Chronicle of confinement: A tale of Dystopian Chains and Utopian dreams

This architectural thesis reimagines the design of prisons, proposing a new typology that helps with a more beneficial transition for prisoners back into society. By drawing insights from documentaries, movies, interviews, and existing prison models, the thesis envisions a utopian prison environment centered on rehabilitation and social reintegration. This approach challenges the conventional punitive model and aims to address the pressing issues of high recidivism rates and the marginalization of ex-offenders. The proposed prison design integrates structured psychological treatments, meaningful social interactions, and opportunities for skill development and personal growth. These elements create a dual reality for prisoners, juxtaposing the harsh physical conditions of confinement with a supportive psychological environment that encourages inner resilience and hope. This thesis explores the architectural symbolism embedded in both dystopian and utopian prison designs, reflecting societal values of control, oppression, freedom, and rehabilitation. By emphasizing the power of hope and imagination, this thesis provides a comprehensive understanding of the interplay between physical confinement, mental resilience, and societal ideologies. It aims to shed light on the human capacity to maintain agency, identity, and purpose even in oppressive environments, contributing to broader discussions on justice, rehabilitation, and societal change.

Name thesis:degree_name

Master of Architecture

Level thesis:degree_level

masters

Discipline thesis:degree_discipline

Architecture

Department dc:contributor.department

Architecture

Grantor dc:publisher

Virginia Tech

Year dc:date.issued

2024

Author dc:creator

• AlHajj, Rayane M.

Chair dc:contributor.committeechair

• de Hahn, Henri T.

Committee members dc:contributor.committeemember

• Gipe, Andrew
• Borunda, Luis

• Prisons
• rehabilitation
• Future of prisons
• dystopia
• utopia
• hope and imagination

Statement dc:rights

• In Copyright

Licence dc:rights.uri

• http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/InC/1.0/

Language dc:language.iso

en

Dc Identifier Other

vt_gsexam:41058

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:vtechworks.lib.vt.edu:10919/119402