Architecture as revolution : The Architects duty of care

The Architects duty of care

Architecture as revolution Displaced & Homeless Do YO U care?

Oliver Hester

CONTENTS

COLOMBIA

NEO BANKSIDE. LONDON

01. INTRODUCTION

Current situation of homelessness in UK and abroad p.4 - 7

02. CURRENT DUTY OF CARE What do we as Architects care about?

p.8 - 9

03. NEED OF THE HOMELESS AND DISPLACED What do we as Architects care about?

04.

p.10 - 11

WHY IS IT WITHIN THE ARCHITECTS DUTY TO PROVIDE SHELTER TO THOSE IN NEED?

Questioning current ideas and theories of why we need

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to provide shelter. p.12 - 13

COLOMBIA

JAMES FURZER HOMELESS POD RENDER

05. CASE STUDIES

Different studies showing different schemes and funding networks

p.15 - 17

06. CONCLUSION

What can we do about the current situation?

p.18 - 22

07. BIBLIOGRAPHY & ACRONYMS

p.24 - 26

08. APPENDICES

Appendices 1 : Interview with James Furzer

p.27 - 28

Front cover description

Appendices 2 : Conversation with Gem Barton p.28

Appendices 3 : Feedback from presentation Richard Gatti

p. 29

Appendices 4 : ETHOS European typology of

homelessness and housing exclusion p.30

Curtain road, homeless spike example, first research image (2015) Oliver Hester https://oliverhester.wordpress.com oliverhester@googlemail.com London Met University Student no : 15023656 3

FIGURE A

Curtain road, sleeping spikes.

Own photograph

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01. INTRODUCTION Current situation of homelessness in the UK and abroad

“ In a society that nurtures people and fosters trust, the fact that people sometimes want to sleep in public is the most natural thing in the world” 1

1 Alexander, C (1978). A Pattern Language: Towns, Buildings, Construction. New York: OUP USA. 458.

This body of work is looking into the current state of homelessness and asking whether it is part of the Architects duty of care to look after and design for those in need of shelter. The study will mainly be based in London, but will also be drawing upon worldwide issues. These issues will include displaced communities from around the world, as in many cases the homeless communities in London have been directly affected by worldwide issues .

These issues closer to home are not often directly caused by conflict, but by a number of social and political issues.

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The study will expand on such issues, and by considering current RIBA and ARB codes and relevant planning policy make it relevant to the Architectural Industry and London. The study will enquire into what current forms of contracts and agreements have been set up between the homeless community and the Architect. These may take the form of organisations, charities, voluntary community groups and informal networks.

“The problem of homelessness is much bigger than that of rough sleeping.”

2

The topic of homelessness is not purely Architectural but has many other aspects affecting it - social and political factors mainly but also common misconceptions and the general public’s prejudices.,

“The border is not in Lesbos, it really [is] in our minds and in our hearts” 1

Ai Weiwei 2016

1 Associated

press . (2016). Ai Weiwei sets up studio on greek island to highlight plight of refugees. Available: http://www.theguardian.com/ artanddesign/2016/jan/01/ai-weiwei-sets-up-studio-on-greek-island-oflesbos-to-highlight-plight-of-refugees. Last accessed 4th Jan 2016.

1 Crisis Charity UK . (2015). About Homelessness. Available: http:// www.crisis.org.uk/data/files/publications/Homelessness%20briefing%20 2015%20EXTERNAL.pdf. Last accessed 2nd Jan 2016.

2 Crisis Charity UK . (2015). About Homelessness. Available: http:// www.crisis.org.uk/data/files/publications/Homelessness%20briefing%20 2015%20EXTERNAL.pdf. Last accessed 2nd Jan 2016.

Ai Weiwei mentions a disregard to homelessness and displacement in relation to the current migrant and refugee crisis in Lesbos; “Statistics show that the number of people sleeping on the capital’s streets has risen to more than 7,500 in 2015, up from 3,673 in 2009-10.

The number of rough sleepers across England as a whole has also risen, though the problem is more acute in London, where it has increased 16% in the last year alone... Almost half of those doing so in 2014/15 were European, with 36% from Central and Eastern Europe and 10% from other EU countries. The proportion of British nationals among the capital’s homeless population has fallen over the past two years from 47% to 43%.”

3

Although London’s homeless British nationals have fallen over the past two years, they still make up the largest portion of the homeless community and so should not be ignored.

This essay is not looking to solve the current issue of homelessness, but to suggest that the Architect must have greater awareness of all users of the buildings they create, and must challenge current design guidelines and contractual routes to ensure for better designed buildings for all.

Homelessness can manifest itself in a variety of ways, this can vary from somebody who is intentionally homeless, to somebody who has been described as hidden homeless.

The word homelessness will never be a defined term but this does not detract from the fact that it is a serious problem that can and must be addressed by Architects.

3 Karen McVeigh. (2016). London’s rough sleepers double in five years.

Available: http://www.theguardian.com/society/2016/jan/01/londonrough-sleepers-double-in-five-years?INTCMP=sfl. Last accessed 4th Jan 2016.

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01. INTRODUCTION

GRAPHICS : CRISIS UK

CHAIN . (2015). CHAIN Greater London bulletin 2014-2015. Available: http://data.london.gov.uk/dataset/chain-reports/resource/6c740944-3816-4f21bbcf-04505b59c76b. Last accessed 4th Jan 2016.

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01. INTRODUCTION

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02. CURRENT DUTY OF CARE What is the duty of care as an Architect?

When the question “What is the duty of care as an architect?” is put to Architects the responses and opinions vary hugely. Some are defensive, others heavily user based and some are provocative. However, all Architects questioned show a care towards the end user.

This is a particularly interesting factor as in many cases the end users of the buildings designed are often not those originally intended.

“Architects are just a small player in the wider housing problem. In order to be more socially oriented they need support from local authorities and government. There are some, which take matters into their own hands.

Which is credible. But EVERYONE has a duty of care when it comes to homelessness.” conversation with Gem Barton 1 1 See

conversation with Gem Barton appendix 1

“I believe that architects have a duty of care for all users of their architecture. In fact, they fundamentally do. When an architect designs a building he/she is not only designing for the client, he/she is designing for an array of users of that architecture…. There should be a large amount of care taken when space designing, as all spaces have the ability to be used for unintentional uses, so the architects duty of care should also encompass this. Although the architect has no contract with the final user, I believe that a ‘good’ architect should design with this intention.” conversation with James Furzer 2.

“Duty is a problem, Care is not but is big. The city is what we are caring for.”

Florian Beigel 3.

The relationship between the homeless and the Architect is tenuously set up in all of these documents; The Architects registration board (ARB) Code of Conduct, the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) Code of professional conduct, the National planning policy framework (NPPF) and the London plan (LP).

1. See conversation with James Furzer appendix 1 2. See conversation with Gem Barton appendix 1 3. Archimet4. (2011). Duty of care . Available: https://archimet4.wordpress.com/2011/05/03/duty-of-care/. Last accessed 2nd Jan 2016.

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02. CURRENT DUTY OF CARE

Relevant sections

ARB Code of Conduct

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Standard 5 – Consider the wider impact of your work Whilst your primary responsibility is to your clients, you should take into account the environmental impact of your professional activities.

Standard 12 – Have respect for others 12.1 You should treat everyone fairly and in line with the law. You should not discriminate because of disability, age, gender, sexual orientation, ethnicity, or any other inappropriate consideration.

RIBA Code of Professional Conduct

2

3. Principle 3 – Relationships 3.1 Members should respect the beliefs and opinions of other people, recognise social diversity and treat everyone fairly. They should also have a proper concern and due regard for the effect that their work may have on its users and the local community.

3.2 Members should be aware of the environmental impact of their work.

National planning policy framework

3

8. Promoting healthy communities 69. The planning system can play an important role in facilitating social interaction and creating healthy, inclusive communities… To support this, local planning authorities should aim to involve all sections of the community in the development of Local Plans and in planning decisions, and should facilitate neighbourhood planning. Planning policies and decisions, in turn, should aim to achieve places which promote: opportunities for meetings between members of the community who might not otherwise come into contact with each other, including through mixed-use developments, strong neighbourhood centres and active street frontages which bring together those who work, live and play in the vicinity;

London Plan

4

Section 3.9 Policy 3.9 Mixed and balanced communities Policy A: Communities mixed and balanced by tenure and household income should be promoted across London through incremental small scale as well as larger scale developments which foster social diversity, redress social exclusion and strengthen communities’ sense of responsibility for, and identity with, their neighborhoods.

B : A more balanced mix of tenures should be sought in all parts of London, particularly in some neighborhoods where social renting predominates and there are concentrations of deprivation.

These sections of relevant policy and codes are particularly important as they hint on certain aspects within what is the only formal documentation regarding the Architects duty of care.

1 Architect’s Registration Board. (2010). Code of Conduct 2010.Available: http://arb.org.uk/code-of-conduct-2010-Standard5/Index. Last accessed 17th Nov 2015.

2 Royal Institute of British Architects. (2005). Code of Professional Conduct. Available: https://www.architecture.com/Files/RIBAProfessionalServices/ ProfessionalConduct/DisputeResolution/ProfessionalConduct/RIBACodeOfProfessionalConduct.pdf. Last accessed 17th Nov 2015.

3 Greg Clark. (2012). National Planning Policy Framework. Available: https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/ file/6077/2116950.pdf. Last accessed 5th Jan 2016.

4 Mayor of London. (2014). The London Plan. Available: https://www.london.gov.uk/what-we-do/planning/london-plan/current-london-plan. Last accessed 5th Jan 2016.

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03. NEED OF THE HOMELESS AND

DISPLACED Current situation of homelessness in the UK and abroad Globally worldwide refugee figures have exceeded 50 million . If it were a country it would be the 24th most populous country in the world, Italy and South Africa would have the closest population figures.

The current framework is under a significant amount of strain and the needs of the displaced have never been greater. London is growing at an alarmingly fast rate and there is a large amount of global migration.

This is putting a strain on the current housing system. The solution to this is not straightforward, however some investment in some key areas could help benefit London’s homeless community greatly.

4

The homeless community often do not have somewhere to relax or sit, this could be due to the area being un safe or not suitable. The use of defensive architecture and design of street furniture such as the Camden bench and countless other examples, intentionally deter many users.

5

“(the) Camden Bench is a symbol of the freedom we’ve lost in our public spaces — the freedom to use these spaces as we wish. I also fear that it is an ominous symbol of the future of Britain, a world where contrarianism — whether it be sleeping, skateboarding, scribbling — is made not just illegal, but impossible.”

The spikes at the base of this building outside London Euston mean opportunity for seating is restricted to Pret a Manger, which is reserved for customers. This is discriminatory to those who cannot afford / do not wish to make a purchase, who may well be those most in need of rest.

FIGURE B

Camden Bench London borough of Camden own photo

“From ubiquitous protrusions on window ledges to bus-shelter seats that pivot forward, from water sprinklers and loud muzak to hard tubular rests, from metal park benches with solid dividers to forests of pointed cement bollards under bridges, urban spaces are aggressively rejecting soft, human bodies.”

6

These deterrents are particularly harsh to all members of the public. Alex Andreou mentions this in a descriptive text about an old wooden bench being replaced; showing how easily simple design can encompass all members of the public. This aspect of hostile Architecture has recently become increasingly evident throughout London and around the world.

4 Harriet Sherwood . (2014). Global refugee figure passes 50m for first time since second world war. Available: http://www.theguardian.com/world/2014/ jun/20/global-refugee-figure-passes-50-million-unhcr-report. Last accessed 5th Jan 2016.

5 Frank Swain. (2013). Designing the Perfect Anti- Object. Available: https://medium.com/futures-exchange/designing-the-perfect-anti-object49a184a6667a#.pf03b0aju. Last accessed 6th Jan 2016.

6 Andreou, A. (2015). Anti-homeless spikes: ‘Sleeping rough opened my eyes to the city’s barbed cruelty’. Available: http://www.theguardian.com/ society/2015/feb/18/defensive-architecture-keeps-poverty-undeen-and-makes-us-more-hostile Last accessed 10th Dec 2015.

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03. NEED OF HOMELESS AND DISPLACED

“An old, wooden bench, made concave and smooth by thousands of buttocks, underneath a sycamore with foliage so thick that only the most persistent rain could penetrate it. Sheltered and warm, perched as it was against a wall behind which a generator of some sort radiated heat, this was prime property. Then, one morning, it was gone. In its place stood a convex metal perch, with three solid armrests. I felt such loss that day”.

1

Andreou. A 2015

FIGURE C

(Left) Shop frontage, Bogota. (Mid) Euston Road. (Right) Bench, Bogota.

Own photos 2015 / 16

1 Andreou, A. (2015). Anti-homeless spikes: ‘Sleeping rough opened my eyes to the city’s barbed cruelty’. Available: http:// www.theguardian.com/society/2015/feb/18/defensive-architecture-keeps-poverty-undeen-and-makes-us-more-hostile.

Last accessed 10th Dec 2015.

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04. WHY IS IT WITHIN THE A R C H I T E C T S D U T Y T O P R O V I D E S H E LT E R T O T H O S E I N N E E D ?

Questioning current ideas and theories of why we need to provide shelter Homelessness is not a poor design problem in terms of aesthetics and functionality of the architecture of the built environment, but it is in part poor design in terms of the failure to address the impact of the built environment on society. That is what makes homelessness an architectural problem. The architecture profession is as much about aesthetics and functionality as it is about social implication.

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Architecture affects a very broad range of factors, most only see the outcome in the physical built form, however even the smallest project has countless implications socially and economically, which can be hugely amplified when designing and building in such a culturally rich and diverse city, such as London.

Space in London has become one of the major factors affecting certain decisions in the built environment, as land in the capital is at a premium.

Homelessness is in a certain way a reflection of how the built environment is becoming more and more geared towards the rich and elite and is ignoring the urban poor. It is, therefore, not only desirable that architects should help address the problem of homelessness, it’s our duty.

Homelessness has become one of the new elements of the urban 7 Cramer, J.P., Yankopolus, J.E. (2005). Almanac of Architecture and Design.

Atlanta: Greenway Communications. 7.

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a wide range of professionals – architects, urban planners, developers and city officials.

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FIGURE D

Curtain road artist bed and library installation

environment and it’s our duty as designers to raise society’s awareness. It is our duty, too, to suggest ways in which the homeless can be helped.

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Vacant buildings in London, could have a meanwhile use. Recently in Manchester Ryan Giggs and Phil Neville were renovating an old hotel and the homeless community began squatting in it. When the owners found out about this instead of evicting the residents they welcomed them and made it a safe haven for them in the lead up to Christmas .

9

General perceptions from different people also impact the way the homeless community is seen.

The conversation I had with Richard Gatti during a seminar on this essay highlights in some ways that the general public have an immediate awkward reaction to those in need.

“RG: I work in an office that happens to be above a church, and quite often maybe one day in five to get into my office I have to step over homeless people. Its kind of awkward.

OH : Could this be designed into your building to facilitate someone using it in that way?

RG: The challenge is do you then become responsible for that person if you are providing them shelter…”

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James Furzer responded to this question;

There are many different examples of similar projects.

Urban renewal projects have left some of the urban poor homeless. These projects include 8 Cramer, J.P., Yankopolus, J.E. (2005). Almanac of Architecture and Design.

Atlanta: Greenway Communications. 7.

9 Diane Taylor. (2015). Manchester United stars Neville and Giggs tell hotel squatters: stay for winter. Available: http://www.theguardian.com/ society/2015/oct/18/former-manchester-unitedstar-occupiers-of-hotel-winter-ryan-giggs-garyneville?INTCMP=sfl. Last accessed 7th Jan 2016.

10 Cramer, J.P., Yankopolus, J.E. (2005). Almanac of Architecture and Design.

Atlanta: Greenway Communications. 7.

11 See link of slideshow and youtube link of slideshow https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=vX_FlMopG2Q feedback from presentation from Richard Gatti 28/10/15

04. WHY IS IT WITHIN THE ARCHITECTS DUTY TO P R O V I D E S H E LT E R T O T H O S E I N N E E D ?

How would you describe the profession’s attitude towards those less fortunate than themselves?

I think the installation of anti-homeless spikes answers this for you! And the fact that architecture will only be designed when commissioned… at a cost!

1

FIGURE E

James Furzer ‘Homes for homeless’ render

1 Conversation

with James Furzer See appendix 1 13

FIGURE F

Neo Bankside, Southwark Own photographs

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05. CASE STUDIES Different studies showing different schemes and funding networks The following studies are all from a variety of different angles, some are interventions and others large developments, but all have a theme in common; they are challenging the current ideas of homelessness and often the stigma attached to it.

through architecture. Treating them as vermin.

James Furzer’s Homes for the Homeless.

Ultimately there is not an architectural solution, but I think the industry could really make a change for those in need of emergency ‘pop up’ shelter. The excitement and fun of actually creating architecture that doesn’t involve simple bricks and mortar should be enough to entice any devoted architect or architectural student.

James Furzer of Spatial design Architects, has developed an idea for a shelter for a single homeless person. He describes it as

“’a lightweight modular parasitic sleeping pods that can be attached to the side of any host building or structure, allowing a safe haven for the homeless during a night’s rest, sheltered from the harsh and unpredictable weather conditions of Britain.”

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James agrees there is not an Architectural solution, but that the mindset towards creating homes for the homeless needs to change.

Solutions like this may not be the answer, but start an interest and can therefore become part of the process for solving some of the homeless issues in London.

James Furzer. (2015). James Furzer to crowdfund parasitic sleeping pods for London’s homeless. Available: http://www.dezeen.com/2015/08/19/james-furzercrowdfund-parasitic-sleeping-pods-london-homeless-indiegogo/. Last accessed 2nd Jan 2016..

The project is yet to be built but there is a kickstarter page with current funding of £1,164 from 71 people. Homeless charities from around the world are interested in the idea and developing a physical prototype that could be part of a solution to the wider scale of homelessness is a priority.

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Brick by brick charity.

This charity based in Old Kent road in South London was set up in 1990 by Alex Gravenstein. The charity has a great approach to working, not only does it support the homeless community by providing them housing for temporary measures or for more long term needs, it also has an aspect of teaching and learning within the charity. This is done by learning from a qualified tradesmen so they are able to provide themselves with homes to live a more sustainable and self sufficient life .

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Speaking with James about his project he explained what inspired him, The sudden rise in hostile and aggressive architecture.

The rise in anti-homeless spikes is just upsetting that we are public displaying our thoughts on the homeless 12 https://www.indiegogo.com/projects/homes-for-the-homeless--8#/

story. Last accessed 7th Jan 2016

13 See

appendix add appendix furzer convo

14 http://brickbybrick.org.uk/programs/ 15

05. CASE STUDIES

“Neo Bankside … remind(s) us how money is driving housing as asset class rather than home” 16

The original planning applications viability scheme stated that the 40% affordable housing target would not be met and 27.5% would be provided instead.

This was argued on a basis that the average flat would sell for £754/sq ft, which was mentioned in the officers report.

Now the scheme has been built it has sold for an average of £1,326/sq ft!

17

One project that stands out that they have been involved with is a housing building with 8, 1 bed flats and 3, 2 bed flats, in Charlton. This was designed

by Hampson Williams architects Neo Bankside Designed by Rogers Stirk Harbour and partners (see figure F) this development has come under a lot of scrutiny. The development is located directly South of the Tate Modern in London and was recently announced on the short list of the Stirling prize . This has been a highly contentious topic as many aspects of the project were not completed within the relevant regulations and planning policy, 15

making it in some opinions not worthy of a Stirling prize nomination. The building in many ways has made the greatest contribution to the evolution of Architecture however this may be in a negative way as this project in some ways has manipulated particular regulations to achieve a certain type of building.

15 Roger Stirck Harbour + partners . (2015). Neo Bankside shortlisted for stirling prize. Available: http://www.rsh-p.com/ news/2015/%E2%80%8Bneo-bankside-shortlisted-for-stirling-prize/. Last accessed 8th Jan 2016.

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“ S o w h at d i d t h e p u b l i c a c t u a l l y g e t fo r i ts 27.5% s l i c e o f N e o B a n ks i d e’s £4 0 0 m p i e? I n t h e S e c t i o n 10 6 ag r e e m e n t…t h e d e ve l o p e r e n te r e d i n to a b i n d i n g l e g a l c o n t r a c t w i t h S o u t h w a r k to b u i l d 13 0 a f fo rd a b l e h o m e s , o f w h i c h 9 4 m u s t b e s o c i a l- r e n te d. A l m o s t 10 ye a r s l ate r, w i t h t h e to w e r s n o w o c c u p i e d, t h e p r o j e c t s h o w e r e d w i t h a w a rd s a n d t h e b o r o u g h h av i n g m e r r i l y s i g n e d o f f t h e ag r e e m e n t a s f u l l y d i s c h a r g e d, i t a p p e a r s t h ey h ave fa l l e n a t h i rd s h o r t o n t h e i r p r o m i s e s . T h e s c h e d u l e o f c o m p l e te d h o m e s s h o w s t h at t h e d e ve l o p m e n t h a s p r o v i d e d j u s t 9 4 a f fo rd a b l e u n i ts , o f w h i c h o n l y 62 a r e s o c i a l r e n te d. T h e b o r o ug h h a s m i s s e d o u t o n 3 8 a f fo rd a b l e h o m e s .”

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16 Edwin Heathcote. (2015). RIBA stirling prize 2015 : The critics choose their favourites. Available: http://www.architectsjournal.co.uk/news/ribastirling-prize-2015-the-critics-choose-their-favourites/8686303.article. Last accessed 8th Jan 2016.

17 Oliver Wainwright. (2015). Neo Bankside: how Richard Rogers ‘s new ‘non-com access’ cut out the poor . Available: http://www.theguardian. com/artanddesign/architecture-design-blog/2015/jul/21/neo-banksidehow-richard-rogers-new-non-dom-accom-cut-out-the-poor. Last accessed 5th Jan 2016.

18 Oliver Wainwright. (2015). Neo Bankside: how Richard Rogers ‘s new ‘non-com access’ cut out the poor . Available: http://www.theguardian. com/artanddesign/architecture-design-blog/2015/jul/21/neo-banksidehow-richard-rogers-new-non-dom-accom-cut-out-the-poor. Last accessed 5th Jan 2016.

05. CASE STUDIES

This case study proves that there are many issues with the current housing system, meaning that prices in the capital continue to rise and more and more people are unable to afford shelter.

FIGURE G

Estate agent window Neo Bankside, Southwark Own photograph 2016

FIGURE H

Jules Moscovici 2014 Jules Moscovici. (2014). British Housing Crisis: Charities feel the bite. Available: http://www.cause4.co.uk/2014/07/british-housing-crisis-charities-feel-thebite/. Last accessed 12th Jan 2016.

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06. CONCLUSION WHAT CAN WE DO ABOUT THE SITUATION? The architect needs to be more integrated into all areas within society, to help create and design well used communal projects for everyone, especially those in need.

from cardboard boxes .

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Examples of small interventions such as the park Bench reference sponsored by an outdoor advertsising company and the Para’Site’ dwellings reference which makes the use of other buildings heat expelling fans, to provide warmth for the inhabitant.

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Could the architect propose different scales of shelter? Milo Ayden De Luca has an interesting project where he suggests small-scale shelters on streetlights.

“The project imagines street lights as temporary dwellings for homeless people by creating tensile structures around them using cheap, basic materials.”

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These may not even need to be covered shelters, Elliot Lord has designed a template to create a bed

This is not a long term solution but immediate relief is needed, at certain times of the year and this is a very quick, cost free solution.

These may not be a totally viable solutions, however small scale projects like this need to be developed so that homeless people are no longer discriminated against and can become more included in society.

James furzer’s floating homeless pods, could also become a more than temporary solution to the homeless problem however parts of this idea would become very difficult. Legalities of ownership and maintenance could become problematic and this is not a permanent solution to the crisis.

However James describes how the industry is slowly changing.

“There are several very influential architects that have took it upon themselves to help the homeless. This involves helping and providing sheltering for those devastated by natural disasters. As a community I feel very little gets done, but there has been a change in mind set of individuals.” .

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19 Sydney Brownstone. (2014). These park benches Welcome the Homeless instead of rejecting them. Available: http://www.fastcoexist. com/3032631/these-park-benches-welcome-the-homeless-instead-ofrejecting-them#2. Last accessed 7th Jan 2016.

20 Steph. (2015). Urban Subversion: 13 Radical Examples of Guerrilla Housing. Available: http://weburbanist.com/2014/10/08/urbansubversion-13-radical-examples-of-guerrilla-housing/. Last accessed 7th Jan 2016.

21 Milo Ayden De Luca. (2013). Excrescent Utopia. Available: http://www. dezeen.com/2013/01/17/excrescent-utopia-parasitic-architecture-forhomeless-by-milo-ayden-de-luca/. Last accessed 6th Jan 2016 18

Homes for the homeless is not a permanent solution however it has raised awareness for in the construction industry and individuals are starting to care.

22 Tash Reith - Banks. (2015). Creating cardboard beds for a more comfortable Christmas on the streets. Available: http://www.theguardian. com/science/blog/2015/nov/27/creating-cardboard-beds-christmasstreets-homelessness-stem-refugees?INTCMP=sfl. Last accessed 8th Jan 2016.

23 James furzer appendix 1

06. CONCLUSION

FIGURE I

Examples of temporary shelter

A more permanent solution for London is very difficult to come by, but the construction industry as a whole if focused in the right direction could impact on the homeless situation in London. This could be achieved in 3 ways.

1. Government and public prejudice The initial steps need to be government led. Cutting funding for housing benefit for young people is the opposite to what needs to be done.

“For the most vulnerable young people in our society, housing benefit is a lifeline, not a lifestyle choice” .

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The general public need to have an attitude shift towards the homeless and respect them for who they are.

This is more of an ethical stance but if there is a general improvement in the way they are perceived then this will in turn help the situation.

24 Centre point charity. (2015). Cameron’s latest benefit cuts will cause misery and homelessness. Available: http://centrepoint.org.uk/news-events/ news/2015/january/cameron’s-latest-benefit-cuts-will-cause-misery-and-homelessness. Last accessed 6th Jan 2016.

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2. Construction Industry awareness and ethical stance The construction industry in London has historically been very focused on profit. Mindsets are changing in the built environment, some decisions are considering a range of users of the building.Sensitive design is key to the inclusivity of all users, even if you are able to provide a certain surface in a more secluded area in your design then this could really change someone’s life. There could be some code or guidelines for this to help temporarily. Shelter should be for everyone and the RIBA should have a stance on this.

The RIBA stages of work could be an area that could potentially benefit from having an additional section that could suggest a greater awareness in the community; this could be implemented in stages 1-3. This 25

awareness in many cases is being ignored and this could be the beginning of a more equal and diverse community living in London.

Defensive architecture can, and must, stop. Buildings are a reflection of our society, and must not be discriminatory.

“The message is clear: you are not a member of the public, at least not of the public that is welcome here.” ... These measures do not and cannot distinguish the ‘vagrant’ posterior from others considered more deserving.

When we make it impossible for the dispossessed to rest their weary bodies at a bus shelter, we also make it impossible for the elderly, for the infirm, for the pregnant woman who has had a dizzy spell. By making the city less accepting of the human frame, we make it less welcoming to all humans. By making our environment more hostile, we become more hostile within it.

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3. Education mental health and support These problems seem difficult to solve but there is already a brilliant extensive network of both charitable organizations and support from the NHS, in the UK. These services are however strained and are finding it difficult to keep up with demand. These services need a monetary backing to be able to continue doing the positive work they are doing.

“In the Middle East, we were building camps: storage facilities for people. But the refugees were building a city. These are the cities of tomorrow. The average stay today in a camp is 17 years. That’s a generation. Let’s look at these places as cities.”

It is the architect’s wider duty to provide shelter to those around the world. These issues although greater can be solved with a similar approach.

The refugee crisis currently in the UK has never needed a response quicker; the need for government officials to address these issues is needed, see quote re Middle East .

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Kilian Kleinschmidt (2015)

Politicians seem to be more concerned about votes than the general welfare of the nation and its growing population.

This needs to change; people can do this across all platforms. Protests such as the Solidarity with refugees and the Refugees welcome march in London, which 25 https://www.architecture.com/files/ribaprofessionalservices/practice/ribaplanofwork2013template.pdf

26 Andreou, A. (2015). Anti-homeless spikes: ‘Sleeping rough opened my eyes to the city’s barbed cruelty’. Available: http://www.theguardian.com/ society/2015/feb/18/defensive-architecture-keeps-poverty-undeen-and-makes-us-more-hostile. Last accessed 10th Dec 2015.

27 Dezeen. (2015). Refugee camps are the “cities of tomorrow”, says humanitarian-aid expert. Available: http://www.dezeen.com/2015/11/23/refugeecamps-cities-of-tomorrow-killian-kleinschmidt-interview-humanitarian-aid-expert/. Last accessed 10th Dec 2015.

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tens of thousands of people gathered and protested the current situation with immigration and migrants are needed to make the issues more apparent to political party leaders.

‘Activism’ shouldn’t replace architecture, but can extend its influence. When the architect operates within the language of the discipline, not only through action, but through form, an outcome of cultural significance is possible. But the process of design may now need to start earlier with the ‘invention’ of

FIGURE J

Refugees welcome march 2015 : Llias Bartolini https://www.flickr.com/photos/iliasbartolini/21179660740

the client. The power of architecture is the power of synthesis, and the ability to coordinate within cities that lack coordination. The extreme segregation of rich and poor, formal and informal, is dangerous and unsustainable. No one knows better how ideas should manifest through the built city than the engaged architect. This territory needs to be reclaimed, and must be where some of the ‘duty of the architect’ lies. The direction has never seemed clearer or more urgent: architecture as revolution.

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Catling, C S (2014)

As Architects we can represent our industry and make a positive change by becoming active in these areas.

All people have the opportunity to change something in their lives. This could begin with interacting with the media on the topic of homelessness and displaced people. Speaking with your local MP and making them aware of the problems, these are vital tools to be able to make a change. These steps may seem small but problems like this if solved on a small scale, bring about a large change.

28 Catling, C S. (2014). Damned if You Do, Damned if You Don’t: What is the Moral Duty of the Architect?. Available: http://www.architectural-review.com/ essays/damned-if-you-do-damned-if-you-dont-what-is-the-moral-duty-of-the-architect/8669956.article. Last accessed 10th Dec 2015.

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FIGURE K

Solidarity with refugees Sept 2015 : Manos Simonides https://www.flickr.com/photos/manossi/21176630779

“The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing.”

1

1 Jessica 22

Kennedy (Crisis UK). 2016. Lecture . Engaging Communities: A Practical Response To The Refugee Crisis. Nadi ‘park royal’ 8th Jan 2016

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BIBLIOGRAPHY Books · Alexander, C (1978). A Pattern Language: Towns, Buildings, Construction. New York: OUP USA. · Kesia Reeve with Elaine Batty. (May 2011). Recommendations. In: Kesia Reeve The hidden truth about homelessness. Sheffield Hallam University: Crisis UK. · Cramer, J.P., Yankopolus, J.E. (2005). Almanac of Architecture and Design. Atlanta: Greenway Communications. · Minton, A (2009). Ground Control. London: Penguin. · Mallgrave, H.F. (2006). An anthology from Vitruvius to 1870. . Vancouver: Blackwell Publishers. · Marc - Antoine Laugier (2009). An essay on Architecture . England: Hennessey & Ingalls . Front cover .

Websites · Crisis Charity UK . (2015). About Homelessness. Available: http://www.crisis.org.uk/data/files/ publications/Homelessness%20briefing%202015%20EXTERNAL.pdf. Last accessed 2nd Jan 2016. · https://archimet4.wordpress.com/2011/05/03/duty-of-care/. · http://www.dezeen.com/2015/08/19/james-furzer-crowdfund-parasitic-sleeping-pods-londonhomeless-indiegogo/ · http://www.dezeen.com/2015/11/23/refugee-camps-cities-of-tomorrow-killian-kleinschmidtinterview-humanitarian-aid-expert/ · http://www.architectural-review.com/essays/damned-if-you-do-damned-if-you-dont-what-is-themoral-duty-of-the-architect/8669956.article. · Peter Singh. (2005). No Home, No Job . Available: http://www.crisis.org.uk/data/files/admin_ uploads/WILLOW/no_home_no_job.pdf. · Mei - Yee Oram . (2014). Conventional Architecture is exclusive - the Future is inclusive. Available: http://www.designcouncil.org.uk/news-opinion/conventional-architecture-exclusive-future-inclusive.

Last accessed 4th Jan 2016. · Mayor of London. (2014). The London Plan. Available: https://www.london.gov.uk/what-we-do/ planning/london-plan/current-london-plan. Last accessed 5th Jan 2016. · Greg Clark. (2012). National Planning Policy Framework. Available: https://www.gov.uk/government/ uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/6077/2116950.pdf. Last accessed 5th Jan 2016. · RIBA Stages of work https://www.architecture.com/files/ribaprofessionalservices/practice/ ribaplanofwork2013template.pdf. · Harriet Sherwood . (2014). Global refugee figure passes 50m for first time since second world war.

Available: http://www.theguardian.com/world/2014/jun/20/global-refugee-figure-passes-50-millionunhcr-report. Last accessed 5th Jan 2016. · The Telegraph. (2008). What are non - domiciles? Non-Dom Q&A. Available: http://www.telegraph. co.uk/news/uknews/1578096/What-are-non-domiciles-Non-dom-QandA.html. Last accessed 5th Jan 2016. · Centre point charity. (2015). Cameron’s latest benefit cuts will cause misery and homelessness.

Available: http://centrepoint.org.uk/news-events/news/2015/january/cameron’s-latest-benefit-cutswill-cause-misery-and-homelessness. Last accessed 6th Jan 2016. · Milo Ayden De Luca. (2013). Excrescent Utopia. Available: http://www.dezeen.com/2013/01/17/ excrescent-utopia-parasitic-architecture-for-homeless-by-milo-ayden-de-luca/. Last accessed 6th Jan 2016 · Tom Ravenscroft. (2012). John McCall unwraps UK’s ‘First Green’ homeless centre. Available: http:// www.architectsjournal.co.uk/john-mccall-unwraps-uks-first-green-homeless-centre/8638322. fullarticle. Last accessed 6th Jan 2016. · Helen Clifton . (2013). A home from home. Available: http://www.insidehousing.co.uk/a-home-fromhome/6525908.article. Last accessed 7th Jan 2016.

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· Homes and communities agency. (2009). Kickstart. Available: http://cfg.homesandcommunities. co.uk/ourwork/kickstart. Last accessed 7th Jan 2016. · Liverpool mutual homes . (2015). Annual review & value for money statement 2014/15.

Available: http://issuu.com/liverpoolmutualhomes/docs/lmh_annual_report_newsletter/24 ?e=3719225/30125848. Last accessed 7th Jan 2016. · Rose Troup Buchanan. (2015). Architect designs award-winning floating pods to shelter London’s homeless from elements. Available: http://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/architect-designsaward-winning-floating-pods-to-shelter-londons-homeless-from-elements-10414041.html. Last accessed 7th Jan 2016 · Sydney Brownstone. (2014). These park benches Welcome the Homeless instead of rejecting them.

Available: http://www.fastcoexist.com/3032631/these-park-benches-welcome-the-homelessinstead-of-rejecting-them#2. Last accessed 7th Jan 2016. · Steph. (2015). Urban Subversion: 13 Radical Examples of Guerrilla Housing. Available: http:// weburbanist.com/2014/10/08/urban-subversion-13-radical-examples-of-guerrilla-housing/. Last accessed 7th Jan 2016. · Diane Taylor. (2015). Manchester United stars Neville and Giggs tell hotel squatters: stay for winter.

Available: http://www.theguardian.com/society/2015/oct/18/former-manchester-united-staroccupiers-of-hotel-winter-ryan-giggs-gary-neville?INTCMP=sfl. Last accessed 7th Jan 2016. · Edwin Heathcote. (2015). RIBA stirling prize 2015 : The critics choose their favourites. Available: http://www.architectsjournal.co.uk/news/riba-stirling-prize-2015-the-critics-choose-theirfavourites/8686303.article. Last accessed 8th Jan 2016. · Tash Reith - Banks. (2015). Creating cardboard beds for a more comfortable Christmas on the streets. Available: http://www.theguardian.com/science/blog/2015/nov/27/creating-cardboardbeds-christmas-streets-homelessness-stem-refugees?INTCMP=sfl. Last accessed 8th Jan 2016. · London Borough of Southwark (2014). Southwark’s Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) CIL Background evidence paper. London: Southwark. P34-35. · Boundary problems . (2000). What is a deed?. Available: http://www.boundary-problems.co.uk/ boundary-problems/deedsandplans.html. Last accessed 9th Jan 2016.

Relevant documentation · · · ·

Architect’s Registration Board. (2010). Code of Conduct 2010 Royal Institute of British Architects. (2005). Code of Professional Conduct National planning policy framework London Plan

Journals / newspaper articles · http://www.theguardian.com/society/2015/feb/18/defensive-architecture-keeps-poverty-undeenand-makes-us-more-hostile. · Oliver Wainwright. (2015). Neo Bankside: how Richard Rogers ‘s new ‘non-com access’ cut out the poor . Available: http://www.theguardian.com/artanddesign/architecture-design-blog/2015/jul/21/ neo-bankside-how-richard-rogers-new-non-dom-accom-cut-out-the-poor. Last accessed 5th Jan 2016. · Ed Cumming . (2015). ‘It’s like a ghost town’: lights go out as foreign owners desert London homes.

Available: http://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2015/jan/25/its-like-a-ghost-town-lights-go-out-asforeign-owners-desert-london-homes. Last accessed 5th Jan 2016.

Other · See link of slideshow and youtube link of slideshow https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vX_ FlMopG2Q feedback from presentation from Richard Gatti 28/10/15 25

Acronyms · · · · · ·

· · · · · · ·

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(ETHOS) European Typology of Homelessness and Housing Exclusion (RIBA) Royal institute of british architects (ARB) Architects registration board (BIDs) business improvement districts (CIL) Community Infrastructure levy (Chain) Combined Homelessness Information Network CHAIN is a multi agency database recording information about rough sleepers and the wider street population in London. The system, which is commissioned and funded by the Mayor of London and managed by St Mungo’s Broadway, represents the UK’s most detailed and comprehensive source of information about rough sleeping.

(NPPF) National planning policy framework (LP) London plan (Non-dom) can be defined as British citizens… do not pay tax on earnings made outside the United Kingdom (NGO) Non Governmental organization (AJ) Architects Journal (JCT) Joint contracts tribunal design and build (LMH) Liverpool mutual homes housing association

APPENDICES APPENDIX 1 James furzer reply to questions 8/12/15 - Do you believe architects have a duty of care to the homeless and displaced?

I believe that architects have a duty of care for all users of their architecture. In fact, they fundamentally do. When an architect designs a building he/she is not only designing for the client, he/she is designing for an array of users of that architecture. Therefore when designing architecture within the public realm, no doubt homeless individuals will come into contact with this architecture, and more than likely interact with it, especially if it results in them gaining some shelter and warmth for several hours.

- - If yes, is it possible for architects to fulfill this duty through sensitive design on projects for clients, or should they go further?

I think they should most defiantly go further. Architecture is a way of the wealthy or better off individuals or families to show off their wealth, and it always has been. The homeless have no wealth in the sense of monies, so why should architecture be refused to them? Why should we deter them using architecture itself, with homeless spikes, sloped park benches etc. These have all been designed, these are all architecture.

Hostile architecture, aggressive architecture, call 8it what you will, it’s unfair to say the least. Following on from my duty of care answer above, we should take this duty beyond our signed contracts, and take it upon ourselves to help alleviate, or at least ease the problem of homelessness. Ultimately, I don’t believe the solution to homelessness is architecture. We already have the infrastructure to be able to house the homeless. We have hundreds of thousands of empty properties across the uk. Homelessness could potentially be ended over night with the diligence of these properties, but we know politically this will never happen. Im beginning to rant so onto the next question!

- - If a client of yours requested anti-homeless features in a design (such as spikes), how would you react?

I wouldn’t allow them to be installed on my design, it goes against my beliefs of the duty of care. In fact, it eliminates the human element to architecture. And desensitises your architecture to the public in my personal opinion. After all, you’d be deterring members of the public from interacting with your building.

- - What inspired Homes for the Homeless?

The sudden rise in hostile and aggressive architecture. The rise in anti-homeless spikes is just upsetting that we are public displaying our thoughts on the homeless through architecture. Treating them as vermin.

- - What has the response been like – both from within the profession and outside?

The response has been mixed, of course there has been negativity regarding the design. There are issues with the design as it sits, which I openly admit. Structural concerns, political issues, social issues etc, but these will be dealt with as the project develops. The majority of the response has been positive which is fantastic. The project stirred up a conversation regarding the issue of homelessness and made the issue current. Therefore I feel, even if the pods are not constructed, that the design has been a success.

- - Do you know of any other similar projects that have been implemented?

There are several projects that intend to tackle the issues of homelessness however I don’t feel any have received the media attention they deserved, hopefully mine has changed the attitude towards projects like this within the architectural world also.

- - Do you think architects do enough to help provide shelter to those in need?

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APPENDIX 1 There are several very influential architects that have took it upon themselves to help the homeless. This involves helping and providing sheltering for those devastated by natural disasters. As a community I feel very little gets done, but there has been a change in mind set of individuals.

- - If not, what do you think they can do, both at home and abroad?

As I mentioned, ultimately there is not an architectural solution, but I think the industry could really make a change for those in need of emergency ‘pop up’ shelter. The excitement and fun of actually creating architecture that doesn’t involve simple bricks and mortar should be enough to entice any devoted architect or architectural student.

- - How would you describe the profession’s attitude towards those less fortunate than themselves?

I think the installation of anti-homeless spikes answers this for you! And the fact that architecture will only be designed when commissioned… at a cost!

- - What is the architects duty of care?

- I personally think the duty of care of an architect is to design a space that comfortable suits the needs of its intended use. I have a feeling this answer may become a little repetitive and vague, as it’s a personal opinion. So bare with me!

Every space has an intended use. The architect should competently design a space that safely enables this specified use. There should be a large amount of care taken when space designing, as all spaces have the ability to be used for unintentional uses, so the architects duty of care should also encompass this. Although the architect has no contract with the final user, I believe that a ‘good’ architect should design with this intention.

The concern with this comes down to who fault lies upon, if a blame of an accident needs to be given. If the building fails the occupier, who is at fault? It’s a controversial issue as us as architects are designing to a brief and set of regulations, providing we do this, then our duty of care is met. I feel that any construction issues and details sit with the building control department and contractor, and that any faults here cannot be blamed upon the architect, perhaps that’s me protecting myself as an architect??

I feel our duty of care comes into play, as mentioned above, when the use of the space is in question, not the construction of the space. If for example, at university, you require a library space, which you would like/ is required to be quiet, but perhaps the architect has designed in such a way that sound reverberates off walls an extremely large amount, creating the opposite of a quiet space, the architect has designed a space that does not work. Its here I feel a duty of care is breached.

So to summarise, I believe our duty of care is to design a space that meets the requirements to fulfil its intended use.

Gem barton reply to question. 2/1/16 OH : Happy new year! I’m just writing an essay on the Architects duty of care, and was wondering if you could let me know your opinion on “what is the architects duty of care?” I am writing about the current homeless situation in London. Thanks.

GB : Architects are just a small player in the wider housing problem. In order to be more socially oriented they need support from local authorities and govt. There are some which take matters into their owns. Which is credible. But EVERYONE has a duty of care when it comes to homelessness.

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Richard Gatti feedback from presentation 28/10/15 RG: Thank you your gallery (Curtain road) presume has reasonably good reason for not wanting homeless people to sleeping on its cill OH: Maybe RG: You know so theres a balance there, I work in an office that happens to be above a church, and quite often maybe one day in five to get into my office I have to step over homeless people. Its kind of awkward.

Particularly if they are sleeping right across the door and I literally cant get in OH: Could this be designed into your building to facilitate someone using it in that way? So you wouldn’t have to step over them when you walk through the door, that’s a similar argument that im trying to show.

RG: The challenge is do you then become responsible for that person if you are providing them shelter or are you kind of legitimizing behavior that may be these people should not be on the street may be the should in foyers, maybe they should be in you know kind of schemes dealing with their kind of multiple issues.

OH: I do agree that there is a place for homeless people and they have a right to shelter as everyone else does its just trying to get it together to make it so they have somewhere to go. They’ve got to go somewhere? I don’t know? 29

29 See link of slideshow and youtube link of slideshow https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vX_FlMopG2Q feedback from presentation from Richard Gatti 28/10/15 29

APPENDIX 2

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Back cover description Madrid Central station sleeping location Own photo (2010) Oliver Hester https://oliverhester.wordpress.com oliverhester@googlemail.com London Met University Student no : 15023656 31

“There are opportunities to provide housing for the homeless people on the streets but these can only be accomplished by a joint effort between architects, the community and different professions...”

“It is our responsibility as architects to help the homeless because we have the training to design, among other things, homes for people.”

1

Cramer, J.P. 2006 1 Cramer,

J.P., Yankopolus, J.E. (2005). Almanac of Architecture and Design. Atlanta: Greenway Communications. 7-8.

Oliver Hester