Weaving Knowledges: Improving residential wellbeing outcomes informed through Lo-TEK and Indigenous Practices

The housing crisis in Aotearoa, New Zealand, has reached critical levels, exacerbated by escalating living costs and the repercussions of COVID-19. This has led to a significant impact on housing supply and quality. Poor housing conditions caused by dampness and mould challenge availability and affordability and severely affect public health and wellbeing. Conventional “top-down” approaches have proven insufficient in addressing these challenges, particularly for marginalised communities.

In response, this thesis explores alternative, “bottom-up” interventions informed by Indigenous knowledge systems, specifically Mātauranga Māori (Māori knowledge), and Local Traditional Ecological Knowledge (Lo-TEK). Drawing upon Indigenous knowledge of weaving, the research investigates the potential of self-made interventions, with as a central approach to enhance residential wellbeing outcomes in Aotearoa.

It is through these knowledge systems that the research methodology is guided, following a multidisciplinary “design research” approach. Emphasising experiential learning, the methodology centres around hands-on engagement with materials and techniques, facilitating a deeper connection with the design process. Participatory design principles are also integral, fostering collaboration and engagement, with workshops and interviews capturing perspectives on DIY processes. This thesis advocates for a paradigm shift in architectural thinking towards culturally grounded, softer solutions to address Aotearoa’s housing challenges.