A NICHE IN THE URBAN COMPLEX: A CHILD'S UTOPIA

Abstract

Children learn through tangible experiences more than they do through being taught, especially in earlier stages of life. Experience is the key element to help refine their sensory skills as they use it to question and understand their surroundings to form meanings and identities. This not only matures their perception of the real world but enhances their relationship with their surroundings. Being inherently curious, they are able to envision their lives through a lens of imagination and fascination which in turn actuates the motivation to explore - evoking in them a sense of creativity, and it is by the act of playing that the children are able to unearth these creative endeavours. Therefore, Play is essential to the cognitive, social and physical development and growth of children. The intent of this thesis is to take into account the children that are living in suburbanized communities of Islamabad where there is a lack of child centric recreational spaces. Spaces for children have overtime become overshadowed by the dense and expanding complexities of our urban landscapes. The children and their need to play as well as its significance goes unrecognised amidst the hustle bustle of these growing suburban sprawls. This has gravely impacted their opportunities to benefit from the concept informal means of learning. The idea emanates around providing an architectural solution to their growing needs to play, explore and socialize in their suburbanized communities but in spaces that are tailor made for them and function in sync with their requirements. Play is not a standalone activity, as assumed to be, but rather can be reinforced through physical spaces and architecture as well. The physical platform would be designed to provide them with a chance at a multi-sensory experience, connecting them with their surroundings and peers. It will enable them to embrace the spontaneous nature of life, learn to be self sufficient and inspire them in all dimensions of life.