Revitalizing an Urban Homeless Community in Hong Kong

Abstract

In Hong Kong ‘Unemployed’ and ‘Homeless’ are terms that are often used to refer to people who are marginalized from society, either because of high property prices and expensive rent, or government policies that are ineffective. Most of the “marginal” group are living outside. People avoid them, and the government tries to isolate them, so that they do not have much chance to re-integrate with society. My thesis is based on the social circular economic theory and explores creating housing and community for the homeless population by utilizing an abundant local material: bamboo. The introduction of a bamboo forest in turn provides an economic infrastructure for community; while assisted design and build activities provide this “marginal” group an opportunity to participate in building their society.