The Arts of Survival

The problem of slums and shantity towns is so complex that I find myself in total agreement with Samual Clarke when he ends his blog saying “I know of no answer to solve ths problem of slums”. It would seem that very few people do, judging by the world situation.
Many accuse these shanty towns of being the centre of vice,crime and even a breeding ground of terrorism,yet it is difficult to see how people wouldn’t turn to petty crime just to survive.This doesn’t constitute terrorism. It should be a priority to improve the lot of the slum dwellers as soon as possible; to eleviate disease,high infant mortality and give these people the dignity and minimum comfort they deserve.The problem is vast and complex and in the whirl of confusion I find myself thinking of the very effective yet simple solution the Nobel Peace Prize winner, Muhammad Yunus proposed to finance small businesses in Pakistan.Not only did this small loan show there was interest in these otherwise neglected and exploited workers but the trust and collaboration involved in the repayment encouraged people to go on and stife for a goal. My hope, as a future designer would be to design an easily assembled building to give people a chance to leave the inadequate favalas and at the same time a chance to improve and personalise their new home as their situation improved.
To do this as quickly as possible the solution would seem to be pre-fabriccted houses and the excellent system now being adopted in China.Rather than rely on a long line of craftsmen and workers new prefabs can be built using new technologies
and materials using a new software called Generative Components.
Of course a scheme like this would involve state sponsorship and approval.I think,if it were possible to make a start on a small scale bigger projects would follow.The designer would have to work closely with government representatives showing that such a scheme was viable but given good innovative plans at a low cost and with the possibility that the new occupant may even be able to make a financial contribution in the form of a low rent,governments and even private investment should be forthcoming.Once the slum dwellers had a home it would be easier for them to try and find work. Communities could grow up and children could be educated,health should also improve with better housing. Sounds easy,all that is missing is the ideal design.