The Sanctuary for Queer Design
2021
studio final project
advisor christianna bennett
institution rensselaer polytechnic institute
abstract
This thesis aims to subvert traditionally heteronormative structures of power, both formally and sociopolitically, in order to reclaim space for queer people in a stubborn landscape. In subverting the physical and ideological typologies of a catholic church and military armory, the proposal utilizes familiar forms to house unwelcome identities. The adjacency of spirituality and weaponry act as reimagined mechanisms for covert queer protection. Drawing upon decades of queer codes, theories, and forms, the design theorizes ways in which a jeopardized minority population may covertly, then over time overtly, inhabit typologies that are traditionally harmful to them. Queer theories and design thinking guide a reimagined design timeline that liberates architecture to become a conscious force which designs, builds, protects and transforms the proposal during and after construction.
thesis book
Check below for the full thesis publication, including research text, images, and final drawings.
thesis defense
The full presentation can be found below, where I ‘perform’ a standard project presentation before unearthing the ‘real’ project motivations and underscoring its arguments.
images
special thx
christianna bennett (for the advising)
jillian crandall (for the mid-sem epiphany)
daniell morales (for the love and light)
dan rothbart (for the late night apt talks)
cate cribb (for the activism)
mom and dad (for the care boxes and calls)
my queerness (for the ability to see anew)