This thesis was inspired equally by those who were brave enough to have immigrated, and their descendants, who were brave enough to hold on to something that might not be so clearly a part of them. When people migrate, their physical bodies should not be the only characteristic of themselves that makes the often-difficult journey. People do not see themselves solely by the way that they appear in the physical environment. Part of one’s identity is hidden in their values, beliefs, and traditions. This thesis studies how a group of people might prolong their cultural continuity through their built environment, specifically their social infrastructure. This thesis also explores how this approach to forming spaces and using places might encourage resilience within the greater community beyond that with which they call their own. At a broader scale, this thesis looks at how well-designed public spaces could have positive impacts on the overall character of a community, whether that community is defined regionally, by a specific social group, or a combination of the two.

This Research Paper was submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the Professional Diploma in Architecture with the Royal Architectural Institute of Canada Syllabus Program.