How can Design be used as a Tool to Empower Communities?

One of the most compelling narratives emerging in the architectural landscape is the conscious effort to empower marginalised communities across the world. These comprise mostly of the elderly, children, and women, who find themselves at crossroads of inclusion in designs that surround them. However, now more than ever, there is a conscious attempt to create a built environment through thoughtful, sustainable, and innovative design principles. This paradigm shift isn’t a passing trend; it represents a steadfast commitment to reshape the architectural narrative, challenging stereotypes and cultivating environments conducive to the growth and empowerment of those who have been historically disadvantaged.

Despite this progressive narrative, the World Economic Forum’s Global Gender Gap 2023 report delivers a sobering reality check. At the current pace of global infrastructural development, achieving gender parity seems to be more than a century away. In response to such challenges, various spaces are being designed with a specific focus on making marginalised communities feel safe and empowered.

At Morphogenesis, every project is undertaken with an aim to constantly recognize the pivotal role design plays in shaping societal attitudes and opportunities for the marginalised, especially women. 

YWCA Campus

One notable example is the Young Women’s Christian Association (YWCA) Campus in Dwarka, Delhi. Designed as a residential facility for working women with an academic section supporting vocational training, the YWCA anchors itself on community, culture, environment, and economical aspects. The YWCA works towards emancipating individuals who are underprivileged, economically weak and distressed. 

A series of green spaces and terraces at multiple levels act as thermal buffers, serving varied social and academic activities whilst promoting outdoor learning. The conventional basement (lower level) is inspired by the traditional Indian baoli (a step-well) and has been conceived as an ‘underbelly’. Intended for use largely by women, it is designed to be a secure and intimate space that can be transformed to accommodate diverse social and recreational activities.

The underbelly is inspired by the traditional step-well, Baoli; Image credits: Suryan and Dang

The YWCA houses residential facilities for working women and academic facilities for their vocational training; Image credits: Suryan and Dang

The Lodsi Community Project

The Lodsi Community Project, commissioned by international skincare brand Forest Essentials, is built on the slopes of the Himalayas in Rishikesh. Located atop the remote village of Lodsi, we integrated local building methods to create a contemporary production facility, creating job opportunities in harmony with the local traditions and environment.

Inspired by the traditional Garhwali ‘kholi’ (house), a North-South oriented butterfly roof form accommodates large openable windows that resulted in 80% naturally day-lit spaces. By utilising vernacular construction techniques, we were able to create a space that reflects the local ethos. the facility also is able to aid women and children in the community, making them feel safe and welcomed. 

Currently, the facility employs 65 workers, which directly or indirectly supports 75% of the village households and continues to provide means of livelihood for more than 70 per cent of the women in the village.

The Lodsi Community Project continues to provide a means of livelihood for more than 70 per cent of the village household; Image credits: Andre Fanthome

It is crucial to emphasise that this facility is not confined solely to the factory workers; it stands as an inclusive and accessible space. It serves as an after-school study space for children as well. The facility houses an Ayurveda research library, which is instrumental for the children’s academic pursuits. Rather than proceeding directly home after school, the children opt to spend time in this facility where their mothers are employed. This establishment effectively becomes a secondary home for them.

Rather than proceeding directly home after school, the children opt to spend time in this facility where their mothers are employed; Image credits: Andre Fanthome

In the field of design and architecture, our journey toward gender equity intersects with the potential of design to bring about positive change. As we navigate challenges on the path to a more inclusive future, we believe in the enduring impact of thoughtful design. Each structure must aim to reflect a narrative where women’s presence is not just acknowledged but celebrated.