James Strong
Of the thesis entitled: NO MAN’S LAND : deconstructing the company camp in Canada’s Oil Sands
Abstract:
For
nearly fifty
years,
commercial
development
in
the
Canadian
Oil
Sands
has
been
the generator
of
a
population
explosion
in
northern
Alberta. Oil
sector
workers
seeking
stable
employment and
high
wages
have
been
drawn
to
the
region for
decades;
often
with
the intention
of
re-settling
permanently
(or
semi-permanently)
in
local
communities near
industrial
activities. These population
increases
have
long
been
the
driver
of
urban
(and
sub-urban) development
in
Fort McMurray;
which
has
grown
to
become
a
fully
functioning industrial
town
of
nearly
100
thousand
permanent
residents.
While
many consider
Fort
McMurray
a
paragon
of
the
contemporary
‘single
industry’
(or company)
town,
an
exclusive
academic
focus
on
‘city-building’
has
failed
to acknowledge
the
increasing
relevance
of
the
company
work
camp
in accommodating perpetual
population
increases. Indeed, statistical
and
demographic
data
–
gathered
by
the
Regional
Municipality
of
Wood Buffalo
–
has
revealed
a
trend
prioritizing
the
deployment
of
company
camps
in lieu
of
permanent improvements
to
the
existing
urban
construct.
Overwhelmingly, the
camp
has
been
characterized
as
the
natural
consequence
of
industrial expansion:
as
resource
extraction
operations
advance
farther
into
the
Canadian hinterland,
the
centripetal
urban
model
(i.e.
Fort
McMurray)
is rendered increasingly
obsolete. The
expanding industrial
footprint
has necessitated an
alternate extra-urban project. This
assumption
-
that
the
camp is
inevitable
-
has
severely
limited
the
ongoing
public
discourse
surrounding contemporary working
accommodations,
and
has
contributed
to
a
perception
of
the camp
as
‘benign’
or
‘passive’
when
–
in
fact
–
the
opposite
is
true.
This
thesis
aims to
assess
the
current
scope
and
scale
of
camp
deployment
through
a
careful accounting
of
individual
accommodations
sites
while
simultaneously
exploring the
organizational
prerogatives
of
camp
deployment. The
camp
–
as extra-urban
paradigm
–
is
linked
to
an
explicit
economic
agenda which
has
successfully
institutionalized
a
‘nomadic,’
‘transient,’
or
otherwise ‘precarious’
working
regime
on
what
is
arguably
Canada’s
most
significant industrial
project.
The examining committee is as follows:
Supervisor:
Committee Members:
Adrian Blackwell, University of Waterloo
Val Rynnimeri, University of Waterloo
Robert Jan Van Pelt, University of Waterloo
Dr. Angela Carter, University of Waterloo
The
committee
has
been
approved
as
authorized
by
the
Graduate
Studies
Committee.
The
Defence
Examination
will
take
place:
Friday,
May
1,
2015
9:30AM
ARC
2026
A
copy
of
the
thesis
is
available
for
perusal
in
ARC
2106A.
Sundus Shaikh
Of the thesis entitled: Cultural Connectivity : Design as a method to facilitate cultural exchange within the Gerrard Bazaar
Abstract:
As immigrants choose to reside within the suburbs and the city undergoes rapid geographical change, Toronto’s ethnic enclaves are facing significant transformation in terms of their neighbourhood demographics, economic conditions and function. The Gerrard Bazaar is a prime example of an ethnic retail strip that is struggling with a changing identity and day-to-day role, as the South Asian population gradually reduces within the area, while young, non-South Asian families continue to move in. Once a thriving Indo-Pakistani retail destination, the ethnic enclave has witnessed significant economic decline leading to fluctuating levels of urban vacancy. Among the many South Asian shops, there lies an increasing presence of mainstream coffee shops and specialty stores that have replaced declining South Asian retail enterprises over time. Various social and business organizations are also situated along the strip, yet a significant number of their efforts to regenerate the enclave, operate in an isolated manner. There also remains a cultural divide within the area as well as a general lack of solidarity among the merchants and organizations within the bazaar.
This
thesis
suggests
that
the
key
to
reviving the
Bazaar
as
well
as
other
declining
ethnic
enclaves,
lies
in
promoting
new networks
of
“cultural
exchange”
in
which
architecture
and
urban
design
can
be
a facilitator
of
new
interactions
and
symbiotic
relationships
among
different organizations
and
individuals.
It
comprises
of
a
demographic,
historic, architectural
and
spatial
analysis
as
well
as
in-depth
human
research
that studies
how
visitors
and
inhabitants
of
the
Gerrard
Bazaar
perceive
the
ethnic enclave,
and
what
culture
means
to
them.
These discovered
studies
and
personal insights
influence
the
design
process
and
are
meant
to
serve
as
a
new
technique by
which
one
can
study
the
notion
of
culture
and
how
it
informs
architecture and
urban
interventions.
Thus,
the
focus
of
thesis
is
on
the
method
by
which architecture and
design
is
produced,
in
response
to
the
lack
of
cultural exchange.
The
way
in
which
this
method
translates research
into
design,
is
by
the
formulation
of
a
manual
of
“design
strategies” that
serves
as
a
template
for
the
design
intervention.
This
manual
is
applied to
three
different
sites
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
for
three
types
of
unique design proposals
-
A
re-activated
plaza,
an
adaptively
re-used
square
and
a re-imagined
senior’s
residential
complex.
These
proposals
are
not
meant
to “freeze”
the
changes
that
are
taking
place
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
but rather,
respond
to
the
gentrification
in
a
positive
manner
and acknowledge
the demographic
trend
that
is
transpiring
within
the
neighbourhood.
It
is
envisioned that
these
new
interventions
would
act
as
catalysts
in
fostering
a
new
sense
of community
and
revitalizing
the
day-to-day
life
of
the
neighbourhood.
In addition,
they
would
serve
to
optimize
the
existing
functions
and
events
of
the ethnic
enclave
and
act
as
anchor points
along
the
strip.
Moreover,
the
presence of
these
interventions
and
the
changes
that
they
bring,
are
meant
to
help
the bazaar
pave
the
path
to
a
new
identity
where
its
cultural
heritage
is
shared and
promoted,
yet
its
demographic
and
cultural
transition
are
acknowledged
and integrated.
The
examining
committee
is
as
follows:
The
committee
has
been
approved
as
authorized
by
the
Graduate
Studies
Committee.
The
Defence
Examination
will
take
place:
Friday,
May
1,
2015
9:30AM
ARC
2026
A
copy
of
the
thesis
is
available
for
perusal
in
ARC
2106A.
Sundus Shaikh
Of the thesis entitled: Cultural Connectivity : Design as a method to facilitate cultural exchange within the Gerrard Bazaar
Abstract:
As immigrants choose to reside within the suburbs and the city undergoes rapid geographical change, Toronto’s ethnic enclaves are facing significant transformation in terms of their neighbourhood demographics, economic conditions and function. The Gerrard Bazaar is a prime example of an ethnic retail strip that is struggling with a changing identity and day-to-day role, as the South Asian population gradually reduces within the area, while young, non-South Asian families continue to move in. Once a thriving Indo-Pakistani retail destination, the ethnic enclave has witnessed significant economic decline leading to fluctuating levels of urban vacancy. Among the many South Asian shops, there lies an increasing presence of mainstream coffee shops and specialty stores that have replaced declining South Asian retail enterprises over time. Various social and business organizations are also situated along the strip, yet a significant number of their efforts to regenerate the enclave, operate in an isolated manner. There also remains a cultural divide within the area as well as a general lack of solidarity among the merchants and organizations within the bazaar.
This
thesis
suggests
that
the
key
to
reviving the
Bazaar
as
well
as
other
declining
ethnic
enclaves,
lies
in
promoting
new networks
of
“cultural
exchange”
in
which
architecture
and
urban
design
can
be
a facilitator
of
new
interactions
and
symbiotic
relationships
among
different organizations
and
individuals.
It
comprises
of
a
demographic,
historic, architectural
and
spatial
analysis
as
well
as
in-depth
human
research
that studies
how
visitors
and
inhabitants
of
the
Gerrard
Bazaar
perceive
the
ethnic enclave,
and
what
culture
means
to
them.
These discovered
studies
and
personal insights
influence
the
design
process
and
are
meant
to
serve
as
a
new
technique by
which
one
can
study
the
notion
of
culture
and
how
it
informs
architecture and
urban
interventions.
Thus,
the
focus
of
thesis
is
on
the
method
by
which architecture and
design
is
produced,
in
response
to
the
lack
of
cultural exchange.
The
way
in
which
this
method
translates research
into
design,
is
by
the
formulation
of
a
manual
of
“design
strategies” that
serves
as
a
template
for
the
design
intervention.
This
manual
is
applied to
three
different
sites
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
for
three
types
of
unique design proposals
-
A
re-activated
plaza,
an
adaptively
re-used
square
and
a re-imagined
senior’s
residential
complex.
These
proposals
are
not
meant
to “freeze”
the
changes
that
are
taking
place
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
but rather,
respond
to
the
gentrification
in
a
positive
manner
and acknowledge
the demographic
trend
that
is
transpiring
within
the
neighbourhood.
It
is
envisioned that
these
new
interventions
would
act
as
catalysts
in
fostering
a
new
sense
of community
and
revitalizing
the
day-to-day
life
of
the
neighbourhood.
In addition,
they
would
serve
to
optimize
the
existing
functions
and
events
of
the ethnic
enclave
and
act
as
anchor points
along
the
strip.
Moreover,
the
presence of
these
interventions
and
the
changes
that
they
bring,
are
meant
to
help
the bazaar
pave
the
path
to
a
new
identity
where
its
cultural
heritage
is
shared and
promoted,
yet
its
demographic
and
cultural
transition
are
acknowledged
and integrated.
The
examining
committee
is
as
follows:
The
committee
has
been
approved
as
authorized
by
the
Graduate
Studies
Committee.
The
Defence
Examination
will
take
place:
Friday,
May
1,
2015
9:30AM
ARC
2026
A
copy
of
the
thesis
is
available
for
perusal
in
ARC
2106A.
Sundus Shaikh
Of the thesis entitled: Cultural Connectivity : Design as a method to facilitate cultural exchange within the Gerrard Bazaar
Abstract:
As immigrants choose to reside within the suburbs and the city undergoes rapid geographical change, Toronto’s ethnic enclaves are facing significant transformation in terms of their neighbourhood demographics, economic conditions and function. The Gerrard Bazaar is a prime example of an ethnic retail strip that is struggling with a changing identity and day-to-day role, as the South Asian population gradually reduces within the area, while young, non-South Asian families continue to move in. Once a thriving Indo-Pakistani retail destination, the ethnic enclave has witnessed significant economic decline leading to fluctuating levels of urban vacancy. Among the many South Asian shops, there lies an increasing presence of mainstream coffee shops and specialty stores that have replaced declining South Asian retail enterprises over time. Various social and business organizations are also situated along the strip, yet a significant number of their efforts to regenerate the enclave, operate in an isolated manner. There also remains a cultural divide within the area as well as a general lack of solidarity among the merchants and organizations within the bazaar.
This
thesis
suggests
that
the
key
to
reviving the
Bazaar
as
well
as
other
declining
ethnic
enclaves,
lies
in
promoting
new networks
of
“cultural
exchange”
in
which
architecture
and
urban
design
can
be
a facilitator
of
new
interactions
and
symbiotic
relationships
among
different organizations
and
individuals.
It
comprises
of
a
demographic,
historic, architectural
and
spatial
analysis
as
well
as
in-depth
human
research
that studies
how
visitors
and
inhabitants
of
the
Gerrard
Bazaar
perceive
the
ethnic enclave,
and
what
culture
means
to
them.
These discovered
studies
and
personal insights
influence
the
design
process
and
are
meant
to
serve
as
a
new
technique by
which
one
can
study
the
notion
of
culture
and
how
it
informs
architecture and
urban
interventions.
Thus,
the
focus
of
thesis
is
on
the
method
by
which architecture and
design
is
produced,
in
response
to
the
lack
of
cultural exchange.
The
way
in
which
this
method
translates research
into
design,
is
by
the
formulation
of
a
manual
of
“design
strategies” that
serves
as
a
template
for
the
design
intervention.
This
manual
is
applied to
three
different
sites
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
for
three
types
of
unique design proposals
-
A
re-activated
plaza,
an
adaptively
re-used
square
and
a re-imagined
senior’s
residential
complex.
These
proposals
are
not
meant
to “freeze”
the
changes
that
are
taking
place
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
but rather,
respond
to
the
gentrification
in
a
positive
manner
and acknowledge
the demographic
trend
that
is
transpiring
within
the
neighbourhood.
It
is
envisioned that
these
new
interventions
would
act
as
catalysts
in
fostering
a
new
sense
of community
and
revitalizing
the
day-to-day
life
of
the
neighbourhood.
In addition,
they
would
serve
to
optimize
the
existing
functions
and
events
of
the ethnic
enclave
and
act
as
anchor points
along
the
strip.
Moreover,
the
presence of
these
interventions
and
the
changes
that
they
bring,
are
meant
to
help
the bazaar
pave
the
path
to
a
new
identity
where
its
cultural
heritage
is
shared and
promoted,
yet
its
demographic
and
cultural
transition
are
acknowledged
and integrated.
The
examining
committee
is
as
follows:
The
committee
has
been
approved
as
authorized
by
the
Graduate
Studies
Committee.
The
Defence
Examination
will
take
place:
Friday,
May
1,
2015
9:30AM
ARC
2026
A
copy
of
the
thesis
is
available
for
perusal
in
ARC
2106A.
Sundus Shaikh
Of the thesis entitled: Cultural Connectivity : Design as a method to facilitate cultural exchange within the Gerrard Bazaar
Abstract:
As immigrants choose to reside within the suburbs and the city undergoes rapid geographical change, Toronto’s ethnic enclaves are facing significant transformation in terms of their neighbourhood demographics, economic conditions and function. The Gerrard Bazaar is a prime example of an ethnic retail strip that is struggling with a changing identity and day-to-day role, as the South Asian population gradually reduces within the area, while young, non-South Asian families continue to move in. Once a thriving Indo-Pakistani retail destination, the ethnic enclave has witnessed significant economic decline leading to fluctuating levels of urban vacancy. Among the many South Asian shops, there lies an increasing presence of mainstream coffee shops and specialty stores that have replaced declining South Asian retail enterprises over time. Various social and business organizations are also situated along the strip, yet a significant number of their efforts to regenerate the enclave, operate in an isolated manner. There also remains a cultural divide within the area as well as a general lack of solidarity among the merchants and organizations within the bazaar.
This
thesis
suggests
that
the
key
to
reviving the
Bazaar
as
well
as
other
declining
ethnic
enclaves,
lies
in
promoting
new networks
of
“cultural
exchange”
in
which
architecture
and
urban
design
can
be
a facilitator
of
new
interactions
and
symbiotic
relationships
among
different organizations
and
individuals.
It
comprises
of
a
demographic,
historic, architectural
and
spatial
analysis
as
well
as
in-depth
human
research
that studies
how
visitors
and
inhabitants
of
the
Gerrard
Bazaar
perceive
the
ethnic enclave,
and
what
culture
means
to
them.
These discovered
studies
and
personal insights
influence
the
design
process
and
are
meant
to
serve
as
a
new
technique by
which
one
can
study
the
notion
of
culture
and
how
it
informs
architecture and
urban
interventions.
Thus,
the
focus
of
thesis
is
on
the
method
by
which architecture and
design
is
produced,
in
response
to
the
lack
of
cultural exchange.
The
way
in
which
this
method
translates research
into
design,
is
by
the
formulation
of
a
manual
of
“design
strategies” that
serves
as
a
template
for
the
design
intervention.
This
manual
is
applied to
three
different
sites
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
for
three
types
of
unique design proposals
-
A
re-activated
plaza,
an
adaptively
re-used
square
and
a re-imagined
senior’s
residential
complex.
These
proposals
are
not
meant
to “freeze”
the
changes
that
are
taking
place
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
but rather,
respond
to
the
gentrification
in
a
positive
manner
and acknowledge
the demographic
trend
that
is
transpiring
within
the
neighbourhood.
It
is
envisioned that
these
new
interventions
would
act
as
catalysts
in
fostering
a
new
sense
of community
and
revitalizing
the
day-to-day
life
of
the
neighbourhood.
In addition,
they
would
serve
to
optimize
the
existing
functions
and
events
of
the ethnic
enclave
and
act
as
anchor points
along
the
strip.
Moreover,
the
presence of
these
interventions
and
the
changes
that
they
bring,
are
meant
to
help
the bazaar
pave
the
path
to
a
new
identity
where
its
cultural
heritage
is
shared and
promoted,
yet
its
demographic
and
cultural
transition
are
acknowledged
and integrated.
The
examining
committee
is
as
follows:
The
committee
has
been
approved
as
authorized
by
the
Graduate
Studies
Committee.
The
Defence
Examination
will
take
place:
Friday,
May
1,
2015
9:30AM
ARC
2026
A
copy
of
the
thesis
is
available
for
perusal
in
ARC
2106A.
Sundus Shaikh
Of the thesis entitled: Cultural Connectivity : Design as a method to facilitate cultural exchange within the Gerrard Bazaar
Abstract:
As immigrants choose to reside within the suburbs and the city undergoes rapid geographical change, Toronto’s ethnic enclaves are facing significant transformation in terms of their neighbourhood demographics, economic conditions and function. The Gerrard Bazaar is a prime example of an ethnic retail strip that is struggling with a changing identity and day-to-day role, as the South Asian population gradually reduces within the area, while young, non-South Asian families continue to move in. Once a thriving Indo-Pakistani retail destination, the ethnic enclave has witnessed significant economic decline leading to fluctuating levels of urban vacancy. Among the many South Asian shops, there lies an increasing presence of mainstream coffee shops and specialty stores that have replaced declining South Asian retail enterprises over time. Various social and business organizations are also situated along the strip, yet a significant number of their efforts to regenerate the enclave, operate in an isolated manner. There also remains a cultural divide within the area as well as a general lack of solidarity among the merchants and organizations within the bazaar.
This
thesis
suggests
that
the
key
to
reviving the
Bazaar
as
well
as
other
declining
ethnic
enclaves,
lies
in
promoting
new networks
of
“cultural
exchange”
in
which
architecture
and
urban
design
can
be
a facilitator
of
new
interactions
and
symbiotic
relationships
among
different organizations
and
individuals.
It
comprises
of
a
demographic,
historic, architectural
and
spatial
analysis
as
well
as
in-depth
human
research
that studies
how
visitors
and
inhabitants
of
the
Gerrard
Bazaar
perceive
the
ethnic enclave,
and
what
culture
means
to
them.
These discovered
studies
and
personal insights
influence
the
design
process
and
are
meant
to
serve
as
a
new
technique by
which
one
can
study
the
notion
of
culture
and
how
it
informs
architecture and
urban
interventions.
Thus,
the
focus
of
thesis
is
on
the
method
by
which architecture and
design
is
produced,
in
response
to
the
lack
of
cultural exchange.
The
way
in
which
this
method
translates research
into
design,
is
by
the
formulation
of
a
manual
of
“design
strategies” that
serves
as
a
template
for
the
design
intervention.
This
manual
is
applied to
three
different
sites
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
for
three
types
of
unique design proposals
-
A
re-activated
plaza,
an
adaptively
re-used
square
and
a re-imagined
senior’s
residential
complex.
These
proposals
are
not
meant
to “freeze”
the
changes
that
are
taking
place
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
but rather,
respond
to
the
gentrification
in
a
positive
manner
and acknowledge
the demographic
trend
that
is
transpiring
within
the
neighbourhood.
It
is
envisioned that
these
new
interventions
would
act
as
catalysts
in
fostering
a
new
sense
of community
and
revitalizing
the
day-to-day
life
of
the
neighbourhood.
In addition,
they
would
serve
to
optimize
the
existing
functions
and
events
of
the ethnic
enclave
and
act
as
anchor points
along
the
strip.
Moreover,
the
presence of
these
interventions
and
the
changes
that
they
bring,
are
meant
to
help
the bazaar
pave
the
path
to
a
new
identity
where
its
cultural
heritage
is
shared and
promoted,
yet
its
demographic
and
cultural
transition
are
acknowledged
and integrated.
The
examining
committee
is
as
follows:
The
committee
has
been
approved
as
authorized
by
the
Graduate
Studies
Committee.
The
Defence
Examination
will
take
place:
Friday,
May
1,
2015
9:30AM
ARC
2026
A
copy
of
the
thesis
is
available
for
perusal
in
ARC
2106A.
Sundus Shaikh
Of the thesis entitled: Cultural Connectivity : Design as a method to facilitate cultural exchange within the Gerrard Bazaar
Abstract:
As immigrants choose to reside within the suburbs and the city undergoes rapid geographical change, Toronto’s ethnic enclaves are facing significant transformation in terms of their neighbourhood demographics, economic conditions and function. The Gerrard Bazaar is a prime example of an ethnic retail strip that is struggling with a changing identity and day-to-day role, as the South Asian population gradually reduces within the area, while young, non-South Asian families continue to move in. Once a thriving Indo-Pakistani retail destination, the ethnic enclave has witnessed significant economic decline leading to fluctuating levels of urban vacancy. Among the many South Asian shops, there lies an increasing presence of mainstream coffee shops and specialty stores that have replaced declining South Asian retail enterprises over time. Various social and business organizations are also situated along the strip, yet a significant number of their efforts to regenerate the enclave, operate in an isolated manner. There also remains a cultural divide within the area as well as a general lack of solidarity among the merchants and organizations within the bazaar.
This
thesis
suggests
that
the
key
to
reviving the
Bazaar
as
well
as
other
declining
ethnic
enclaves,
lies
in
promoting
new networks
of
“cultural
exchange”
in
which
architecture
and
urban
design
can
be
a facilitator
of
new
interactions
and
symbiotic
relationships
among
different organizations
and
individuals.
It
comprises
of
a
demographic,
historic, architectural
and
spatial
analysis
as
well
as
in-depth
human
research
that studies
how
visitors
and
inhabitants
of
the
Gerrard
Bazaar
perceive
the
ethnic enclave,
and
what
culture
means
to
them.
These discovered
studies
and
personal insights
influence
the
design
process
and
are
meant
to
serve
as
a
new
technique by
which
one
can
study
the
notion
of
culture
and
how
it
informs
architecture and
urban
interventions.
Thus,
the
focus
of
thesis
is
on
the
method
by
which architecture and
design
is
produced,
in
response
to
the
lack
of
cultural exchange.
The
way
in
which
this
method
translates research
into
design,
is
by
the
formulation
of
a
manual
of
“design
strategies” that
serves
as
a
template
for
the
design
intervention.
This
manual
is
applied to
three
different
sites
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
for
three
types
of
unique design proposals
-
A
re-activated
plaza,
an
adaptively
re-used
square
and
a re-imagined
senior’s
residential
complex.
These
proposals
are
not
meant
to “freeze”
the
changes
that
are
taking
place
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
but rather,
respond
to
the
gentrification
in
a
positive
manner
and acknowledge
the demographic
trend
that
is
transpiring
within
the
neighbourhood.
It
is
envisioned that
these
new
interventions
would
act
as
catalysts
in
fostering
a
new
sense
of community
and
revitalizing
the
day-to-day
life
of
the
neighbourhood.
In addition,
they
would
serve
to
optimize
the
existing
functions
and
events
of
the ethnic
enclave
and
act
as
anchor points
along
the
strip.
Moreover,
the
presence of
these
interventions
and
the
changes
that
they
bring,
are
meant
to
help
the bazaar
pave
the
path
to
a
new
identity
where
its
cultural
heritage
is
shared and
promoted,
yet
its
demographic
and
cultural
transition
are
acknowledged
and integrated.
The
examining
committee
is
as
follows:
The
committee
has
been
approved
as
authorized
by
the
Graduate
Studies
Committee.
The
Defence
Examination
will
take
place:
Friday,
May
1,
2015
9:30AM
ARC
2026
A
copy
of
the
thesis
is
available
for
perusal
in
ARC
2106A.
Sundus Shaikh
Of the thesis entitled: Cultural Connectivity : Design as a method to facilitate cultural exchange within the Gerrard Bazaar
Abstract:
As immigrants choose to reside within the suburbs and the city undergoes rapid geographical change, Toronto’s ethnic enclaves are facing significant transformation in terms of their neighbourhood demographics, economic conditions and function. The Gerrard Bazaar is a prime example of an ethnic retail strip that is struggling with a changing identity and day-to-day role, as the South Asian population gradually reduces within the area, while young, non-South Asian families continue to move in. Once a thriving Indo-Pakistani retail destination, the ethnic enclave has witnessed significant economic decline leading to fluctuating levels of urban vacancy. Among the many South Asian shops, there lies an increasing presence of mainstream coffee shops and specialty stores that have replaced declining South Asian retail enterprises over time. Various social and business organizations are also situated along the strip, yet a significant number of their efforts to regenerate the enclave, operate in an isolated manner. There also remains a cultural divide within the area as well as a general lack of solidarity among the merchants and organizations within the bazaar.
This
thesis
suggests
that
the
key
to
reviving the
Bazaar
as
well
as
other
declining
ethnic
enclaves,
lies
in
promoting
new networks
of
“cultural
exchange”
in
which
architecture
and
urban
design
can
be
a facilitator
of
new
interactions
and
symbiotic
relationships
among
different organizations
and
individuals.
It
comprises
of
a
demographic,
historic, architectural
and
spatial
analysis
as
well
as
in-depth
human
research
that studies
how
visitors
and
inhabitants
of
the
Gerrard
Bazaar
perceive
the
ethnic enclave,
and
what
culture
means
to
them.
These discovered
studies
and
personal insights
influence
the
design
process
and
are
meant
to
serve
as
a
new
technique by
which
one
can
study
the
notion
of
culture
and
how
it
informs
architecture and
urban
interventions.
Thus,
the
focus
of
thesis
is
on
the
method
by
which architecture and
design
is
produced,
in
response
to
the
lack
of
cultural exchange.
The
way
in
which
this
method
translates research
into
design,
is
by
the
formulation
of
a
manual
of
“design
strategies” that
serves
as
a
template
for
the
design
intervention.
This
manual
is
applied to
three
different
sites
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
for
three
types
of
unique design proposals
-
A
re-activated
plaza,
an
adaptively
re-used
square
and
a re-imagined
senior’s
residential
complex.
These
proposals
are
not
meant
to “freeze”
the
changes
that
are
taking
place
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
but rather,
respond
to
the
gentrification
in
a
positive
manner
and acknowledge
the demographic
trend
that
is
transpiring
within
the
neighbourhood.
It
is
envisioned that
these
new
interventions
would
act
as
catalysts
in
fostering
a
new
sense
of community
and
revitalizing
the
day-to-day
life
of
the
neighbourhood.
In addition,
they
would
serve
to
optimize
the
existing
functions
and
events
of
the ethnic
enclave
and
act
as
anchor points
along
the
strip.
Moreover,
the
presence of
these
interventions
and
the
changes
that
they
bring,
are
meant
to
help
the bazaar
pave
the
path
to
a
new
identity
where
its
cultural
heritage
is
shared and
promoted,
yet
its
demographic
and
cultural
transition
are
acknowledged
and integrated.
The
examining
committee
is
as
follows:
The
committee
has
been
approved
as
authorized
by
the
Graduate
Studies
Committee.
The
Defence
Examination
will
take
place:
Friday,
May
1,
2015
9:30AM
ARC
2026
A
copy
of
the
thesis
is
available
for
perusal
in
ARC
2106A.
Sundus Shaikh
Of the thesis entitled: Cultural Connectivity : Design as a method to facilitate cultural exchange within the Gerrard Bazaar
Abstract:
As immigrants choose to reside within the suburbs and the city undergoes rapid geographical change, Toronto’s ethnic enclaves are facing significant transformation in terms of their neighbourhood demographics, economic conditions and function. The Gerrard Bazaar is a prime example of an ethnic retail strip that is struggling with a changing identity and day-to-day role, as the South Asian population gradually reduces within the area, while young, non-South Asian families continue to move in. Once a thriving Indo-Pakistani retail destination, the ethnic enclave has witnessed significant economic decline leading to fluctuating levels of urban vacancy. Among the many South Asian shops, there lies an increasing presence of mainstream coffee shops and specialty stores that have replaced declining South Asian retail enterprises over time. Various social and business organizations are also situated along the strip, yet a significant number of their efforts to regenerate the enclave, operate in an isolated manner. There also remains a cultural divide within the area as well as a general lack of solidarity among the merchants and organizations within the bazaar.
This
thesis
suggests
that
the
key
to
reviving the
Bazaar
as
well
as
other
declining
ethnic
enclaves,
lies
in
promoting
new networks
of
“cultural
exchange”
in
which
architecture
and
urban
design
can
be
a facilitator
of
new
interactions
and
symbiotic
relationships
among
different organizations
and
individuals.
It
comprises
of
a
demographic,
historic, architectural
and
spatial
analysis
as
well
as
in-depth
human
research
that studies
how
visitors
and
inhabitants
of
the
Gerrard
Bazaar
perceive
the
ethnic enclave,
and
what
culture
means
to
them.
These discovered
studies
and
personal insights
influence
the
design
process
and
are
meant
to
serve
as
a
new
technique by
which
one
can
study
the
notion
of
culture
and
how
it
informs
architecture and
urban
interventions.
Thus,
the
focus
of
thesis
is
on
the
method
by
which architecture and
design
is
produced,
in
response
to
the
lack
of
cultural exchange.
The
way
in
which
this
method
translates research
into
design,
is
by
the
formulation
of
a
manual
of
“design
strategies” that
serves
as
a
template
for
the
design
intervention.
This
manual
is
applied to
three
different
sites
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
for
three
types
of
unique design proposals
-
A
re-activated
plaza,
an
adaptively
re-used
square
and
a re-imagined
senior’s
residential
complex.
These
proposals
are
not
meant
to “freeze”
the
changes
that
are
taking
place
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
but rather,
respond
to
the
gentrification
in
a
positive
manner
and acknowledge
the demographic
trend
that
is
transpiring
within
the
neighbourhood.
It
is
envisioned that
these
new
interventions
would
act
as
catalysts
in
fostering
a
new
sense
of community
and
revitalizing
the
day-to-day
life
of
the
neighbourhood.
In addition,
they
would
serve
to
optimize
the
existing
functions
and
events
of
the ethnic
enclave
and
act
as
anchor points
along
the
strip.
Moreover,
the
presence of
these
interventions
and
the
changes
that
they
bring,
are
meant
to
help
the bazaar
pave
the
path
to
a
new
identity
where
its
cultural
heritage
is
shared and
promoted,
yet
its
demographic
and
cultural
transition
are
acknowledged
and integrated.
The
examining
committee
is
as
follows:
The
committee
has
been
approved
as
authorized
by
the
Graduate
Studies
Committee.
The
Defence
Examination
will
take
place:
Friday,
May
1,
2015
9:30AM
ARC
2026
A
copy
of
the
thesis
is
available
for
perusal
in
ARC
2106A.
Sundus Shaikh
Of the thesis entitled: Cultural Connectivity : Design as a method to facilitate cultural exchange within the Gerrard Bazaar
Abstract:
As immigrants choose to reside within the suburbs and the city undergoes rapid geographical change, Toronto’s ethnic enclaves are facing significant transformation in terms of their neighbourhood demographics, economic conditions and function. The Gerrard Bazaar is a prime example of an ethnic retail strip that is struggling with a changing identity and day-to-day role, as the South Asian population gradually reduces within the area, while young, non-South Asian families continue to move in. Once a thriving Indo-Pakistani retail destination, the ethnic enclave has witnessed significant economic decline leading to fluctuating levels of urban vacancy. Among the many South Asian shops, there lies an increasing presence of mainstream coffee shops and specialty stores that have replaced declining South Asian retail enterprises over time. Various social and business organizations are also situated along the strip, yet a significant number of their efforts to regenerate the enclave, operate in an isolated manner. There also remains a cultural divide within the area as well as a general lack of solidarity among the merchants and organizations within the bazaar.
This
thesis
suggests
that
the
key
to
reviving the
Bazaar
as
well
as
other
declining
ethnic
enclaves,
lies
in
promoting
new networks
of
“cultural
exchange”
in
which
architecture
and
urban
design
can
be
a facilitator
of
new
interactions
and
symbiotic
relationships
among
different organizations
and
individuals.
It
comprises
of
a
demographic,
historic, architectural
and
spatial
analysis
as
well
as
in-depth
human
research
that studies
how
visitors
and
inhabitants
of
the
Gerrard
Bazaar
perceive
the
ethnic enclave,
and
what
culture
means
to
them.
These discovered
studies
and
personal insights
influence
the
design
process
and
are
meant
to
serve
as
a
new
technique by
which
one
can
study
the
notion
of
culture
and
how
it
informs
architecture and
urban
interventions.
Thus,
the
focus
of
thesis
is
on
the
method
by
which architecture and
design
is
produced,
in
response
to
the
lack
of
cultural exchange.
The
way
in
which
this
method
translates research
into
design,
is
by
the
formulation
of
a
manual
of
“design
strategies” that
serves
as
a
template
for
the
design
intervention.
This
manual
is
applied to
three
different
sites
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
for
three
types
of
unique design proposals
-
A
re-activated
plaza,
an
adaptively
re-used
square
and
a re-imagined
senior’s
residential
complex.
These
proposals
are
not
meant
to “freeze”
the
changes
that
are
taking
place
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
but rather,
respond
to
the
gentrification
in
a
positive
manner
and acknowledge
the demographic
trend
that
is
transpiring
within
the
neighbourhood.
It
is
envisioned that
these
new
interventions
would
act
as
catalysts
in
fostering
a
new
sense
of community
and
revitalizing
the
day-to-day
life
of
the
neighbourhood.
In addition,
they
would
serve
to
optimize
the
existing
functions
and
events
of
the ethnic
enclave
and
act
as
anchor points
along
the
strip.
Moreover,
the
presence of
these
interventions
and
the
changes
that
they
bring,
are
meant
to
help
the bazaar
pave
the
path
to
a
new
identity
where
its
cultural
heritage
is
shared and
promoted,
yet
its
demographic
and
cultural
transition
are
acknowledged
and integrated.
The
examining
committee
is
as
follows:
The
committee
has
been
approved
as
authorized
by
the
Graduate
Studies
Committee.
The
Defence
Examination
will
take
place:
Friday,
May
1,
2015
9:30AM
ARC
2026
A
copy
of
the
thesis
is
available
for
perusal
in
ARC
2106A.
Sundus Shaikh
Of the thesis entitled: Cultural Connectivity : Design as a method to facilitate cultural exchange within the Gerrard Bazaar
Abstract:
As immigrants choose to reside within the suburbs and the city undergoes rapid geographical change, Toronto’s ethnic enclaves are facing significant transformation in terms of their neighbourhood demographics, economic conditions and function. The Gerrard Bazaar is a prime example of an ethnic retail strip that is struggling with a changing identity and day-to-day role, as the South Asian population gradually reduces within the area, while young, non-South Asian families continue to move in. Once a thriving Indo-Pakistani retail destination, the ethnic enclave has witnessed significant economic decline leading to fluctuating levels of urban vacancy. Among the many South Asian shops, there lies an increasing presence of mainstream coffee shops and specialty stores that have replaced declining South Asian retail enterprises over time. Various social and business organizations are also situated along the strip, yet a significant number of their efforts to regenerate the enclave, operate in an isolated manner. There also remains a cultural divide within the area as well as a general lack of solidarity among the merchants and organizations within the bazaar.
This
thesis
suggests
that
the
key
to
reviving the
Bazaar
as
well
as
other
declining
ethnic
enclaves,
lies
in
promoting
new networks
of
“cultural
exchange”
in
which
architecture
and
urban
design
can
be
a facilitator
of
new
interactions
and
symbiotic
relationships
among
different organizations
and
individuals.
It
comprises
of
a
demographic,
historic, architectural
and
spatial
analysis
as
well
as
in-depth
human
research
that studies
how
visitors
and
inhabitants
of
the
Gerrard
Bazaar
perceive
the
ethnic enclave,
and
what
culture
means
to
them.
These discovered
studies
and
personal insights
influence
the
design
process
and
are
meant
to
serve
as
a
new
technique by
which
one
can
study
the
notion
of
culture
and
how
it
informs
architecture and
urban
interventions.
Thus,
the
focus
of
thesis
is
on
the
method
by
which architecture and
design
is
produced,
in
response
to
the
lack
of
cultural exchange.
The
way
in
which
this
method
translates research
into
design,
is
by
the
formulation
of
a
manual
of
“design
strategies” that
serves
as
a
template
for
the
design
intervention.
This
manual
is
applied to
three
different
sites
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
for
three
types
of
unique design proposals
-
A
re-activated
plaza,
an
adaptively
re-used
square
and
a re-imagined
senior’s
residential
complex.
These
proposals
are
not
meant
to “freeze”
the
changes
that
are
taking
place
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
but rather,
respond
to
the
gentrification
in
a
positive
manner
and acknowledge
the demographic
trend
that
is
transpiring
within
the
neighbourhood.
It
is
envisioned that
these
new
interventions
would
act
as
catalysts
in
fostering
a
new
sense
of community
and
revitalizing
the
day-to-day
life
of
the
neighbourhood.
In addition,
they
would
serve
to
optimize
the
existing
functions
and
events
of
the ethnic
enclave
and
act
as
anchor points
along
the
strip.
Moreover,
the
presence of
these
interventions
and
the
changes
that
they
bring,
are
meant
to
help
the bazaar
pave
the
path
to
a
new
identity
where
its
cultural
heritage
is
shared and
promoted,
yet
its
demographic
and
cultural
transition
are
acknowledged
and integrated.
The
examining
committee
is
as
follows:
The
committee
has
been
approved
as
authorized
by
the
Graduate
Studies
Committee.
The
Defence
Examination
will
take
place:
Friday,
May
1,
2015
9:30AM
ARC
2026
A
copy
of
the
thesis
is
available
for
perusal
in
ARC
2106A.
Sundus Shaikh
Of the thesis entitled: Cultural Connectivity : Design as a method to facilitate cultural exchange within the Gerrard Bazaar
Abstract:
As immigrants choose to reside within the suburbs and the city undergoes rapid geographical change, Toronto’s ethnic enclaves are facing significant transformation in terms of their neighbourhood demographics, economic conditions and function. The Gerrard Bazaar is a prime example of an ethnic retail strip that is struggling with a changing identity and day-to-day role, as the South Asian population gradually reduces within the area, while young, non-South Asian families continue to move in. Once a thriving Indo-Pakistani retail destination, the ethnic enclave has witnessed significant economic decline leading to fluctuating levels of urban vacancy. Among the many South Asian shops, there lies an increasing presence of mainstream coffee shops and specialty stores that have replaced declining South Asian retail enterprises over time. Various social and business organizations are also situated along the strip, yet a significant number of their efforts to regenerate the enclave, operate in an isolated manner. There also remains a cultural divide within the area as well as a general lack of solidarity among the merchants and organizations within the bazaar.
This
thesis
suggests
that
the
key
to
reviving the
Bazaar
as
well
as
other
declining
ethnic
enclaves,
lies
in
promoting
new networks
of
“cultural
exchange”
in
which
architecture
and
urban
design
can
be
a facilitator
of
new
interactions
and
symbiotic
relationships
among
different organizations
and
individuals.
It
comprises
of
a
demographic,
historic, architectural
and
spatial
analysis
as
well
as
in-depth
human
research
that studies
how
visitors
and
inhabitants
of
the
Gerrard
Bazaar
perceive
the
ethnic enclave,
and
what
culture
means
to
them.
These discovered
studies
and
personal insights
influence
the
design
process
and
are
meant
to
serve
as
a
new
technique by
which
one
can
study
the
notion
of
culture
and
how
it
informs
architecture and
urban
interventions.
Thus,
the
focus
of
thesis
is
on
the
method
by
which architecture and
design
is
produced,
in
response
to
the
lack
of
cultural exchange.
The
way
in
which
this
method
translates research
into
design,
is
by
the
formulation
of
a
manual
of
“design
strategies” that
serves
as
a
template
for
the
design
intervention.
This
manual
is
applied to
three
different
sites
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
for
three
types
of
unique design proposals
-
A
re-activated
plaza,
an
adaptively
re-used
square
and
a re-imagined
senior’s
residential
complex.
These
proposals
are
not
meant
to “freeze”
the
changes
that
are
taking
place
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
but rather,
respond
to
the
gentrification
in
a
positive
manner
and acknowledge
the demographic
trend
that
is
transpiring
within
the
neighbourhood.
It
is
envisioned that
these
new
interventions
would
act
as
catalysts
in
fostering
a
new
sense
of community
and
revitalizing
the
day-to-day
life
of
the
neighbourhood.
In addition,
they
would
serve
to
optimize
the
existing
functions
and
events
of
the ethnic
enclave
and
act
as
anchor points
along
the
strip.
Moreover,
the
presence of
these
interventions
and
the
changes
that
they
bring,
are
meant
to
help
the bazaar
pave
the
path
to
a
new
identity
where
its
cultural
heritage
is
shared and
promoted,
yet
its
demographic
and
cultural
transition
are
acknowledged
and integrated.
The
examining
committee
is
as
follows:
The
committee
has
been
approved
as
authorized
by
the
Graduate
Studies
Committee.
The
Defence
Examination
will
take
place:
Friday,
May
1,
2015
9:30AM
ARC
2026
A
copy
of
the
thesis
is
available
for
perusal
in
ARC
2106A.
Sundus Shaikh
Of the thesis entitled: Cultural Connectivity : Design as a method to facilitate cultural exchange within the Gerrard Bazaar
Abstract:
As immigrants choose to reside within the suburbs and the city undergoes rapid geographical change, Toronto’s ethnic enclaves are facing significant transformation in terms of their neighbourhood demographics, economic conditions and function. The Gerrard Bazaar is a prime example of an ethnic retail strip that is struggling with a changing identity and day-to-day role, as the South Asian population gradually reduces within the area, while young, non-South Asian families continue to move in. Once a thriving Indo-Pakistani retail destination, the ethnic enclave has witnessed significant economic decline leading to fluctuating levels of urban vacancy. Among the many South Asian shops, there lies an increasing presence of mainstream coffee shops and specialty stores that have replaced declining South Asian retail enterprises over time. Various social and business organizations are also situated along the strip, yet a significant number of their efforts to regenerate the enclave, operate in an isolated manner. There also remains a cultural divide within the area as well as a general lack of solidarity among the merchants and organizations within the bazaar.
This
thesis
suggests
that
the
key
to
reviving the
Bazaar
as
well
as
other
declining
ethnic
enclaves,
lies
in
promoting
new networks
of
“cultural
exchange”
in
which
architecture
and
urban
design
can
be
a facilitator
of
new
interactions
and
symbiotic
relationships
among
different organizations
and
individuals.
It
comprises
of
a
demographic,
historic, architectural
and
spatial
analysis
as
well
as
in-depth
human
research
that studies
how
visitors
and
inhabitants
of
the
Gerrard
Bazaar
perceive
the
ethnic enclave,
and
what
culture
means
to
them.
These discovered
studies
and
personal insights
influence
the
design
process
and
are
meant
to
serve
as
a
new
technique by
which
one
can
study
the
notion
of
culture
and
how
it
informs
architecture and
urban
interventions.
Thus,
the
focus
of
thesis
is
on
the
method
by
which architecture and
design
is
produced,
in
response
to
the
lack
of
cultural exchange.
The
way
in
which
this
method
translates research
into
design,
is
by
the
formulation
of
a
manual
of
“design
strategies” that
serves
as
a
template
for
the
design
intervention.
This
manual
is
applied to
three
different
sites
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
for
three
types
of
unique design proposals
-
A
re-activated
plaza,
an
adaptively
re-used
square
and
a re-imagined
senior’s
residential
complex.
These
proposals
are
not
meant
to “freeze”
the
changes
that
are
taking
place
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
but rather,
respond
to
the
gentrification
in
a
positive
manner
and acknowledge
the demographic
trend
that
is
transpiring
within
the
neighbourhood.
It
is
envisioned that
these
new
interventions
would
act
as
catalysts
in
fostering
a
new
sense
of community
and
revitalizing
the
day-to-day
life
of
the
neighbourhood.
In addition,
they
would
serve
to
optimize
the
existing
functions
and
events
of
the ethnic
enclave
and
act
as
anchor points
along
the
strip.
Moreover,
the
presence of
these
interventions
and
the
changes
that
they
bring,
are
meant
to
help
the bazaar
pave
the
path
to
a
new
identity
where
its
cultural
heritage
is
shared and
promoted,
yet
its
demographic
and
cultural
transition
are
acknowledged
and integrated.
The
examining
committee
is
as
follows:
The
committee
has
been
approved
as
authorized
by
the
Graduate
Studies
Committee.
The
Defence
Examination
will
take
place:
Friday,
May
1,
2015
9:30AM
ARC
2026
A
copy
of
the
thesis
is
available
for
perusal
in
ARC
2106A.
Sundus Shaikh
Of the thesis entitled: Cultural Connectivity : Design as a method to facilitate cultural exchange within the Gerrard Bazaar
Abstract:
As immigrants choose to reside within the suburbs and the city undergoes rapid geographical change, Toronto’s ethnic enclaves are facing significant transformation in terms of their neighbourhood demographics, economic conditions and function. The Gerrard Bazaar is a prime example of an ethnic retail strip that is struggling with a changing identity and day-to-day role, as the South Asian population gradually reduces within the area, while young, non-South Asian families continue to move in. Once a thriving Indo-Pakistani retail destination, the ethnic enclave has witnessed significant economic decline leading to fluctuating levels of urban vacancy. Among the many South Asian shops, there lies an increasing presence of mainstream coffee shops and specialty stores that have replaced declining South Asian retail enterprises over time. Various social and business organizations are also situated along the strip, yet a significant number of their efforts to regenerate the enclave, operate in an isolated manner. There also remains a cultural divide within the area as well as a general lack of solidarity among the merchants and organizations within the bazaar.
This
thesis
suggests
that
the
key
to
reviving the
Bazaar
as
well
as
other
declining
ethnic
enclaves,
lies
in
promoting
new networks
of
“cultural
exchange”
in
which
architecture
and
urban
design
can
be
a facilitator
of
new
interactions
and
symbiotic
relationships
among
different organizations
and
individuals.
It
comprises
of
a
demographic,
historic, architectural
and
spatial
analysis
as
well
as
in-depth
human
research
that studies
how
visitors
and
inhabitants
of
the
Gerrard
Bazaar
perceive
the
ethnic enclave,
and
what
culture
means
to
them.
These discovered
studies
and
personal insights
influence
the
design
process
and
are
meant
to
serve
as
a
new
technique by
which
one
can
study
the
notion
of
culture
and
how
it
informs
architecture and
urban
interventions.
Thus,
the
focus
of
thesis
is
on
the
method
by
which architecture and
design
is
produced,
in
response
to
the
lack
of
cultural exchange.
The
way
in
which
this
method
translates research
into
design,
is
by
the
formulation
of
a
manual
of
“design
strategies” that
serves
as
a
template
for
the
design
intervention.
This
manual
is
applied to
three
different
sites
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
for
three
types
of
unique design proposals
-
A
re-activated
plaza,
an
adaptively
re-used
square
and
a re-imagined
senior’s
residential
complex.
These
proposals
are
not
meant
to “freeze”
the
changes
that
are
taking
place
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
but rather,
respond
to
the
gentrification
in
a
positive
manner
and acknowledge
the demographic
trend
that
is
transpiring
within
the
neighbourhood.
It
is
envisioned that
these
new
interventions
would
act
as
catalysts
in
fostering
a
new
sense
of community
and
revitalizing
the
day-to-day
life
of
the
neighbourhood.
In addition,
they
would
serve
to
optimize
the
existing
functions
and
events
of
the ethnic
enclave
and
act
as
anchor points
along
the
strip.
Moreover,
the
presence of
these
interventions
and
the
changes
that
they
bring,
are
meant
to
help
the bazaar
pave
the
path
to
a
new
identity
where
its
cultural
heritage
is
shared and
promoted,
yet
its
demographic
and
cultural
transition
are
acknowledged
and integrated.
The
examining
committee
is
as
follows:
The
committee
has
been
approved
as
authorized
by
the
Graduate
Studies
Committee.
The
Defence
Examination
will
take
place:
Friday,
May
1,
2015
9:30AM
ARC
2026
A
copy
of
the
thesis
is
available
for
perusal
in
ARC
2106A.
Sundus Shaikh
Of the thesis entitled: Cultural Connectivity : Design as a method to facilitate cultural exchange within the Gerrard Bazaar
Abstract:
As immigrants choose to reside within the suburbs and the city undergoes rapid geographical change, Toronto’s ethnic enclaves are facing significant transformation in terms of their neighbourhood demographics, economic conditions and function. The Gerrard Bazaar is a prime example of an ethnic retail strip that is struggling with a changing identity and day-to-day role, as the South Asian population gradually reduces within the area, while young, non-South Asian families continue to move in. Once a thriving Indo-Pakistani retail destination, the ethnic enclave has witnessed significant economic decline leading to fluctuating levels of urban vacancy. Among the many South Asian shops, there lies an increasing presence of mainstream coffee shops and specialty stores that have replaced declining South Asian retail enterprises over time. Various social and business organizations are also situated along the strip, yet a significant number of their efforts to regenerate the enclave, operate in an isolated manner. There also remains a cultural divide within the area as well as a general lack of solidarity among the merchants and organizations within the bazaar.
This
thesis
suggests
that
the
key
to
reviving the
Bazaar
as
well
as
other
declining
ethnic
enclaves,
lies
in
promoting
new networks
of
“cultural
exchange”
in
which
architecture
and
urban
design
can
be
a facilitator
of
new
interactions
and
symbiotic
relationships
among
different organizations
and
individuals.
It
comprises
of
a
demographic,
historic, architectural
and
spatial
analysis
as
well
as
in-depth
human
research
that studies
how
visitors
and
inhabitants
of
the
Gerrard
Bazaar
perceive
the
ethnic enclave,
and
what
culture
means
to
them.
These discovered
studies
and
personal insights
influence
the
design
process
and
are
meant
to
serve
as
a
new
technique by
which
one
can
study
the
notion
of
culture
and
how
it
informs
architecture and
urban
interventions.
Thus,
the
focus
of
thesis
is
on
the
method
by
which architecture and
design
is
produced,
in
response
to
the
lack
of
cultural exchange.
The
way
in
which
this
method
translates research
into
design,
is
by
the
formulation
of
a
manual
of
“design
strategies” that
serves
as
a
template
for
the
design
intervention.
This
manual
is
applied to
three
different
sites
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
for
three
types
of
unique design proposals
-
A
re-activated
plaza,
an
adaptively
re-used
square
and
a re-imagined
senior’s
residential
complex.
These
proposals
are
not
meant
to “freeze”
the
changes
that
are
taking
place
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
but rather,
respond
to
the
gentrification
in
a
positive
manner
and acknowledge
the demographic
trend
that
is
transpiring
within
the
neighbourhood.
It
is
envisioned that
these
new
interventions
would
act
as
catalysts
in
fostering
a
new
sense
of community
and
revitalizing
the
day-to-day
life
of
the
neighbourhood.
In addition,
they
would
serve
to
optimize
the
existing
functions
and
events
of
the ethnic
enclave
and
act
as
anchor points
along
the
strip.
Moreover,
the
presence of
these
interventions
and
the
changes
that
they
bring,
are
meant
to
help
the bazaar
pave
the
path
to
a
new
identity
where
its
cultural
heritage
is
shared and
promoted,
yet
its
demographic
and
cultural
transition
are
acknowledged
and integrated.
The
examining
committee
is
as
follows:
The
committee
has
been
approved
as
authorized
by
the
Graduate
Studies
Committee.
The
Defence
Examination
will
take
place:
Friday,
May
1,
2015
9:30AM
ARC
2026
A
copy
of
the
thesis
is
available
for
perusal
in
ARC
2106A.
Sundus Shaikh
Of the thesis entitled: Cultural Connectivity : Design as a method to facilitate cultural exchange within the Gerrard Bazaar
Abstract:
As immigrants choose to reside within the suburbs and the city undergoes rapid geographical change, Toronto’s ethnic enclaves are facing significant transformation in terms of their neighbourhood demographics, economic conditions and function. The Gerrard Bazaar is a prime example of an ethnic retail strip that is struggling with a changing identity and day-to-day role, as the South Asian population gradually reduces within the area, while young, non-South Asian families continue to move in. Once a thriving Indo-Pakistani retail destination, the ethnic enclave has witnessed significant economic decline leading to fluctuating levels of urban vacancy. Among the many South Asian shops, there lies an increasing presence of mainstream coffee shops and specialty stores that have replaced declining South Asian retail enterprises over time. Various social and business organizations are also situated along the strip, yet a significant number of their efforts to regenerate the enclave, operate in an isolated manner. There also remains a cultural divide within the area as well as a general lack of solidarity among the merchants and organizations within the bazaar.
This
thesis
suggests
that
the
key
to
reviving the
Bazaar
as
well
as
other
declining
ethnic
enclaves,
lies
in
promoting
new networks
of
“cultural
exchange”
in
which
architecture
and
urban
design
can
be
a facilitator
of
new
interactions
and
symbiotic
relationships
among
different organizations
and
individuals.
It
comprises
of
a
demographic,
historic, architectural
and
spatial
analysis
as
well
as
in-depth
human
research
that studies
how
visitors
and
inhabitants
of
the
Gerrard
Bazaar
perceive
the
ethnic enclave,
and
what
culture
means
to
them.
These discovered
studies
and
personal insights
influence
the
design
process
and
are
meant
to
serve
as
a
new
technique by
which
one
can
study
the
notion
of
culture
and
how
it
informs
architecture and
urban
interventions.
Thus,
the
focus
of
thesis
is
on
the
method
by
which architecture and
design
is
produced,
in
response
to
the
lack
of
cultural exchange.
The
way
in
which
this
method
translates research
into
design,
is
by
the
formulation
of
a
manual
of
“design
strategies” that
serves
as
a
template
for
the
design
intervention.
This
manual
is
applied to
three
different
sites
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
for
three
types
of
unique design proposals
-
A
re-activated
plaza,
an
adaptively
re-used
square
and
a re-imagined
senior’s
residential
complex.
These
proposals
are
not
meant
to “freeze”
the
changes
that
are
taking
place
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
but rather,
respond
to
the
gentrification
in
a
positive
manner
and acknowledge
the demographic
trend
that
is
transpiring
within
the
neighbourhood.
It
is
envisioned that
these
new
interventions
would
act
as
catalysts
in
fostering
a
new
sense
of community
and
revitalizing
the
day-to-day
life
of
the
neighbourhood.
In addition,
they
would
serve
to
optimize
the
existing
functions
and
events
of
the ethnic
enclave
and
act
as
anchor points
along
the
strip.
Moreover,
the
presence of
these
interventions
and
the
changes
that
they
bring,
are
meant
to
help
the bazaar
pave
the
path
to
a
new
identity
where
its
cultural
heritage
is
shared and
promoted,
yet
its
demographic
and
cultural
transition
are
acknowledged
and integrated.
The
examining
committee
is
as
follows:
The
committee
has
been
approved
as
authorized
by
the
Graduate
Studies
Committee.
The
Defence
Examination
will
take
place:
Friday,
May
1,
2015
9:30AM
ARC
2026
A
copy
of
the
thesis
is
available
for
perusal
in
ARC
2106A.
Sundus Shaikh
Of the thesis entitled: Cultural Connectivity : Design as a method to facilitate cultural exchange within the Gerrard Bazaar
Abstract:
As immigrants choose to reside within the suburbs and the city undergoes rapid geographical change, Toronto’s ethnic enclaves are facing significant transformation in terms of their neighbourhood demographics, economic conditions and function. The Gerrard Bazaar is a prime example of an ethnic retail strip that is struggling with a changing identity and day-to-day role, as the South Asian population gradually reduces within the area, while young, non-South Asian families continue to move in. Once a thriving Indo-Pakistani retail destination, the ethnic enclave has witnessed significant economic decline leading to fluctuating levels of urban vacancy. Among the many South Asian shops, there lies an increasing presence of mainstream coffee shops and specialty stores that have replaced declining South Asian retail enterprises over time. Various social and business organizations are also situated along the strip, yet a significant number of their efforts to regenerate the enclave, operate in an isolated manner. There also remains a cultural divide within the area as well as a general lack of solidarity among the merchants and organizations within the bazaar.
This
thesis
suggests
that
the
key
to
reviving the
Bazaar
as
well
as
other
declining
ethnic
enclaves,
lies
in
promoting
new networks
of
“cultural
exchange”
in
which
architecture
and
urban
design
can
be
a facilitator
of
new
interactions
and
symbiotic
relationships
among
different organizations
and
individuals.
It
comprises
of
a
demographic,
historic, architectural
and
spatial
analysis
as
well
as
in-depth
human
research
that studies
how
visitors
and
inhabitants
of
the
Gerrard
Bazaar
perceive
the
ethnic enclave,
and
what
culture
means
to
them.
These discovered
studies
and
personal insights
influence
the
design
process
and
are
meant
to
serve
as
a
new
technique by
which
one
can
study
the
notion
of
culture
and
how
it
informs
architecture and
urban
interventions.
Thus,
the
focus
of
thesis
is
on
the
method
by
which architecture and
design
is
produced,
in
response
to
the
lack
of
cultural exchange.
The
way
in
which
this
method
translates research
into
design,
is
by
the
formulation
of
a
manual
of
“design
strategies” that
serves
as
a
template
for
the
design
intervention.
This
manual
is
applied to
three
different
sites
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
for
three
types
of
unique design proposals
-
A
re-activated
plaza,
an
adaptively
re-used
square
and
a re-imagined
senior’s
residential
complex.
These
proposals
are
not
meant
to “freeze”
the
changes
that
are
taking
place
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
but rather,
respond
to
the
gentrification
in
a
positive
manner
and acknowledge
the demographic
trend
that
is
transpiring
within
the
neighbourhood.
It
is
envisioned that
these
new
interventions
would
act
as
catalysts
in
fostering
a
new
sense
of community
and
revitalizing
the
day-to-day
life
of
the
neighbourhood.
In addition,
they
would
serve
to
optimize
the
existing
functions
and
events
of
the ethnic
enclave
and
act
as
anchor points
along
the
strip.
Moreover,
the
presence of
these
interventions
and
the
changes
that
they
bring,
are
meant
to
help
the bazaar
pave
the
path
to
a
new
identity
where
its
cultural
heritage
is
shared and
promoted,
yet
its
demographic
and
cultural
transition
are
acknowledged
and integrated.
The
examining
committee
is
as
follows:
The
committee
has
been
approved
as
authorized
by
the
Graduate
Studies
Committee.
The
Defence
Examination
will
take
place:
Friday,
May
1,
2015
9:30AM
ARC
2026
A
copy
of
the
thesis
is
available
for
perusal
in
ARC
2106A.
Sundus Shaikh
Of the thesis entitled: Cultural Connectivity : Design as a method to facilitate cultural exchange within the Gerrard Bazaar
Abstract:
As immigrants choose to reside within the suburbs and the city undergoes rapid geographical change, Toronto’s ethnic enclaves are facing significant transformation in terms of their neighbourhood demographics, economic conditions and function. The Gerrard Bazaar is a prime example of an ethnic retail strip that is struggling with a changing identity and day-to-day role, as the South Asian population gradually reduces within the area, while young, non-South Asian families continue to move in. Once a thriving Indo-Pakistani retail destination, the ethnic enclave has witnessed significant economic decline leading to fluctuating levels of urban vacancy. Among the many South Asian shops, there lies an increasing presence of mainstream coffee shops and specialty stores that have replaced declining South Asian retail enterprises over time. Various social and business organizations are also situated along the strip, yet a significant number of their efforts to regenerate the enclave, operate in an isolated manner. There also remains a cultural divide within the area as well as a general lack of solidarity among the merchants and organizations within the bazaar.
This
thesis
suggests
that
the
key
to
reviving the
Bazaar
as
well
as
other
declining
ethnic
enclaves,
lies
in
promoting
new networks
of
“cultural
exchange”
in
which
architecture
and
urban
design
can
be
a facilitator
of
new
interactions
and
symbiotic
relationships
among
different organizations
and
individuals.
It
comprises
of
a
demographic,
historic, architectural
and
spatial
analysis
as
well
as
in-depth
human
research
that studies
how
visitors
and
inhabitants
of
the
Gerrard
Bazaar
perceive
the
ethnic enclave,
and
what
culture
means
to
them.
These discovered
studies
and
personal insights
influence
the
design
process
and
are
meant
to
serve
as
a
new
technique by
which
one
can
study
the
notion
of
culture
and
how
it
informs
architecture and
urban
interventions.
Thus,
the
focus
of
thesis
is
on
the
method
by
which architecture and
design
is
produced,
in
response
to
the
lack
of
cultural exchange.
The
way
in
which
this
method
translates research
into
design,
is
by
the
formulation
of
a
manual
of
“design
strategies” that
serves
as
a
template
for
the
design
intervention.
This
manual
is
applied to
three
different
sites
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
for
three
types
of
unique design proposals
-
A
re-activated
plaza,
an
adaptively
re-used
square
and
a re-imagined
senior’s
residential
complex.
These
proposals
are
not
meant
to “freeze”
the
changes
that
are
taking
place
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
but rather,
respond
to
the
gentrification
in
a
positive
manner
and acknowledge
the demographic
trend
that
is
transpiring
within
the
neighbourhood.
It
is
envisioned that
these
new
interventions
would
act
as
catalysts
in
fostering
a
new
sense
of community
and
revitalizing
the
day-to-day
life
of
the
neighbourhood.
In addition,
they
would
serve
to
optimize
the
existing
functions
and
events
of
the ethnic
enclave
and
act
as
anchor points
along
the
strip.
Moreover,
the
presence of
these
interventions
and
the
changes
that
they
bring,
are
meant
to
help
the bazaar
pave
the
path
to
a
new
identity
where
its
cultural
heritage
is
shared and
promoted,
yet
its
demographic
and
cultural
transition
are
acknowledged
and integrated.
The
examining
committee
is
as
follows:
The
committee
has
been
approved
as
authorized
by
the
Graduate
Studies
Committee.
The
Defence
Examination
will
take
place:
Friday,
May
1,
2015
9:30AM
ARC
2026
A
copy
of
the
thesis
is
available
for
perusal
in
ARC
2106A.
Sundus Shaikh
Of the thesis entitled: Cultural Connectivity : Design as a method to facilitate cultural exchange within the Gerrard Bazaar
Abstract:
As immigrants choose to reside within the suburbs and the city undergoes rapid geographical change, Toronto’s ethnic enclaves are facing significant transformation in terms of their neighbourhood demographics, economic conditions and function. The Gerrard Bazaar is a prime example of an ethnic retail strip that is struggling with a changing identity and day-to-day role, as the South Asian population gradually reduces within the area, while young, non-South Asian families continue to move in. Once a thriving Indo-Pakistani retail destination, the ethnic enclave has witnessed significant economic decline leading to fluctuating levels of urban vacancy. Among the many South Asian shops, there lies an increasing presence of mainstream coffee shops and specialty stores that have replaced declining South Asian retail enterprises over time. Various social and business organizations are also situated along the strip, yet a significant number of their efforts to regenerate the enclave, operate in an isolated manner. There also remains a cultural divide within the area as well as a general lack of solidarity among the merchants and organizations within the bazaar.
This
thesis
suggests
that
the
key
to
reviving the
Bazaar
as
well
as
other
declining
ethnic
enclaves,
lies
in
promoting
new networks
of
“cultural
exchange”
in
which
architecture
and
urban
design
can
be
a facilitator
of
new
interactions
and
symbiotic
relationships
among
different organizations
and
individuals.
It
comprises
of
a
demographic,
historic, architectural
and
spatial
analysis
as
well
as
in-depth
human
research
that studies
how
visitors
and
inhabitants
of
the
Gerrard
Bazaar
perceive
the
ethnic enclave,
and
what
culture
means
to
them.
These discovered
studies
and
personal insights
influence
the
design
process
and
are
meant
to
serve
as
a
new
technique by
which
one
can
study
the
notion
of
culture
and
how
it
informs
architecture and
urban
interventions.
Thus,
the
focus
of
thesis
is
on
the
method
by
which architecture and
design
is
produced,
in
response
to
the
lack
of
cultural exchange.
The
way
in
which
this
method
translates research
into
design,
is
by
the
formulation
of
a
manual
of
“design
strategies” that
serves
as
a
template
for
the
design
intervention.
This
manual
is
applied to
three
different
sites
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
for
three
types
of
unique design proposals
-
A
re-activated
plaza,
an
adaptively
re-used
square
and
a re-imagined
senior’s
residential
complex.
These
proposals
are
not
meant
to “freeze”
the
changes
that
are
taking
place
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
but rather,
respond
to
the
gentrification
in
a
positive
manner
and acknowledge
the demographic
trend
that
is
transpiring
within
the
neighbourhood.
It
is
envisioned that
these
new
interventions
would
act
as
catalysts
in
fostering
a
new
sense
of community
and
revitalizing
the
day-to-day
life
of
the
neighbourhood.
In addition,
they
would
serve
to
optimize
the
existing
functions
and
events
of
the ethnic
enclave
and
act
as
anchor points
along
the
strip.
Moreover,
the
presence of
these
interventions
and
the
changes
that
they
bring,
are
meant
to
help
the bazaar
pave
the
path
to
a
new
identity
where
its
cultural
heritage
is
shared and
promoted,
yet
its
demographic
and
cultural
transition
are
acknowledged
and integrated.
The
examining
committee
is
as
follows:
The
committee
has
been
approved
as
authorized
by
the
Graduate
Studies
Committee.
The
Defence
Examination
will
take
place:
Friday,
May
1,
2015
9:30AM
ARC
2026
A
copy
of
the
thesis
is
available
for
perusal
in
ARC
2106A.
Sundus Shaikh
Of the thesis entitled: Cultural Connectivity : Design as a method to facilitate cultural exchange within the Gerrard Bazaar
Abstract:
As immigrants choose to reside within the suburbs and the city undergoes rapid geographical change, Toronto’s ethnic enclaves are facing significant transformation in terms of their neighbourhood demographics, economic conditions and function. The Gerrard Bazaar is a prime example of an ethnic retail strip that is struggling with a changing identity and day-to-day role, as the South Asian population gradually reduces within the area, while young, non-South Asian families continue to move in. Once a thriving Indo-Pakistani retail destination, the ethnic enclave has witnessed significant economic decline leading to fluctuating levels of urban vacancy. Among the many South Asian shops, there lies an increasing presence of mainstream coffee shops and specialty stores that have replaced declining South Asian retail enterprises over time. Various social and business organizations are also situated along the strip, yet a significant number of their efforts to regenerate the enclave, operate in an isolated manner. There also remains a cultural divide within the area as well as a general lack of solidarity among the merchants and organizations within the bazaar.
This
thesis
suggests
that
the
key
to
reviving the
Bazaar
as
well
as
other
declining
ethnic
enclaves,
lies
in
promoting
new networks
of
“cultural
exchange”
in
which
architecture
and
urban
design
can
be
a facilitator
of
new
interactions
and
symbiotic
relationships
among
different organizations
and
individuals.
It
comprises
of
a
demographic,
historic, architectural
and
spatial
analysis
as
well
as
in-depth
human
research
that studies
how
visitors
and
inhabitants
of
the
Gerrard
Bazaar
perceive
the
ethnic enclave,
and
what
culture
means
to
them.
These discovered
studies
and
personal insights
influence
the
design
process
and
are
meant
to
serve
as
a
new
technique by
which
one
can
study
the
notion
of
culture
and
how
it
informs
architecture and
urban
interventions.
Thus,
the
focus
of
thesis
is
on
the
method
by
which architecture and
design
is
produced,
in
response
to
the
lack
of
cultural exchange.
The
way
in
which
this
method
translates research
into
design,
is
by
the
formulation
of
a
manual
of
“design
strategies” that
serves
as
a
template
for
the
design
intervention.
This
manual
is
applied to
three
different
sites
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
for
three
types
of
unique design proposals
-
A
re-activated
plaza,
an
adaptively
re-used
square
and
a re-imagined
senior’s
residential
complex.
These
proposals
are
not
meant
to “freeze”
the
changes
that
are
taking
place
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
but rather,
respond
to
the
gentrification
in
a
positive
manner
and acknowledge
the demographic
trend
that
is
transpiring
within
the
neighbourhood.
It
is
envisioned that
these
new
interventions
would
act
as
catalysts
in
fostering
a
new
sense
of community
and
revitalizing
the
day-to-day
life
of
the
neighbourhood.
In addition,
they
would
serve
to
optimize
the
existing
functions
and
events
of
the ethnic
enclave
and
act
as
anchor points
along
the
strip.
Moreover,
the
presence of
these
interventions
and
the
changes
that
they
bring,
are
meant
to
help
the bazaar
pave
the
path
to
a
new
identity
where
its
cultural
heritage
is
shared and
promoted,
yet
its
demographic
and
cultural
transition
are
acknowledged
and integrated.
The
examining
committee
is
as
follows:
The
committee
has
been
approved
as
authorized
by
the
Graduate
Studies
Committee.
The
Defence
Examination
will
take
place:
Friday,
May
1,
2015
9:30AM
ARC
2026
A
copy
of
the
thesis
is
available
for
perusal
in
ARC
2106A.
Sundus Shaikh
Of the thesis entitled: Cultural Connectivity : Design as a method to facilitate cultural exchange within the Gerrard Bazaar
Abstract:
As immigrants choose to reside within the suburbs and the city undergoes rapid geographical change, Toronto’s ethnic enclaves are facing significant transformation in terms of their neighbourhood demographics, economic conditions and function. The Gerrard Bazaar is a prime example of an ethnic retail strip that is struggling with a changing identity and day-to-day role, as the South Asian population gradually reduces within the area, while young, non-South Asian families continue to move in. Once a thriving Indo-Pakistani retail destination, the ethnic enclave has witnessed significant economic decline leading to fluctuating levels of urban vacancy. Among the many South Asian shops, there lies an increasing presence of mainstream coffee shops and specialty stores that have replaced declining South Asian retail enterprises over time. Various social and business organizations are also situated along the strip, yet a significant number of their efforts to regenerate the enclave, operate in an isolated manner. There also remains a cultural divide within the area as well as a general lack of solidarity among the merchants and organizations within the bazaar.
This
thesis
suggests
that
the
key
to
reviving the
Bazaar
as
well
as
other
declining
ethnic
enclaves,
lies
in
promoting
new networks
of
“cultural
exchange”
in
which
architecture
and
urban
design
can
be
a facilitator
of
new
interactions
and
symbiotic
relationships
among
different organizations
and
individuals.
It
comprises
of
a
demographic,
historic, architectural
and
spatial
analysis
as
well
as
in-depth
human
research
that studies
how
visitors
and
inhabitants
of
the
Gerrard
Bazaar
perceive
the
ethnic enclave,
and
what
culture
means
to
them.
These discovered
studies
and
personal insights
influence
the
design
process
and
are
meant
to
serve
as
a
new
technique by
which
one
can
study
the
notion
of
culture
and
how
it
informs
architecture and
urban
interventions.
Thus,
the
focus
of
thesis
is
on
the
method
by
which architecture and
design
is
produced,
in
response
to
the
lack
of
cultural exchange.
The
way
in
which
this
method
translates research
into
design,
is
by
the
formulation
of
a
manual
of
“design
strategies” that
serves
as
a
template
for
the
design
intervention.
This
manual
is
applied to
three
different
sites
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
for
three
types
of
unique design proposals
-
A
re-activated
plaza,
an
adaptively
re-used
square
and
a re-imagined
senior’s
residential
complex.
These
proposals
are
not
meant
to “freeze”
the
changes
that
are
taking
place
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
but rather,
respond
to
the
gentrification
in
a
positive
manner
and acknowledge
the demographic
trend
that
is
transpiring
within
the
neighbourhood.
It
is
envisioned that
these
new
interventions
would
act
as
catalysts
in
fostering
a
new
sense
of community
and
revitalizing
the
day-to-day
life
of
the
neighbourhood.
In addition,
they
would
serve
to
optimize
the
existing
functions
and
events
of
the ethnic
enclave
and
act
as
anchor points
along
the
strip.
Moreover,
the
presence of
these
interventions
and
the
changes
that
they
bring,
are
meant
to
help
the bazaar
pave
the
path
to
a
new
identity
where
its
cultural
heritage
is
shared and
promoted,
yet
its
demographic
and
cultural
transition
are
acknowledged
and integrated.
The
examining
committee
is
as
follows:
The
committee
has
been
approved
as
authorized
by
the
Graduate
Studies
Committee.
The
Defence
Examination
will
take
place:
Friday,
May
1,
2015
9:30AM
ARC
2026
A
copy
of
the
thesis
is
available
for
perusal
in
ARC
2106A.
Sundus Shaikh
Of the thesis entitled: Cultural Connectivity : Design as a method to facilitate cultural exchange within the Gerrard Bazaar
Abstract:
As immigrants choose to reside within the suburbs and the city undergoes rapid geographical change, Toronto’s ethnic enclaves are facing significant transformation in terms of their neighbourhood demographics, economic conditions and function. The Gerrard Bazaar is a prime example of an ethnic retail strip that is struggling with a changing identity and day-to-day role, as the South Asian population gradually reduces within the area, while young, non-South Asian families continue to move in. Once a thriving Indo-Pakistani retail destination, the ethnic enclave has witnessed significant economic decline leading to fluctuating levels of urban vacancy. Among the many South Asian shops, there lies an increasing presence of mainstream coffee shops and specialty stores that have replaced declining South Asian retail enterprises over time. Various social and business organizations are also situated along the strip, yet a significant number of their efforts to regenerate the enclave, operate in an isolated manner. There also remains a cultural divide within the area as well as a general lack of solidarity among the merchants and organizations within the bazaar.
This
thesis
suggests
that
the
key
to
reviving the
Bazaar
as
well
as
other
declining
ethnic
enclaves,
lies
in
promoting
new networks
of
“cultural
exchange”
in
which
architecture
and
urban
design
can
be
a facilitator
of
new
interactions
and
symbiotic
relationships
among
different organizations
and
individuals.
It
comprises
of
a
demographic,
historic, architectural
and
spatial
analysis
as
well
as
in-depth
human
research
that studies
how
visitors
and
inhabitants
of
the
Gerrard
Bazaar
perceive
the
ethnic enclave,
and
what
culture
means
to
them.
These discovered
studies
and
personal insights
influence
the
design
process
and
are
meant
to
serve
as
a
new
technique by
which
one
can
study
the
notion
of
culture
and
how
it
informs
architecture and
urban
interventions.
Thus,
the
focus
of
thesis
is
on
the
method
by
which architecture and
design
is
produced,
in
response
to
the
lack
of
cultural exchange.
The
way
in
which
this
method
translates research
into
design,
is
by
the
formulation
of
a
manual
of
“design
strategies” that
serves
as
a
template
for
the
design
intervention.
This
manual
is
applied to
three
different
sites
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
for
three
types
of
unique design proposals
-
A
re-activated
plaza,
an
adaptively
re-used
square
and
a re-imagined
senior’s
residential
complex.
These
proposals
are
not
meant
to “freeze”
the
changes
that
are
taking
place
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
but rather,
respond
to
the
gentrification
in
a
positive
manner
and acknowledge
the demographic
trend
that
is
transpiring
within
the
neighbourhood.
It
is
envisioned that
these
new
interventions
would
act
as
catalysts
in
fostering
a
new
sense
of community
and
revitalizing
the
day-to-day
life
of
the
neighbourhood.
In addition,
they
would
serve
to
optimize
the
existing
functions
and
events
of
the ethnic
enclave
and
act
as
anchor points
along
the
strip.
Moreover,
the
presence of
these
interventions
and
the
changes
that
they
bring,
are
meant
to
help
the bazaar
pave
the
path
to
a
new
identity
where
its
cultural
heritage
is
shared and
promoted,
yet
its
demographic
and
cultural
transition
are
acknowledged
and integrated.
The
examining
committee
is
as
follows:
The
committee
has
been
approved
as
authorized
by
the
Graduate
Studies
Committee.
The
Defence
Examination
will
take
place:
Friday,
May
1,
2015
9:30AM
ARC
2026
A
copy
of
the
thesis
is
available
for
perusal
in
ARC
2106A.
Sundus Shaikh
Of the thesis entitled: Cultural Connectivity : Design as a method to facilitate cultural exchange within the Gerrard Bazaar
Abstract:
As immigrants choose to reside within the suburbs and the city undergoes rapid geographical change, Toronto’s ethnic enclaves are facing significant transformation in terms of their neighbourhood demographics, economic conditions and function. The Gerrard Bazaar is a prime example of an ethnic retail strip that is struggling with a changing identity and day-to-day role, as the South Asian population gradually reduces within the area, while young, non-South Asian families continue to move in. Once a thriving Indo-Pakistani retail destination, the ethnic enclave has witnessed significant economic decline leading to fluctuating levels of urban vacancy. Among the many South Asian shops, there lies an increasing presence of mainstream coffee shops and specialty stores that have replaced declining South Asian retail enterprises over time. Various social and business organizations are also situated along the strip, yet a significant number of their efforts to regenerate the enclave, operate in an isolated manner. There also remains a cultural divide within the area as well as a general lack of solidarity among the merchants and organizations within the bazaar.
This
thesis
suggests
that
the
key
to
reviving the
Bazaar
as
well
as
other
declining
ethnic
enclaves,
lies
in
promoting
new networks
of
“cultural
exchange”
in
which
architecture
and
urban
design
can
be
a facilitator
of
new
interactions
and
symbiotic
relationships
among
different organizations
and
individuals.
It
comprises
of
a
demographic,
historic, architectural
and
spatial
analysis
as
well
as
in-depth
human
research
that studies
how
visitors
and
inhabitants
of
the
Gerrard
Bazaar
perceive
the
ethnic enclave,
and
what
culture
means
to
them.
These discovered
studies
and
personal insights
influence
the
design
process
and
are
meant
to
serve
as
a
new
technique by
which
one
can
study
the
notion
of
culture
and
how
it
informs
architecture and
urban
interventions.
Thus,
the
focus
of
thesis
is
on
the
method
by
which architecture and
design
is
produced,
in
response
to
the
lack
of
cultural exchange.
The
way
in
which
this
method
translates research
into
design,
is
by
the
formulation
of
a
manual
of
“design
strategies” that
serves
as
a
template
for
the
design
intervention.
This
manual
is
applied to
three
different
sites
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
for
three
types
of
unique design proposals
-
A
re-activated
plaza,
an
adaptively
re-used
square
and
a re-imagined
senior’s
residential
complex.
These
proposals
are
not
meant
to “freeze”
the
changes
that
are
taking
place
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
but rather,
respond
to
the
gentrification
in
a
positive
manner
and acknowledge
the demographic
trend
that
is
transpiring
within
the
neighbourhood.
It
is
envisioned that
these
new
interventions
would
act
as
catalysts
in
fostering
a
new
sense
of community
and
revitalizing
the
day-to-day
life
of
the
neighbourhood.
In addition,
they
would
serve
to
optimize
the
existing
functions
and
events
of
the ethnic
enclave
and
act
as
anchor points
along
the
strip.
Moreover,
the
presence of
these
interventions
and
the
changes
that
they
bring,
are
meant
to
help
the bazaar
pave
the
path
to
a
new
identity
where
its
cultural
heritage
is
shared and
promoted,
yet
its
demographic
and
cultural
transition
are
acknowledged
and integrated.
The
examining
committee
is
as
follows:
The
committee
has
been
approved
as
authorized
by
the
Graduate
Studies
Committee.
The
Defence
Examination
will
take
place:
Friday,
May
1,
2015
9:30AM
ARC
2026
A
copy
of
the
thesis
is
available
for
perusal
in
ARC
2106A.
Sundus Shaikh
Of the thesis entitled: Cultural Connectivity : Design as a method to facilitate cultural exchange within the Gerrard Bazaar
Abstract:
As immigrants choose to reside within the suburbs and the city undergoes rapid geographical change, Toronto’s ethnic enclaves are facing significant transformation in terms of their neighbourhood demographics, economic conditions and function. The Gerrard Bazaar is a prime example of an ethnic retail strip that is struggling with a changing identity and day-to-day role, as the South Asian population gradually reduces within the area, while young, non-South Asian families continue to move in. Once a thriving Indo-Pakistani retail destination, the ethnic enclave has witnessed significant economic decline leading to fluctuating levels of urban vacancy. Among the many South Asian shops, there lies an increasing presence of mainstream coffee shops and specialty stores that have replaced declining South Asian retail enterprises over time. Various social and business organizations are also situated along the strip, yet a significant number of their efforts to regenerate the enclave, operate in an isolated manner. There also remains a cultural divide within the area as well as a general lack of solidarity among the merchants and organizations within the bazaar.
This
thesis
suggests
that
the
key
to
reviving the
Bazaar
as
well
as
other
declining
ethnic
enclaves,
lies
in
promoting
new networks
of
“cultural
exchange”
in
which
architecture
and
urban
design
can
be
a facilitator
of
new
interactions
and
symbiotic
relationships
among
different organizations
and
individuals.
It
comprises
of
a
demographic,
historic, architectural
and
spatial
analysis
as
well
as
in-depth
human
research
that studies
how
visitors
and
inhabitants
of
the
Gerrard
Bazaar
perceive
the
ethnic enclave,
and
what
culture
means
to
them.
These discovered
studies
and
personal insights
influence
the
design
process
and
are
meant
to
serve
as
a
new
technique by
which
one
can
study
the
notion
of
culture
and
how
it
informs
architecture and
urban
interventions.
Thus,
the
focus
of
thesis
is
on
the
method
by
which architecture and
design
is
produced,
in
response
to
the
lack
of
cultural exchange.
The
way
in
which
this
method
translates research
into
design,
is
by
the
formulation
of
a
manual
of
“design
strategies” that
serves
as
a
template
for
the
design
intervention.
This
manual
is
applied to
three
different
sites
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
for
three
types
of
unique design proposals
-
A
re-activated
plaza,
an
adaptively
re-used
square
and
a re-imagined
senior’s
residential
complex.
These
proposals
are
not
meant
to “freeze”
the
changes
that
are
taking
place
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
but rather,
respond
to
the
gentrification
in
a
positive
manner
and acknowledge
the demographic
trend
that
is
transpiring
within
the
neighbourhood.
It
is
envisioned that
these
new
interventions
would
act
as
catalysts
in
fostering
a
new
sense
of community
and
revitalizing
the
day-to-day
life
of
the
neighbourhood.
In addition,
they
would
serve
to
optimize
the
existing
functions
and
events
of
the ethnic
enclave
and
act
as
anchor points
along
the
strip.
Moreover,
the
presence of
these
interventions
and
the
changes
that
they
bring,
are
meant
to
help
the bazaar
pave
the
path
to
a
new
identity
where
its
cultural
heritage
is
shared and
promoted,
yet
its
demographic
and
cultural
transition
are
acknowledged
and integrated.
The
examining
committee
is
as
follows:
The
committee
has
been
approved
as
authorized
by
the
Graduate
Studies
Committee.
The
Defence
Examination
will
take
place:
Friday,
May
1,
2015
9:30AM
ARC
2026
A
copy
of
the
thesis
is
available
for
perusal
in
ARC
2106A.
Sundus Shaikh
Of the thesis entitled: Cultural Connectivity : Design as a method to facilitate cultural exchange within the Gerrard Bazaar
Abstract:
As immigrants choose to reside within the suburbs and the city undergoes rapid geographical change, Toronto’s ethnic enclaves are facing significant transformation in terms of their neighbourhood demographics, economic conditions and function. The Gerrard Bazaar is a prime example of an ethnic retail strip that is struggling with a changing identity and day-to-day role, as the South Asian population gradually reduces within the area, while young, non-South Asian families continue to move in. Once a thriving Indo-Pakistani retail destination, the ethnic enclave has witnessed significant economic decline leading to fluctuating levels of urban vacancy. Among the many South Asian shops, there lies an increasing presence of mainstream coffee shops and specialty stores that have replaced declining South Asian retail enterprises over time. Various social and business organizations are also situated along the strip, yet a significant number of their efforts to regenerate the enclave, operate in an isolated manner. There also remains a cultural divide within the area as well as a general lack of solidarity among the merchants and organizations within the bazaar.
This
thesis
suggests
that
the
key
to
reviving the
Bazaar
as
well
as
other
declining
ethnic
enclaves,
lies
in
promoting
new networks
of
“cultural
exchange”
in
which
architecture
and
urban
design
can
be
a facilitator
of
new
interactions
and
symbiotic
relationships
among
different organizations
and
individuals.
It
comprises
of
a
demographic,
historic, architectural
and
spatial
analysis
as
well
as
in-depth
human
research
that studies
how
visitors
and
inhabitants
of
the
Gerrard
Bazaar
perceive
the
ethnic enclave,
and
what
culture
means
to
them.
These discovered
studies
and
personal insights
influence
the
design
process
and
are
meant
to
serve
as
a
new
technique by
which
one
can
study
the
notion
of
culture
and
how
it
informs
architecture and
urban
interventions.
Thus,
the
focus
of
thesis
is
on
the
method
by
which architecture and
design
is
produced,
in
response
to
the
lack
of
cultural exchange.
The
way
in
which
this
method
translates research
into
design,
is
by
the
formulation
of
a
manual
of
“design
strategies” that
serves
as
a
template
for
the
design
intervention.
This
manual
is
applied to
three
different
sites
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
for
three
types
of
unique design proposals
-
A
re-activated
plaza,
an
adaptively
re-used
square
and
a re-imagined
senior’s
residential
complex.
These
proposals
are
not
meant
to “freeze”
the
changes
that
are
taking
place
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
but rather,
respond
to
the
gentrification
in
a
positive
manner
and acknowledge
the demographic
trend
that
is
transpiring
within
the
neighbourhood.
It
is
envisioned that
these
new
interventions
would
act
as
catalysts
in
fostering
a
new
sense
of community
and
revitalizing
the
day-to-day
life
of
the
neighbourhood.
In addition,
they
would
serve
to
optimize
the
existing
functions
and
events
of
the ethnic
enclave
and
act
as
anchor points
along
the
strip.
Moreover,
the
presence of
these
interventions
and
the
changes
that
they
bring,
are
meant
to
help
the bazaar
pave
the
path
to
a
new
identity
where
its
cultural
heritage
is
shared and
promoted,
yet
its
demographic
and
cultural
transition
are
acknowledged
and integrated.
The
examining
committee
is
as
follows:
The
committee
has
been
approved
as
authorized
by
the
Graduate
Studies
Committee.
The
Defence
Examination
will
take
place:
Friday,
May
1,
2015
9:30AM
ARC
2026
A
copy
of
the
thesis
is
available
for
perusal
in
ARC
2106A.
Sundus Shaikh
Of the thesis entitled: Cultural Connectivity : Design as a method to facilitate cultural exchange within the Gerrard Bazaar
Abstract:
As immigrants choose to reside within the suburbs and the city undergoes rapid geographical change, Toronto’s ethnic enclaves are facing significant transformation in terms of their neighbourhood demographics, economic conditions and function. The Gerrard Bazaar is a prime example of an ethnic retail strip that is struggling with a changing identity and day-to-day role, as the South Asian population gradually reduces within the area, while young, non-South Asian families continue to move in. Once a thriving Indo-Pakistani retail destination, the ethnic enclave has witnessed significant economic decline leading to fluctuating levels of urban vacancy. Among the many South Asian shops, there lies an increasing presence of mainstream coffee shops and specialty stores that have replaced declining South Asian retail enterprises over time. Various social and business organizations are also situated along the strip, yet a significant number of their efforts to regenerate the enclave, operate in an isolated manner. There also remains a cultural divide within the area as well as a general lack of solidarity among the merchants and organizations within the bazaar.
This
thesis
suggests
that
the
key
to
reviving the
Bazaar
as
well
as
other
declining
ethnic
enclaves,
lies
in
promoting
new networks
of
“cultural
exchange”
in
which
architecture
and
urban
design
can
be
a facilitator
of
new
interactions
and
symbiotic
relationships
among
different organizations
and
individuals.
It
comprises
of
a
demographic,
historic, architectural
and
spatial
analysis
as
well
as
in-depth
human
research
that studies
how
visitors
and
inhabitants
of
the
Gerrard
Bazaar
perceive
the
ethnic enclave,
and
what
culture
means
to
them.
These discovered
studies
and
personal insights
influence
the
design
process
and
are
meant
to
serve
as
a
new
technique by
which
one
can
study
the
notion
of
culture
and
how
it
informs
architecture and
urban
interventions.
Thus,
the
focus
of
thesis
is
on
the
method
by
which architecture and
design
is
produced,
in
response
to
the
lack
of
cultural exchange.
The
way
in
which
this
method
translates research
into
design,
is
by
the
formulation
of
a
manual
of
“design
strategies” that
serves
as
a
template
for
the
design
intervention.
This
manual
is
applied to
three
different
sites
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
for
three
types
of
unique design proposals
-
A
re-activated
plaza,
an
adaptively
re-used
square
and
a re-imagined
senior’s
residential
complex.
These
proposals
are
not
meant
to “freeze”
the
changes
that
are
taking
place
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
but rather,
respond
to
the
gentrification
in
a
positive
manner
and acknowledge
the demographic
trend
that
is
transpiring
within
the
neighbourhood.
It
is
envisioned that
these
new
interventions
would
act
as
catalysts
in
fostering
a
new
sense
of community
and
revitalizing
the
day-to-day
life
of
the
neighbourhood.
In addition,
they
would
serve
to
optimize
the
existing
functions
and
events
of
the ethnic
enclave
and
act
as
anchor points
along
the
strip.
Moreover,
the
presence of
these
interventions
and
the
changes
that
they
bring,
are
meant
to
help
the bazaar
pave
the
path
to
a
new
identity
where
its
cultural
heritage
is
shared and
promoted,
yet
its
demographic
and
cultural
transition
are
acknowledged
and integrated.
The
examining
committee
is
as
follows:
The
committee
has
been
approved
as
authorized
by
the
Graduate
Studies
Committee.
The
Defence
Examination
will
take
place:
Friday,
May
1,
2015
9:30AM
ARC
2026
A
copy
of
the
thesis
is
available
for
perusal
in
ARC
2106A.
Sundus Shaikh
Of the thesis entitled: Cultural Connectivity : Design as a method to facilitate cultural exchange within the Gerrard Bazaar
Abstract:
As immigrants choose to reside within the suburbs and the city undergoes rapid geographical change, Toronto’s ethnic enclaves are facing significant transformation in terms of their neighbourhood demographics, economic conditions and function. The Gerrard Bazaar is a prime example of an ethnic retail strip that is struggling with a changing identity and day-to-day role, as the South Asian population gradually reduces within the area, while young, non-South Asian families continue to move in. Once a thriving Indo-Pakistani retail destination, the ethnic enclave has witnessed significant economic decline leading to fluctuating levels of urban vacancy. Among the many South Asian shops, there lies an increasing presence of mainstream coffee shops and specialty stores that have replaced declining South Asian retail enterprises over time. Various social and business organizations are also situated along the strip, yet a significant number of their efforts to regenerate the enclave, operate in an isolated manner. There also remains a cultural divide within the area as well as a general lack of solidarity among the merchants and organizations within the bazaar.
This
thesis
suggests
that
the
key
to
reviving the
Bazaar
as
well
as
other
declining
ethnic
enclaves,
lies
in
promoting
new networks
of
“cultural
exchange”
in
which
architecture
and
urban
design
can
be
a facilitator
of
new
interactions
and
symbiotic
relationships
among
different organizations
and
individuals.
It
comprises
of
a
demographic,
historic, architectural
and
spatial
analysis
as
well
as
in-depth
human
research
that studies
how
visitors
and
inhabitants
of
the
Gerrard
Bazaar
perceive
the
ethnic enclave,
and
what
culture
means
to
them.
These discovered
studies
and
personal insights
influence
the
design
process
and
are
meant
to
serve
as
a
new
technique by
which
one
can
study
the
notion
of
culture
and
how
it
informs
architecture and
urban
interventions.
Thus,
the
focus
of
thesis
is
on
the
method
by
which architecture and
design
is
produced,
in
response
to
the
lack
of
cultural exchange.
The
way
in
which
this
method
translates research
into
design,
is
by
the
formulation
of
a
manual
of
“design
strategies” that
serves
as
a
template
for
the
design
intervention.
This
manual
is
applied to
three
different
sites
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
for
three
types
of
unique design proposals
-
A
re-activated
plaza,
an
adaptively
re-used
square
and
a re-imagined
senior’s
residential
complex.
These
proposals
are
not
meant
to “freeze”
the
changes
that
are
taking
place
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
but rather,
respond
to
the
gentrification
in
a
positive
manner
and acknowledge
the demographic
trend
that
is
transpiring
within
the
neighbourhood.
It
is
envisioned that
these
new
interventions
would
act
as
catalysts
in
fostering
a
new
sense
of community
and
revitalizing
the
day-to-day
life
of
the
neighbourhood.
In addition,
they
would
serve
to
optimize
the
existing
functions
and
events
of
the ethnic
enclave
and
act
as
anchor points
along
the
strip.
Moreover,
the
presence of
these
interventions
and
the
changes
that
they
bring,
are
meant
to
help
the bazaar
pave
the
path
to
a
new
identity
where
its
cultural
heritage
is
shared and
promoted,
yet
its
demographic
and
cultural
transition
are
acknowledged
and integrated.
The
examining
committee
is
as
follows:
The
committee
has
been
approved
as
authorized
by
the
Graduate
Studies
Committee.
The
Defence
Examination
will
take
place:
Friday,
May
1,
2015
9:30AM
ARC
2026
A
copy
of
the
thesis
is
available
for
perusal
in
ARC
2106A.
Sundus Shaikh
Of the thesis entitled: Cultural Connectivity : Design as a method to facilitate cultural exchange within the Gerrard Bazaar
Abstract:
As immigrants choose to reside within the suburbs and the city undergoes rapid geographical change, Toronto’s ethnic enclaves are facing significant transformation in terms of their neighbourhood demographics, economic conditions and function. The Gerrard Bazaar is a prime example of an ethnic retail strip that is struggling with a changing identity and day-to-day role, as the South Asian population gradually reduces within the area, while young, non-South Asian families continue to move in. Once a thriving Indo-Pakistani retail destination, the ethnic enclave has witnessed significant economic decline leading to fluctuating levels of urban vacancy. Among the many South Asian shops, there lies an increasing presence of mainstream coffee shops and specialty stores that have replaced declining South Asian retail enterprises over time. Various social and business organizations are also situated along the strip, yet a significant number of their efforts to regenerate the enclave, operate in an isolated manner. There also remains a cultural divide within the area as well as a general lack of solidarity among the merchants and organizations within the bazaar.
This
thesis
suggests
that
the
key
to
reviving the
Bazaar
as
well
as
other
declining
ethnic
enclaves,
lies
in
promoting
new networks
of
“cultural
exchange”
in
which
architecture
and
urban
design
can
be
a facilitator
of
new
interactions
and
symbiotic
relationships
among
different organizations
and
individuals.
It
comprises
of
a
demographic,
historic, architectural
and
spatial
analysis
as
well
as
in-depth
human
research
that studies
how
visitors
and
inhabitants
of
the
Gerrard
Bazaar
perceive
the
ethnic enclave,
and
what
culture
means
to
them.
These discovered
studies
and
personal insights
influence
the
design
process
and
are
meant
to
serve
as
a
new
technique by
which
one
can
study
the
notion
of
culture
and
how
it
informs
architecture and
urban
interventions.
Thus,
the
focus
of
thesis
is
on
the
method
by
which architecture and
design
is
produced,
in
response
to
the
lack
of
cultural exchange.
The
way
in
which
this
method
translates research
into
design,
is
by
the
formulation
of
a
manual
of
“design
strategies” that
serves
as
a
template
for
the
design
intervention.
This
manual
is
applied to
three
different
sites
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
for
three
types
of
unique design proposals
-
A
re-activated
plaza,
an
adaptively
re-used
square
and
a re-imagined
senior’s
residential
complex.
These
proposals
are
not
meant
to “freeze”
the
changes
that
are
taking
place
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
but rather,
respond
to
the
gentrification
in
a
positive
manner
and acknowledge
the demographic
trend
that
is
transpiring
within
the
neighbourhood.
It
is
envisioned that
these
new
interventions
would
act
as
catalysts
in
fostering
a
new
sense
of community
and
revitalizing
the
day-to-day
life
of
the
neighbourhood.
In addition,
they
would
serve
to
optimize
the
existing
functions
and
events
of
the ethnic
enclave
and
act
as
anchor points
along
the
strip.
Moreover,
the
presence of
these
interventions
and
the
changes
that
they
bring,
are
meant
to
help
the bazaar
pave
the
path
to
a
new
identity
where
its
cultural
heritage
is
shared and
promoted,
yet
its
demographic
and
cultural
transition
are
acknowledged
and integrated.
The
examining
committee
is
as
follows:
The
committee
has
been
approved
as
authorized
by
the
Graduate
Studies
Committee.
The
Defence
Examination
will
take
place:
Friday,
May
1,
2015
9:30AM
ARC
2026
A
copy
of
the
thesis
is
available
for
perusal
in
ARC
2106A.
Sundus Shaikh
Of the thesis entitled: Cultural Connectivity : Design as a method to facilitate cultural exchange within the Gerrard Bazaar
Abstract:
As immigrants choose to reside within the suburbs and the city undergoes rapid geographical change, Toronto’s ethnic enclaves are facing significant transformation in terms of their neighbourhood demographics, economic conditions and function. The Gerrard Bazaar is a prime example of an ethnic retail strip that is struggling with a changing identity and day-to-day role, as the South Asian population gradually reduces within the area, while young, non-South Asian families continue to move in. Once a thriving Indo-Pakistani retail destination, the ethnic enclave has witnessed significant economic decline leading to fluctuating levels of urban vacancy. Among the many South Asian shops, there lies an increasing presence of mainstream coffee shops and specialty stores that have replaced declining South Asian retail enterprises over time. Various social and business organizations are also situated along the strip, yet a significant number of their efforts to regenerate the enclave, operate in an isolated manner. There also remains a cultural divide within the area as well as a general lack of solidarity among the merchants and organizations within the bazaar.
This
thesis
suggests
that
the
key
to
reviving the
Bazaar
as
well
as
other
declining
ethnic
enclaves,
lies
in
promoting
new networks
of
“cultural
exchange”
in
which
architecture
and
urban
design
can
be
a facilitator
of
new
interactions
and
symbiotic
relationships
among
different organizations
and
individuals.
It
comprises
of
a
demographic,
historic, architectural
and
spatial
analysis
as
well
as
in-depth
human
research
that studies
how
visitors
and
inhabitants
of
the
Gerrard
Bazaar
perceive
the
ethnic enclave,
and
what
culture
means
to
them.
These discovered
studies
and
personal insights
influence
the
design
process
and
are
meant
to
serve
as
a
new
technique by
which
one
can
study
the
notion
of
culture
and
how
it
informs
architecture and
urban
interventions.
Thus,
the
focus
of
thesis
is
on
the
method
by
which architecture and
design
is
produced,
in
response
to
the
lack
of
cultural exchange.
The
way
in
which
this
method
translates research
into
design,
is
by
the
formulation
of
a
manual
of
“design
strategies” that
serves
as
a
template
for
the
design
intervention.
This
manual
is
applied to
three
different
sites
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
for
three
types
of
unique design proposals
-
A
re-activated
plaza,
an
adaptively
re-used
square
and
a re-imagined
senior’s
residential
complex.
These
proposals
are
not
meant
to “freeze”
the
changes
that
are
taking
place
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
but rather,
respond
to
the
gentrification
in
a
positive
manner
and acknowledge
the demographic
trend
that
is
transpiring
within
the
neighbourhood.
It
is
envisioned that
these
new
interventions
would
act
as
catalysts
in
fostering
a
new
sense
of community
and
revitalizing
the
day-to-day
life
of
the
neighbourhood.
In addition,
they
would
serve
to
optimize
the
existing
functions
and
events
of
the ethnic
enclave
and
act
as
anchor points
along
the
strip.
Moreover,
the
presence of
these
interventions
and
the
changes
that
they
bring,
are
meant
to
help
the bazaar
pave
the
path
to
a
new
identity
where
its
cultural
heritage
is
shared and
promoted,
yet
its
demographic
and
cultural
transition
are
acknowledged
and integrated.
The
examining
committee
is
as
follows:
The
committee
has
been
approved
as
authorized
by
the
Graduate
Studies
Committee.
The
Defence
Examination
will
take
place:
Friday,
May
1,
2015
9:30AM
ARC
2026
A
copy
of
the
thesis
is
available
for
perusal
in
ARC
2106A.
Sundus Shaikh
Of the thesis entitled: Cultural Connectivity : Design as a method to facilitate cultural exchange within the Gerrard Bazaar
Abstract:
As immigrants choose to reside within the suburbs and the city undergoes rapid geographical change, Toronto’s ethnic enclaves are facing significant transformation in terms of their neighbourhood demographics, economic conditions and function. The Gerrard Bazaar is a prime example of an ethnic retail strip that is struggling with a changing identity and day-to-day role, as the South Asian population gradually reduces within the area, while young, non-South Asian families continue to move in. Once a thriving Indo-Pakistani retail destination, the ethnic enclave has witnessed significant economic decline leading to fluctuating levels of urban vacancy. Among the many South Asian shops, there lies an increasing presence of mainstream coffee shops and specialty stores that have replaced declining South Asian retail enterprises over time. Various social and business organizations are also situated along the strip, yet a significant number of their efforts to regenerate the enclave, operate in an isolated manner. There also remains a cultural divide within the area as well as a general lack of solidarity among the merchants and organizations within the bazaar.
This
thesis
suggests
that
the
key
to
reviving the
Bazaar
as
well
as
other
declining
ethnic
enclaves,
lies
in
promoting
new networks
of
“cultural
exchange”
in
which
architecture
and
urban
design
can
be
a facilitator
of
new
interactions
and
symbiotic
relationships
among
different organizations
and
individuals.
It
comprises
of
a
demographic,
historic, architectural
and
spatial
analysis
as
well
as
in-depth
human
research
that studies
how
visitors
and
inhabitants
of
the
Gerrard
Bazaar
perceive
the
ethnic enclave,
and
what
culture
means
to
them.
These discovered
studies
and
personal insights
influence
the
design
process
and
are
meant
to
serve
as
a
new
technique by
which
one
can
study
the
notion
of
culture
and
how
it
informs
architecture and
urban
interventions.
Thus,
the
focus
of
thesis
is
on
the
method
by
which architecture and
design
is
produced,
in
response
to
the
lack
of
cultural exchange.
The
way
in
which
this
method
translates research
into
design,
is
by
the
formulation
of
a
manual
of
“design
strategies” that
serves
as
a
template
for
the
design
intervention.
This
manual
is
applied to
three
different
sites
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
for
three
types
of
unique design proposals
-
A
re-activated
plaza,
an
adaptively
re-used
square
and
a re-imagined
senior’s
residential
complex.
These
proposals
are
not
meant
to “freeze”
the
changes
that
are
taking
place
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
but rather,
respond
to
the
gentrification
in
a
positive
manner
and acknowledge
the demographic
trend
that
is
transpiring
within
the
neighbourhood.
It
is
envisioned that
these
new
interventions
would
act
as
catalysts
in
fostering
a
new
sense
of community
and
revitalizing
the
day-to-day
life
of
the
neighbourhood.
In addition,
they
would
serve
to
optimize
the
existing
functions
and
events
of
the ethnic
enclave
and
act
as
anchor points
along
the
strip.
Moreover,
the
presence of
these
interventions
and
the
changes
that
they
bring,
are
meant
to
help
the bazaar
pave
the
path
to
a
new
identity
where
its
cultural
heritage
is
shared and
promoted,
yet
its
demographic
and
cultural
transition
are
acknowledged
and integrated.
The
examining
committee
is
as
follows:
The
committee
has
been
approved
as
authorized
by
the
Graduate
Studies
Committee.
The
Defence
Examination
will
take
place:
Friday,
May
1,
2015
9:30AM
ARC
2026
A
copy
of
the
thesis
is
available
for
perusal
in
ARC
2106A.
Sundus Shaikh
Of the thesis entitled: Cultural Connectivity : Design as a method to facilitate cultural exchange within the Gerrard Bazaar
Abstract:
As immigrants choose to reside within the suburbs and the city undergoes rapid geographical change, Toronto’s ethnic enclaves are facing significant transformation in terms of their neighbourhood demographics, economic conditions and function. The Gerrard Bazaar is a prime example of an ethnic retail strip that is struggling with a changing identity and day-to-day role, as the South Asian population gradually reduces within the area, while young, non-South Asian families continue to move in. Once a thriving Indo-Pakistani retail destination, the ethnic enclave has witnessed significant economic decline leading to fluctuating levels of urban vacancy. Among the many South Asian shops, there lies an increasing presence of mainstream coffee shops and specialty stores that have replaced declining South Asian retail enterprises over time. Various social and business organizations are also situated along the strip, yet a significant number of their efforts to regenerate the enclave, operate in an isolated manner. There also remains a cultural divide within the area as well as a general lack of solidarity among the merchants and organizations within the bazaar.
This
thesis
suggests
that
the
key
to
reviving the
Bazaar
as
well
as
other
declining
ethnic
enclaves,
lies
in
promoting
new networks
of
“cultural
exchange”
in
which
architecture
and
urban
design
can
be
a facilitator
of
new
interactions
and
symbiotic
relationships
among
different organizations
and
individuals.
It
comprises
of
a
demographic,
historic, architectural
and
spatial
analysis
as
well
as
in-depth
human
research
that studies
how
visitors
and
inhabitants
of
the
Gerrard
Bazaar
perceive
the
ethnic enclave,
and
what
culture
means
to
them.
These discovered
studies
and
personal insights
influence
the
design
process
and
are
meant
to
serve
as
a
new
technique by
which
one
can
study
the
notion
of
culture
and
how
it
informs
architecture and
urban
interventions.
Thus,
the
focus
of
thesis
is
on
the
method
by
which architecture and
design
is
produced,
in
response
to
the
lack
of
cultural exchange.
The
way
in
which
this
method
translates research
into
design,
is
by
the
formulation
of
a
manual
of
“design
strategies” that
serves
as
a
template
for
the
design
intervention.
This
manual
is
applied to
three
different
sites
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
for
three
types
of
unique design proposals
-
A
re-activated
plaza,
an
adaptively
re-used
square
and
a re-imagined
senior’s
residential
complex.
These
proposals
are
not
meant
to “freeze”
the
changes
that
are
taking
place
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
but rather,
respond
to
the
gentrification
in
a
positive
manner
and acknowledge
the demographic
trend
that
is
transpiring
within
the
neighbourhood.
It
is
envisioned that
these
new
interventions
would
act
as
catalysts
in
fostering
a
new
sense
of community
and
revitalizing
the
day-to-day
life
of
the
neighbourhood.
In addition,
they
would
serve
to
optimize
the
existing
functions
and
events
of
the ethnic
enclave
and
act
as
anchor points
along
the
strip.
Moreover,
the
presence of
these
interventions
and
the
changes
that
they
bring,
are
meant
to
help
the bazaar
pave
the
path
to
a
new
identity
where
its
cultural
heritage
is
shared and
promoted,
yet
its
demographic
and
cultural
transition
are
acknowledged
and integrated.
The
examining
committee
is
as
follows:
The
committee
has
been
approved
as
authorized
by
the
Graduate
Studies
Committee.
The
Defence
Examination
will
take
place:
Friday,
May
1,
2015
9:30AM
ARC
2026
A
copy
of
the
thesis
is
available
for
perusal
in
ARC
2106A.
Sundus Shaikh
Of the thesis entitled: Cultural Connectivity : Design as a method to facilitate cultural exchange within the Gerrard Bazaar
Abstract:
As immigrants choose to reside within the suburbs and the city undergoes rapid geographical change, Toronto’s ethnic enclaves are facing significant transformation in terms of their neighbourhood demographics, economic conditions and function. The Gerrard Bazaar is a prime example of an ethnic retail strip that is struggling with a changing identity and day-to-day role, as the South Asian population gradually reduces within the area, while young, non-South Asian families continue to move in. Once a thriving Indo-Pakistani retail destination, the ethnic enclave has witnessed significant economic decline leading to fluctuating levels of urban vacancy. Among the many South Asian shops, there lies an increasing presence of mainstream coffee shops and specialty stores that have replaced declining South Asian retail enterprises over time. Various social and business organizations are also situated along the strip, yet a significant number of their efforts to regenerate the enclave, operate in an isolated manner. There also remains a cultural divide within the area as well as a general lack of solidarity among the merchants and organizations within the bazaar.
This
thesis
suggests
that
the
key
to
reviving the
Bazaar
as
well
as
other
declining
ethnic
enclaves,
lies
in
promoting
new networks
of
“cultural
exchange”
in
which
architecture
and
urban
design
can
be
a facilitator
of
new
interactions
and
symbiotic
relationships
among
different organizations
and
individuals.
It
comprises
of
a
demographic,
historic, architectural
and
spatial
analysis
as
well
as
in-depth
human
research
that studies
how
visitors
and
inhabitants
of
the
Gerrard
Bazaar
perceive
the
ethnic enclave,
and
what
culture
means
to
them.
These discovered
studies
and
personal insights
influence
the
design
process
and
are
meant
to
serve
as
a
new
technique by
which
one
can
study
the
notion
of
culture
and
how
it
informs
architecture and
urban
interventions.
Thus,
the
focus
of
thesis
is
on
the
method
by
which architecture and
design
is
produced,
in
response
to
the
lack
of
cultural exchange.
The
way
in
which
this
method
translates research
into
design,
is
by
the
formulation
of
a
manual
of
“design
strategies” that
serves
as
a
template
for
the
design
intervention.
This
manual
is
applied to
three
different
sites
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
for
three
types
of
unique design proposals
-
A
re-activated
plaza,
an
adaptively
re-used
square
and
a re-imagined
senior’s
residential
complex.
These
proposals
are
not
meant
to “freeze”
the
changes
that
are
taking
place
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
but rather,
respond
to
the
gentrification
in
a
positive
manner
and acknowledge
the demographic
trend
that
is
transpiring
within
the
neighbourhood.
It
is
envisioned that
these
new
interventions
would
act
as
catalysts
in
fostering
a
new
sense
of community
and
revitalizing
the
day-to-day
life
of
the
neighbourhood.
In addition,
they
would
serve
to
optimize
the
existing
functions
and
events
of
the ethnic
enclave
and
act
as
anchor points
along
the
strip.
Moreover,
the
presence of
these
interventions
and
the
changes
that
they
bring,
are
meant
to
help
the bazaar
pave
the
path
to
a
new
identity
where
its
cultural
heritage
is
shared and
promoted,
yet
its
demographic
and
cultural
transition
are
acknowledged
and integrated.
The
examining
committee
is
as
follows:
The
committee
has
been
approved
as
authorized
by
the
Graduate
Studies
Committee.
The
Defence
Examination
will
take
place:
Friday,
May
1,
2015
9:30AM
ARC
2026
A
copy
of
the
thesis
is
available
for
perusal
in
ARC
2106A.
Sundus Shaikh
Of the thesis entitled: Cultural Connectivity : Design as a method to facilitate cultural exchange within the Gerrard Bazaar
Abstract:
As immigrants choose to reside within the suburbs and the city undergoes rapid geographical change, Toronto’s ethnic enclaves are facing significant transformation in terms of their neighbourhood demographics, economic conditions and function. The Gerrard Bazaar is a prime example of an ethnic retail strip that is struggling with a changing identity and day-to-day role, as the South Asian population gradually reduces within the area, while young, non-South Asian families continue to move in. Once a thriving Indo-Pakistani retail destination, the ethnic enclave has witnessed significant economic decline leading to fluctuating levels of urban vacancy. Among the many South Asian shops, there lies an increasing presence of mainstream coffee shops and specialty stores that have replaced declining South Asian retail enterprises over time. Various social and business organizations are also situated along the strip, yet a significant number of their efforts to regenerate the enclave, operate in an isolated manner. There also remains a cultural divide within the area as well as a general lack of solidarity among the merchants and organizations within the bazaar.
This
thesis
suggests
that
the
key
to
reviving the
Bazaar
as
well
as
other
declining
ethnic
enclaves,
lies
in
promoting
new networks
of
“cultural
exchange”
in
which
architecture
and
urban
design
can
be
a facilitator
of
new
interactions
and
symbiotic
relationships
among
different organizations
and
individuals.
It
comprises
of
a
demographic,
historic, architectural
and
spatial
analysis
as
well
as
in-depth
human
research
that studies
how
visitors
and
inhabitants
of
the
Gerrard
Bazaar
perceive
the
ethnic enclave,
and
what
culture
means
to
them.
These discovered
studies
and
personal insights
influence
the
design
process
and
are
meant
to
serve
as
a
new
technique by
which
one
can
study
the
notion
of
culture
and
how
it
informs
architecture and
urban
interventions.
Thus,
the
focus
of
thesis
is
on
the
method
by
which architecture and
design
is
produced,
in
response
to
the
lack
of
cultural exchange.
The
way
in
which
this
method
translates research
into
design,
is
by
the
formulation
of
a
manual
of
“design
strategies” that
serves
as
a
template
for
the
design
intervention.
This
manual
is
applied to
three
different
sites
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
for
three
types
of
unique design proposals
-
A
re-activated
plaza,
an
adaptively
re-used
square
and
a re-imagined
senior’s
residential
complex.
These
proposals
are
not
meant
to “freeze”
the
changes
that
are
taking
place
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
but rather,
respond
to
the
gentrification
in
a
positive
manner
and acknowledge
the demographic
trend
that
is
transpiring
within
the
neighbourhood.
It
is
envisioned that
these
new
interventions
would
act
as
catalysts
in
fostering
a
new
sense
of community
and
revitalizing
the
day-to-day
life
of
the
neighbourhood.
In addition,
they
would
serve
to
optimize
the
existing
functions
and
events
of
the ethnic
enclave
and
act
as
anchor points
along
the
strip.
Moreover,
the
presence of
these
interventions
and
the
changes
that
they
bring,
are
meant
to
help
the bazaar
pave
the
path
to
a
new
identity
where
its
cultural
heritage
is
shared and
promoted,
yet
its
demographic
and
cultural
transition
are
acknowledged
and integrated.
The
examining
committee
is
as
follows:
The
committee
has
been
approved
as
authorized
by
the
Graduate
Studies
Committee.
The
Defence
Examination
will
take
place:
Friday,
May
1,
2015
9:30AM
ARC
2026
A
copy
of
the
thesis
is
available
for
perusal
in
ARC
2106A.
Sundus Shaikh
Of the thesis entitled: Cultural Connectivity : Design as a method to facilitate cultural exchange within the Gerrard Bazaar
Abstract:
As immigrants choose to reside within the suburbs and the city undergoes rapid geographical change, Toronto’s ethnic enclaves are facing significant transformation in terms of their neighbourhood demographics, economic conditions and function. The Gerrard Bazaar is a prime example of an ethnic retail strip that is struggling with a changing identity and day-to-day role, as the South Asian population gradually reduces within the area, while young, non-South Asian families continue to move in. Once a thriving Indo-Pakistani retail destination, the ethnic enclave has witnessed significant economic decline leading to fluctuating levels of urban vacancy. Among the many South Asian shops, there lies an increasing presence of mainstream coffee shops and specialty stores that have replaced declining South Asian retail enterprises over time. Various social and business organizations are also situated along the strip, yet a significant number of their efforts to regenerate the enclave, operate in an isolated manner. There also remains a cultural divide within the area as well as a general lack of solidarity among the merchants and organizations within the bazaar.
This
thesis
suggests
that
the
key
to
reviving the
Bazaar
as
well
as
other
declining
ethnic
enclaves,
lies
in
promoting
new networks
of
“cultural
exchange”
in
which
architecture
and
urban
design
can
be
a facilitator
of
new
interactions
and
symbiotic
relationships
among
different organizations
and
individuals.
It
comprises
of
a
demographic,
historic, architectural
and
spatial
analysis
as
well
as
in-depth
human
research
that studies
how
visitors
and
inhabitants
of
the
Gerrard
Bazaar
perceive
the
ethnic enclave,
and
what
culture
means
to
them.
These discovered
studies
and
personal insights
influence
the
design
process
and
are
meant
to
serve
as
a
new
technique by
which
one
can
study
the
notion
of
culture
and
how
it
informs
architecture and
urban
interventions.
Thus,
the
focus
of
thesis
is
on
the
method
by
which architecture and
design
is
produced,
in
response
to
the
lack
of
cultural exchange.
The
way
in
which
this
method
translates research
into
design,
is
by
the
formulation
of
a
manual
of
“design
strategies” that
serves
as
a
template
for
the
design
intervention.
This
manual
is
applied to
three
different
sites
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
for
three
types
of
unique design proposals
-
A
re-activated
plaza,
an
adaptively
re-used
square
and
a re-imagined
senior’s
residential
complex.
These
proposals
are
not
meant
to “freeze”
the
changes
that
are
taking
place
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
but rather,
respond
to
the
gentrification
in
a
positive
manner
and acknowledge
the demographic
trend
that
is
transpiring
within
the
neighbourhood.
It
is
envisioned that
these
new
interventions
would
act
as
catalysts
in
fostering
a
new
sense
of community
and
revitalizing
the
day-to-day
life
of
the
neighbourhood.
In addition,
they
would
serve
to
optimize
the
existing
functions
and
events
of
the ethnic
enclave
and
act
as
anchor points
along
the
strip.
Moreover,
the
presence of
these
interventions
and
the
changes
that
they
bring,
are
meant
to
help
the bazaar
pave
the
path
to
a
new
identity
where
its
cultural
heritage
is
shared and
promoted,
yet
its
demographic
and
cultural
transition
are
acknowledged
and integrated.
The
examining
committee
is
as
follows:
The
committee
has
been
approved
as
authorized
by
the
Graduate
Studies
Committee.
The
Defence
Examination
will
take
place:
Friday,
May
1,
2015
9:30AM
ARC
2026
A
copy
of
the
thesis
is
available
for
perusal
in
ARC
2106A.
Sundus Shaikh
Of the thesis entitled: Cultural Connectivity : Design as a method to facilitate cultural exchange within the Gerrard Bazaar
Abstract:
As immigrants choose to reside within the suburbs and the city undergoes rapid geographical change, Toronto’s ethnic enclaves are facing significant transformation in terms of their neighbourhood demographics, economic conditions and function. The Gerrard Bazaar is a prime example of an ethnic retail strip that is struggling with a changing identity and day-to-day role, as the South Asian population gradually reduces within the area, while young, non-South Asian families continue to move in. Once a thriving Indo-Pakistani retail destination, the ethnic enclave has witnessed significant economic decline leading to fluctuating levels of urban vacancy. Among the many South Asian shops, there lies an increasing presence of mainstream coffee shops and specialty stores that have replaced declining South Asian retail enterprises over time. Various social and business organizations are also situated along the strip, yet a significant number of their efforts to regenerate the enclave, operate in an isolated manner. There also remains a cultural divide within the area as well as a general lack of solidarity among the merchants and organizations within the bazaar.
This
thesis
suggests
that
the
key
to
reviving the
Bazaar
as
well
as
other
declining
ethnic
enclaves,
lies
in
promoting
new networks
of
“cultural
exchange”
in
which
architecture
and
urban
design
can
be
a facilitator
of
new
interactions
and
symbiotic
relationships
among
different organizations
and
individuals.
It
comprises
of
a
demographic,
historic, architectural
and
spatial
analysis
as
well
as
in-depth
human
research
that studies
how
visitors
and
inhabitants
of
the
Gerrard
Bazaar
perceive
the
ethnic enclave,
and
what
culture
means
to
them.
These discovered
studies
and
personal insights
influence
the
design
process
and
are
meant
to
serve
as
a
new
technique by
which
one
can
study
the
notion
of
culture
and
how
it
informs
architecture and
urban
interventions.
Thus,
the
focus
of
thesis
is
on
the
method
by
which architecture and
design
is
produced,
in
response
to
the
lack
of
cultural exchange.
The
way
in
which
this
method
translates research
into
design,
is
by
the
formulation
of
a
manual
of
“design
strategies” that
serves
as
a
template
for
the
design
intervention.
This
manual
is
applied to
three
different
sites
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
for
three
types
of
unique design proposals
-
A
re-activated
plaza,
an
adaptively
re-used
square
and
a re-imagined
senior’s
residential
complex.
These
proposals
are
not
meant
to “freeze”
the
changes
that
are
taking
place
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
but rather,
respond
to
the
gentrification
in
a
positive
manner
and acknowledge
the demographic
trend
that
is
transpiring
within
the
neighbourhood.
It
is
envisioned that
these
new
interventions
would
act
as
catalysts
in
fostering
a
new
sense
of community
and
revitalizing
the
day-to-day
life
of
the
neighbourhood.
In addition,
they
would
serve
to
optimize
the
existing
functions
and
events
of
the ethnic
enclave
and
act
as
anchor points
along
the
strip.
Moreover,
the
presence of
these
interventions
and
the
changes
that
they
bring,
are
meant
to
help
the bazaar
pave
the
path
to
a
new
identity
where
its
cultural
heritage
is
shared and
promoted,
yet
its
demographic
and
cultural
transition
are
acknowledged
and integrated.
The
examining
committee
is
as
follows:
The
committee
has
been
approved
as
authorized
by
the
Graduate
Studies
Committee.
The
Defence
Examination
will
take
place:
Friday,
May
1,
2015
9:30AM
ARC
2026
A
copy
of
the
thesis
is
available
for
perusal
in
ARC
2106A.
Sundus Shaikh
Of the thesis entitled: Cultural Connectivity : Design as a method to facilitate cultural exchange within the Gerrard Bazaar
Abstract:
As immigrants choose to reside within the suburbs and the city undergoes rapid geographical change, Toronto’s ethnic enclaves are facing significant transformation in terms of their neighbourhood demographics, economic conditions and function. The Gerrard Bazaar is a prime example of an ethnic retail strip that is struggling with a changing identity and day-to-day role, as the South Asian population gradually reduces within the area, while young, non-South Asian families continue to move in. Once a thriving Indo-Pakistani retail destination, the ethnic enclave has witnessed significant economic decline leading to fluctuating levels of urban vacancy. Among the many South Asian shops, there lies an increasing presence of mainstream coffee shops and specialty stores that have replaced declining South Asian retail enterprises over time. Various social and business organizations are also situated along the strip, yet a significant number of their efforts to regenerate the enclave, operate in an isolated manner. There also remains a cultural divide within the area as well as a general lack of solidarity among the merchants and organizations within the bazaar.
This
thesis
suggests
that
the
key
to
reviving the
Bazaar
as
well
as
other
declining
ethnic
enclaves,
lies
in
promoting
new networks
of
“cultural
exchange”
in
which
architecture
and
urban
design
can
be
a facilitator
of
new
interactions
and
symbiotic
relationships
among
different organizations
and
individuals.
It
comprises
of
a
demographic,
historic, architectural
and
spatial
analysis
as
well
as
in-depth
human
research
that studies
how
visitors
and
inhabitants
of
the
Gerrard
Bazaar
perceive
the
ethnic enclave,
and
what
culture
means
to
them.
These discovered
studies
and
personal insights
influence
the
design
process
and
are
meant
to
serve
as
a
new
technique by
which
one
can
study
the
notion
of
culture
and
how
it
informs
architecture and
urban
interventions.
Thus,
the
focus
of
thesis
is
on
the
method
by
which architecture and
design
is
produced,
in
response
to
the
lack
of
cultural exchange.
The
way
in
which
this
method
translates research
into
design,
is
by
the
formulation
of
a
manual
of
“design
strategies” that
serves
as
a
template
for
the
design
intervention.
This
manual
is
applied to
three
different
sites
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
for
three
types
of
unique design proposals
-
A
re-activated
plaza,
an
adaptively
re-used
square
and
a re-imagined
senior’s
residential
complex.
These
proposals
are
not
meant
to “freeze”
the
changes
that
are
taking
place
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
but rather,
respond
to
the
gentrification
in
a
positive
manner
and acknowledge
the demographic
trend
that
is
transpiring
within
the
neighbourhood.
It
is
envisioned that
these
new
interventions
would
act
as
catalysts
in
fostering
a
new
sense
of community
and
revitalizing
the
day-to-day
life
of
the
neighbourhood.
In addition,
they
would
serve
to
optimize
the
existing
functions
and
events
of
the ethnic
enclave
and
act
as
anchor points
along
the
strip.
Moreover,
the
presence of
these
interventions
and
the
changes
that
they
bring,
are
meant
to
help
the bazaar
pave
the
path
to
a
new
identity
where
its
cultural
heritage
is
shared and
promoted,
yet
its
demographic
and
cultural
transition
are
acknowledged
and integrated.
The
examining
committee
is
as
follows:
The
committee
has
been
approved
as
authorized
by
the
Graduate
Studies
Committee.
The
Defence
Examination
will
take
place:
Friday,
May
1,
2015
9:30AM
ARC
2026
A
copy
of
the
thesis
is
available
for
perusal
in
ARC
2106A.
Sundus Shaikh
Of the thesis entitled: Cultural Connectivity : Design as a method to facilitate cultural exchange within the Gerrard Bazaar
Abstract:
As immigrants choose to reside within the suburbs and the city undergoes rapid geographical change, Toronto’s ethnic enclaves are facing significant transformation in terms of their neighbourhood demographics, economic conditions and function. The Gerrard Bazaar is a prime example of an ethnic retail strip that is struggling with a changing identity and day-to-day role, as the South Asian population gradually reduces within the area, while young, non-South Asian families continue to move in. Once a thriving Indo-Pakistani retail destination, the ethnic enclave has witnessed significant economic decline leading to fluctuating levels of urban vacancy. Among the many South Asian shops, there lies an increasing presence of mainstream coffee shops and specialty stores that have replaced declining South Asian retail enterprises over time. Various social and business organizations are also situated along the strip, yet a significant number of their efforts to regenerate the enclave, operate in an isolated manner. There also remains a cultural divide within the area as well as a general lack of solidarity among the merchants and organizations within the bazaar.
This
thesis
suggests
that
the
key
to
reviving the
Bazaar
as
well
as
other
declining
ethnic
enclaves,
lies
in
promoting
new networks
of
“cultural
exchange”
in
which
architecture
and
urban
design
can
be
a facilitator
of
new
interactions
and
symbiotic
relationships
among
different organizations
and
individuals.
It
comprises
of
a
demographic,
historic, architectural
and
spatial
analysis
as
well
as
in-depth
human
research
that studies
how
visitors
and
inhabitants
of
the
Gerrard
Bazaar
perceive
the
ethnic enclave,
and
what
culture
means
to
them.
These discovered
studies
and
personal insights
influence
the
design
process
and
are
meant
to
serve
as
a
new
technique by
which
one
can
study
the
notion
of
culture
and
how
it
informs
architecture and
urban
interventions.
Thus,
the
focus
of
thesis
is
on
the
method
by
which architecture and
design
is
produced,
in
response
to
the
lack
of
cultural exchange.
The
way
in
which
this
method
translates research
into
design,
is
by
the
formulation
of
a
manual
of
“design
strategies” that
serves
as
a
template
for
the
design
intervention.
This
manual
is
applied to
three
different
sites
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
for
three
types
of
unique design proposals
-
A
re-activated
plaza,
an
adaptively
re-used
square
and
a re-imagined
senior’s
residential
complex.
These
proposals
are
not
meant
to “freeze”
the
changes
that
are
taking
place
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
but rather,
respond
to
the
gentrification
in
a
positive
manner
and acknowledge
the demographic
trend
that
is
transpiring
within
the
neighbourhood.
It
is
envisioned that
these
new
interventions
would
act
as
catalysts
in
fostering
a
new
sense
of community
and
revitalizing
the
day-to-day
life
of
the
neighbourhood.
In addition,
they
would
serve
to
optimize
the
existing
functions
and
events
of
the ethnic
enclave
and
act
as
anchor points
along
the
strip.
Moreover,
the
presence of
these
interventions
and
the
changes
that
they
bring,
are
meant
to
help
the bazaar
pave
the
path
to
a
new
identity
where
its
cultural
heritage
is
shared and
promoted,
yet
its
demographic
and
cultural
transition
are
acknowledged
and integrated.
The
examining
committee
is
as
follows:
The
committee
has
been
approved
as
authorized
by
the
Graduate
Studies
Committee.
The
Defence
Examination
will
take
place:
Friday,
May
1,
2015
9:30AM
ARC
2026
A
copy
of
the
thesis
is
available
for
perusal
in
ARC
2106A.
Sundus Shaikh
Of the thesis entitled: Cultural Connectivity : Design as a method to facilitate cultural exchange within the Gerrard Bazaar
Abstract:
As immigrants choose to reside within the suburbs and the city undergoes rapid geographical change, Toronto’s ethnic enclaves are facing significant transformation in terms of their neighbourhood demographics, economic conditions and function. The Gerrard Bazaar is a prime example of an ethnic retail strip that is struggling with a changing identity and day-to-day role, as the South Asian population gradually reduces within the area, while young, non-South Asian families continue to move in. Once a thriving Indo-Pakistani retail destination, the ethnic enclave has witnessed significant economic decline leading to fluctuating levels of urban vacancy. Among the many South Asian shops, there lies an increasing presence of mainstream coffee shops and specialty stores that have replaced declining South Asian retail enterprises over time. Various social and business organizations are also situated along the strip, yet a significant number of their efforts to regenerate the enclave, operate in an isolated manner. There also remains a cultural divide within the area as well as a general lack of solidarity among the merchants and organizations within the bazaar.
This
thesis
suggests
that
the
key
to
reviving the
Bazaar
as
well
as
other
declining
ethnic
enclaves,
lies
in
promoting
new networks
of
“cultural
exchange”
in
which
architecture
and
urban
design
can
be
a facilitator
of
new
interactions
and
symbiotic
relationships
among
different organizations
and
individuals.
It
comprises
of
a
demographic,
historic, architectural
and
spatial
analysis
as
well
as
in-depth
human
research
that studies
how
visitors
and
inhabitants
of
the
Gerrard
Bazaar
perceive
the
ethnic enclave,
and
what
culture
means
to
them.
These discovered
studies
and
personal insights
influence
the
design
process
and
are
meant
to
serve
as
a
new
technique by
which
one
can
study
the
notion
of
culture
and
how
it
informs
architecture and
urban
interventions.
Thus,
the
focus
of
thesis
is
on
the
method
by
which architecture and
design
is
produced,
in
response
to
the
lack
of
cultural exchange.
The
way
in
which
this
method
translates research
into
design,
is
by
the
formulation
of
a
manual
of
“design
strategies” that
serves
as
a
template
for
the
design
intervention.
This
manual
is
applied to
three
different
sites
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
for
three
types
of
unique design proposals
-
A
re-activated
plaza,
an
adaptively
re-used
square
and
a re-imagined
senior’s
residential
complex.
These
proposals
are
not
meant
to “freeze”
the
changes
that
are
taking
place
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
but rather,
respond
to
the
gentrification
in
a
positive
manner
and acknowledge
the demographic
trend
that
is
transpiring
within
the
neighbourhood.
It
is
envisioned that
these
new
interventions
would
act
as
catalysts
in
fostering
a
new
sense
of community
and
revitalizing
the
day-to-day
life
of
the
neighbourhood.
In addition,
they
would
serve
to
optimize
the
existing
functions
and
events
of
the ethnic
enclave
and
act
as
anchor points
along
the
strip.
Moreover,
the
presence of
these
interventions
and
the
changes
that
they
bring,
are
meant
to
help
the bazaar
pave
the
path
to
a
new
identity
where
its
cultural
heritage
is
shared and
promoted,
yet
its
demographic
and
cultural
transition
are
acknowledged
and integrated.
The
examining
committee
is
as
follows:
The
committee
has
been
approved
as
authorized
by
the
Graduate
Studies
Committee.
The
Defence
Examination
will
take
place:
Friday,
May
1,
2015
9:30AM
ARC
2026
A
copy
of
the
thesis
is
available
for
perusal
in
ARC
2106A.
Sundus Shaikh
Of the thesis entitled: Cultural Connectivity : Design as a method to facilitate cultural exchange within the Gerrard Bazaar
Abstract:
As immigrants choose to reside within the suburbs and the city undergoes rapid geographical change, Toronto’s ethnic enclaves are facing significant transformation in terms of their neighbourhood demographics, economic conditions and function. The Gerrard Bazaar is a prime example of an ethnic retail strip that is struggling with a changing identity and day-to-day role, as the South Asian population gradually reduces within the area, while young, non-South Asian families continue to move in. Once a thriving Indo-Pakistani retail destination, the ethnic enclave has witnessed significant economic decline leading to fluctuating levels of urban vacancy. Among the many South Asian shops, there lies an increasing presence of mainstream coffee shops and specialty stores that have replaced declining South Asian retail enterprises over time. Various social and business organizations are also situated along the strip, yet a significant number of their efforts to regenerate the enclave, operate in an isolated manner. There also remains a cultural divide within the area as well as a general lack of solidarity among the merchants and organizations within the bazaar.
This
thesis
suggests
that
the
key
to
reviving the
Bazaar
as
well
as
other
declining
ethnic
enclaves,
lies
in
promoting
new networks
of
“cultural
exchange”
in
which
architecture
and
urban
design
can
be
a facilitator
of
new
interactions
and
symbiotic
relationships
among
different organizations
and
individuals.
It
comprises
of
a
demographic,
historic, architectural
and
spatial
analysis
as
well
as
in-depth
human
research
that studies
how
visitors
and
inhabitants
of
the
Gerrard
Bazaar
perceive
the
ethnic enclave,
and
what
culture
means
to
them.
These discovered
studies
and
personal insights
influence
the
design
process
and
are
meant
to
serve
as
a
new
technique by
which
one
can
study
the
notion
of
culture
and
how
it
informs
architecture and
urban
interventions.
Thus,
the
focus
of
thesis
is
on
the
method
by
which architecture and
design
is
produced,
in
response
to
the
lack
of
cultural exchange.
The
way
in
which
this
method
translates research
into
design,
is
by
the
formulation
of
a
manual
of
“design
strategies” that
serves
as
a
template
for
the
design
intervention.
This
manual
is
applied to
three
different
sites
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
for
three
types
of
unique design proposals
-
A
re-activated
plaza,
an
adaptively
re-used
square
and
a re-imagined
senior’s
residential
complex.
These
proposals
are
not
meant
to “freeze”
the
changes
that
are
taking
place
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
but rather,
respond
to
the
gentrification
in
a
positive
manner
and acknowledge
the demographic
trend
that
is
transpiring
within
the
neighbourhood.
It
is
envisioned that
these
new
interventions
would
act
as
catalysts
in
fostering
a
new
sense
of community
and
revitalizing
the
day-to-day
life
of
the
neighbourhood.
In addition,
they
would
serve
to
optimize
the
existing
functions
and
events
of
the ethnic
enclave
and
act
as
anchor points
along
the
strip.
Moreover,
the
presence of
these
interventions
and
the
changes
that
they
bring,
are
meant
to
help
the bazaar
pave
the
path
to
a
new
identity
where
its
cultural
heritage
is
shared and
promoted,
yet
its
demographic
and
cultural
transition
are
acknowledged
and integrated.
The
examining
committee
is
as
follows:
The
committee
has
been
approved
as
authorized
by
the
Graduate
Studies
Committee.
The
Defence
Examination
will
take
place:
Friday,
May
1,
2015
9:30AM
ARC
2026
A
copy
of
the
thesis
is
available
for
perusal
in
ARC
2106A.
Sundus Shaikh
Of the thesis entitled: Cultural Connectivity : Design as a method to facilitate cultural exchange within the Gerrard Bazaar
Abstract:
As immigrants choose to reside within the suburbs and the city undergoes rapid geographical change, Toronto’s ethnic enclaves are facing significant transformation in terms of their neighbourhood demographics, economic conditions and function. The Gerrard Bazaar is a prime example of an ethnic retail strip that is struggling with a changing identity and day-to-day role, as the South Asian population gradually reduces within the area, while young, non-South Asian families continue to move in. Once a thriving Indo-Pakistani retail destination, the ethnic enclave has witnessed significant economic decline leading to fluctuating levels of urban vacancy. Among the many South Asian shops, there lies an increasing presence of mainstream coffee shops and specialty stores that have replaced declining South Asian retail enterprises over time. Various social and business organizations are also situated along the strip, yet a significant number of their efforts to regenerate the enclave, operate in an isolated manner. There also remains a cultural divide within the area as well as a general lack of solidarity among the merchants and organizations within the bazaar.
This
thesis
suggests
that
the
key
to
reviving the
Bazaar
as
well
as
other
declining
ethnic
enclaves,
lies
in
promoting
new networks
of
“cultural
exchange”
in
which
architecture
and
urban
design
can
be
a facilitator
of
new
interactions
and
symbiotic
relationships
among
different organizations
and
individuals.
It
comprises
of
a
demographic,
historic, architectural
and
spatial
analysis
as
well
as
in-depth
human
research
that studies
how
visitors
and
inhabitants
of
the
Gerrard
Bazaar
perceive
the
ethnic enclave,
and
what
culture
means
to
them.
These discovered
studies
and
personal insights
influence
the
design
process
and
are
meant
to
serve
as
a
new
technique by
which
one
can
study
the
notion
of
culture
and
how
it
informs
architecture and
urban
interventions.
Thus,
the
focus
of
thesis
is
on
the
method
by
which architecture and
design
is
produced,
in
response
to
the
lack
of
cultural exchange.
The
way
in
which
this
method
translates research
into
design,
is
by
the
formulation
of
a
manual
of
“design
strategies” that
serves
as
a
template
for
the
design
intervention.
This
manual
is
applied to
three
different
sites
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
for
three
types
of
unique design proposals
-
A
re-activated
plaza,
an
adaptively
re-used
square
and
a re-imagined
senior’s
residential
complex.
These
proposals
are
not
meant
to “freeze”
the
changes
that
are
taking
place
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
but rather,
respond
to
the
gentrification
in
a
positive
manner
and acknowledge
the demographic
trend
that
is
transpiring
within
the
neighbourhood.
It
is
envisioned that
these
new
interventions
would
act
as
catalysts
in
fostering
a
new
sense
of community
and
revitalizing
the
day-to-day
life
of
the
neighbourhood.
In addition,
they
would
serve
to
optimize
the
existing
functions
and
events
of
the ethnic
enclave
and
act
as
anchor points
along
the
strip.
Moreover,
the
presence of
these
interventions
and
the
changes
that
they
bring,
are
meant
to
help
the bazaar
pave
the
path
to
a
new
identity
where
its
cultural
heritage
is
shared and
promoted,
yet
its
demographic
and
cultural
transition
are
acknowledged
and integrated.
The
examining
committee
is
as
follows:
The
committee
has
been
approved
as
authorized
by
the
Graduate
Studies
Committee.
The
Defence
Examination
will
take
place:
Friday,
May
1,
2015
9:30AM
ARC
2026
A
copy
of
the
thesis
is
available
for
perusal
in
ARC
2106A.
Sundus Shaikh
Of the thesis entitled: Cultural Connectivity : Design as a method to facilitate cultural exchange within the Gerrard Bazaar
Abstract:
As immigrants choose to reside within the suburbs and the city undergoes rapid geographical change, Toronto’s ethnic enclaves are facing significant transformation in terms of their neighbourhood demographics, economic conditions and function. The Gerrard Bazaar is a prime example of an ethnic retail strip that is struggling with a changing identity and day-to-day role, as the South Asian population gradually reduces within the area, while young, non-South Asian families continue to move in. Once a thriving Indo-Pakistani retail destination, the ethnic enclave has witnessed significant economic decline leading to fluctuating levels of urban vacancy. Among the many South Asian shops, there lies an increasing presence of mainstream coffee shops and specialty stores that have replaced declining South Asian retail enterprises over time. Various social and business organizations are also situated along the strip, yet a significant number of their efforts to regenerate the enclave, operate in an isolated manner. There also remains a cultural divide within the area as well as a general lack of solidarity among the merchants and organizations within the bazaar.
This
thesis
suggests
that
the
key
to
reviving the
Bazaar
as
well
as
other
declining
ethnic
enclaves,
lies
in
promoting
new networks
of
“cultural
exchange”
in
which
architecture
and
urban
design
can
be
a facilitator
of
new
interactions
and
symbiotic
relationships
among
different organizations
and
individuals.
It
comprises
of
a
demographic,
historic, architectural
and
spatial
analysis
as
well
as
in-depth
human
research
that studies
how
visitors
and
inhabitants
of
the
Gerrard
Bazaar
perceive
the
ethnic enclave,
and
what
culture
means
to
them.
These discovered
studies
and
personal insights
influence
the
design
process
and
are
meant
to
serve
as
a
new
technique by
which
one
can
study
the
notion
of
culture
and
how
it
informs
architecture and
urban
interventions.
Thus,
the
focus
of
thesis
is
on
the
method
by
which architecture and
design
is
produced,
in
response
to
the
lack
of
cultural exchange.
The
way
in
which
this
method
translates research
into
design,
is
by
the
formulation
of
a
manual
of
“design
strategies” that
serves
as
a
template
for
the
design
intervention.
This
manual
is
applied to
three
different
sites
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
for
three
types
of
unique design proposals
-
A
re-activated
plaza,
an
adaptively
re-used
square
and
a re-imagined
senior’s
residential
complex.
These
proposals
are
not
meant
to “freeze”
the
changes
that
are
taking
place
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
but rather,
respond
to
the
gentrification
in
a
positive
manner
and acknowledge
the demographic
trend
that
is
transpiring
within
the
neighbourhood.
It
is
envisioned that
these
new
interventions
would
act
as
catalysts
in
fostering
a
new
sense
of community
and
revitalizing
the
day-to-day
life
of
the
neighbourhood.
In addition,
they
would
serve
to
optimize
the
existing
functions
and
events
of
the ethnic
enclave
and
act
as
anchor points
along
the
strip.
Moreover,
the
presence of
these
interventions
and
the
changes
that
they
bring,
are
meant
to
help
the bazaar
pave
the
path
to
a
new
identity
where
its
cultural
heritage
is
shared and
promoted,
yet
its
demographic
and
cultural
transition
are
acknowledged
and integrated.
The
examining
committee
is
as
follows:
The
committee
has
been
approved
as
authorized
by
the
Graduate
Studies
Committee.
The
Defence
Examination
will
take
place:
Friday,
May
1,
2015
9:30AM
ARC
2026
A
copy
of
the
thesis
is
available
for
perusal
in
ARC
2106A.
Sundus Shaikh
Of the thesis entitled: Cultural Connectivity : Design as a method to facilitate cultural exchange within the Gerrard Bazaar
Abstract:
As immigrants choose to reside within the suburbs and the city undergoes rapid geographical change, Toronto’s ethnic enclaves are facing significant transformation in terms of their neighbourhood demographics, economic conditions and function. The Gerrard Bazaar is a prime example of an ethnic retail strip that is struggling with a changing identity and day-to-day role, as the South Asian population gradually reduces within the area, while young, non-South Asian families continue to move in. Once a thriving Indo-Pakistani retail destination, the ethnic enclave has witnessed significant economic decline leading to fluctuating levels of urban vacancy. Among the many South Asian shops, there lies an increasing presence of mainstream coffee shops and specialty stores that have replaced declining South Asian retail enterprises over time. Various social and business organizations are also situated along the strip, yet a significant number of their efforts to regenerate the enclave, operate in an isolated manner. There also remains a cultural divide within the area as well as a general lack of solidarity among the merchants and organizations within the bazaar.
This
thesis
suggests
that
the
key
to
reviving the
Bazaar
as
well
as
other
declining
ethnic
enclaves,
lies
in
promoting
new networks
of
“cultural
exchange”
in
which
architecture
and
urban
design
can
be
a facilitator
of
new
interactions
and
symbiotic
relationships
among
different organizations
and
individuals.
It
comprises
of
a
demographic,
historic, architectural
and
spatial
analysis
as
well
as
in-depth
human
research
that studies
how
visitors
and
inhabitants
of
the
Gerrard
Bazaar
perceive
the
ethnic enclave,
and
what
culture
means
to
them.
These discovered
studies
and
personal insights
influence
the
design
process
and
are
meant
to
serve
as
a
new
technique by
which
one
can
study
the
notion
of
culture
and
how
it
informs
architecture and
urban
interventions.
Thus,
the
focus
of
thesis
is
on
the
method
by
which architecture and
design
is
produced,
in
response
to
the
lack
of
cultural exchange.
The
way
in
which
this
method
translates research
into
design,
is
by
the
formulation
of
a
manual
of
“design
strategies” that
serves
as
a
template
for
the
design
intervention.
This
manual
is
applied to
three
different
sites
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
for
three
types
of
unique design proposals
-
A
re-activated
plaza,
an
adaptively
re-used
square
and
a re-imagined
senior’s
residential
complex.
These
proposals
are
not
meant
to “freeze”
the
changes
that
are
taking
place
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
but rather,
respond
to
the
gentrification
in
a
positive
manner
and acknowledge
the demographic
trend
that
is
transpiring
within
the
neighbourhood.
It
is
envisioned that
these
new
interventions
would
act
as
catalysts
in
fostering
a
new
sense
of community
and
revitalizing
the
day-to-day
life
of
the
neighbourhood.
In addition,
they
would
serve
to
optimize
the
existing
functions
and
events
of
the ethnic
enclave
and
act
as
anchor points
along
the
strip.
Moreover,
the
presence of
these
interventions
and
the
changes
that
they
bring,
are
meant
to
help
the bazaar
pave
the
path
to
a
new
identity
where
its
cultural
heritage
is
shared and
promoted,
yet
its
demographic
and
cultural
transition
are
acknowledged
and integrated.
The
examining
committee
is
as
follows:
The
committee
has
been
approved
as
authorized
by
the
Graduate
Studies
Committee.
The
Defence
Examination
will
take
place:
Friday,
May
1,
2015
9:30AM
ARC
2026
A
copy
of
the
thesis
is
available
for
perusal
in
ARC
2106A.
Sundus Shaikh
Of the thesis entitled: Cultural Connectivity : Design as a method to facilitate cultural exchange within the Gerrard Bazaar
Abstract:
As immigrants choose to reside within the suburbs and the city undergoes rapid geographical change, Toronto’s ethnic enclaves are facing significant transformation in terms of their neighbourhood demographics, economic conditions and function. The Gerrard Bazaar is a prime example of an ethnic retail strip that is struggling with a changing identity and day-to-day role, as the South Asian population gradually reduces within the area, while young, non-South Asian families continue to move in. Once a thriving Indo-Pakistani retail destination, the ethnic enclave has witnessed significant economic decline leading to fluctuating levels of urban vacancy. Among the many South Asian shops, there lies an increasing presence of mainstream coffee shops and specialty stores that have replaced declining South Asian retail enterprises over time. Various social and business organizations are also situated along the strip, yet a significant number of their efforts to regenerate the enclave, operate in an isolated manner. There also remains a cultural divide within the area as well as a general lack of solidarity among the merchants and organizations within the bazaar.
This
thesis
suggests
that
the
key
to
reviving the
Bazaar
as
well
as
other
declining
ethnic
enclaves,
lies
in
promoting
new networks
of
“cultural
exchange”
in
which
architecture
and
urban
design
can
be
a facilitator
of
new
interactions
and
symbiotic
relationships
among
different organizations
and
individuals.
It
comprises
of
a
demographic,
historic, architectural
and
spatial
analysis
as
well
as
in-depth
human
research
that studies
how
visitors
and
inhabitants
of
the
Gerrard
Bazaar
perceive
the
ethnic enclave,
and
what
culture
means
to
them.
These discovered
studies
and
personal insights
influence
the
design
process
and
are
meant
to
serve
as
a
new
technique by
which
one
can
study
the
notion
of
culture
and
how
it
informs
architecture and
urban
interventions.
Thus,
the
focus
of
thesis
is
on
the
method
by
which architecture and
design
is
produced,
in
response
to
the
lack
of
cultural exchange.
The
way
in
which
this
method
translates research
into
design,
is
by
the
formulation
of
a
manual
of
“design
strategies” that
serves
as
a
template
for
the
design
intervention.
This
manual
is
applied to
three
different
sites
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
for
three
types
of
unique design proposals
-
A
re-activated
plaza,
an
adaptively
re-used
square
and
a re-imagined
senior’s
residential
complex.
These
proposals
are
not
meant
to “freeze”
the
changes
that
are
taking
place
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
but rather,
respond
to
the
gentrification
in
a
positive
manner
and acknowledge
the demographic
trend
that
is
transpiring
within
the
neighbourhood.
It
is
envisioned that
these
new
interventions
would
act
as
catalysts
in
fostering
a
new
sense
of community
and
revitalizing
the
day-to-day
life
of
the
neighbourhood.
In addition,
they
would
serve
to
optimize
the
existing
functions
and
events
of
the ethnic
enclave
and
act
as
anchor points
along
the
strip.
Moreover,
the
presence of
these
interventions
and
the
changes
that
they
bring,
are
meant
to
help
the bazaar
pave
the
path
to
a
new
identity
where
its
cultural
heritage
is
shared and
promoted,
yet
its
demographic
and
cultural
transition
are
acknowledged
and integrated.
The
examining
committee
is
as
follows:
The
committee
has
been
approved
as
authorized
by
the
Graduate
Studies
Committee.
The
Defence
Examination
will
take
place:
Friday,
May
1,
2015
9:30AM
ARC
2026
A
copy
of
the
thesis
is
available
for
perusal
in
ARC
2106A.
Sundus Shaikh
Of the thesis entitled: Cultural Connectivity : Design as a method to facilitate cultural exchange within the Gerrard Bazaar
Abstract:
As immigrants choose to reside within the suburbs and the city undergoes rapid geographical change, Toronto’s ethnic enclaves are facing significant transformation in terms of their neighbourhood demographics, economic conditions and function. The Gerrard Bazaar is a prime example of an ethnic retail strip that is struggling with a changing identity and day-to-day role, as the South Asian population gradually reduces within the area, while young, non-South Asian families continue to move in. Once a thriving Indo-Pakistani retail destination, the ethnic enclave has witnessed significant economic decline leading to fluctuating levels of urban vacancy. Among the many South Asian shops, there lies an increasing presence of mainstream coffee shops and specialty stores that have replaced declining South Asian retail enterprises over time. Various social and business organizations are also situated along the strip, yet a significant number of their efforts to regenerate the enclave, operate in an isolated manner. There also remains a cultural divide within the area as well as a general lack of solidarity among the merchants and organizations within the bazaar.
This
thesis
suggests
that
the
key
to
reviving the
Bazaar
as
well
as
other
declining
ethnic
enclaves,
lies
in
promoting
new networks
of
“cultural
exchange”
in
which
architecture
and
urban
design
can
be
a facilitator
of
new
interactions
and
symbiotic
relationships
among
different organizations
and
individuals.
It
comprises
of
a
demographic,
historic, architectural
and
spatial
analysis
as
well
as
in-depth
human
research
that studies
how
visitors
and
inhabitants
of
the
Gerrard
Bazaar
perceive
the
ethnic enclave,
and
what
culture
means
to
them.
These discovered
studies
and
personal insights
influence
the
design
process
and
are
meant
to
serve
as
a
new
technique by
which
one
can
study
the
notion
of
culture
and
how
it
informs
architecture and
urban
interventions.
Thus,
the
focus
of
thesis
is
on
the
method
by
which architecture and
design
is
produced,
in
response
to
the
lack
of
cultural exchange.
The
way
in
which
this
method
translates research
into
design,
is
by
the
formulation
of
a
manual
of
“design
strategies” that
serves
as
a
template
for
the
design
intervention.
This
manual
is
applied to
three
different
sites
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
for
three
types
of
unique design proposals
-
A
re-activated
plaza,
an
adaptively
re-used
square
and
a re-imagined
senior’s
residential
complex.
These
proposals
are
not
meant
to “freeze”
the
changes
that
are
taking
place
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
but rather,
respond
to
the
gentrification
in
a
positive
manner
and acknowledge
the demographic
trend
that
is
transpiring
within
the
neighbourhood.
It
is
envisioned that
these
new
interventions
would
act
as
catalysts
in
fostering
a
new
sense
of community
and
revitalizing
the
day-to-day
life
of
the
neighbourhood.
In addition,
they
would
serve
to
optimize
the
existing
functions
and
events
of
the ethnic
enclave
and
act
as
anchor points
along
the
strip.
Moreover,
the
presence of
these
interventions
and
the
changes
that
they
bring,
are
meant
to
help
the bazaar
pave
the
path
to
a
new
identity
where
its
cultural
heritage
is
shared and
promoted,
yet
its
demographic
and
cultural
transition
are
acknowledged
and integrated.
The
examining
committee
is
as
follows:
The
committee
has
been
approved
as
authorized
by
the
Graduate
Studies
Committee.
The
Defence
Examination
will
take
place:
Friday,
May
1,
2015
9:30AM
ARC
2026
A
copy
of
the
thesis
is
available
for
perusal
in
ARC
2106A.
Sundus Shaikh
Of the thesis entitled: Cultural Connectivity : Design as a method to facilitate cultural exchange within the Gerrard Bazaar
Abstract:
As immigrants choose to reside within the suburbs and the city undergoes rapid geographical change, Toronto’s ethnic enclaves are facing significant transformation in terms of their neighbourhood demographics, economic conditions and function. The Gerrard Bazaar is a prime example of an ethnic retail strip that is struggling with a changing identity and day-to-day role, as the South Asian population gradually reduces within the area, while young, non-South Asian families continue to move in. Once a thriving Indo-Pakistani retail destination, the ethnic enclave has witnessed significant economic decline leading to fluctuating levels of urban vacancy. Among the many South Asian shops, there lies an increasing presence of mainstream coffee shops and specialty stores that have replaced declining South Asian retail enterprises over time. Various social and business organizations are also situated along the strip, yet a significant number of their efforts to regenerate the enclave, operate in an isolated manner. There also remains a cultural divide within the area as well as a general lack of solidarity among the merchants and organizations within the bazaar.
This
thesis
suggests
that
the
key
to
reviving the
Bazaar
as
well
as
other
declining
ethnic
enclaves,
lies
in
promoting
new networks
of
“cultural
exchange”
in
which
architecture
and
urban
design
can
be
a facilitator
of
new
interactions
and
symbiotic
relationships
among
different organizations
and
individuals.
It
comprises
of
a
demographic,
historic, architectural
and
spatial
analysis
as
well
as
in-depth
human
research
that studies
how
visitors
and
inhabitants
of
the
Gerrard
Bazaar
perceive
the
ethnic enclave,
and
what
culture
means
to
them.
These discovered
studies
and
personal insights
influence
the
design
process
and
are
meant
to
serve
as
a
new
technique by
which
one
can
study
the
notion
of
culture
and
how
it
informs
architecture and
urban
interventions.
Thus,
the
focus
of
thesis
is
on
the
method
by
which architecture and
design
is
produced,
in
response
to
the
lack
of
cultural exchange.
The
way
in
which
this
method
translates research
into
design,
is
by
the
formulation
of
a
manual
of
“design
strategies” that
serves
as
a
template
for
the
design
intervention.
This
manual
is
applied to
three
different
sites
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
for
three
types
of
unique design proposals
-
A
re-activated
plaza,
an
adaptively
re-used
square
and
a re-imagined
senior’s
residential
complex.
These
proposals
are
not
meant
to “freeze”
the
changes
that
are
taking
place
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
but rather,
respond
to
the
gentrification
in
a
positive
manner
and acknowledge
the demographic
trend
that
is
transpiring
within
the
neighbourhood.
It
is
envisioned that
these
new
interventions
would
act
as
catalysts
in
fostering
a
new
sense
of community
and
revitalizing
the
day-to-day
life
of
the
neighbourhood.
In addition,
they
would
serve
to
optimize
the
existing
functions
and
events
of
the ethnic
enclave
and
act
as
anchor points
along
the
strip.
Moreover,
the
presence of
these
interventions
and
the
changes
that
they
bring,
are
meant
to
help
the bazaar
pave
the
path
to
a
new
identity
where
its
cultural
heritage
is
shared and
promoted,
yet
its
demographic
and
cultural
transition
are
acknowledged
and integrated.
The
examining
committee
is
as
follows:
The
committee
has
been
approved
as
authorized
by
the
Graduate
Studies
Committee.
The
Defence
Examination
will
take
place:
Friday,
May
1,
2015
9:30AM
ARC
2026
A
copy
of
the
thesis
is
available
for
perusal
in
ARC
2106A.
Sundus Shaikh
Of the thesis entitled: Cultural Connectivity : Design as a method to facilitate cultural exchange within the Gerrard Bazaar
Abstract:
As immigrants choose to reside within the suburbs and the city undergoes rapid geographical change, Toronto’s ethnic enclaves are facing significant transformation in terms of their neighbourhood demographics, economic conditions and function. The Gerrard Bazaar is a prime example of an ethnic retail strip that is struggling with a changing identity and day-to-day role, as the South Asian population gradually reduces within the area, while young, non-South Asian families continue to move in. Once a thriving Indo-Pakistani retail destination, the ethnic enclave has witnessed significant economic decline leading to fluctuating levels of urban vacancy. Among the many South Asian shops, there lies an increasing presence of mainstream coffee shops and specialty stores that have replaced declining South Asian retail enterprises over time. Various social and business organizations are also situated along the strip, yet a significant number of their efforts to regenerate the enclave, operate in an isolated manner. There also remains a cultural divide within the area as well as a general lack of solidarity among the merchants and organizations within the bazaar.
This
thesis
suggests
that
the
key
to
reviving the
Bazaar
as
well
as
other
declining
ethnic
enclaves,
lies
in
promoting
new networks
of
“cultural
exchange”
in
which
architecture
and
urban
design
can
be
a facilitator
of
new
interactions
and
symbiotic
relationships
among
different organizations
and
individuals.
It
comprises
of
a
demographic,
historic, architectural
and
spatial
analysis
as
well
as
in-depth
human
research
that studies
how
visitors
and
inhabitants
of
the
Gerrard
Bazaar
perceive
the
ethnic enclave,
and
what
culture
means
to
them.
These discovered
studies
and
personal insights
influence
the
design
process
and
are
meant
to
serve
as
a
new
technique by
which
one
can
study
the
notion
of
culture
and
how
it
informs
architecture and
urban
interventions.
Thus,
the
focus
of
thesis
is
on
the
method
by
which architecture and
design
is
produced,
in
response
to
the
lack
of
cultural exchange.
The
way
in
which
this
method
translates research
into
design,
is
by
the
formulation
of
a
manual
of
“design
strategies” that
serves
as
a
template
for
the
design
intervention.
This
manual
is
applied to
three
different
sites
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
for
three
types
of
unique design proposals
-
A
re-activated
plaza,
an
adaptively
re-used
square
and
a re-imagined
senior’s
residential
complex.
These
proposals
are
not
meant
to “freeze”
the
changes
that
are
taking
place
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
but rather,
respond
to
the
gentrification
in
a
positive
manner
and acknowledge
the demographic
trend
that
is
transpiring
within
the
neighbourhood.
It
is
envisioned that
these
new
interventions
would
act
as
catalysts
in
fostering
a
new
sense
of community
and
revitalizing
the
day-to-day
life
of
the
neighbourhood.
In addition,
they
would
serve
to
optimize
the
existing
functions
and
events
of
the ethnic
enclave
and
act
as
anchor points
along
the
strip.
Moreover,
the
presence of
these
interventions
and
the
changes
that
they
bring,
are
meant
to
help
the bazaar
pave
the
path
to
a
new
identity
where
its
cultural
heritage
is
shared and
promoted,
yet
its
demographic
and
cultural
transition
are
acknowledged
and integrated.
The
examining
committee
is
as
follows:
The
committee
has
been
approved
as
authorized
by
the
Graduate
Studies
Committee.
The
Defence
Examination
will
take
place:
Friday,
May
1,
2015
9:30AM
ARC
2026
A
copy
of
the
thesis
is
available
for
perusal
in
ARC
2106A.
Sundus Shaikh
Of the thesis entitled: Cultural Connectivity : Design as a method to facilitate cultural exchange within the Gerrard Bazaar
Abstract:
As immigrants choose to reside within the suburbs and the city undergoes rapid geographical change, Toronto’s ethnic enclaves are facing significant transformation in terms of their neighbourhood demographics, economic conditions and function. The Gerrard Bazaar is a prime example of an ethnic retail strip that is struggling with a changing identity and day-to-day role, as the South Asian population gradually reduces within the area, while young, non-South Asian families continue to move in. Once a thriving Indo-Pakistani retail destination, the ethnic enclave has witnessed significant economic decline leading to fluctuating levels of urban vacancy. Among the many South Asian shops, there lies an increasing presence of mainstream coffee shops and specialty stores that have replaced declining South Asian retail enterprises over time. Various social and business organizations are also situated along the strip, yet a significant number of their efforts to regenerate the enclave, operate in an isolated manner. There also remains a cultural divide within the area as well as a general lack of solidarity among the merchants and organizations within the bazaar.
This
thesis
suggests
that
the
key
to
reviving the
Bazaar
as
well
as
other
declining
ethnic
enclaves,
lies
in
promoting
new networks
of
“cultural
exchange”
in
which
architecture
and
urban
design
can
be
a facilitator
of
new
interactions
and
symbiotic
relationships
among
different organizations
and
individuals.
It
comprises
of
a
demographic,
historic, architectural
and
spatial
analysis
as
well
as
in-depth
human
research
that studies
how
visitors
and
inhabitants
of
the
Gerrard
Bazaar
perceive
the
ethnic enclave,
and
what
culture
means
to
them.
These discovered
studies
and
personal insights
influence
the
design
process
and
are
meant
to
serve
as
a
new
technique by
which
one
can
study
the
notion
of
culture
and
how
it
informs
architecture and
urban
interventions.
Thus,
the
focus
of
thesis
is
on
the
method
by
which architecture and
design
is
produced,
in
response
to
the
lack
of
cultural exchange.
The
way
in
which
this
method
translates research
into
design,
is
by
the
formulation
of
a
manual
of
“design
strategies” that
serves
as
a
template
for
the
design
intervention.
This
manual
is
applied to
three
different
sites
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
for
three
types
of
unique design proposals
-
A
re-activated
plaza,
an
adaptively
re-used
square
and
a re-imagined
senior’s
residential
complex.
These
proposals
are
not
meant
to “freeze”
the
changes
that
are
taking
place
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
but rather,
respond
to
the
gentrification
in
a
positive
manner
and acknowledge
the demographic
trend
that
is
transpiring
within
the
neighbourhood.
It
is
envisioned that
these
new
interventions
would
act
as
catalysts
in
fostering
a
new
sense
of community
and
revitalizing
the
day-to-day
life
of
the
neighbourhood.
In addition,
they
would
serve
to
optimize
the
existing
functions
and
events
of
the ethnic
enclave
and
act
as
anchor points
along
the
strip.
Moreover,
the
presence of
these
interventions
and
the
changes
that
they
bring,
are
meant
to
help
the bazaar
pave
the
path
to
a
new
identity
where
its
cultural
heritage
is
shared and
promoted,
yet
its
demographic
and
cultural
transition
are
acknowledged
and integrated.
The
examining
committee
is
as
follows:
The
committee
has
been
approved
as
authorized
by
the
Graduate
Studies
Committee.
The
Defence
Examination
will
take
place:
Friday,
May
1,
2015
9:30AM
ARC
2026
A
copy
of
the
thesis
is
available
for
perusal
in
ARC
2106A.
Sundus Shaikh
Of the thesis entitled: Cultural Connectivity : Design as a method to facilitate cultural exchange within the Gerrard Bazaar
Abstract:
As immigrants choose to reside within the suburbs and the city undergoes rapid geographical change, Toronto’s ethnic enclaves are facing significant transformation in terms of their neighbourhood demographics, economic conditions and function. The Gerrard Bazaar is a prime example of an ethnic retail strip that is struggling with a changing identity and day-to-day role, as the South Asian population gradually reduces within the area, while young, non-South Asian families continue to move in. Once a thriving Indo-Pakistani retail destination, the ethnic enclave has witnessed significant economic decline leading to fluctuating levels of urban vacancy. Among the many South Asian shops, there lies an increasing presence of mainstream coffee shops and specialty stores that have replaced declining South Asian retail enterprises over time. Various social and business organizations are also situated along the strip, yet a significant number of their efforts to regenerate the enclave, operate in an isolated manner. There also remains a cultural divide within the area as well as a general lack of solidarity among the merchants and organizations within the bazaar.
This
thesis
suggests
that
the
key
to
reviving the
Bazaar
as
well
as
other
declining
ethnic
enclaves,
lies
in
promoting
new networks
of
“cultural
exchange”
in
which
architecture
and
urban
design
can
be
a facilitator
of
new
interactions
and
symbiotic
relationships
among
different organizations
and
individuals.
It
comprises
of
a
demographic,
historic, architectural
and
spatial
analysis
as
well
as
in-depth
human
research
that studies
how
visitors
and
inhabitants
of
the
Gerrard
Bazaar
perceive
the
ethnic enclave,
and
what
culture
means
to
them.
These discovered
studies
and
personal insights
influence
the
design
process
and
are
meant
to
serve
as
a
new
technique by
which
one
can
study
the
notion
of
culture
and
how
it
informs
architecture and
urban
interventions.
Thus,
the
focus
of
thesis
is
on
the
method
by
which architecture and
design
is
produced,
in
response
to
the
lack
of
cultural exchange.
The
way
in
which
this
method
translates research
into
design,
is
by
the
formulation
of
a
manual
of
“design
strategies” that
serves
as
a
template
for
the
design
intervention.
This
manual
is
applied to
three
different
sites
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
for
three
types
of
unique design proposals
-
A
re-activated
plaza,
an
adaptively
re-used
square
and
a re-imagined
senior’s
residential
complex.
These
proposals
are
not
meant
to “freeze”
the
changes
that
are
taking
place
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
but rather,
respond
to
the
gentrification
in
a
positive
manner
and acknowledge
the demographic
trend
that
is
transpiring
within
the
neighbourhood.
It
is
envisioned that
these
new
interventions
would
act
as
catalysts
in
fostering
a
new
sense
of community
and
revitalizing
the
day-to-day
life
of
the
neighbourhood.
In addition,
they
would
serve
to
optimize
the
existing
functions
and
events
of
the ethnic
enclave
and
act
as
anchor points
along
the
strip.
Moreover,
the
presence of
these
interventions
and
the
changes
that
they
bring,
are
meant
to
help
the bazaar
pave
the
path
to
a
new
identity
where
its
cultural
heritage
is
shared and
promoted,
yet
its
demographic
and
cultural
transition
are
acknowledged
and integrated.
The
examining
committee
is
as
follows:
The
committee
has
been
approved
as
authorized
by
the
Graduate
Studies
Committee.
The
Defence
Examination
will
take
place:
Friday,
May
1,
2015
9:30AM
ARC
2026
A
copy
of
the
thesis
is
available
for
perusal
in
ARC
2106A.
Sundus Shaikh
Of the thesis entitled: Cultural Connectivity : Design as a method to facilitate cultural exchange within the Gerrard Bazaar
Abstract:
As immigrants choose to reside within the suburbs and the city undergoes rapid geographical change, Toronto’s ethnic enclaves are facing significant transformation in terms of their neighbourhood demographics, economic conditions and function. The Gerrard Bazaar is a prime example of an ethnic retail strip that is struggling with a changing identity and day-to-day role, as the South Asian population gradually reduces within the area, while young, non-South Asian families continue to move in. Once a thriving Indo-Pakistani retail destination, the ethnic enclave has witnessed significant economic decline leading to fluctuating levels of urban vacancy. Among the many South Asian shops, there lies an increasing presence of mainstream coffee shops and specialty stores that have replaced declining South Asian retail enterprises over time. Various social and business organizations are also situated along the strip, yet a significant number of their efforts to regenerate the enclave, operate in an isolated manner. There also remains a cultural divide within the area as well as a general lack of solidarity among the merchants and organizations within the bazaar.
This
thesis
suggests
that
the
key
to
reviving the
Bazaar
as
well
as
other
declining
ethnic
enclaves,
lies
in
promoting
new networks
of
“cultural
exchange”
in
which
architecture
and
urban
design
can
be
a facilitator
of
new
interactions
and
symbiotic
relationships
among
different organizations
and
individuals.
It
comprises
of
a
demographic,
historic, architectural
and
spatial
analysis
as
well
as
in-depth
human
research
that studies
how
visitors
and
inhabitants
of
the
Gerrard
Bazaar
perceive
the
ethnic enclave,
and
what
culture
means
to
them.
These discovered
studies
and
personal insights
influence
the
design
process
and
are
meant
to
serve
as
a
new
technique by
which
one
can
study
the
notion
of
culture
and
how
it
informs
architecture and
urban
interventions.
Thus,
the
focus
of
thesis
is
on
the
method
by
which architecture and
design
is
produced,
in
response
to
the
lack
of
cultural exchange.
The
way
in
which
this
method
translates research
into
design,
is
by
the
formulation
of
a
manual
of
“design
strategies” that
serves
as
a
template
for
the
design
intervention.
This
manual
is
applied to
three
different
sites
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
for
three
types
of
unique design proposals
-
A
re-activated
plaza,
an
adaptively
re-used
square
and
a re-imagined
senior’s
residential
complex.
These
proposals
are
not
meant
to “freeze”
the
changes
that
are
taking
place
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
but rather,
respond
to
the
gentrification
in
a
positive
manner
and acknowledge
the demographic
trend
that
is
transpiring
within
the
neighbourhood.
It
is
envisioned that
these
new
interventions
would
act
as
catalysts
in
fostering
a
new
sense
of community
and
revitalizing
the
day-to-day
life
of
the
neighbourhood.
In addition,
they
would
serve
to
optimize
the
existing
functions
and
events
of
the ethnic
enclave
and
act
as
anchor points
along
the
strip.
Moreover,
the
presence of
these
interventions
and
the
changes
that
they
bring,
are
meant
to
help
the bazaar
pave
the
path
to
a
new
identity
where
its
cultural
heritage
is
shared and
promoted,
yet
its
demographic
and
cultural
transition
are
acknowledged
and integrated.
The
examining
committee
is
as
follows:
The
committee
has
been
approved
as
authorized
by
the
Graduate
Studies
Committee.
The
Defence
Examination
will
take
place:
Friday,
May
1,
2015
9:30AM
ARC
2026
A
copy
of
the
thesis
is
available
for
perusal
in
ARC
2106A.
Sundus Shaikh
Of the thesis entitled: Cultural Connectivity : Design as a method to facilitate cultural exchange within the Gerrard Bazaar
Abstract:
As immigrants choose to reside within the suburbs and the city undergoes rapid geographical change, Toronto’s ethnic enclaves are facing significant transformation in terms of their neighbourhood demographics, economic conditions and function. The Gerrard Bazaar is a prime example of an ethnic retail strip that is struggling with a changing identity and day-to-day role, as the South Asian population gradually reduces within the area, while young, non-South Asian families continue to move in. Once a thriving Indo-Pakistani retail destination, the ethnic enclave has witnessed significant economic decline leading to fluctuating levels of urban vacancy. Among the many South Asian shops, there lies an increasing presence of mainstream coffee shops and specialty stores that have replaced declining South Asian retail enterprises over time. Various social and business organizations are also situated along the strip, yet a significant number of their efforts to regenerate the enclave, operate in an isolated manner. There also remains a cultural divide within the area as well as a general lack of solidarity among the merchants and organizations within the bazaar.
This
thesis
suggests
that
the
key
to
reviving the
Bazaar
as
well
as
other
declining
ethnic
enclaves,
lies
in
promoting
new networks
of
“cultural
exchange”
in
which
architecture
and
urban
design
can
be
a facilitator
of
new
interactions
and
symbiotic
relationships
among
different organizations
and
individuals.
It
comprises
of
a
demographic,
historic, architectural
and
spatial
analysis
as
well
as
in-depth
human
research
that studies
how
visitors
and
inhabitants
of
the
Gerrard
Bazaar
perceive
the
ethnic enclave,
and
what
culture
means
to
them.
These discovered
studies
and
personal insights
influence
the
design
process
and
are
meant
to
serve
as
a
new
technique by
which
one
can
study
the
notion
of
culture
and
how
it
informs
architecture and
urban
interventions.
Thus,
the
focus
of
thesis
is
on
the
method
by
which architecture and
design
is
produced,
in
response
to
the
lack
of
cultural exchange.
The
way
in
which
this
method
translates research
into
design,
is
by
the
formulation
of
a
manual
of
“design
strategies” that
serves
as
a
template
for
the
design
intervention.
This
manual
is
applied to
three
different
sites
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
for
three
types
of
unique design proposals
-
A
re-activated
plaza,
an
adaptively
re-used
square
and
a re-imagined
senior’s
residential
complex.
These
proposals
are
not
meant
to “freeze”
the
changes
that
are
taking
place
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
but rather,
respond
to
the
gentrification
in
a
positive
manner
and acknowledge
the demographic
trend
that
is
transpiring
within
the
neighbourhood.
It
is
envisioned that
these
new
interventions
would
act
as
catalysts
in
fostering
a
new
sense
of community
and
revitalizing
the
day-to-day
life
of
the
neighbourhood.
In addition,
they
would
serve
to
optimize
the
existing
functions
and
events
of
the ethnic
enclave
and
act
as
anchor points
along
the
strip.
Moreover,
the
presence of
these
interventions
and
the
changes
that
they
bring,
are
meant
to
help
the bazaar
pave
the
path
to
a
new
identity
where
its
cultural
heritage
is
shared and
promoted,
yet
its
demographic
and
cultural
transition
are
acknowledged
and integrated.
The
examining
committee
is
as
follows:
The
committee
has
been
approved
as
authorized
by
the
Graduate
Studies
Committee.
The
Defence
Examination
will
take
place:
Friday,
May
1,
2015
9:30AM
ARC
2026
A
copy
of
the
thesis
is
available
for
perusal
in
ARC
2106A.
Sundus Shaikh
Of the thesis entitled: Cultural Connectivity : Design as a method to facilitate cultural exchange within the Gerrard Bazaar
Abstract:
As immigrants choose to reside within the suburbs and the city undergoes rapid geographical change, Toronto’s ethnic enclaves are facing significant transformation in terms of their neighbourhood demographics, economic conditions and function. The Gerrard Bazaar is a prime example of an ethnic retail strip that is struggling with a changing identity and day-to-day role, as the South Asian population gradually reduces within the area, while young, non-South Asian families continue to move in. Once a thriving Indo-Pakistani retail destination, the ethnic enclave has witnessed significant economic decline leading to fluctuating levels of urban vacancy. Among the many South Asian shops, there lies an increasing presence of mainstream coffee shops and specialty stores that have replaced declining South Asian retail enterprises over time. Various social and business organizations are also situated along the strip, yet a significant number of their efforts to regenerate the enclave, operate in an isolated manner. There also remains a cultural divide within the area as well as a general lack of solidarity among the merchants and organizations within the bazaar.
This
thesis
suggests
that
the
key
to
reviving the
Bazaar
as
well
as
other
declining
ethnic
enclaves,
lies
in
promoting
new networks
of
“cultural
exchange”
in
which
architecture
and
urban
design
can
be
a facilitator
of
new
interactions
and
symbiotic
relationships
among
different organizations
and
individuals.
It
comprises
of
a
demographic,
historic, architectural
and
spatial
analysis
as
well
as
in-depth
human
research
that studies
how
visitors
and
inhabitants
of
the
Gerrard
Bazaar
perceive
the
ethnic enclave,
and
what
culture
means
to
them.
These discovered
studies
and
personal insights
influence
the
design
process
and
are
meant
to
serve
as
a
new
technique by
which
one
can
study
the
notion
of
culture
and
how
it
informs
architecture and
urban
interventions.
Thus,
the
focus
of
thesis
is
on
the
method
by
which architecture and
design
is
produced,
in
response
to
the
lack
of
cultural exchange.
The
way
in
which
this
method
translates research
into
design,
is
by
the
formulation
of
a
manual
of
“design
strategies” that
serves
as
a
template
for
the
design
intervention.
This
manual
is
applied to
three
different
sites
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
for
three
types
of
unique design proposals
-
A
re-activated
plaza,
an
adaptively
re-used
square
and
a re-imagined
senior’s
residential
complex.
These
proposals
are
not
meant
to “freeze”
the
changes
that
are
taking
place
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
but rather,
respond
to
the
gentrification
in
a
positive
manner
and acknowledge
the demographic
trend
that
is
transpiring
within
the
neighbourhood.
It
is
envisioned that
these
new
interventions
would
act
as
catalysts
in
fostering
a
new
sense
of community
and
revitalizing
the
day-to-day
life
of
the
neighbourhood.
In addition,
they
would
serve
to
optimize
the
existing
functions
and
events
of
the ethnic
enclave
and
act
as
anchor points
along
the
strip.
Moreover,
the
presence of
these
interventions
and
the
changes
that
they
bring,
are
meant
to
help
the bazaar
pave
the
path
to
a
new
identity
where
its
cultural
heritage
is
shared and
promoted,
yet
its
demographic
and
cultural
transition
are
acknowledged
and integrated.
The
examining
committee
is
as
follows:
The
committee
has
been
approved
as
authorized
by
the
Graduate
Studies
Committee.
The
Defence
Examination
will
take
place:
Friday,
May
1,
2015
9:30AM
ARC
2026
A
copy
of
the
thesis
is
available
for
perusal
in
ARC
2106A.
Sundus Shaikh
Of the thesis entitled: Cultural Connectivity : Design as a method to facilitate cultural exchange within the Gerrard Bazaar
Abstract:
As immigrants choose to reside within the suburbs and the city undergoes rapid geographical change, Toronto’s ethnic enclaves are facing significant transformation in terms of their neighbourhood demographics, economic conditions and function. The Gerrard Bazaar is a prime example of an ethnic retail strip that is struggling with a changing identity and day-to-day role, as the South Asian population gradually reduces within the area, while young, non-South Asian families continue to move in. Once a thriving Indo-Pakistani retail destination, the ethnic enclave has witnessed significant economic decline leading to fluctuating levels of urban vacancy. Among the many South Asian shops, there lies an increasing presence of mainstream coffee shops and specialty stores that have replaced declining South Asian retail enterprises over time. Various social and business organizations are also situated along the strip, yet a significant number of their efforts to regenerate the enclave, operate in an isolated manner. There also remains a cultural divide within the area as well as a general lack of solidarity among the merchants and organizations within the bazaar.
This
thesis
suggests
that
the
key
to
reviving the
Bazaar
as
well
as
other
declining
ethnic
enclaves,
lies
in
promoting
new networks
of
“cultural
exchange”
in
which
architecture
and
urban
design
can
be
a facilitator
of
new
interactions
and
symbiotic
relationships
among
different organizations
and
individuals.
It
comprises
of
a
demographic,
historic, architectural
and
spatial
analysis
as
well
as
in-depth
human
research
that studies
how
visitors
and
inhabitants
of
the
Gerrard
Bazaar
perceive
the
ethnic enclave,
and
what
culture
means
to
them.
These discovered
studies
and
personal insights
influence
the
design
process
and
are
meant
to
serve
as
a
new
technique by
which
one
can
study
the
notion
of
culture
and
how
it
informs
architecture and
urban
interventions.
Thus,
the
focus
of
thesis
is
on
the
method
by
which architecture and
design
is
produced,
in
response
to
the
lack
of
cultural exchange.
The
way
in
which
this
method
translates research
into
design,
is
by
the
formulation
of
a
manual
of
“design
strategies” that
serves
as
a
template
for
the
design
intervention.
This
manual
is
applied to
three
different
sites
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
for
three
types
of
unique design proposals
-
A
re-activated
plaza,
an
adaptively
re-used
square
and
a re-imagined
senior’s
residential
complex.
These
proposals
are
not
meant
to “freeze”
the
changes
that
are
taking
place
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
but rather,
respond
to
the
gentrification
in
a
positive
manner
and acknowledge
the demographic
trend
that
is
transpiring
within
the
neighbourhood.
It
is
envisioned that
these
new
interventions
would
act
as
catalysts
in
fostering
a
new
sense
of community
and
revitalizing
the
day-to-day
life
of
the
neighbourhood.
In addition,
they
would
serve
to
optimize
the
existing
functions
and
events
of
the ethnic
enclave
and
act
as
anchor points
along
the
strip.
Moreover,
the
presence of
these
interventions
and
the
changes
that
they
bring,
are
meant
to
help
the bazaar
pave
the
path
to
a
new
identity
where
its
cultural
heritage
is
shared and
promoted,
yet
its
demographic
and
cultural
transition
are
acknowledged
and integrated.
The
examining
committee
is
as
follows:
The
committee
has
been
approved
as
authorized
by
the
Graduate
Studies
Committee.
The
Defence
Examination
will
take
place:
Friday,
May
1,
2015
9:30AM
ARC
2026
A
copy
of
the
thesis
is
available
for
perusal
in
ARC
2106A.
Sundus Shaikh
Of the thesis entitled: Cultural Connectivity : Design as a method to facilitate cultural exchange within the Gerrard Bazaar
Abstract:
As immigrants choose to reside within the suburbs and the city undergoes rapid geographical change, Toronto’s ethnic enclaves are facing significant transformation in terms of their neighbourhood demographics, economic conditions and function. The Gerrard Bazaar is a prime example of an ethnic retail strip that is struggling with a changing identity and day-to-day role, as the South Asian population gradually reduces within the area, while young, non-South Asian families continue to move in. Once a thriving Indo-Pakistani retail destination, the ethnic enclave has witnessed significant economic decline leading to fluctuating levels of urban vacancy. Among the many South Asian shops, there lies an increasing presence of mainstream coffee shops and specialty stores that have replaced declining South Asian retail enterprises over time. Various social and business organizations are also situated along the strip, yet a significant number of their efforts to regenerate the enclave, operate in an isolated manner. There also remains a cultural divide within the area as well as a general lack of solidarity among the merchants and organizations within the bazaar.
This
thesis
suggests
that
the
key
to
reviving the
Bazaar
as
well
as
other
declining
ethnic
enclaves,
lies
in
promoting
new networks
of
“cultural
exchange”
in
which
architecture
and
urban
design
can
be
a facilitator
of
new
interactions
and
symbiotic
relationships
among
different organizations
and
individuals.
It
comprises
of
a
demographic,
historic, architectural
and
spatial
analysis
as
well
as
in-depth
human
research
that studies
how
visitors
and
inhabitants
of
the
Gerrard
Bazaar
perceive
the
ethnic enclave,
and
what
culture
means
to
them.
These discovered
studies
and
personal insights
influence
the
design
process
and
are
meant
to
serve
as
a
new
technique by
which
one
can
study
the
notion
of
culture
and
how
it
informs
architecture and
urban
interventions.
Thus,
the
focus
of
thesis
is
on
the
method
by
which architecture and
design
is
produced,
in
response
to
the
lack
of
cultural exchange.
The
way
in
which
this
method
translates research
into
design,
is
by
the
formulation
of
a
manual
of
“design
strategies” that
serves
as
a
template
for
the
design
intervention.
This
manual
is
applied to
three
different
sites
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
for
three
types
of
unique design proposals
-
A
re-activated
plaza,
an
adaptively
re-used
square
and
a re-imagined
senior’s
residential
complex.
These
proposals
are
not
meant
to “freeze”
the
changes
that
are
taking
place
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
but rather,
respond
to
the
gentrification
in
a
positive
manner
and acknowledge
the demographic
trend
that
is
transpiring
within
the
neighbourhood.
It
is
envisioned that
these
new
interventions
would
act
as
catalysts
in
fostering
a
new
sense
of community
and
revitalizing
the
day-to-day
life
of
the
neighbourhood.
In addition,
they
would
serve
to
optimize
the
existing
functions
and
events
of
the ethnic
enclave
and
act
as
anchor points
along
the
strip.
Moreover,
the
presence of
these
interventions
and
the
changes
that
they
bring,
are
meant
to
help
the bazaar
pave
the
path
to
a
new
identity
where
its
cultural
heritage
is
shared and
promoted,
yet
its
demographic
and
cultural
transition
are
acknowledged
and integrated.
The
examining
committee
is
as
follows:
The
committee
has
been
approved
as
authorized
by
the
Graduate
Studies
Committee.
The
Defence
Examination
will
take
place:
Friday,
May
1,
2015
9:30AM
ARC
2026
A
copy
of
the
thesis
is
available
for
perusal
in
ARC
2106A.
Sundus Shaikh
Of the thesis entitled: Cultural Connectivity : Design as a method to facilitate cultural exchange within the Gerrard Bazaar
Abstract:
As immigrants choose to reside within the suburbs and the city undergoes rapid geographical change, Toronto’s ethnic enclaves are facing significant transformation in terms of their neighbourhood demographics, economic conditions and function. The Gerrard Bazaar is a prime example of an ethnic retail strip that is struggling with a changing identity and day-to-day role, as the South Asian population gradually reduces within the area, while young, non-South Asian families continue to move in. Once a thriving Indo-Pakistani retail destination, the ethnic enclave has witnessed significant economic decline leading to fluctuating levels of urban vacancy. Among the many South Asian shops, there lies an increasing presence of mainstream coffee shops and specialty stores that have replaced declining South Asian retail enterprises over time. Various social and business organizations are also situated along the strip, yet a significant number of their efforts to regenerate the enclave, operate in an isolated manner. There also remains a cultural divide within the area as well as a general lack of solidarity among the merchants and organizations within the bazaar.
This
thesis
suggests
that
the
key
to
reviving the
Bazaar
as
well
as
other
declining
ethnic
enclaves,
lies
in
promoting
new networks
of
“cultural
exchange”
in
which
architecture
and
urban
design
can
be
a facilitator
of
new
interactions
and
symbiotic
relationships
among
different organizations
and
individuals.
It
comprises
of
a
demographic,
historic, architectural
and
spatial
analysis
as
well
as
in-depth
human
research
that studies
how
visitors
and
inhabitants
of
the
Gerrard
Bazaar
perceive
the
ethnic enclave,
and
what
culture
means
to
them.
These discovered
studies
and
personal insights
influence
the
design
process
and
are
meant
to
serve
as
a
new
technique by
which
one
can
study
the
notion
of
culture
and
how
it
informs
architecture and
urban
interventions.
Thus,
the
focus
of
thesis
is
on
the
method
by
which architecture and
design
is
produced,
in
response
to
the
lack
of
cultural exchange.
The
way
in
which
this
method
translates research
into
design,
is
by
the
formulation
of
a
manual
of
“design
strategies” that
serves
as
a
template
for
the
design
intervention.
This
manual
is
applied to
three
different
sites
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
for
three
types
of
unique design proposals
-
A
re-activated
plaza,
an
adaptively
re-used
square
and
a re-imagined
senior’s
residential
complex.
These
proposals
are
not
meant
to “freeze”
the
changes
that
are
taking
place
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
but rather,
respond
to
the
gentrification
in
a
positive
manner
and acknowledge
the demographic
trend
that
is
transpiring
within
the
neighbourhood.
It
is
envisioned that
these
new
interventions
would
act
as
catalysts
in
fostering
a
new
sense
of community
and
revitalizing
the
day-to-day
life
of
the
neighbourhood.
In addition,
they
would
serve
to
optimize
the
existing
functions
and
events
of
the ethnic
enclave
and
act
as
anchor points
along
the
strip.
Moreover,
the
presence of
these
interventions
and
the
changes
that
they
bring,
are
meant
to
help
the bazaar
pave
the
path
to
a
new
identity
where
its
cultural
heritage
is
shared and
promoted,
yet
its
demographic
and
cultural
transition
are
acknowledged
and integrated.
The
examining
committee
is
as
follows:
The
committee
has
been
approved
as
authorized
by
the
Graduate
Studies
Committee.
The
Defence
Examination
will
take
place:
Friday,
May
1,
2015
9:30AM
ARC
2026
A
copy
of
the
thesis
is
available
for
perusal
in
ARC
2106A.
Sundus Shaikh
Of the thesis entitled: Cultural Connectivity : Design as a method to facilitate cultural exchange within the Gerrard Bazaar
Abstract:
As immigrants choose to reside within the suburbs and the city undergoes rapid geographical change, Toronto’s ethnic enclaves are facing significant transformation in terms of their neighbourhood demographics, economic conditions and function. The Gerrard Bazaar is a prime example of an ethnic retail strip that is struggling with a changing identity and day-to-day role, as the South Asian population gradually reduces within the area, while young, non-South Asian families continue to move in. Once a thriving Indo-Pakistani retail destination, the ethnic enclave has witnessed significant economic decline leading to fluctuating levels of urban vacancy. Among the many South Asian shops, there lies an increasing presence of mainstream coffee shops and specialty stores that have replaced declining South Asian retail enterprises over time. Various social and business organizations are also situated along the strip, yet a significant number of their efforts to regenerate the enclave, operate in an isolated manner. There also remains a cultural divide within the area as well as a general lack of solidarity among the merchants and organizations within the bazaar.
This
thesis
suggests
that
the
key
to
reviving the
Bazaar
as
well
as
other
declining
ethnic
enclaves,
lies
in
promoting
new networks
of
“cultural
exchange”
in
which
architecture
and
urban
design
can
be
a facilitator
of
new
interactions
and
symbiotic
relationships
among
different organizations
and
individuals.
It
comprises
of
a
demographic,
historic, architectural
and
spatial
analysis
as
well
as
in-depth
human
research
that studies
how
visitors
and
inhabitants
of
the
Gerrard
Bazaar
perceive
the
ethnic enclave,
and
what
culture
means
to
them.
These discovered
studies
and
personal insights
influence
the
design
process
and
are
meant
to
serve
as
a
new
technique by
which
one
can
study
the
notion
of
culture
and
how
it
informs
architecture and
urban
interventions.
Thus,
the
focus
of
thesis
is
on
the
method
by
which architecture and
design
is
produced,
in
response
to
the
lack
of
cultural exchange.
The
way
in
which
this
method
translates research
into
design,
is
by
the
formulation
of
a
manual
of
“design
strategies” that
serves
as
a
template
for
the
design
intervention.
This
manual
is
applied to
three
different
sites
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
for
three
types
of
unique design proposals
-
A
re-activated
plaza,
an
adaptively
re-used
square
and
a re-imagined
senior’s
residential
complex.
These
proposals
are
not
meant
to “freeze”
the
changes
that
are
taking
place
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
but rather,
respond
to
the
gentrification
in
a
positive
manner
and acknowledge
the demographic
trend
that
is
transpiring
within
the
neighbourhood.
It
is
envisioned that
these
new
interventions
would
act
as
catalysts
in
fostering
a
new
sense
of community
and
revitalizing
the
day-to-day
life
of
the
neighbourhood.
In addition,
they
would
serve
to
optimize
the
existing
functions
and
events
of
the ethnic
enclave
and
act
as
anchor points
along
the
strip.
Moreover,
the
presence of
these
interventions
and
the
changes
that
they
bring,
are
meant
to
help
the bazaar
pave
the
path
to
a
new
identity
where
its
cultural
heritage
is
shared and
promoted,
yet
its
demographic
and
cultural
transition
are
acknowledged
and integrated.
The
examining
committee
is
as
follows:
The
committee
has
been
approved
as
authorized
by
the
Graduate
Studies
Committee.
The
Defence
Examination
will
take
place:
Friday,
May
1,
2015
9:30AM
ARC
2026
A
copy
of
the
thesis
is
available
for
perusal
in
ARC
2106A.
Sundus Shaikh
Of the thesis entitled: Cultural Connectivity : Design as a method to facilitate cultural exchange within the Gerrard Bazaar
Abstract:
As immigrants choose to reside within the suburbs and the city undergoes rapid geographical change, Toronto’s ethnic enclaves are facing significant transformation in terms of their neighbourhood demographics, economic conditions and function. The Gerrard Bazaar is a prime example of an ethnic retail strip that is struggling with a changing identity and day-to-day role, as the South Asian population gradually reduces within the area, while young, non-South Asian families continue to move in. Once a thriving Indo-Pakistani retail destination, the ethnic enclave has witnessed significant economic decline leading to fluctuating levels of urban vacancy. Among the many South Asian shops, there lies an increasing presence of mainstream coffee shops and specialty stores that have replaced declining South Asian retail enterprises over time. Various social and business organizations are also situated along the strip, yet a significant number of their efforts to regenerate the enclave, operate in an isolated manner. There also remains a cultural divide within the area as well as a general lack of solidarity among the merchants and organizations within the bazaar.
This
thesis
suggests
that
the
key
to
reviving the
Bazaar
as
well
as
other
declining
ethnic
enclaves,
lies
in
promoting
new networks
of
“cultural
exchange”
in
which
architecture
and
urban
design
can
be
a facilitator
of
new
interactions
and
symbiotic
relationships
among
different organizations
and
individuals.
It
comprises
of
a
demographic,
historic, architectural
and
spatial
analysis
as
well
as
in-depth
human
research
that studies
how
visitors
and
inhabitants
of
the
Gerrard
Bazaar
perceive
the
ethnic enclave,
and
what
culture
means
to
them.
These discovered
studies
and
personal insights
influence
the
design
process
and
are
meant
to
serve
as
a
new
technique by
which
one
can
study
the
notion
of
culture
and
how
it
informs
architecture and
urban
interventions.
Thus,
the
focus
of
thesis
is
on
the
method
by
which architecture and
design
is
produced,
in
response
to
the
lack
of
cultural exchange.
The
way
in
which
this
method
translates research
into
design,
is
by
the
formulation
of
a
manual
of
“design
strategies” that
serves
as
a
template
for
the
design
intervention.
This
manual
is
applied to
three
different
sites
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
for
three
types
of
unique design proposals
-
A
re-activated
plaza,
an
adaptively
re-used
square
and
a re-imagined
senior’s
residential
complex.
These
proposals
are
not
meant
to “freeze”
the
changes
that
are
taking
place
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
but rather,
respond
to
the
gentrification
in
a
positive
manner
and acknowledge
the demographic
trend
that
is
transpiring
within
the
neighbourhood.
It
is
envisioned that
these
new
interventions
would
act
as
catalysts
in
fostering
a
new
sense
of community
and
revitalizing
the
day-to-day
life
of
the
neighbourhood.
In addition,
they
would
serve
to
optimize
the
existing
functions
and
events
of
the ethnic
enclave
and
act
as
anchor points
along
the
strip.
Moreover,
the
presence of
these
interventions
and
the
changes
that
they
bring,
are
meant
to
help
the bazaar
pave
the
path
to
a
new
identity
where
its
cultural
heritage
is
shared and
promoted,
yet
its
demographic
and
cultural
transition
are
acknowledged
and integrated.
The
examining
committee
is
as
follows:
The
committee
has
been
approved
as
authorized
by
the
Graduate
Studies
Committee.
The
Defence
Examination
will
take
place:
Friday,
May
1,
2015
9:30AM
ARC
2026
A
copy
of
the
thesis
is
available
for
perusal
in
ARC
2106A.
Sundus Shaikh
Of the thesis entitled: Cultural Connectivity : Design as a method to facilitate cultural exchange within the Gerrard Bazaar
Abstract:
As immigrants choose to reside within the suburbs and the city undergoes rapid geographical change, Toronto’s ethnic enclaves are facing significant transformation in terms of their neighbourhood demographics, economic conditions and function. The Gerrard Bazaar is a prime example of an ethnic retail strip that is struggling with a changing identity and day-to-day role, as the South Asian population gradually reduces within the area, while young, non-South Asian families continue to move in. Once a thriving Indo-Pakistani retail destination, the ethnic enclave has witnessed significant economic decline leading to fluctuating levels of urban vacancy. Among the many South Asian shops, there lies an increasing presence of mainstream coffee shops and specialty stores that have replaced declining South Asian retail enterprises over time. Various social and business organizations are also situated along the strip, yet a significant number of their efforts to regenerate the enclave, operate in an isolated manner. There also remains a cultural divide within the area as well as a general lack of solidarity among the merchants and organizations within the bazaar.
This
thesis
suggests
that
the
key
to
reviving the
Bazaar
as
well
as
other
declining
ethnic
enclaves,
lies
in
promoting
new networks
of
“cultural
exchange”
in
which
architecture
and
urban
design
can
be
a facilitator
of
new
interactions
and
symbiotic
relationships
among
different organizations
and
individuals.
It
comprises
of
a
demographic,
historic, architectural
and
spatial
analysis
as
well
as
in-depth
human
research
that studies
how
visitors
and
inhabitants
of
the
Gerrard
Bazaar
perceive
the
ethnic enclave,
and
what
culture
means
to
them.
These discovered
studies
and
personal insights
influence
the
design
process
and
are
meant
to
serve
as
a
new
technique by
which
one
can
study
the
notion
of
culture
and
how
it
informs
architecture and
urban
interventions.
Thus,
the
focus
of
thesis
is
on
the
method
by
which architecture and
design
is
produced,
in
response
to
the
lack
of
cultural exchange.
The
way
in
which
this
method
translates research
into
design,
is
by
the
formulation
of
a
manual
of
“design
strategies” that
serves
as
a
template
for
the
design
intervention.
This
manual
is
applied to
three
different
sites
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
for
three
types
of
unique design proposals
-
A
re-activated
plaza,
an
adaptively
re-used
square
and
a re-imagined
senior’s
residential
complex.
These
proposals
are
not
meant
to “freeze”
the
changes
that
are
taking
place
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
but rather,
respond
to
the
gentrification
in
a
positive
manner
and acknowledge
the demographic
trend
that
is
transpiring
within
the
neighbourhood.
It
is
envisioned that
these
new
interventions
would
act
as
catalysts
in
fostering
a
new
sense
of community
and
revitalizing
the
day-to-day
life
of
the
neighbourhood.
In addition,
they
would
serve
to
optimize
the
existing
functions
and
events
of
the ethnic
enclave
and
act
as
anchor points
along
the
strip.
Moreover,
the
presence of
these
interventions
and
the
changes
that
they
bring,
are
meant
to
help
the bazaar
pave
the
path
to
a
new
identity
where
its
cultural
heritage
is
shared and
promoted,
yet
its
demographic
and
cultural
transition
are
acknowledged
and integrated.
The
examining
committee
is
as
follows:
The
committee
has
been
approved
as
authorized
by
the
Graduate
Studies
Committee.
The
Defence
Examination
will
take
place:
Friday,
May
1,
2015
9:30AM
ARC
2026
A
copy
of
the
thesis
is
available
for
perusal
in
ARC
2106A.
Sundus Shaikh
Of the thesis entitled: Cultural Connectivity : Design as a method to facilitate cultural exchange within the Gerrard Bazaar
Abstract:
As immigrants choose to reside within the suburbs and the city undergoes rapid geographical change, Toronto’s ethnic enclaves are facing significant transformation in terms of their neighbourhood demographics, economic conditions and function. The Gerrard Bazaar is a prime example of an ethnic retail strip that is struggling with a changing identity and day-to-day role, as the South Asian population gradually reduces within the area, while young, non-South Asian families continue to move in. Once a thriving Indo-Pakistani retail destination, the ethnic enclave has witnessed significant economic decline leading to fluctuating levels of urban vacancy. Among the many South Asian shops, there lies an increasing presence of mainstream coffee shops and specialty stores that have replaced declining South Asian retail enterprises over time. Various social and business organizations are also situated along the strip, yet a significant number of their efforts to regenerate the enclave, operate in an isolated manner. There also remains a cultural divide within the area as well as a general lack of solidarity among the merchants and organizations within the bazaar.
This
thesis
suggests
that
the
key
to
reviving the
Bazaar
as
well
as
other
declining
ethnic
enclaves,
lies
in
promoting
new networks
of
“cultural
exchange”
in
which
architecture
and
urban
design
can
be
a facilitator
of
new
interactions
and
symbiotic
relationships
among
different organizations
and
individuals.
It
comprises
of
a
demographic,
historic, architectural
and
spatial
analysis
as
well
as
in-depth
human
research
that studies
how
visitors
and
inhabitants
of
the
Gerrard
Bazaar
perceive
the
ethnic enclave,
and
what
culture
means
to
them.
These discovered
studies
and
personal insights
influence
the
design
process
and
are
meant
to
serve
as
a
new
technique by
which
one
can
study
the
notion
of
culture
and
how
it
informs
architecture and
urban
interventions.
Thus,
the
focus
of
thesis
is
on
the
method
by
which architecture and
design
is
produced,
in
response
to
the
lack
of
cultural exchange.
The
way
in
which
this
method
translates research
into
design,
is
by
the
formulation
of
a
manual
of
“design
strategies” that
serves
as
a
template
for
the
design
intervention.
This
manual
is
applied to
three
different
sites
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
for
three
types
of
unique design proposals
-
A
re-activated
plaza,
an
adaptively
re-used
square
and
a re-imagined
senior’s
residential
complex.
These
proposals
are
not
meant
to “freeze”
the
changes
that
are
taking
place
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
but rather,
respond
to
the
gentrification
in
a
positive
manner
and acknowledge
the demographic
trend
that
is
transpiring
within
the
neighbourhood.
It
is
envisioned that
these
new
interventions
would
act
as
catalysts
in
fostering
a
new
sense
of community
and
revitalizing
the
day-to-day
life
of
the
neighbourhood.
In addition,
they
would
serve
to
optimize
the
existing
functions
and
events
of
the ethnic
enclave
and
act
as
anchor points
along
the
strip.
Moreover,
the
presence of
these
interventions
and
the
changes
that
they
bring,
are
meant
to
help
the bazaar
pave
the
path
to
a
new
identity
where
its
cultural
heritage
is
shared and
promoted,
yet
its
demographic
and
cultural
transition
are
acknowledged
and integrated.
The
examining
committee
is
as
follows:
The
committee
has
been
approved
as
authorized
by
the
Graduate
Studies
Committee.
The
Defence
Examination
will
take
place:
Friday,
May
1,
2015
9:30AM
ARC
2026
A
copy
of
the
thesis
is
available
for
perusal
in
ARC
2106A.
Sundus Shaikh
Of the thesis entitled: Cultural Connectivity : Design as a method to facilitate cultural exchange within the Gerrard Bazaar
Abstract:
As immigrants choose to reside within the suburbs and the city undergoes rapid geographical change, Toronto’s ethnic enclaves are facing significant transformation in terms of their neighbourhood demographics, economic conditions and function. The Gerrard Bazaar is a prime example of an ethnic retail strip that is struggling with a changing identity and day-to-day role, as the South Asian population gradually reduces within the area, while young, non-South Asian families continue to move in. Once a thriving Indo-Pakistani retail destination, the ethnic enclave has witnessed significant economic decline leading to fluctuating levels of urban vacancy. Among the many South Asian shops, there lies an increasing presence of mainstream coffee shops and specialty stores that have replaced declining South Asian retail enterprises over time. Various social and business organizations are also situated along the strip, yet a significant number of their efforts to regenerate the enclave, operate in an isolated manner. There also remains a cultural divide within the area as well as a general lack of solidarity among the merchants and organizations within the bazaar.
This
thesis
suggests
that
the
key
to
reviving the
Bazaar
as
well
as
other
declining
ethnic
enclaves,
lies
in
promoting
new networks
of
“cultural
exchange”
in
which
architecture
and
urban
design
can
be
a facilitator
of
new
interactions
and
symbiotic
relationships
among
different organizations
and
individuals.
It
comprises
of
a
demographic,
historic, architectural
and
spatial
analysis
as
well
as
in-depth
human
research
that studies
how
visitors
and
inhabitants
of
the
Gerrard
Bazaar
perceive
the
ethnic enclave,
and
what
culture
means
to
them.
These discovered
studies
and
personal insights
influence
the
design
process
and
are
meant
to
serve
as
a
new
technique by
which
one
can
study
the
notion
of
culture
and
how
it
informs
architecture and
urban
interventions.
Thus,
the
focus
of
thesis
is
on
the
method
by
which architecture and
design
is
produced,
in
response
to
the
lack
of
cultural exchange.
The
way
in
which
this
method
translates research
into
design,
is
by
the
formulation
of
a
manual
of
“design
strategies” that
serves
as
a
template
for
the
design
intervention.
This
manual
is
applied to
three
different
sites
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
for
three
types
of
unique design proposals
-
A
re-activated
plaza,
an
adaptively
re-used
square
and
a re-imagined
senior’s
residential
complex.
These
proposals
are
not
meant
to “freeze”
the
changes
that
are
taking
place
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
but rather,
respond
to
the
gentrification
in
a
positive
manner
and acknowledge
the demographic
trend
that
is
transpiring
within
the
neighbourhood.
It
is
envisioned that
these
new
interventions
would
act
as
catalysts
in
fostering
a
new
sense
of community
and
revitalizing
the
day-to-day
life
of
the
neighbourhood.
In addition,
they
would
serve
to
optimize
the
existing
functions
and
events
of
the ethnic
enclave
and
act
as
anchor points
along
the
strip.
Moreover,
the
presence of
these
interventions
and
the
changes
that
they
bring,
are
meant
to
help
the bazaar
pave
the
path
to
a
new
identity
where
its
cultural
heritage
is
shared and
promoted,
yet
its
demographic
and
cultural
transition
are
acknowledged
and integrated.
The
examining
committee
is
as
follows:
The
committee
has
been
approved
as
authorized
by
the
Graduate
Studies
Committee.
The
Defence
Examination
will
take
place:
Friday,
May
1,
2015
9:30AM
ARC
2026
A
copy
of
the
thesis
is
available
for
perusal
in
ARC
2106A.
Sundus Shaikh
Of the thesis entitled: Cultural Connectivity : Design as a method to facilitate cultural exchange within the Gerrard Bazaar
Abstract:
As immigrants choose to reside within the suburbs and the city undergoes rapid geographical change, Toronto’s ethnic enclaves are facing significant transformation in terms of their neighbourhood demographics, economic conditions and function. The Gerrard Bazaar is a prime example of an ethnic retail strip that is struggling with a changing identity and day-to-day role, as the South Asian population gradually reduces within the area, while young, non-South Asian families continue to move in. Once a thriving Indo-Pakistani retail destination, the ethnic enclave has witnessed significant economic decline leading to fluctuating levels of urban vacancy. Among the many South Asian shops, there lies an increasing presence of mainstream coffee shops and specialty stores that have replaced declining South Asian retail enterprises over time. Various social and business organizations are also situated along the strip, yet a significant number of their efforts to regenerate the enclave, operate in an isolated manner. There also remains a cultural divide within the area as well as a general lack of solidarity among the merchants and organizations within the bazaar.
This
thesis
suggests
that
the
key
to
reviving the
Bazaar
as
well
as
other
declining
ethnic
enclaves,
lies
in
promoting
new networks
of
“cultural
exchange”
in
which
architecture
and
urban
design
can
be
a facilitator
of
new
interactions
and
symbiotic
relationships
among
different organizations
and
individuals.
It
comprises
of
a
demographic,
historic, architectural
and
spatial
analysis
as
well
as
in-depth
human
research
that studies
how
visitors
and
inhabitants
of
the
Gerrard
Bazaar
perceive
the
ethnic enclave,
and
what
culture
means
to
them.
These discovered
studies
and
personal insights
influence
the
design
process
and
are
meant
to
serve
as
a
new
technique by
which
one
can
study
the
notion
of
culture
and
how
it
informs
architecture and
urban
interventions.
Thus,
the
focus
of
thesis
is
on
the
method
by
which architecture and
design
is
produced,
in
response
to
the
lack
of
cultural exchange.
The
way
in
which
this
method
translates research
into
design,
is
by
the
formulation
of
a
manual
of
“design
strategies” that
serves
as
a
template
for
the
design
intervention.
This
manual
is
applied to
three
different
sites
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
for
three
types
of
unique design proposals
-
A
re-activated
plaza,
an
adaptively
re-used
square
and
a re-imagined
senior’s
residential
complex.
These
proposals
are
not
meant
to “freeze”
the
changes
that
are
taking
place
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
but rather,
respond
to
the
gentrification
in
a
positive
manner
and acknowledge
the demographic
trend
that
is
transpiring
within
the
neighbourhood.
It
is
envisioned that
these
new
interventions
would
act
as
catalysts
in
fostering
a
new
sense
of community
and
revitalizing
the
day-to-day
life
of
the
neighbourhood.
In addition,
they
would
serve
to
optimize
the
existing
functions
and
events
of
the ethnic
enclave
and
act
as
anchor points
along
the
strip.
Moreover,
the
presence of
these
interventions
and
the
changes
that
they
bring,
are
meant
to
help
the bazaar
pave
the
path
to
a
new
identity
where
its
cultural
heritage
is
shared and
promoted,
yet
its
demographic
and
cultural
transition
are
acknowledged
and integrated.
The
examining
committee
is
as
follows:
The
committee
has
been
approved
as
authorized
by
the
Graduate
Studies
Committee.
The
Defence
Examination
will
take
place:
Friday,
May
1,
2015
9:30AM
ARC
2026
A
copy
of
the
thesis
is
available
for
perusal
in
ARC
2106A.
Sundus Shaikh
Of the thesis entitled: Cultural Connectivity : Design as a method to facilitate cultural exchange within the Gerrard Bazaar
Abstract:
As immigrants choose to reside within the suburbs and the city undergoes rapid geographical change, Toronto’s ethnic enclaves are facing significant transformation in terms of their neighbourhood demographics, economic conditions and function. The Gerrard Bazaar is a prime example of an ethnic retail strip that is struggling with a changing identity and day-to-day role, as the South Asian population gradually reduces within the area, while young, non-South Asian families continue to move in. Once a thriving Indo-Pakistani retail destination, the ethnic enclave has witnessed significant economic decline leading to fluctuating levels of urban vacancy. Among the many South Asian shops, there lies an increasing presence of mainstream coffee shops and specialty stores that have replaced declining South Asian retail enterprises over time. Various social and business organizations are also situated along the strip, yet a significant number of their efforts to regenerate the enclave, operate in an isolated manner. There also remains a cultural divide within the area as well as a general lack of solidarity among the merchants and organizations within the bazaar.
This
thesis
suggests
that
the
key
to
reviving the
Bazaar
as
well
as
other
declining
ethnic
enclaves,
lies
in
promoting
new networks
of
“cultural
exchange”
in
which
architecture
and
urban
design
can
be
a facilitator
of
new
interactions
and
symbiotic
relationships
among
different organizations
and
individuals.
It
comprises
of
a
demographic,
historic, architectural
and
spatial
analysis
as
well
as
in-depth
human
research
that studies
how
visitors
and
inhabitants
of
the
Gerrard
Bazaar
perceive
the
ethnic enclave,
and
what
culture
means
to
them.
These discovered
studies
and
personal insights
influence
the
design
process
and
are
meant
to
serve
as
a
new
technique by
which
one
can
study
the
notion
of
culture
and
how
it
informs
architecture and
urban
interventions.
Thus,
the
focus
of
thesis
is
on
the
method
by
which architecture and
design
is
produced,
in
response
to
the
lack
of
cultural exchange.
The
way
in
which
this
method
translates research
into
design,
is
by
the
formulation
of
a
manual
of
“design
strategies” that
serves
as
a
template
for
the
design
intervention.
This
manual
is
applied to
three
different
sites
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
for
three
types
of
unique design proposals
-
A
re-activated
plaza,
an
adaptively
re-used
square
and
a re-imagined
senior’s
residential
complex.
These
proposals
are
not
meant
to “freeze”
the
changes
that
are
taking
place
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
but rather,
respond
to
the
gentrification
in
a
positive
manner
and acknowledge
the demographic
trend
that
is
transpiring
within
the
neighbourhood.
It
is
envisioned that
these
new
interventions
would
act
as
catalysts
in
fostering
a
new
sense
of community
and
revitalizing
the
day-to-day
life
of
the
neighbourhood.
In addition,
they
would
serve
to
optimize
the
existing
functions
and
events
of
the ethnic
enclave
and
act
as
anchor points
along
the
strip.
Moreover,
the
presence of
these
interventions
and
the
changes
that
they
bring,
are
meant
to
help
the bazaar
pave
the
path
to
a
new
identity
where
its
cultural
heritage
is
shared and
promoted,
yet
its
demographic
and
cultural
transition
are
acknowledged
and integrated.
The
examining
committee
is
as
follows:
The
committee
has
been
approved
as
authorized
by
the
Graduate
Studies
Committee.
The
Defence
Examination
will
take
place:
Friday,
May
1,
2015
9:30AM
ARC
2026
A
copy
of
the
thesis
is
available
for
perusal
in
ARC
2106A.
Sundus Shaikh
Of the thesis entitled: Cultural Connectivity : Design as a method to facilitate cultural exchange within the Gerrard Bazaar
Abstract:
As immigrants choose to reside within the suburbs and the city undergoes rapid geographical change, Toronto’s ethnic enclaves are facing significant transformation in terms of their neighbourhood demographics, economic conditions and function. The Gerrard Bazaar is a prime example of an ethnic retail strip that is struggling with a changing identity and day-to-day role, as the South Asian population gradually reduces within the area, while young, non-South Asian families continue to move in. Once a thriving Indo-Pakistani retail destination, the ethnic enclave has witnessed significant economic decline leading to fluctuating levels of urban vacancy. Among the many South Asian shops, there lies an increasing presence of mainstream coffee shops and specialty stores that have replaced declining South Asian retail enterprises over time. Various social and business organizations are also situated along the strip, yet a significant number of their efforts to regenerate the enclave, operate in an isolated manner. There also remains a cultural divide within the area as well as a general lack of solidarity among the merchants and organizations within the bazaar.
This
thesis
suggests
that
the
key
to
reviving the
Bazaar
as
well
as
other
declining
ethnic
enclaves,
lies
in
promoting
new networks
of
“cultural
exchange”
in
which
architecture
and
urban
design
can
be
a facilitator
of
new
interactions
and
symbiotic
relationships
among
different organizations
and
individuals.
It
comprises
of
a
demographic,
historic, architectural
and
spatial
analysis
as
well
as
in-depth
human
research
that studies
how
visitors
and
inhabitants
of
the
Gerrard
Bazaar
perceive
the
ethnic enclave,
and
what
culture
means
to
them.
These discovered
studies
and
personal insights
influence
the
design
process
and
are
meant
to
serve
as
a
new
technique by
which
one
can
study
the
notion
of
culture
and
how
it
informs
architecture and
urban
interventions.
Thus,
the
focus
of
thesis
is
on
the
method
by
which architecture and
design
is
produced,
in
response
to
the
lack
of
cultural exchange.
The
way
in
which
this
method
translates research
into
design,
is
by
the
formulation
of
a
manual
of
“design
strategies” that
serves
as
a
template
for
the
design
intervention.
This
manual
is
applied to
three
different
sites
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
for
three
types
of
unique design proposals
-
A
re-activated
plaza,
an
adaptively
re-used
square
and
a re-imagined
senior’s
residential
complex.
These
proposals
are
not
meant
to “freeze”
the
changes
that
are
taking
place
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
but rather,
respond
to
the
gentrification
in
a
positive
manner
and acknowledge
the demographic
trend
that
is
transpiring
within
the
neighbourhood.
It
is
envisioned that
these
new
interventions
would
act
as
catalysts
in
fostering
a
new
sense
of community
and
revitalizing
the
day-to-day
life
of
the
neighbourhood.
In addition,
they
would
serve
to
optimize
the
existing
functions
and
events
of
the ethnic
enclave
and
act
as
anchor points
along
the
strip.
Moreover,
the
presence of
these
interventions
and
the
changes
that
they
bring,
are
meant
to
help
the bazaar
pave
the
path
to
a
new
identity
where
its
cultural
heritage
is
shared and
promoted,
yet
its
demographic
and
cultural
transition
are
acknowledged
and integrated.
The
examining
committee
is
as
follows:
The
committee
has
been
approved
as
authorized
by
the
Graduate
Studies
Committee.
The
Defence
Examination
will
take
place:
Friday,
May
1,
2015
9:30AM
ARC
2026
A
copy
of
the
thesis
is
available
for
perusal
in
ARC
2106A.
Sundus Shaikh
Of the thesis entitled: Cultural Connectivity : Design as a method to facilitate cultural exchange within the Gerrard Bazaar
Abstract:
As immigrants choose to reside within the suburbs and the city undergoes rapid geographical change, Toronto’s ethnic enclaves are facing significant transformation in terms of their neighbourhood demographics, economic conditions and function. The Gerrard Bazaar is a prime example of an ethnic retail strip that is struggling with a changing identity and day-to-day role, as the South Asian population gradually reduces within the area, while young, non-South Asian families continue to move in. Once a thriving Indo-Pakistani retail destination, the ethnic enclave has witnessed significant economic decline leading to fluctuating levels of urban vacancy. Among the many South Asian shops, there lies an increasing presence of mainstream coffee shops and specialty stores that have replaced declining South Asian retail enterprises over time. Various social and business organizations are also situated along the strip, yet a significant number of their efforts to regenerate the enclave, operate in an isolated manner. There also remains a cultural divide within the area as well as a general lack of solidarity among the merchants and organizations within the bazaar.
This
thesis
suggests
that
the
key
to
reviving the
Bazaar
as
well
as
other
declining
ethnic
enclaves,
lies
in
promoting
new networks
of
“cultural
exchange”
in
which
architecture
and
urban
design
can
be
a facilitator
of
new
interactions
and
symbiotic
relationships
among
different organizations
and
individuals.
It
comprises
of
a
demographic,
historic, architectural
and
spatial
analysis
as
well
as
in-depth
human
research
that studies
how
visitors
and
inhabitants
of
the
Gerrard
Bazaar
perceive
the
ethnic enclave,
and
what
culture
means
to
them.
These discovered
studies
and
personal insights
influence
the
design
process
and
are
meant
to
serve
as
a
new
technique by
which
one
can
study
the
notion
of
culture
and
how
it
informs
architecture and
urban
interventions.
Thus,
the
focus
of
thesis
is
on
the
method
by
which architecture and
design
is
produced,
in
response
to
the
lack
of
cultural exchange.
The
way
in
which
this
method
translates research
into
design,
is
by
the
formulation
of
a
manual
of
“design
strategies” that
serves
as
a
template
for
the
design
intervention.
This
manual
is
applied to
three
different
sites
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
for
three
types
of
unique design proposals
-
A
re-activated
plaza,
an
adaptively
re-used
square
and
a re-imagined
senior’s
residential
complex.
These
proposals
are
not
meant
to “freeze”
the
changes
that
are
taking
place
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
but rather,
respond
to
the
gentrification
in
a
positive
manner
and acknowledge
the demographic
trend
that
is
transpiring
within
the
neighbourhood.
It
is
envisioned that
these
new
interventions
would
act
as
catalysts
in
fostering
a
new
sense
of community
and
revitalizing
the
day-to-day
life
of
the
neighbourhood.
In addition,
they
would
serve
to
optimize
the
existing
functions
and
events
of
the ethnic
enclave
and
act
as
anchor points
along
the
strip.
Moreover,
the
presence of
these
interventions
and
the
changes
that
they
bring,
are
meant
to
help
the bazaar
pave
the
path
to
a
new
identity
where
its
cultural
heritage
is
shared and
promoted,
yet
its
demographic
and
cultural
transition
are
acknowledged
and integrated.
The
examining
committee
is
as
follows:
The
committee
has
been
approved
as
authorized
by
the
Graduate
Studies
Committee.
The
Defence
Examination
will
take
place:
Friday,
May
1,
2015
9:30AM
ARC
2026
A
copy
of
the
thesis
is
available
for
perusal
in
ARC
2106A.
Sundus Shaikh
Of the thesis entitled: Cultural Connectivity : Design as a method to facilitate cultural exchange within the Gerrard Bazaar
Abstract:
As immigrants choose to reside within the suburbs and the city undergoes rapid geographical change, Toronto’s ethnic enclaves are facing significant transformation in terms of their neighbourhood demographics, economic conditions and function. The Gerrard Bazaar is a prime example of an ethnic retail strip that is struggling with a changing identity and day-to-day role, as the South Asian population gradually reduces within the area, while young, non-South Asian families continue to move in. Once a thriving Indo-Pakistani retail destination, the ethnic enclave has witnessed significant economic decline leading to fluctuating levels of urban vacancy. Among the many South Asian shops, there lies an increasing presence of mainstream coffee shops and specialty stores that have replaced declining South Asian retail enterprises over time. Various social and business organizations are also situated along the strip, yet a significant number of their efforts to regenerate the enclave, operate in an isolated manner. There also remains a cultural divide within the area as well as a general lack of solidarity among the merchants and organizations within the bazaar.
This
thesis
suggests
that
the
key
to
reviving the
Bazaar
as
well
as
other
declining
ethnic
enclaves,
lies
in
promoting
new networks
of
“cultural
exchange”
in
which
architecture
and
urban
design
can
be
a facilitator
of
new
interactions
and
symbiotic
relationships
among
different organizations
and
individuals.
It
comprises
of
a
demographic,
historic, architectural
and
spatial
analysis
as
well
as
in-depth
human
research
that studies
how
visitors
and
inhabitants
of
the
Gerrard
Bazaar
perceive
the
ethnic enclave,
and
what
culture
means
to
them.
These discovered
studies
and
personal insights
influence
the
design
process
and
are
meant
to
serve
as
a
new
technique by
which
one
can
study
the
notion
of
culture
and
how
it
informs
architecture and
urban
interventions.
Thus,
the
focus
of
thesis
is
on
the
method
by
which architecture and
design
is
produced,
in
response
to
the
lack
of
cultural exchange.
The
way
in
which
this
method
translates research
into
design,
is
by
the
formulation
of
a
manual
of
“design
strategies” that
serves
as
a
template
for
the
design
intervention.
This
manual
is
applied to
three
different
sites
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
for
three
types
of
unique design proposals
-
A
re-activated
plaza,
an
adaptively
re-used
square
and
a re-imagined
senior’s
residential
complex.
These
proposals
are
not
meant
to “freeze”
the
changes
that
are
taking
place
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
but rather,
respond
to
the
gentrification
in
a
positive
manner
and acknowledge
the demographic
trend
that
is
transpiring
within
the
neighbourhood.
It
is
envisioned that
these
new
interventions
would
act
as
catalysts
in
fostering
a
new
sense
of community
and
revitalizing
the
day-to-day
life
of
the
neighbourhood.
In addition,
they
would
serve
to
optimize
the
existing
functions
and
events
of
the ethnic
enclave
and
act
as
anchor points
along
the
strip.
Moreover,
the
presence of
these
interventions
and
the
changes
that
they
bring,
are
meant
to
help
the bazaar
pave
the
path
to
a
new
identity
where
its
cultural
heritage
is
shared and
promoted,
yet
its
demographic
and
cultural
transition
are
acknowledged
and integrated.
The
examining
committee
is
as
follows:
The
committee
has
been
approved
as
authorized
by
the
Graduate
Studies
Committee.
The
Defence
Examination
will
take
place:
Friday,
May
1,
2015
9:30AM
ARC
2026
A
copy
of
the
thesis
is
available
for
perusal
in
ARC
2106A.
Sundus Shaikh
Of the thesis entitled: Cultural Connectivity : Design as a method to facilitate cultural exchange within the Gerrard Bazaar
Abstract:
As immigrants choose to reside within the suburbs and the city undergoes rapid geographical change, Toronto’s ethnic enclaves are facing significant transformation in terms of their neighbourhood demographics, economic conditions and function. The Gerrard Bazaar is a prime example of an ethnic retail strip that is struggling with a changing identity and day-to-day role, as the South Asian population gradually reduces within the area, while young, non-South Asian families continue to move in. Once a thriving Indo-Pakistani retail destination, the ethnic enclave has witnessed significant economic decline leading to fluctuating levels of urban vacancy. Among the many South Asian shops, there lies an increasing presence of mainstream coffee shops and specialty stores that have replaced declining South Asian retail enterprises over time. Various social and business organizations are also situated along the strip, yet a significant number of their efforts to regenerate the enclave, operate in an isolated manner. There also remains a cultural divide within the area as well as a general lack of solidarity among the merchants and organizations within the bazaar.
This
thesis
suggests
that
the
key
to
reviving the
Bazaar
as
well
as
other
declining
ethnic
enclaves,
lies
in
promoting
new networks
of
“cultural
exchange”
in
which
architecture
and
urban
design
can
be
a facilitator
of
new
interactions
and
symbiotic
relationships
among
different organizations
and
individuals.
It
comprises
of
a
demographic,
historic, architectural
and
spatial
analysis
as
well
as
in-depth
human
research
that studies
how
visitors
and
inhabitants
of
the
Gerrard
Bazaar
perceive
the
ethnic enclave,
and
what
culture
means
to
them.
These discovered
studies
and
personal insights
influence
the
design
process
and
are
meant
to
serve
as
a
new
technique by
which
one
can
study
the
notion
of
culture
and
how
it
informs
architecture and
urban
interventions.
Thus,
the
focus
of
thesis
is
on
the
method
by
which architecture and
design
is
produced,
in
response
to
the
lack
of
cultural exchange.
The
way
in
which
this
method
translates research
into
design,
is
by
the
formulation
of
a
manual
of
“design
strategies” that
serves
as
a
template
for
the
design
intervention.
This
manual
is
applied to
three
different
sites
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
for
three
types
of
unique design proposals
-
A
re-activated
plaza,
an
adaptively
re-used
square
and
a re-imagined
senior’s
residential
complex.
These
proposals
are
not
meant
to “freeze”
the
changes
that
are
taking
place
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
but rather,
respond
to
the
gentrification
in
a
positive
manner
and acknowledge
the demographic
trend
that
is
transpiring
within
the
neighbourhood.
It
is
envisioned that
these
new
interventions
would
act
as
catalysts
in
fostering
a
new
sense
of community
and
revitalizing
the
day-to-day
life
of
the
neighbourhood.
In addition,
they
would
serve
to
optimize
the
existing
functions
and
events
of
the ethnic
enclave
and
act
as
anchor points
along
the
strip.
Moreover,
the
presence of
these
interventions
and
the
changes
that
they
bring,
are
meant
to
help
the bazaar
pave
the
path
to
a
new
identity
where
its
cultural
heritage
is
shared and
promoted,
yet
its
demographic
and
cultural
transition
are
acknowledged
and integrated.
The
examining
committee
is
as
follows:
The
committee
has
been
approved
as
authorized
by
the
Graduate
Studies
Committee.
The
Defence
Examination
will
take
place:
Friday,
May
1,
2015
9:30AM
ARC
2026
A
copy
of
the
thesis
is
available
for
perusal
in
ARC
2106A.
Sundus Shaikh
Of the thesis entitled: Cultural Connectivity : Design as a method to facilitate cultural exchange within the Gerrard Bazaar
Abstract:
As immigrants choose to reside within the suburbs and the city undergoes rapid geographical change, Toronto’s ethnic enclaves are facing significant transformation in terms of their neighbourhood demographics, economic conditions and function. The Gerrard Bazaar is a prime example of an ethnic retail strip that is struggling with a changing identity and day-to-day role, as the South Asian population gradually reduces within the area, while young, non-South Asian families continue to move in. Once a thriving Indo-Pakistani retail destination, the ethnic enclave has witnessed significant economic decline leading to fluctuating levels of urban vacancy. Among the many South Asian shops, there lies an increasing presence of mainstream coffee shops and specialty stores that have replaced declining South Asian retail enterprises over time. Various social and business organizations are also situated along the strip, yet a significant number of their efforts to regenerate the enclave, operate in an isolated manner. There also remains a cultural divide within the area as well as a general lack of solidarity among the merchants and organizations within the bazaar.
This
thesis
suggests
that
the
key
to
reviving the
Bazaar
as
well
as
other
declining
ethnic
enclaves,
lies
in
promoting
new networks
of
“cultural
exchange”
in
which
architecture
and
urban
design
can
be
a facilitator
of
new
interactions
and
symbiotic
relationships
among
different organizations
and
individuals.
It
comprises
of
a
demographic,
historic, architectural
and
spatial
analysis
as
well
as
in-depth
human
research
that studies
how
visitors
and
inhabitants
of
the
Gerrard
Bazaar
perceive
the
ethnic enclave,
and
what
culture
means
to
them.
These discovered
studies
and
personal insights
influence
the
design
process
and
are
meant
to
serve
as
a
new
technique by
which
one
can
study
the
notion
of
culture
and
how
it
informs
architecture and
urban
interventions.
Thus,
the
focus
of
thesis
is
on
the
method
by
which architecture and
design
is
produced,
in
response
to
the
lack
of
cultural exchange.
The
way
in
which
this
method
translates research
into
design,
is
by
the
formulation
of
a
manual
of
“design
strategies” that
serves
as
a
template
for
the
design
intervention.
This
manual
is
applied to
three
different
sites
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
for
three
types
of
unique design proposals
-
A
re-activated
plaza,
an
adaptively
re-used
square
and
a re-imagined
senior’s
residential
complex.
These
proposals
are
not
meant
to “freeze”
the
changes
that
are
taking
place
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
but rather,
respond
to
the
gentrification
in
a
positive
manner
and acknowledge
the demographic
trend
that
is
transpiring
within
the
neighbourhood.
It
is
envisioned that
these
new
interventions
would
act
as
catalysts
in
fostering
a
new
sense
of community
and
revitalizing
the
day-to-day
life
of
the
neighbourhood.
In addition,
they
would
serve
to
optimize
the
existing
functions
and
events
of
the ethnic
enclave
and
act
as
anchor points
along
the
strip.
Moreover,
the
presence of
these
interventions
and
the
changes
that
they
bring,
are
meant
to
help
the bazaar
pave
the
path
to
a
new
identity
where
its
cultural
heritage
is
shared and
promoted,
yet
its
demographic
and
cultural
transition
are
acknowledged
and integrated.
The
examining
committee
is
as
follows:
The
committee
has
been
approved
as
authorized
by
the
Graduate
Studies
Committee.
The
Defence
Examination
will
take
place:
Friday,
May
1,
2015
9:30AM
ARC
2026
A
copy
of
the
thesis
is
available
for
perusal
in
ARC
2106A.
Sundus Shaikh
Of the thesis entitled: Cultural Connectivity : Design as a method to facilitate cultural exchange within the Gerrard Bazaar
Abstract:
As immigrants choose to reside within the suburbs and the city undergoes rapid geographical change, Toronto’s ethnic enclaves are facing significant transformation in terms of their neighbourhood demographics, economic conditions and function. The Gerrard Bazaar is a prime example of an ethnic retail strip that is struggling with a changing identity and day-to-day role, as the South Asian population gradually reduces within the area, while young, non-South Asian families continue to move in. Once a thriving Indo-Pakistani retail destination, the ethnic enclave has witnessed significant economic decline leading to fluctuating levels of urban vacancy. Among the many South Asian shops, there lies an increasing presence of mainstream coffee shops and specialty stores that have replaced declining South Asian retail enterprises over time. Various social and business organizations are also situated along the strip, yet a significant number of their efforts to regenerate the enclave, operate in an isolated manner. There also remains a cultural divide within the area as well as a general lack of solidarity among the merchants and organizations within the bazaar.
This
thesis
suggests
that
the
key
to
reviving the
Bazaar
as
well
as
other
declining
ethnic
enclaves,
lies
in
promoting
new networks
of
“cultural
exchange”
in
which
architecture
and
urban
design
can
be
a facilitator
of
new
interactions
and
symbiotic
relationships
among
different organizations
and
individuals.
It
comprises
of
a
demographic,
historic, architectural
and
spatial
analysis
as
well
as
in-depth
human
research
that studies
how
visitors
and
inhabitants
of
the
Gerrard
Bazaar
perceive
the
ethnic enclave,
and
what
culture
means
to
them.
These discovered
studies
and
personal insights
influence
the
design
process
and
are
meant
to
serve
as
a
new
technique by
which
one
can
study
the
notion
of
culture
and
how
it
informs
architecture and
urban
interventions.
Thus,
the
focus
of
thesis
is
on
the
method
by
which architecture and
design
is
produced,
in
response
to
the
lack
of
cultural exchange.
The
way
in
which
this
method
translates research
into
design,
is
by
the
formulation
of
a
manual
of
“design
strategies” that
serves
as
a
template
for
the
design
intervention.
This
manual
is
applied to
three
different
sites
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
for
three
types
of
unique design proposals
-
A
re-activated
plaza,
an
adaptively
re-used
square
and
a re-imagined
senior’s
residential
complex.
These
proposals
are
not
meant
to “freeze”
the
changes
that
are
taking
place
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
but rather,
respond
to
the
gentrification
in
a
positive
manner
and acknowledge
the demographic
trend
that
is
transpiring
within
the
neighbourhood.
It
is
envisioned that
these
new
interventions
would
act
as
catalysts
in
fostering
a
new
sense
of community
and
revitalizing
the
day-to-day
life
of
the
neighbourhood.
In addition,
they
would
serve
to
optimize
the
existing
functions
and
events
of
the ethnic
enclave
and
act
as
anchor points
along
the
strip.
Moreover,
the
presence of
these
interventions
and
the
changes
that
they
bring,
are
meant
to
help
the bazaar
pave
the
path
to
a
new
identity
where
its
cultural
heritage
is
shared and
promoted,
yet
its
demographic
and
cultural
transition
are
acknowledged
and integrated.
The
examining
committee
is
as
follows:
The
committee
has
been
approved
as
authorized
by
the
Graduate
Studies
Committee.
The
Defence
Examination
will
take
place:
Friday,
May
1,
2015
9:30AM
ARC
2026
A
copy
of
the
thesis
is
available
for
perusal
in
ARC
2106A.
Sundus Shaikh
Of the thesis entitled: Cultural Connectivity : Design as a method to facilitate cultural exchange within the Gerrard Bazaar
Abstract:
As immigrants choose to reside within the suburbs and the city undergoes rapid geographical change, Toronto’s ethnic enclaves are facing significant transformation in terms of their neighbourhood demographics, economic conditions and function. The Gerrard Bazaar is a prime example of an ethnic retail strip that is struggling with a changing identity and day-to-day role, as the South Asian population gradually reduces within the area, while young, non-South Asian families continue to move in. Once a thriving Indo-Pakistani retail destination, the ethnic enclave has witnessed significant economic decline leading to fluctuating levels of urban vacancy. Among the many South Asian shops, there lies an increasing presence of mainstream coffee shops and specialty stores that have replaced declining South Asian retail enterprises over time. Various social and business organizations are also situated along the strip, yet a significant number of their efforts to regenerate the enclave, operate in an isolated manner. There also remains a cultural divide within the area as well as a general lack of solidarity among the merchants and organizations within the bazaar.
This
thesis
suggests
that
the
key
to
reviving the
Bazaar
as
well
as
other
declining
ethnic
enclaves,
lies
in
promoting
new networks
of
“cultural
exchange”
in
which
architecture
and
urban
design
can
be
a facilitator
of
new
interactions
and
symbiotic
relationships
among
different organizations
and
individuals.
It
comprises
of
a
demographic,
historic, architectural
and
spatial
analysis
as
well
as
in-depth
human
research
that studies
how
visitors
and
inhabitants
of
the
Gerrard
Bazaar
perceive
the
ethnic enclave,
and
what
culture
means
to
them.
These discovered
studies
and
personal insights
influence
the
design
process
and
are
meant
to
serve
as
a
new
technique by
which
one
can
study
the
notion
of
culture
and
how
it
informs
architecture and
urban
interventions.
Thus,
the
focus
of
thesis
is
on
the
method
by
which architecture and
design
is
produced,
in
response
to
the
lack
of
cultural exchange.
The
way
in
which
this
method
translates research
into
design,
is
by
the
formulation
of
a
manual
of
“design
strategies” that
serves
as
a
template
for
the
design
intervention.
This
manual
is
applied to
three
different
sites
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
for
three
types
of
unique design proposals
-
A
re-activated
plaza,
an
adaptively
re-used
square
and
a re-imagined
senior’s
residential
complex.
These
proposals
are
not
meant
to “freeze”
the
changes
that
are
taking
place
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
but rather,
respond
to
the
gentrification
in
a
positive
manner
and acknowledge
the demographic
trend
that
is
transpiring
within
the
neighbourhood.
It
is
envisioned that
these
new
interventions
would
act
as
catalysts
in
fostering
a
new
sense
of community
and
revitalizing
the
day-to-day
life
of
the
neighbourhood.
In addition,
they
would
serve
to
optimize
the
existing
functions
and
events
of
the ethnic
enclave
and
act
as
anchor points
along
the
strip.
Moreover,
the
presence of
these
interventions
and
the
changes
that
they
bring,
are
meant
to
help
the bazaar
pave
the
path
to
a
new
identity
where
its
cultural
heritage
is
shared and
promoted,
yet
its
demographic
and
cultural
transition
are
acknowledged
and integrated.
The
examining
committee
is
as
follows:
The
committee
has
been
approved
as
authorized
by
the
Graduate
Studies
Committee.
The
Defence
Examination
will
take
place:
Friday,
May
1,
2015
9:30AM
ARC
2026
A
copy
of
the
thesis
is
available
for
perusal
in
ARC
2106A.
Sundus Shaikh
Of the thesis entitled: Cultural Connectivity : Design as a method to facilitate cultural exchange within the Gerrard Bazaar
Abstract:
As immigrants choose to reside within the suburbs and the city undergoes rapid geographical change, Toronto’s ethnic enclaves are facing significant transformation in terms of their neighbourhood demographics, economic conditions and function. The Gerrard Bazaar is a prime example of an ethnic retail strip that is struggling with a changing identity and day-to-day role, as the South Asian population gradually reduces within the area, while young, non-South Asian families continue to move in. Once a thriving Indo-Pakistani retail destination, the ethnic enclave has witnessed significant economic decline leading to fluctuating levels of urban vacancy. Among the many South Asian shops, there lies an increasing presence of mainstream coffee shops and specialty stores that have replaced declining South Asian retail enterprises over time. Various social and business organizations are also situated along the strip, yet a significant number of their efforts to regenerate the enclave, operate in an isolated manner. There also remains a cultural divide within the area as well as a general lack of solidarity among the merchants and organizations within the bazaar.
This
thesis
suggests
that
the
key
to
reviving the
Bazaar
as
well
as
other
declining
ethnic
enclaves,
lies
in
promoting
new networks
of
“cultural
exchange”
in
which
architecture
and
urban
design
can
be
a facilitator
of
new
interactions
and
symbiotic
relationships
among
different organizations
and
individuals.
It
comprises
of
a
demographic,
historic, architectural
and
spatial
analysis
as
well
as
in-depth
human
research
that studies
how
visitors
and
inhabitants
of
the
Gerrard
Bazaar
perceive
the
ethnic enclave,
and
what
culture
means
to
them.
These discovered
studies
and
personal insights
influence
the
design
process
and
are
meant
to
serve
as
a
new
technique by
which
one
can
study
the
notion
of
culture
and
how
it
informs
architecture and
urban
interventions.
Thus,
the
focus
of
thesis
is
on
the
method
by
which architecture and
design
is
produced,
in
response
to
the
lack
of
cultural exchange.
The
way
in
which
this
method
translates research
into
design,
is
by
the
formulation
of
a
manual
of
“design
strategies” that
serves
as
a
template
for
the
design
intervention.
This
manual
is
applied to
three
different
sites
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
for
three
types
of
unique design proposals
-
A
re-activated
plaza,
an
adaptively
re-used
square
and
a re-imagined
senior’s
residential
complex.
These
proposals
are
not
meant
to “freeze”
the
changes
that
are
taking
place
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
but rather,
respond
to
the
gentrification
in
a
positive
manner
and acknowledge
the demographic
trend
that
is
transpiring
within
the
neighbourhood.
It
is
envisioned that
these
new
interventions
would
act
as
catalysts
in
fostering
a
new
sense
of community
and
revitalizing
the
day-to-day
life
of
the
neighbourhood.
In addition,
they
would
serve
to
optimize
the
existing
functions
and
events
of
the ethnic
enclave
and
act
as
anchor points
along
the
strip.
Moreover,
the
presence of
these
interventions
and
the
changes
that
they
bring,
are
meant
to
help
the bazaar
pave
the
path
to
a
new
identity
where
its
cultural
heritage
is
shared and
promoted,
yet
its
demographic
and
cultural
transition
are
acknowledged
and integrated.
The
examining
committee
is
as
follows:
The
committee
has
been
approved
as
authorized
by
the
Graduate
Studies
Committee.
The
Defence
Examination
will
take
place:
Friday,
May
1,
2015
9:30AM
ARC
2026
A
copy
of
the
thesis
is
available
for
perusal
in
ARC
2106A.
Sundus Shaikh
Of the thesis entitled: Cultural Connectivity : Design as a method to facilitate cultural exchange within the Gerrard Bazaar
Abstract:
As immigrants choose to reside within the suburbs and the city undergoes rapid geographical change, Toronto’s ethnic enclaves are facing significant transformation in terms of their neighbourhood demographics, economic conditions and function. The Gerrard Bazaar is a prime example of an ethnic retail strip that is struggling with a changing identity and day-to-day role, as the South Asian population gradually reduces within the area, while young, non-South Asian families continue to move in. Once a thriving Indo-Pakistani retail destination, the ethnic enclave has witnessed significant economic decline leading to fluctuating levels of urban vacancy. Among the many South Asian shops, there lies an increasing presence of mainstream coffee shops and specialty stores that have replaced declining South Asian retail enterprises over time. Various social and business organizations are also situated along the strip, yet a significant number of their efforts to regenerate the enclave, operate in an isolated manner. There also remains a cultural divide within the area as well as a general lack of solidarity among the merchants and organizations within the bazaar.
This
thesis
suggests
that
the
key
to
reviving the
Bazaar
as
well
as
other
declining
ethnic
enclaves,
lies
in
promoting
new networks
of
“cultural
exchange”
in
which
architecture
and
urban
design
can
be
a facilitator
of
new
interactions
and
symbiotic
relationships
among
different organizations
and
individuals.
It
comprises
of
a
demographic,
historic, architectural
and
spatial
analysis
as
well
as
in-depth
human
research
that studies
how
visitors
and
inhabitants
of
the
Gerrard
Bazaar
perceive
the
ethnic enclave,
and
what
culture
means
to
them.
These discovered
studies
and
personal insights
influence
the
design
process
and
are
meant
to
serve
as
a
new
technique by
which
one
can
study
the
notion
of
culture
and
how
it
informs
architecture and
urban
interventions.
Thus,
the
focus
of
thesis
is
on
the
method
by
which architecture and
design
is
produced,
in
response
to
the
lack
of
cultural exchange.
The
way
in
which
this
method
translates research
into
design,
is
by
the
formulation
of
a
manual
of
“design
strategies” that
serves
as
a
template
for
the
design
intervention.
This
manual
is
applied to
three
different
sites
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
for
three
types
of
unique design proposals
-
A
re-activated
plaza,
an
adaptively
re-used
square
and
a re-imagined
senior’s
residential
complex.
These
proposals
are
not
meant
to “freeze”
the
changes
that
are
taking
place
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
but rather,
respond
to
the
gentrification
in
a
positive
manner
and acknowledge
the demographic
trend
that
is
transpiring
within
the
neighbourhood.
It
is
envisioned that
these
new
interventions
would
act
as
catalysts
in
fostering
a
new
sense
of community
and
revitalizing
the
day-to-day
life
of
the
neighbourhood.
In addition,
they
would
serve
to
optimize
the
existing
functions
and
events
of
the ethnic
enclave
and
act
as
anchor points
along
the
strip.
Moreover,
the
presence of
these
interventions
and
the
changes
that
they
bring,
are
meant
to
help
the bazaar
pave
the
path
to
a
new
identity
where
its
cultural
heritage
is
shared and
promoted,
yet
its
demographic
and
cultural
transition
are
acknowledged
and integrated.
The
examining
committee
is
as
follows:
The
committee
has
been
approved
as
authorized
by
the
Graduate
Studies
Committee.
The
Defence
Examination
will
take
place:
Friday,
May
1,
2015
9:30AM
ARC
2026
A
copy
of
the
thesis
is
available
for
perusal
in
ARC
2106A.
Sundus Shaikh
Of the thesis entitled: Cultural Connectivity : Design as a method to facilitate cultural exchange within the Gerrard Bazaar
Abstract:
As immigrants choose to reside within the suburbs and the city undergoes rapid geographical change, Toronto’s ethnic enclaves are facing significant transformation in terms of their neighbourhood demographics, economic conditions and function. The Gerrard Bazaar is a prime example of an ethnic retail strip that is struggling with a changing identity and day-to-day role, as the South Asian population gradually reduces within the area, while young, non-South Asian families continue to move in. Once a thriving Indo-Pakistani retail destination, the ethnic enclave has witnessed significant economic decline leading to fluctuating levels of urban vacancy. Among the many South Asian shops, there lies an increasing presence of mainstream coffee shops and specialty stores that have replaced declining South Asian retail enterprises over time. Various social and business organizations are also situated along the strip, yet a significant number of their efforts to regenerate the enclave, operate in an isolated manner. There also remains a cultural divide within the area as well as a general lack of solidarity among the merchants and organizations within the bazaar.
This
thesis
suggests
that
the
key
to
reviving the
Bazaar
as
well
as
other
declining
ethnic
enclaves,
lies
in
promoting
new networks
of
“cultural
exchange”
in
which
architecture
and
urban
design
can
be
a facilitator
of
new
interactions
and
symbiotic
relationships
among
different organizations
and
individuals.
It
comprises
of
a
demographic,
historic, architectural
and
spatial
analysis
as
well
as
in-depth
human
research
that studies
how
visitors
and
inhabitants
of
the
Gerrard
Bazaar
perceive
the
ethnic enclave,
and
what
culture
means
to
them.
These discovered
studies
and
personal insights
influence
the
design
process
and
are
meant
to
serve
as
a
new
technique by
which
one
can
study
the
notion
of
culture
and
how
it
informs
architecture and
urban
interventions.
Thus,
the
focus
of
thesis
is
on
the
method
by
which architecture and
design
is
produced,
in
response
to
the
lack
of
cultural exchange.
The
way
in
which
this
method
translates research
into
design,
is
by
the
formulation
of
a
manual
of
“design
strategies” that
serves
as
a
template
for
the
design
intervention.
This
manual
is
applied to
three
different
sites
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
for
three
types
of
unique design proposals
-
A
re-activated
plaza,
an
adaptively
re-used
square
and
a re-imagined
senior’s
residential
complex.
These
proposals
are
not
meant
to “freeze”
the
changes
that
are
taking
place
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
but rather,
respond
to
the
gentrification
in
a
positive
manner
and acknowledge
the demographic
trend
that
is
transpiring
within
the
neighbourhood.
It
is
envisioned that
these
new
interventions
would
act
as
catalysts
in
fostering
a
new
sense
of community
and
revitalizing
the
day-to-day
life
of
the
neighbourhood.
In addition,
they
would
serve
to
optimize
the
existing
functions
and
events
of
the ethnic
enclave
and
act
as
anchor points
along
the
strip.
Moreover,
the
presence of
these
interventions
and
the
changes
that
they
bring,
are
meant
to
help
the bazaar
pave
the
path
to
a
new
identity
where
its
cultural
heritage
is
shared and
promoted,
yet
its
demographic
and
cultural
transition
are
acknowledged
and integrated.
The
examining
committee
is
as
follows:
The
committee
has
been
approved
as
authorized
by
the
Graduate
Studies
Committee.
The
Defence
Examination
will
take
place:
Friday,
May
1,
2015
9:30AM
ARC
2026
A
copy
of
the
thesis
is
available
for
perusal
in
ARC
2106A.
Sundus Shaikh
Of the thesis entitled: Cultural Connectivity : Design as a method to facilitate cultural exchange within the Gerrard Bazaar
Abstract:
As immigrants choose to reside within the suburbs and the city undergoes rapid geographical change, Toronto’s ethnic enclaves are facing significant transformation in terms of their neighbourhood demographics, economic conditions and function. The Gerrard Bazaar is a prime example of an ethnic retail strip that is struggling with a changing identity and day-to-day role, as the South Asian population gradually reduces within the area, while young, non-South Asian families continue to move in. Once a thriving Indo-Pakistani retail destination, the ethnic enclave has witnessed significant economic decline leading to fluctuating levels of urban vacancy. Among the many South Asian shops, there lies an increasing presence of mainstream coffee shops and specialty stores that have replaced declining South Asian retail enterprises over time. Various social and business organizations are also situated along the strip, yet a significant number of their efforts to regenerate the enclave, operate in an isolated manner. There also remains a cultural divide within the area as well as a general lack of solidarity among the merchants and organizations within the bazaar.
This
thesis
suggests
that
the
key
to
reviving the
Bazaar
as
well
as
other
declining
ethnic
enclaves,
lies
in
promoting
new networks
of
“cultural
exchange”
in
which
architecture
and
urban
design
can
be
a facilitator
of
new
interactions
and
symbiotic
relationships
among
different organizations
and
individuals.
It
comprises
of
a
demographic,
historic, architectural
and
spatial
analysis
as
well
as
in-depth
human
research
that studies
how
visitors
and
inhabitants
of
the
Gerrard
Bazaar
perceive
the
ethnic enclave,
and
what
culture
means
to
them.
These discovered
studies
and
personal insights
influence
the
design
process
and
are
meant
to
serve
as
a
new
technique by
which
one
can
study
the
notion
of
culture
and
how
it
informs
architecture and
urban
interventions.
Thus,
the
focus
of
thesis
is
on
the
method
by
which architecture and
design
is
produced,
in
response
to
the
lack
of
cultural exchange.
The
way
in
which
this
method
translates research
into
design,
is
by
the
formulation
of
a
manual
of
“design
strategies” that
serves
as
a
template
for
the
design
intervention.
This
manual
is
applied to
three
different
sites
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
for
three
types
of
unique design proposals
-
A
re-activated
plaza,
an
adaptively
re-used
square
and
a re-imagined
senior’s
residential
complex.
These
proposals
are
not
meant
to “freeze”
the
changes
that
are
taking
place
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
but rather,
respond
to
the
gentrification
in
a
positive
manner
and acknowledge
the demographic
trend
that
is
transpiring
within
the
neighbourhood.
It
is
envisioned that
these
new
interventions
would
act
as
catalysts
in
fostering
a
new
sense
of community
and
revitalizing
the
day-to-day
life
of
the
neighbourhood.
In addition,
they
would
serve
to
optimize
the
existing
functions
and
events
of
the ethnic
enclave
and
act
as
anchor points
along
the
strip.
Moreover,
the
presence of
these
interventions
and
the
changes
that
they
bring,
are
meant
to
help
the bazaar
pave
the
path
to
a
new
identity
where
its
cultural
heritage
is
shared and
promoted,
yet
its
demographic
and
cultural
transition
are
acknowledged
and integrated.
The
examining
committee
is
as
follows:
The
committee
has
been
approved
as
authorized
by
the
Graduate
Studies
Committee.
The
Defence
Examination
will
take
place:
Friday,
May
1,
2015
9:30AM
ARC
2026
A
copy
of
the
thesis
is
available
for
perusal
in
ARC
2106A.
Sundus Shaikh
Of the thesis entitled: Cultural Connectivity : Design as a method to facilitate cultural exchange within the Gerrard Bazaar
Abstract:
As immigrants choose to reside within the suburbs and the city undergoes rapid geographical change, Toronto’s ethnic enclaves are facing significant transformation in terms of their neighbourhood demographics, economic conditions and function. The Gerrard Bazaar is a prime example of an ethnic retail strip that is struggling with a changing identity and day-to-day role, as the South Asian population gradually reduces within the area, while young, non-South Asian families continue to move in. Once a thriving Indo-Pakistani retail destination, the ethnic enclave has witnessed significant economic decline leading to fluctuating levels of urban vacancy. Among the many South Asian shops, there lies an increasing presence of mainstream coffee shops and specialty stores that have replaced declining South Asian retail enterprises over time. Various social and business organizations are also situated along the strip, yet a significant number of their efforts to regenerate the enclave, operate in an isolated manner. There also remains a cultural divide within the area as well as a general lack of solidarity among the merchants and organizations within the bazaar.
This
thesis
suggests
that
the
key
to
reviving the
Bazaar
as
well
as
other
declining
ethnic
enclaves,
lies
in
promoting
new networks
of
“cultural
exchange”
in
which
architecture
and
urban
design
can
be
a facilitator
of
new
interactions
and
symbiotic
relationships
among
different organizations
and
individuals.
It
comprises
of
a
demographic,
historic, architectural
and
spatial
analysis
as
well
as
in-depth
human
research
that studies
how
visitors
and
inhabitants
of
the
Gerrard
Bazaar
perceive
the
ethnic enclave,
and
what
culture
means
to
them.
These discovered
studies
and
personal insights
influence
the
design
process
and
are
meant
to
serve
as
a
new
technique by
which
one
can
study
the
notion
of
culture
and
how
it
informs
architecture and
urban
interventions.
Thus,
the
focus
of
thesis
is
on
the
method
by
which architecture and
design
is
produced,
in
response
to
the
lack
of
cultural exchange.
The
way
in
which
this
method
translates research
into
design,
is
by
the
formulation
of
a
manual
of
“design
strategies” that
serves
as
a
template
for
the
design
intervention.
This
manual
is
applied to
three
different
sites
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
for
three
types
of
unique design proposals
-
A
re-activated
plaza,
an
adaptively
re-used
square
and
a re-imagined
senior’s
residential
complex.
These
proposals
are
not
meant
to “freeze”
the
changes
that
are
taking
place
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
but rather,
respond
to
the
gentrification
in
a
positive
manner
and acknowledge
the demographic
trend
that
is
transpiring
within
the
neighbourhood.
It
is
envisioned that
these
new
interventions
would
act
as
catalysts
in
fostering
a
new
sense
of community
and
revitalizing
the
day-to-day
life
of
the
neighbourhood.
In addition,
they
would
serve
to
optimize
the
existing
functions
and
events
of
the ethnic
enclave
and
act
as
anchor points
along
the
strip.
Moreover,
the
presence of
these
interventions
and
the
changes
that
they
bring,
are
meant
to
help
the bazaar
pave
the
path
to
a
new
identity
where
its
cultural
heritage
is
shared and
promoted,
yet
its
demographic
and
cultural
transition
are
acknowledged
and integrated.
The
examining
committee
is
as
follows:
The
committee
has
been
approved
as
authorized
by
the
Graduate
Studies
Committee.
The
Defence
Examination
will
take
place:
Friday,
May
1,
2015
9:30AM
ARC
2026
A
copy
of
the
thesis
is
available
for
perusal
in
ARC
2106A.
Sundus Shaikh
Of the thesis entitled: Cultural Connectivity : Design as a method to facilitate cultural exchange within the Gerrard Bazaar
Abstract:
As immigrants choose to reside within the suburbs and the city undergoes rapid geographical change, Toronto’s ethnic enclaves are facing significant transformation in terms of their neighbourhood demographics, economic conditions and function. The Gerrard Bazaar is a prime example of an ethnic retail strip that is struggling with a changing identity and day-to-day role, as the South Asian population gradually reduces within the area, while young, non-South Asian families continue to move in. Once a thriving Indo-Pakistani retail destination, the ethnic enclave has witnessed significant economic decline leading to fluctuating levels of urban vacancy. Among the many South Asian shops, there lies an increasing presence of mainstream coffee shops and specialty stores that have replaced declining South Asian retail enterprises over time. Various social and business organizations are also situated along the strip, yet a significant number of their efforts to regenerate the enclave, operate in an isolated manner. There also remains a cultural divide within the area as well as a general lack of solidarity among the merchants and organizations within the bazaar.
This
thesis
suggests
that
the
key
to
reviving the
Bazaar
as
well
as
other
declining
ethnic
enclaves,
lies
in
promoting
new networks
of
“cultural
exchange”
in
which
architecture
and
urban
design
can
be
a facilitator
of
new
interactions
and
symbiotic
relationships
among
different organizations
and
individuals.
It
comprises
of
a
demographic,
historic, architectural
and
spatial
analysis
as
well
as
in-depth
human
research
that studies
how
visitors
and
inhabitants
of
the
Gerrard
Bazaar
perceive
the
ethnic enclave,
and
what
culture
means
to
them.
These discovered
studies
and
personal insights
influence
the
design
process
and
are
meant
to
serve
as
a
new
technique by
which
one
can
study
the
notion
of
culture
and
how
it
informs
architecture and
urban
interventions.
Thus,
the
focus
of
thesis
is
on
the
method
by
which architecture and
design
is
produced,
in
response
to
the
lack
of
cultural exchange.
The
way
in
which
this
method
translates research
into
design,
is
by
the
formulation
of
a
manual
of
“design
strategies” that
serves
as
a
template
for
the
design
intervention.
This
manual
is
applied to
three
different
sites
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
for
three
types
of
unique design proposals
-
A
re-activated
plaza,
an
adaptively
re-used
square
and
a re-imagined
senior’s
residential
complex.
These
proposals
are
not
meant
to “freeze”
the
changes
that
are
taking
place
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
but rather,
respond
to
the
gentrification
in
a
positive
manner
and acknowledge
the demographic
trend
that
is
transpiring
within
the
neighbourhood.
It
is
envisioned that
these
new
interventions
would
act
as
catalysts
in
fostering
a
new
sense
of community
and
revitalizing
the
day-to-day
life
of
the
neighbourhood.
In addition,
they
would
serve
to
optimize
the
existing
functions
and
events
of
the ethnic
enclave
and
act
as
anchor points
along
the
strip.
Moreover,
the
presence of
these
interventions
and
the
changes
that
they
bring,
are
meant
to
help
the bazaar
pave
the
path
to
a
new
identity
where
its
cultural
heritage
is
shared and
promoted,
yet
its
demographic
and
cultural
transition
are
acknowledged
and integrated.
The
examining
committee
is
as
follows:
The
committee
has
been
approved
as
authorized
by
the
Graduate
Studies
Committee.
The
Defence
Examination
will
take
place:
Friday,
May
1,
2015
9:30AM
ARC
2026
A
copy
of
the
thesis
is
available
for
perusal
in
ARC
2106A.
Sundus Shaikh
Of the thesis entitled: Cultural Connectivity : Design as a method to facilitate cultural exchange within the Gerrard Bazaar
Abstract:
As immigrants choose to reside within the suburbs and the city undergoes rapid geographical change, Toronto’s ethnic enclaves are facing significant transformation in terms of their neighbourhood demographics, economic conditions and function. The Gerrard Bazaar is a prime example of an ethnic retail strip that is struggling with a changing identity and day-to-day role, as the South Asian population gradually reduces within the area, while young, non-South Asian families continue to move in. Once a thriving Indo-Pakistani retail destination, the ethnic enclave has witnessed significant economic decline leading to fluctuating levels of urban vacancy. Among the many South Asian shops, there lies an increasing presence of mainstream coffee shops and specialty stores that have replaced declining South Asian retail enterprises over time. Various social and business organizations are also situated along the strip, yet a significant number of their efforts to regenerate the enclave, operate in an isolated manner. There also remains a cultural divide within the area as well as a general lack of solidarity among the merchants and organizations within the bazaar.
This
thesis
suggests
that
the
key
to
reviving the
Bazaar
as
well
as
other
declining
ethnic
enclaves,
lies
in
promoting
new networks
of
“cultural
exchange”
in
which
architecture
and
urban
design
can
be
a facilitator
of
new
interactions
and
symbiotic
relationships
among
different organizations
and
individuals.
It
comprises
of
a
demographic,
historic, architectural
and
spatial
analysis
as
well
as
in-depth
human
research
that studies
how
visitors
and
inhabitants
of
the
Gerrard
Bazaar
perceive
the
ethnic enclave,
and
what
culture
means
to
them.
These discovered
studies
and
personal insights
influence
the
design
process
and
are
meant
to
serve
as
a
new
technique by
which
one
can
study
the
notion
of
culture
and
how
it
informs
architecture and
urban
interventions.
Thus,
the
focus
of
thesis
is
on
the
method
by
which architecture and
design
is
produced,
in
response
to
the
lack
of
cultural exchange.
The
way
in
which
this
method
translates research
into
design,
is
by
the
formulation
of
a
manual
of
“design
strategies” that
serves
as
a
template
for
the
design
intervention.
This
manual
is
applied to
three
different
sites
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
for
three
types
of
unique design proposals
-
A
re-activated
plaza,
an
adaptively
re-used
square
and
a re-imagined
senior’s
residential
complex.
These
proposals
are
not
meant
to “freeze”
the
changes
that
are
taking
place
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
but rather,
respond
to
the
gentrification
in
a
positive
manner
and acknowledge
the demographic
trend
that
is
transpiring
within
the
neighbourhood.
It
is
envisioned that
these
new
interventions
would
act
as
catalysts
in
fostering
a
new
sense
of community
and
revitalizing
the
day-to-day
life
of
the
neighbourhood.
In addition,
they
would
serve
to
optimize
the
existing
functions
and
events
of
the ethnic
enclave
and
act
as
anchor points
along
the
strip.
Moreover,
the
presence of
these
interventions
and
the
changes
that
they
bring,
are
meant
to
help
the bazaar
pave
the
path
to
a
new
identity
where
its
cultural
heritage
is
shared and
promoted,
yet
its
demographic
and
cultural
transition
are
acknowledged
and integrated.
The
examining
committee
is
as
follows:
The
committee
has
been
approved
as
authorized
by
the
Graduate
Studies
Committee.
The
Defence
Examination
will
take
place:
Friday,
May
1,
2015
9:30AM
ARC
2026
A
copy
of
the
thesis
is
available
for
perusal
in
ARC
2106A.
Sundus Shaikh
Of the thesis entitled: Cultural Connectivity : Design as a method to facilitate cultural exchange within the Gerrard Bazaar
Abstract:
As immigrants choose to reside within the suburbs and the city undergoes rapid geographical change, Toronto’s ethnic enclaves are facing significant transformation in terms of their neighbourhood demographics, economic conditions and function. The Gerrard Bazaar is a prime example of an ethnic retail strip that is struggling with a changing identity and day-to-day role, as the South Asian population gradually reduces within the area, while young, non-South Asian families continue to move in. Once a thriving Indo-Pakistani retail destination, the ethnic enclave has witnessed significant economic decline leading to fluctuating levels of urban vacancy. Among the many South Asian shops, there lies an increasing presence of mainstream coffee shops and specialty stores that have replaced declining South Asian retail enterprises over time. Various social and business organizations are also situated along the strip, yet a significant number of their efforts to regenerate the enclave, operate in an isolated manner. There also remains a cultural divide within the area as well as a general lack of solidarity among the merchants and organizations within the bazaar.
This
thesis
suggests
that
the
key
to
reviving the
Bazaar
as
well
as
other
declining
ethnic
enclaves,
lies
in
promoting
new networks
of
“cultural
exchange”
in
which
architecture
and
urban
design
can
be
a facilitator
of
new
interactions
and
symbiotic
relationships
among
different organizations
and
individuals.
It
comprises
of
a
demographic,
historic, architectural
and
spatial
analysis
as
well
as
in-depth
human
research
that studies
how
visitors
and
inhabitants
of
the
Gerrard
Bazaar
perceive
the
ethnic enclave,
and
what
culture
means
to
them.
These discovered
studies
and
personal insights
influence
the
design
process
and
are
meant
to
serve
as
a
new
technique by
which
one
can
study
the
notion
of
culture
and
how
it
informs
architecture and
urban
interventions.
Thus,
the
focus
of
thesis
is
on
the
method
by
which architecture and
design
is
produced,
in
response
to
the
lack
of
cultural exchange.
The
way
in
which
this
method
translates research
into
design,
is
by
the
formulation
of
a
manual
of
“design
strategies” that
serves
as
a
template
for
the
design
intervention.
This
manual
is
applied to
three
different
sites
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
for
three
types
of
unique design proposals
-
A
re-activated
plaza,
an
adaptively
re-used
square
and
a re-imagined
senior’s
residential
complex.
These
proposals
are
not
meant
to “freeze”
the
changes
that
are
taking
place
within
the
Gerrard
Bazaar,
but rather,
respond
to
the
gentrification
in
a
positive
manner
and acknowledge
the demographic
trend
that
is
transpiring
within
the
neighbourhood.
It
is
envisioned that
these
new
interventions
would
act
as
catalysts
in
fostering
a
new
sense
of community
and
revitalizing
the
day-to-day
life
of
the
neighbourhood.
In addition,
they
would
serve
to
optimize
the
existing
functions
and
events
of
the ethnic
enclave
and
act
as
anchor points
along
the
strip.
Moreover,
the
presence of
these
interventions
and
the
changes
that
they
bring,
are
meant
to
help
the bazaar
pave
the
path
to
a
new
identity
where
its
cultural
heritage
is
shared and
promoted,
yet
its
demographic
and
cultural
transition
are
acknowledged
and integrated.
The
examining
committee
is
as
follows: