Brief
I wanted to create a piece that contextualized the issue of hostile and anti-homeless design for those who aren’t aware of the problem. I hoped to bring attention to the problem and highlight the humanity of those who are affected by it.
Pitch
I crafted a living room that no one can use. Every piece of furniture was created using hostile design principles, utilizing features like bars, spikes, and slanted surfaces. This was complemented by a wall of framed photos highlighting real-world instances of hostile design.
Breakdown
The use of a living room brings the issue into a familiar setting, which the audience doesn’t expect to be hostile. I incorporated small touches such as welcoming messaging, warm lighting, and homey touches like lamps, books, and mugs that all contribute in their own small ways towards achieving a paradox between homey and hostile.
The use of a living room brings the issue into a familiar setting, which the audience doesn’t expect to be hostile. I incorporated small touches such as welcoming messaging, warm lighting, and homey touches like lamps, books, and mugs that all contribute in their own small ways towards achieving a paradox between homey and hostile.