary society and is an opportunity that if thoroughly explored and thoughtfully acted upon may produce world-class, holistically sustainable cities in Timor-Leste, the impacts of which would be felt at all levels of Timorese society. TOPIC BACKGROUND In order to comprehend the context of this research, the following review of literature was designed to “bridge the gap” between the currently limited body of design-based research specific to Timor-Leste and relevant theory and case studies around the world. As such, it is hoped this review may serve as a resource for future research projects in the field, drawing together research from a variety of disciplines in order to inform new research in the area of design and the built environment in Timor-Leste. This document compares and evaluates a diverse range of sources in order to identify relationships of interest between the viewpoints, approaches and methodologies as they have been presented in their various contexts. Through this process of re-contextualisation of the existing literature, a knowledge base will be established which in turn informs the proposed framework for design practice and strategy proposed in this paper.
Statement of purpose The identification of this area of inquiry eventuated during a volunteering expedition in November and December of 2010 that encompassed time spent in Dili (the capital of Timor-Leste), Baucau (the former capital of Portuguese Timor) and multiple villages in the Railaco district. Through participation and observation of a community-led construction project, insight was gained into the unique cultural, social and urban conditions of the Dili in particular. Discussion with both Timorese nationals and foreigners employed and/ or volunteering in Dili confirmed that in terms of development, TimorLeste is in a unique position. Whilst urgent issues such as sanitation, education, violence and political stability are being addressed nationally, issues of housing, commercial development, public infrastructure and community facilities are also of importance. From the arrival in 1515 and subsequent colonisation of the Portuguese in 1702, through the Indonesian invasion an occupation, to independence in 2002, development in Timor-Leste has reflected foreign cultural ideals. As a new republic Timor-Leste is now in a position to create and implement new culturally reflective frameworks for development and design. The purpose of this paper is to initiate relevant discussion towards the outcome of such a culturally reflective framework. Throughout the fieldwork and interview process, it was consistently observed and noted that international interests are reflected to a significant extent in the design of new construction in the city of Dili. In many ways, due to the “young” design culture of Timor-Leste, this is to be expected. What is of concern and interest to this work is the question of what processes, topics of discussion and expertise are required in order to see the emergence of an architecture that is quintessentially “Timorese”. Current lack of planning and design guidelines, along with an evident over-representation of international influence over design and built outcomes is cause for concern. Whilst the opportunity for self-determination through thoughtful implementation of urban and architectural design strategies is significant, the capacity to capitalise on the opportunity is diminished by lack of effective discussion and direction in the area of design practice and regulation. Due to the rapid rate of construction and development in Dili, discussion of the issues presented in this paper amongst communities, across various disciplines, socio-economic groups and within government, is of crucial importance to the future of the urban environment of the city.
Although development priorities in Timor-Leste are diverse, the clearly defined edges of the city of Dili (Fig. 2) mean potentially severe future consequences and limitations to development could occur due to rapid, unregulated design and construction.
governance, planning processes, and the impact of violence in 1999 are available and provide insight into the basic circumstances of the city (Ministry of State Administration and Territorial Management 2010). In addition, memoirs and interviews provide reflective, descriptive and narrative records of the city (Gusmao 2003; Conway 2010; Rei 2007). Culturally and physically, the violence of September 1999, greatly impacted most areas of Timor-Leste. It was observed throughout the fieldwork component of the research that the physical signs of conflict and violence from this period of the history of Timor-Leste are common and widespread across the city of Dili. According to the Ministry of State Administration and Territorial Management:
Figure 2: Dili in geographical context. City limits are defined by coastline to the North and mountain ranges to the East, South and West. As such, strategies for the design and development of Timorese cities must be implemented with a degree of urgency in order to identify and protect the opportunities that currently exist for high quality development outcomes. LITERATURE REVIEW Literature was selected for inclusion in this review on the basis of relevance to vernacular architecture and traditions, urban identity, urban development in third world and developing nations, and at a more detailed level, understanding of Timorese culture, demographics, history and aspirations. The apparent lack of information and literature available could be interpreted as both a constraint and an opportunity to furthering the research in this field of study. While access to a greater wealth of historic and cultural information relating to the built environment and lifestyle of the Timorese would be useful in conducting this study, the opportunity identified by this project is to initiate and promote discussion of the cultural values and physical needs of Dili residents, such that design practices and frameworks for understanding and delivering urban development in Dili are aligned with the unique cultural identity of the people and the place. History of Timor-Leste and Dili To date, research has not identified any literature which provides a comprehensive urban history of Dili. Official Government documents outlining the regional topography, demographics, languages, structures for
On August 30, 1999 the Indonesian Province of East Timor voted almost 80% in favor of independence from Indonesia. The UN organized and administered ballot was immediately followed by a devastating wave of violence and retribution by pro-autonomy supporters and militia. The material and human damaged sustained in this post-ballot violence was devastating. At least one person was killed in 30% of the sucos during this violence with 67 persons killed in Dili District. The number of burned houses ranges from 50% to 90% in many sucos; the worse affected area was Metinaro. The less affected areas are the more isolated villages in the hills. One survey found that 7,165 houses were destroyed in Dili District alone. Physical signs of this and other violence, such as burnt out government buildings and destroyed houses, are a highly evident reminder of past events and significantly shape the environmental experience of Dili. One of many areas of research not yet addressed in the academic community is how these physical reminders of violence and oppression influence the culture of Dili as a city. Development in Dili is currently focused on infrastructure, with priority areas including water supply and sanitation, housing and urban planning – although the issue of culturally empowering architecture and urban design has not been broached – electricity supply, roads and bridges, transport, and communications (World Bank 2010). Based on the review of literature, it is evident that a review of the relationship between culture and the city of Dili would be a valuable starting point in prompting thought and discussion of culturally responsive architecture and design in Timor-Leste. By drawing together resources such as existing theory, visual data and expert opinions from a range of relevant areas of knowledge, the foundations of a cultural framework for understanding and interpreting the city shall be proposed.
Definitions This paper draws upon knowledge and expertise from a variety of fields. As such, it is necessary to outline and define the relevant terms used and how they apply within this defined context. Dialogue:
A conversation between two or more people or groups, especially one directed towards exploration of a particular subject or resolution of a problem. (Oxford 2011) Within the scope of this study dialogue particularly refers to the interaction between designers and the communities, organisations and individuals for whom their work is accommodating.
Holistic:
Characterised by the belief that the parts of something are intimately interconnected and explicable only by reference to the whole. (Oxford 2011) The merits of a “holistic approach” to research and design are discussed throughout the paper, suggesting that whilst considering appropriate design solutions the various social, environmental and economic influences in a particular scenario aught to be considered intrinsically interconnected and important.
Quality:
The standard of something as measured against other things of a similar kind; the degree of excellence of something. (Oxford 2011) In this sense, access to producing quality design outcomes is a key desired outcome of the discussion presented in this research. A distinctive attribute or characteristic possessed by someone or something. (Oxford 2011) Intrinsic to the design process is the expression of specific spatial and environmental qualities. Assessment of the valuable existing spatial and environmental qualities of a place can ensure that these qualities are protected and capitalised upon in future development.
Framework:
A basic structure underlying a system, concept, or text. (Oxford 2011) This paper proposes a theoretical framework for the interpretation of and design response to urban identity in Dili.
Urbanism The case of Dili, Timor-Leste cannot be analysed within the conceptual framework of urbanism as it relates to highly developed global cities due to their vastly different characteristics. As such it is necessary to select an appropriate conceptual framework through which to interpret the city of Dili for the purposes of this study. “Like a piece of architecture, the city is a construction in space, but one of vast scale, a thing perceived only in the course of long spans of time. City design is therefore a temporal art... At every instant, there is more than the eye can see, more than the ear can hear, a setting or a view waiting to be explored. Nothing is experienced by itself, but always in relation to its surroundings, the sequences of events leading up to it, the memory of past experiences... Every citizen has long associations with some part of his city, and his image is soaked in memories and meanings.” (Lynch 1960) Lynch identified a framework for perceiving an “environmental image” - which for the purpose of this study could be a city, a village, a street, a building, or any number of environments. The flexibility of this framework being applicable to the analysis of any scale of environment is of particular relevance. The framework identifies three areas for analysis of the “image” of an environment, place or city - identity (defining a unique, separate entity and its’ boundaries), structure (spatial and pattern relationships between the object and the observer) and meaning (practical and/ or emotional - this is often unique to the observer). Also of relevance to this discussion is the need to reconcile, at a fundamental level, the disparities between village and city life. As a central hub of commerce, education and employment, the city attracts migrants and commuters from its’ surrounding villages (Miles 2007; Lynch 1960; Afshar 1999). Afshar makes the distinction that “the city is large, heavily built-up, densely populated, well-serviced, with major industries, modernized, cosmopolitan, diverse in culture, function and activity, impersonal, a centre of political and economic power, dominating its rural hinterland, etc. Villages are small, less built-up, sparsely populated, poorly serviced, with small, often agriculture-related industries and craft occupations, more linked to the local,
traditional culture, more homogeneous, more personal, with less political and economic clout, more balanced with its rural hinterland, etc.” These general definitions are commonly accepted amongst authors, with (Mumford 1961 p.12) also drawing similar conclusions about the simplicity of village life and a greater connection amongst members of the village community as compared to the city. Furthermore, (Mumford 1961 p.15) elucidates the transition from village to city life, saying, “The order and stability of the village along with its maternal enclosure and intimacy and its oneness with the forces of nature, were carried over into the city: if lost in the city at large, through its over-expansion, it nevertheless remains in the quarter or the neighbourhood.” Cities and Cultural Identity Extensive research was conducted into the nature of the relationships between individuals and communities to their place of habitation and/ or origin. Of particular relevance to this field of study are concepts of the “cultural landscape”, cities and cultures and post-colonial urbanism. For the purpose of this paper, the term ‘culture’ will be utilised in the context The concept of the cultural landscape originated in 1895 in the field of geography and has grown to be understood as, “landscape modified, physically and visibly, by humans... confined to the distinctive characteristics that are due to human activity and are considered particularly valuable form a certain point of view, such as that of ecology, archaeology or history.” (Arntzen & Brady, 2008). Within this definition of the cultural landscape, and in consideration of the fact that at this point in history very little of the natural landscape is truly untouched by human activity, recent research and debate has begun to include various other environments, including urban environments within the scope of the cultural landscape. Authors such as Edward S Casey, Warwick Fox and Mick Smith who deal with environmental ethics and philosophy have focused on these various environments and on “place as the anchor of human identity.” (Arntzen & Brady, 2008) Studies into the significance of the cultural landscape have taken a narrative approach, where one “reads” human and natural history through analysis of the cultural landscape and the meaning locally associated with it, shedding light of the reciprocal relationship between humans and their environment. Aligned with Lynch’s concepts of the city as an image, Arntzen quotes Lisen Bull in highlighting the “identity value” of the cultural landscape, stating that, “Many cultural landscapes somehow represent or embody people’s sense of identity, the sense of who they are and where they belong, at the local, regional or national level, or as members of an ethnic group.” (Arntzen, 2008).
Literature identifies a reciprocal relationship between cities and culture, identifying that the two entities are in a state of constant mutual influence (Southall 1973; Miles 2007; Rapoport 2005). It is noted that cities, through their distinct lifestyles and practices produce culture, whilst also being shaped and reproduced over time due to cultural consumption (Miles 2007). Noting this widely discussed and observed reciprocity between cities and culture, it follows that given the requirement for widespread urban development in the city of Dili, careful consideration of development and its’ effect of local and national cultural assets. The Role of the Designer Drawing these various strains of research together provides the knowledge and paradigms to inform the foundations of a framework for architectural and urban design practice in Dili. Further to this, and of prime importance, is a demonstrated willingness amongst the design community to reconsider and consciously reinvent the roles of designers in creating sustainable development. It has been noted that, “architects have recently been very active in … areas of public interest [including instigating] a range of creative strategies to improve social, environmental, and economic equity, some of which have become books about how to alter the way we think about the design process.” (Aquilino 2011) “Typically, a patchwork of nongovernmental charities, government agencies, and residents themselves cobble together solutions.” M. Aquilino - On managing the reconstruction process. Globally, critical and engaging conversation is emerging, with the goal of reconsidering the sustained role that architects and designers could play in the process of development and post-disaster reconstruction. This includes active presence and voice on issues such as policy development and best practices, extending to include roles such as historian, negotiator, advocate and facilitator (Aquilino 2011). It is the capacity of the architect to provide leadership across a broad spectrum of activities, and to view the “bigger picture”, assessing often-competing interests in the broader context of development, which truly maximises the role played by design in development. Vernacular Architecture and Traditions An extensive and varied body of research, vernacular architecture and traditions has commonly been “associated with the past, underdevelopment, and poverty”, with little interest being paid to the “achievements, experience, and skills of vernacular builders or the environmentally and culturally appropriate qualities of the buildings they produce.” (Asquith & Vellinga 2006).
Master of Architecture Research Conference, School of Design, QUT, Brisbane, 18 November 2011
The writing of Asquith and Vellinga demonstrates a commitment to challenging the traditional view of the vernacular as “counter development”. Rather, their work promotes study of the vernacular as a potentially highly valuable means for design and other professionals to integrate local knowledge with contemporary technology. This collection of authors suggest that such an approach can allow designers to respond more appropriately to the forces currently shaping the world, such as, “environmental crises, climate change, political and economic globalization, cultural interaction and conflict caused by migration, tourism and war and rapid technological advancement.” (Asquith & Vellinga 2006). Alsayyad approaches the vernacular as a valuable contribution to new methods of problem solving and innovation in the built environment. Furthermore, this work is framed as distinct from early research, which treats vernacular buildings as a “static legacy from the past” and studies these vernacular “objects” in their social settings for historic purposes. Rather, he proposes that his work, along with the work of Asquith and Vellinga, is “activist-oriented.” This new framework of analysing and learning from the vernacular relates strongly and dynamically to the previously discussed notions of place, identity and the cultural landscape. A 1987 study of vernacular architecture in TimorLeste demonstrated a unique interest in the cultural relevance of traditional and sacred houses, stating that “The idea of rich sociological significance, aimed to study the main types of habitation and their relationship within the natural and cultural environments.” (Cinatti 1987) Cinatti, de Almeida and Mendes documented and studied Timorese architecture across the country, discovering regional and topographic variances in architectural form (Table 1, Fig. 3), as well as strong
cultural associations to the process of constructing and utilising sacred houses, or in Tetun, Uma Lulik. Map Key
Region
Plan
Elevation
Altitude
Bobonaro
Mountain
Maubisse
Mountain
Baucau
Plateau
Lautem
Plateau
Viqueque
Plains
Suai
Plains
Ocussi
Plains
Table 1: Traditional Timorese Architecture by region. Translated and transcribed from original source (Cinatti 1987).
Figure 3: Regional map of traditional building typologies in Timor-Leste (Cinatti 1987).
Master of Architecture Research Conference, School of Design, QUT, Brisbane, 18 November 2011
METHODOLOGY AND METHODS The methodological approach to this paper arose through synthesis of reviewed literature and theory, which demonstrated the requirement for an interdisciplinary discussion to inform the proposed framework for design practice. Through the process of conducting the literature review insight was gained into the relevant fields of knowledge to the development of a theoretical framework for urban and architectural design practice in Dili. Furthermore, additional context-specific knowledge of the topic was gained throughout the interview process and this informed the methods utilised on an on-going basis. The methods utilized in this study included in-depth interviews and fieldwork involving direct observation, informal interviews and photographic studies. As a highly valuable part of the research process, a field trip was completed to Timor-Leste to study the city of Dili and attend a conference hosted by the National University of Timor-Lorosa’e, Swinburne University of Technology, and the Technical University of Lisbon. The conference, entitled “Communicating New Research on Timor-Leste,” was organised by the TimorLeste Studies Association (TLSA) and held in Dili on the 30th June and 1st July 2011. During this expedition, a range of data collection methods were utilised in order to efficiently and effectively obtain relevant experience and information. Key methods included direct observation, formal and informal interviews and discussions, documentation of the city through photographic and film studies, and research at local archives and museums. The volume of data collected in the field was too extensive to be fully documented and analysed in the scope of this paper, however, it should be noted that all previously listed modes of data collection have contributed significantly to the comprehension of the multifaceted city of Dili. All efforts have been made to capture this depth of information and experience both directly and indirectly within the paper. The rich cultural and academic experience gained in Timor-Leste and in the process of data collection brought clarity to many aspects of the research – including foundational knowledge of social structures of Timorese society and an informed and reasonably comprehensive overview of local economic and political contexts. Throughout the course of informal discussion and formal interviews with experts from various fields, it became rapidly evident that the future sustainability of these three realms – social, economic and political – are inseparable from the realm of culture in Timor-Leste. Fieldwork Initially it was anticipated that a greater amount of formalised physical and cultural mapping exercises
would be undertaken in the field. Furthermore, the preliminary design of fieldwork included greater emphasis on cultural research, utilising a survey method that engaged the general public in questions relating to the urban environment and culture. Once in the field, insight was gained through discussions with and observation of presentations by various experts at the TLSA conference, which influenced changes to the methods of data collection. It was concluded that in the timeframe available, the most effective method of collecting the most valuable data and contextual understanding would be in-depth interviews and direct observation. The primary reasoning behind this decision was that surveys were deemed to be an insufficient method of community consultation to inform a quality “bottom up” collaborative design strategy. Fieldwork utilised several methods for recording data, which were selected for their versatility, efficiency and accuracy. Audio recordings of formal interviews conducted in the field were accompanied by live annotation of participants’ responses. Rather than utilising detailed mapping in order to gain understanding of spatial relationships, photography and film were utilised, with films capturing key transects of Dili. For example, the journey from East to West along Dili’s coastline and several journeys from the bay of Dili South to the “back” of the city, where the inland mountain ranges begin. The same method was also utilised further inland, to gain insight into the physical relationship between Dili and the surrounding landscape and communities. Interviews As previously noted, through the literature review process and discussions in the field, it was concluded that an interdisciplinary group of experts would be best equipped to contribute towards informing an appropriate framework for architectural and urban design practice in Dili. In order to gain insight from varied perspectives, it was further concluded that participants with a range of experience and relatedness to the city of Dili and TimorLeste should be invited to participate in the study. In order to ensure a range of perspectives, within each of the categories of Architecture, Art and Design, Community Development, Governance and Political Science, and Culture and Traditions, experts from each of the following categories of “Relatedness” to Dili were invited to participant: 1. Timorese heritage (TH), 2. International, long-term involvement, nonresidential (IN), 3. International, long-term involvement, residential (IR), or 4. International leadership in their field (IL).
As such, participants may be grouped according to either field of knowledge, or level of relatedness to Dili (Table 1). Due to the potential political implications of critiquing urban development, provision was made for participants to opt for anonymity in the production of this paper. Anonymous participants are recorded according to an alphanumeric coding system informed by their field of expertise. For example, participant 1 in the arts and design category is recorded as AD1. Field
Participant Name
Norman Day Salvadore Pires Architecture Dr. Marcel Vellinga Dr. Marie Aquilino Dr. Tony Fry Arts, Design AD1 (Urban) AD2 (Arts) David Palazon (Arts) AD3 (Arts) Development, Sally Foreman Governance & Dr. Michael Leach Politics Dr. Estevao Cabral Deb Cummins Culture & Dr. Maj Christensen Traditions Josh Trindade CT1 (Social Science) Table 2: Interview Participants
Relatedness to Dili IN TH IL IL IN IR IN IR TH IR IN TH IR IR TH IR
The format of formal in-depth interviews (45 to 60 minutes each in duration) was designed to enable participants to guide the discussion according to their own background knowledge and opinions, however, in order to ensure the comparability of interview data across the various fields, the following questions were utilised as the basic guide for the interview discussions: 1. 2.
Where were you born? If not in Dili, when did you move to Dili/ have you lived in Dili? 3. What brought/ brings you to Dili? 4. What are your living arrangements in Dili? 5. Do you like living/ spending time in Dili? 6. What are the best things about Dili as a city? 7. What do you thinkg the most special/ important places are for Timorese people and Timorese culture in Dili and why? 8. What are the most special/ important places to you in Dili and why? 9. What do you think the meaning and relevance of Uma Lulik (Timorese sacred houses) is today? 10. What do you think the future is for the city of Dili? Wherever possible, interviews were conducted either in person or via video conferencing, although out of necessity, two interviews were conducted via telephone.
Figure 4: Example of concept map produced during the interview process. (Interview with Norman Day)
Data from these discussions was recorded in either video or audio format and through a concept mapping process (Fig. 3) . Audio files enabled the transcription of key quotes, whilst concept maps are produced during the conversation and verified by participants after the interview, in order to ensure an accurate representation of the relationship between key concepts. Appropriate ethics protocols, including written consent to participate, were observed in the interview process. Verbal consent to the use of recording devices was also obtained before commencing each interview. Concept Map Method and Analysis Due to the significant time constraints of the period for data collection and fieldwork concept maps (Fig. 4) were utilised as a method for recording interview content. Based upon the concept of “radiant thinking”, concept maps reflect and mimic neural structures and processes of the brain, allowing the relationships between concepts to be effectively “mapped” during a conversation. Radiant thinking “refers to associative thought processes that proceed from, or connect to, a central point” (Buzan 2010). The concept map is a graphic representation of radial thinking and may be used to “help connect and synthesize ideas and data … [ultimately creating] new knowledge... and mental models” (Gates 2006). This, combined with direct transcription of key quotes from audio and video recordings, captured the content of the interviews in a manner that was clear, accurate and efficient. To further ensure the accuracy of the concept maps produced by the researcher during the interviews, participants reviewed their concept maps, verifying that the content was an accurate representation of the discussion. Key themes, points of agreement and disagreement were identified through analysis of the concept maps. The graphic nature of the maps, combined with the similar conversational framework utilised in each interview, assisted in the extraction of these themes for analysis. Comparison of themes, priorities and ideas across the various sectors of expertise was then possible. It is through this process that the content for an interdisciplinary discussion arises, suggesting the beginnings of a framework informing urban and architectural design practice in the city of Dili. Limitations of Study The results presented and discussed in this paper are informed by the views of a select group of individuals with varied training and experience in their fields of expertise and in relation to the city of Dili. Desktop and field research conducted between November 2010 and November 2011 formed the basis of this work. Whilst
professionals and academics from a variety of fields were interviewed in this study, this paper will place greatest emphasis on the input of architectural and design professionals in its analysis due to the time and word limits of the paper. It should be noted that the themes identified in the qualitative analysis presented in this paper do, however, reflect the strong themes across all interviews conducted, not simply those identified within the architecture and design fields. Due to the current lack of existing research and the consequently enormous potential for research topics relevant to design, culture and the built environment in Timor-Leste, timeframes have proven to be a significant contributing factor to the design and execution of the study. It was therefore important to design the research in a way that linked relevant theoretical frameworks, whilst also obtaining context-specific data. A lack of detailed mapping and urban data limits the capacity for research findings to be applied within the scope of this study. It is, however, anticipated that the findings of this paper may be utilised in order to design and undertake further research relating in greater detail to the fabric of the city itself. RESULTS & FINDINGS Through the process of conducting detailed interviews and desktop research, an interdisciplinary dialogue has been initiated. Following is a summary of this dialogue that compares the opinions of experts according to individual fields of expertise and level of relatedness to the city of Dili. The key trends in participant responses shall be outlined according to the commonly identified themes and expanded upon utilising key quotes obtained from interview transcripts. The Changing Role of Architects and Designers Participants identified opportunities for innovation and expansion of the role of architects and designers in development processes. Holistically, this cohort identified rapid, unregulated development as the major threat to quality urban development in Dili. This, combined with anticipated sea level rises, were said to contribute to the vulnerability of the city as a whole. Discussion relating to design practice suggested that purposely slowing the speed of development in the short-term would allow industry professionals and government departments to become sufficiently skilled and prepared to design and implement contemporary frameworks for design practice and assessment. As such, the collaborative, leadership and advisory capacity of design experts was emphasised greatly in the interviews conducted. At the core of these potential frameworks for practice lies a critical discussion aiming to identify the values and practices that could inform a sustainable, contemporary design philosophy.
Participants communicated similar beliefs regarding the practice of architecture and design, both in suggesting suitable methods for practice within the context of Dili and Timor-Leste and in identifying concerns about current modes of practice. In describing the prevailing philosophy of practice, architects expressed concern about an evident lack of critical thinking in design – as described by Norman Day, “Architects decoratively deal with the engineering [of buildings], producing buildings that are not applicable in Timor-Leste, an irrelevant architecture”. Architectural education was an additional point of agreement, with participants stating that the Indonesian model for architectural practice and education is unsuitable for application in Timor-Leste. It was suggested that an appropriate model for both education and practice of architecture and design should challenge pre-existing “visions of glass skyscrapers for the modernity of Timor-Leste” (quoting participant N. Day, and reflected in comments of other participants) and move towards a philosophy that engages with culture, traditions, and local climate. “There isn’t a contemporary indigenous architecture [in Timor-Leste] and until there is, you’re not going to get [culturally significant contemporary architecture]… This certainly won’t come about by conventional architectural process. It would only come about through a dialogue. The question is who participates in that dialogue, and where would you begin from? You wouldn’t begin from a design process, you’d have to design it around the exploration contemporary cultural significance and then the translation of that into a built structure” T. Fry. It was observed and suggested frequently that the role of the designer in the development of Dili and Timor-Leste should facilitate discussion and questioning of cultural, environmental and economic context. In relation to the implementation of this strategy of consultation and dialogue, the following participant quotes allude to the contextual framing of the discussion: “What are the principles that you’re trying to address? What is it about the vernacular culture and heritage that you’re trying to preserve?” “Authenticity – [asking] what do people want to try to preserve and why? We need to pursue the question to the point that it really interests people to become involved and to think, ‘What is it that I care about in my culture? What is essential for me to preserve and to have around me?’ Maybe it’s certain qualities, that are a secondary function of that architecture, like the quality of light, the quality of breeze in the air…”
“It takes long-term commitment, real involvement with communities. It’s asking the hard questions and giving people enough time to answer them and engaging them… There has to be really true capacity building. It needs to go much further into the question of what informs your way of life – not just the traditions that you observe that are sacral.” “[We must] really articulate this relationship between the built environment and homes [and cities] as a living system providing quality of life – those are where the keys lie. How do we take a traditional structure that is much better adapted to it’s environment and actually imbue it with not only a sense of modernism that is just a patina of modernism, but really a functional modernism?” “[Timor-Leste] has every right, as do we, to have something that’s modern. It speaks to a sense of being in a modern world… This is where I think architects, designers and builders have so much to offer - to think through these processes and to create hybrid solutions… [Embodying] the integrity of the past while leading people toward a future that they well deserve and need to feel a part of in order to take on the other responsibilities [involved in realising that future].” Construction, Design and International Influence Participants were in agreement that regulation of both construction work and design proposals is an important step forward in the sustainable development of Dili. In addition to regulation of construction quality and methods, management of the intersection of global and local influences through master planning and design guidelines was also identified as important. Numerous participants expressed concern about the proliferation of external design influences and imagery in the built environment of Dili. Implementation and Scale Working across scales was identified as an opportunity to enable the implementation of design strategies in Dili. Desktop research, fieldwork, and interviews suggested that Timor-Leste demonstrates very strong capacity at the community level, and that increased medium and large/ government-scale action would be greatly beneficial. Architectural participants were clear in unanimously communicating that design strategy and dialogue must occur at all levels of the community – from individual people through to national initiatives.Through developing a critical approach to practice, underpinned by a sustainable design philosophy, it was suggested that the post-construction process and sharing of information amongst organisations and across professions will further facilitate the implementation of new frameworks for design practice from small to large scale projects.
Participants within the field of architecture were unique in their tendency to extrapolate social and environmental observations into possible implications to the architectural forms that may be shaped by these intangible factors. RECOMMENDATIONS Across discussions undertaken in this study, key themes were identified as underpinning a contextual understanding of urban development in Dili. In particular, these themes communicate the diversity and complexity and contradiction of the city and the opportunities and challenges faced. The dialogue presented in this paper is by no means comprehensive in identifying and fully expanding upon the complex nature of the urban environment in Dili. Following is a brief outline of these elements of complexity and contradiction that were identified through the interview process: • Natural vs. Planned development • Large-scale vs. Small-scale • Public vs. Private • Past vs. Future • Sacred vs. Institutional • Empowerment vs. Oppression • Inclusion vs. Exclusion The findings of the research allude to the potential roles of government and private sector stakeholders. In particular, it was suggested that discussion and debate on issues of development and design should be recorded and published in order to allow community participation and contribution to the process. Through this process and in collaboration with various sectors of the community, guidelines, master plans and regulations for design and construction can be produced that are reflective of the complexity of the city. Education and leadership capacity development may be improved in the process, with the critical discussion of social, environmental and economic issues involved contributing to the growth of human capital and leadership within the Timorese community. “Build for long-term resilience and have experts on the ground. An architect just out of architecture school who has never held a hammer in their hand is not an expert.” M. Aquilino – on effective implementation and longterm return on development investment. The research suggests that new and innovative models for development could enable the city of Dili to thrive through the development process. Intrinsic to this is firstly developing a holistic definition for sustainability – one that views the realms of culture, economics and natural environment as fundamentally interconnected.
Upon this basis, the evaluating of assets must occur, including physical, social and environmental assets, and how these may be protected and enhanced in the development process. From a design perspective, leadership is required in the form of education and implementation of expert knowledge. Contemporary Timorese Architecture & Design: Arriving at a Framework for Practice Interview participants reinforced recent literature, indicating that the relevance of traditional vernacular architecture to contemporary design practice in TimorLeste lies in its cultural rather than methodical significance. The dynamic and evolutionary nature of what is referred to as “contemporary architecture” intrinsically indicates that a “contemporary vernacular” – architecture of the place – may only eventuate through practice. The interview process resulted in the formation of the following framework that suggests a process through which a contemporary Timorese vernacular could eventuate: 1. Prioritise, encourage and facilitate dialogue. 2. Establish national standards for construction work. 3. Support cultural and environmental engagement activities. 4. Promote and encourage a Timorese culture of design, demonstrating and encouraging: a. Critical design approach, b. Engagement with the cultural landscape, c. Quality education and training, d. Acknowledgement of leadership and quality built and un-built design. e. Establishment of a design community hub for the sharing of information and resources. 5. Design and implement design guidelines for the city of Dili. a. Aim for best-practice outcomes geared towards long-term sustainability rather than providing short-terms solutions - avoiding a scenario where the solution to current problems becomes the reason for future problems. b. Transparent process – providing access to information and channels for communication and feedback between citizens and government authorities. c. Opportunity for public discussion and comment - prior to the issue of construction approvals. d. Applies to all commercial and multi-residential design proposals regardless of stakeholder interests. e. Accountability. f. Periodically and publically review built and unbuilt work – providing an opportunity to learn from and improve local design guidelines.
Opportunities for further investigation Research in the field of design practice and development in Timor-Leste, whilst in its infancy, has the advantage of drawing upon a global knowledge base of “lessons learned”, such that exemplary, world-class design and development innovation may eventuate from future studies. Three promising and important categories of possible research are: 1. 2. 3.
Urban studies, Models for research and development and Social research.
Comprehensive and innovative studies of the city of Dili could provide a critical foundation for a master plan for the development of the city – one that responds holistically to the social, environmental and economical context of the city and its occupants. Some such urban studies may include: • Cultural mapping exercises aimed at understanding and recording the cultural assets of the city. (UNESCO 2011; Cultural Mapping 2011) This information may then be utilised in determining how these assets may be retained – through the development process, rather than despite the development process. • Documentation and analysis of the existing city and surrounds. • Investigation and analysis of the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats to the city of Dili, taking into consideration environmental, social and economic facets of the city. • Documentation and reinterpretation of local and traditional knowledge within the context of contemporary Timor-Leste. • Assessment of local and national priorities, values, culture and lifestyle and how these factors may influence development positively. Furthermore, participatory models of design and research were identified as valuable areas for future investigation. Projects utilising a participatory model could include: • Public engagement in urban issues, • Design and assessment of programs aimed at enriching public open space, and • Youth and community engagement. Project-based research investigating the role of cultural and social influences in producing quality design outcomes would be a significant contribution to design practice in Timor-Leste and worldwide. Documentation and review of design-based research is crucial to establishing best practice approaches and allowing for dissemination of knowledge and expertise.
Lastly, the method of inquiry utilised in this research generated a richness of data and discussion unable to be fully captured within the scope of this paper. The quality of this data warrants further, more in-depth presentation in future papers. CONCLUSIONS Timor-Leste, including the capital of Dili, faces many unique and complex challenges in the development process, encompassing all aspects of the physical and socio-cultural environment. This paper aimed to provide a knowledge base of founding principles to inform a framework for urban and architectural design strategy in Dili and greater TimorLeste. Fieldwork, desktop research and in-depth interviews with several experts suggested that the city of Dili is in a vulnerable position. If construction of the built environment continues rapidly and unregulated, the threat of creating major social, environmental and economic problems in the future is significant. Sustained and significant action and initiative are required at all levels of the design and construction process in order to forge a path for the development of Dili, which is sustainable and expressive of a uniquely Timorese culture of design. This would represent a fundamental shift in the context of development - from one of survival to one of innovation and excellence. It is possible for Dili to become a world-class city, providing residents with quality urban environments and services through effective engagement with communities and a holistic design approach. Due to the widespread need for capacity-building development in Timor-Leste, the relatively small population and the availability of internal and external funding for development, a rare and unique opportunity exists within the country. The findings of this research suggest that interdisciplinary dialogue and engagement on a variety of context-specific issues is the key to the development of a contemporary architecture that is uniquely Timorese. It is hoped the dialogue initiated and presented in this paper, along with the resulting framework for design practice and development, will continue to be expanded upon in future literature as well as through critical, reflective practice. Due to the simultaneous fragility and enormous capacity for innovation and design excellence in Timor-Leste, opportunities to effect change through participation in such work is both promising and exciting for the professions of architecture and design and the population of TimorLeste.
Master of Architecture Research Conference, School of Design, QUT, Brisbane, 18 November 2011
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS To my parents and grandparents, who have always encouraged my inquisitive mind, instilling in me a deep sense of commitment to the people and world around me – none of the things I have come to be so passionate about would ever have been possible if it weren’t for you. To my sister and brother, extended family members, my partner Chris, and all those friends and mentors whose encouragement, debates and discussion inspire me every day, your presence in my life is truly a gift. This work represents the ongoing fulfilment of a passionate commitment to the people of Timor-Leste – one that has grown since my involvement with Communidade Edmund Rice and the community of Railaco Craic in the Ermera district of Timor-Leste. To my Timorese friends and family – particularly Margarida da Cruz, the da Cruz family and all those members of the Timorese community who have shared their passion with me and allowed me to see the beauty, vulnerability and pride of Timorese culture, I am grateful beyond expression. To my university, Queensland University of Technology, the staff members of the School of Design, including but not limited to, Paul Saunders, Ian Weir, Mirko Guaralda, and Sam Bucalo, whose support and interest in my work enabled me to complete the fieldwork for this project, and to Bob Boughton (University of New England) and Michael Leach (Swineburne University) and the Timor-Leste Studies Association for allowing me to present my preliminary findings at the Communicating New Research on Timor-Leste conference. Participating in the exchange of knowledge with such an inspiring, committed group of people of all ages and nationalities was truly one of my proudest, most exciting and humbling moments. Manuela, our collaboration has been one of the most valued in my career so far – to say that this work would not have been possible without your encouragement, support, and willingness to be enthused and inspired by all the possibilities of this research would be an understatement. Lastly, to the incredible interview participants, I have experienced being continually astounded by your generosity of spirit and your willingness to participate fully and passionately in hopes that your contribution will make a difference. Most of you live overseas and
all of you are busy with incredibly important and inspiring projects of your own. Your overwhelming enthusiasm for this project has been so inspiring and gives me great hope that with people like you participating in this conversation, Timor-Leste has a promising future ahead. You have all individually contributed immensely to me personally and professionally and I hope also to the future of design practice and development in Timor-Leste. … For all this, everyone, I want to say, “Obrigada!”
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FIGURES Figure 1
Original image found at: http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/com mons/thumb/0/0f/East_Timor_district_name s.png/800pxEast_Timor_district_names.png Image edited by J. Graham.
Figure 2
Original image found at: http://www.fpet.org.au/ETred_map.jpg Image edited by J. Graham.