This architectural thesis reimagines the design of prisons, proposing a new typology that helps with a more beneficial transition for prisoners back into society. By drawing insights from documentaries, movies, interviews, and existing prison models, the thesis envisions a utopian prison environment centered on rehabilitation and social reintegration. This approach challenges the conventional punitive model and aims to address the pressing issues of high recidivism rates and the marginalization of ex-offenders.
The proposed prison design integrates structured psychological treatments, meaningful social interactions, and opportunities for skill development and personal growth. These elements create a dual reality for prisoners, juxtaposing the harsh physical conditions of confinement with a supportive psychological environment that encourages inner resilience and hope. This thesis explores the architectural symbolism embedded in both dystopian and utopian prison designs, reflecting societal values of control, oppression, freedom, and rehabilitation.
By emphasizing the power of hope and imagination, this thesis provides a comprehensive understanding of the interplay between physical confinement, mental resilience, and societal ideologies. It aims to shed light on the human capacity to maintain agency, identity, and purpose even in oppressive environments, contributing to broader discussions on justice, rehabilitation, and societal change. / Master of Architecture / This architectural thesis challenges traditional perceptions of prisons by proposing a new typology focused on facilitating prisoners' successful reintegration into society. Inspired by diverse sources, including documentaries, films, and interviews. This thesis envisions a utopian prison model that prioritizes rehabilitation over punishment. This innovative design aims to reduce recidivism and address systemic issues within the current penal system.
The proposed approach combines structured psychological treatments, meaningful social interactions, and skill development opportunities to create an environment where inmates can thrive both mentally and physically. By analyzing architectural elements and their symbolic significance, this thesis highlights the contrast between conventional punitive prison designs and a new rehabilitative model.
Through this reimagined prison design, this thesis explores the themes of mental resilience, hope and imagination, and architectural symbolism. It underscores the potential for prisoners to maintain a sense of identity and purpose despite physical confinement, offering a transformative vision for the future of incarceration and societal reintegration
| Identifer | oai:union.ndltd.org:VTETD/oai:vtechworks.lib.vt.edu:10919/119402 |
| Date | 11 June 2024 |
| Creators | AlHajj, Rayane M. |
| Contributors | Architecture, de Hahn, Henri T., Gipe, Andrew, Borunda Monsivais, Luis Ricardo |
| Publisher | Virginia Tech |
| Source Sets | Virginia Tech Theses and Dissertation |
| Language | English |
| Detected Language | English |
| Type | Thesis |
| Format | ETD, application/pdf |
| Rights | In Copyright, http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/InC/1.0/ |
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