Re-imagining Informal Environments: Quarry Road West informal settlement in Durban, South Africa

This research explores the architectural dynamics within Durban’s QRW informal settlement, inspired by a personal connection. It challenges architects to engage creatively with marginalised communities, examining community-built approaches, resilience, and sustainable urbanism.

Community-built methods promote participatory construction that empowers residents and enables quick implementation. Resilience theory focuses on community recovery from disruptions, while sustainable urbanism seeks long-term viability across environmental, social, and economic dimensions.

The central question is: “How can comprehensive redevelopment of informal settlements improve residents’ safety, quality of life, and social engagement, serving as a model for upgrades in hazardous environments?” It views these settlements as sources of innovation and resilience.

Using a Design-Led Research methodology, the study combines site analysis, literature review, secondary data, and GIS mapping to build a nuanced understanding of QRW and generate insights for architectural practice and policy.

This research uncovers adaptive spatial relationships shaped by socio-cultural norms, environmental challenges, and urbanisation, highlighting informal settlements’ potential to inspire sustainable, inclusive, and culturally relevant urban solutions.

In conclusion, it calls for holistic engagement with informal settlement realities, urging architects and planners to recognise the value of these communities in creating resilient, sustainable, and equitable urban spaces.