Architects can answer the needs of the marginalized, socially and economically excluded individuals,
like single parents, vulnerable women, children and victims of violence when facing a housing and
environmental crisis. What kind of housing typologies are suitable to repair and heal people, as well
as neglected historical sites with unexploited potential? The thesis investigates ways for paradigm
shift of our perception of old castles, from a symbol of affluence into a catalyst for community
development. Counter to the typical adaptation into static monuments with exclusive use, the
project proposes an alternative dynamic environment that takes into consideration its intrinsic value,
history, surrounding context, while incorporating nature and giving a second chance to the heritage
and its users. The emphasis is on creating a space for social interaction, personal growth and safety,
with a feminist design approach. This approach applies the model of co-housing, fostering a sense
of collective belonging and promoting equality, shared services and diversity. At the same time it
operates with a delicate site creating relationships between nature and the built environment, old
and new, individual and collective. By following a legacy of single family houses, challenging the way
we live, shape neighborhoods and look at heritage, with the revitalization I am trying to breathe life
into anemic neighborhoods and demonstrating the multifunctionality of space, inclusivity in design,
ultimately enhancing overall quality of life and well-being.
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