Brian Do

MEDIATOR

Environmental Design

2024

‘Mediator’ refers to a neutral third party that cultivates communication and understanding to establish common ground.

Acknowledging the high density of individuals experiencing homelessness inhabiting emergency shelters and tent city adjacent to Allan Gardens in Toronto’s neighborhood of Moss Park, the thesis introduces a MEDIATOR. It seeks to offer immediate essential assistance to the community during the day while simultaneously presenting a vision of a progressive transitional process away from homelessness towards obtaining and maintaining permanent housing. To effectively address homelessness in Toronto and the area in particular, the thesis is taking over the proposed design of a condominium development at the chosen site, and reconfiguring it according to the listed programs while retaining the basic envelope of the structure. This is a reclamation and resistance against the product of the housing policy that overlooks the housing demand in the social and community sectors.

“The program consists of three key components: Drop-in Services, Registered Programs, and Transitional Housing. Each tailored to meet the needs of individuals at different stages of homelessness. This approach ensures comprehensive support for individuals across various circumstances.Drop-in Services allow users to fulfill their basic physical, social and mental health needs with self-dignity. Registered Programs serve as a continuing phase where participants are equipped with independent living skills and employment training. These programs are food-centered as a means to highlight concerns regarding food insecurity among the vulnerable population. Transitional Housing provides temporary structured accommodation for identified individuals when working towards self-sufficiency by achieving financial stability and securing permanent housing through wrap-around supportive programs.This addition to the community anticipates to serve as an anchor that increases accessibility to social services and connects people who share similar experiences and concerns.”