Abstract:
'Heritage' in the form of Arts and Crafts is considered to be a key element in showcasing a
nation's identity because it gives you a picture of that nation's rich cultural and artistic history.
Heritage of a place is shaped through the man made traditions and cultural norms of each
individual that inhabits that particular society.
This thesis will refer to a period textile called 'Phulkari', which is a part of Hazara community's
heritage, situated in the province of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. The historical origin of
this craft is linked integrally with celebrating events that are considered to be milestones in a
woman's life such as marriage, birth of a child etc. The craft itself is made by using a number
of techniques combined with motifs and geometrical patterns of vibrant colors to reflect the
unique identity and cultural values of Hazara women.
The project intends to use architecture as a catalyst and space as an incubator by providing
forms and functions that will foster the development of the craft pertaining in this region. The
aim of this thesis is to provide a safe environment for the regeneratior. of the native hands
on craft practices in contemporary times which have been lost due to commercialization.
Furthermore, crafts would act as a source to spur socio-economic prosperity, revitalizing the
persistently declining community of Haripur Hazara facing problems of gendered social
structure. The project explores the idea of gender sensitive spaces as a design tool to
reintegrate Hazara's under-privileged women into the society by elevating their status not
only as an ordinary citizen but also as a craftswoman.
