Hostile Architecture: A Design Against Humanity
Hostile architecture, also known as defensive design, is a growing trend in urban development that targets marginalized communities, particularly the homeless and disabled, by making public spaces deliberately unwelcoming. These designs, often subtle in appearance, aim to discourage behaviors such as sleeping, resting, or congregating in areas that are meant to be public and accessible to all.
The Impact on Homeless Populations with Disabilities
One of the most disturbing aspects of hostile architecture is its disproportionate impact on homeless individuals, many of whom suffer from disabilities. According to a report from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, about 25% of the homeless population in the United States is diagnosed with a disability. However, the real figure is likely much higher, as many homeless individuals lack access to healthcare and the ability to receive a formal diagnosis.
This situation is further exacerbated by the social determinants of health, which play a crucial role in the well-being of individuals experiencing homelessness. As highlighted by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), factors such as inadequate access to healthcare, unstable housing, and limited social support systems contribute to the poor health outcomes seen in homeless populations. Without adequate medical care, homeless individuals with disabilities are particularly vulnerable to the effects of hostile architecture. Benches with dividers, sloped seating, and spikes on flat surfaces not only prevent them from resting but also exacerbate their physical and mental health issues. These designs create a cycle of exclusion, where the most vulnerable are pushed further to the margins of society (ADHT) (Chalmers Publication Library (CPL)).
The Deceptive Inclusivity of Hostile Design
Hostile architecture is often justified as a means to maintain order and aesthetic appeal in urban spaces. Some designs even masquerade as inclusive, featuring elements that appear to accommodate people with disabilities. However, upon closer examination, these features often fail to meet the actual needs of disabled individuals. For example, benches with armrests may seem like they are designed for people with mobility issues, but in reality, they are often placed at awkward heights or in configurations that are difficult for wheelchair users to access.
This superficial inclusivity is not only misleading but harmful. It sends a message that the needs of disabled individuals are being considered, while in reality, these designs perpetuate exclusion. Furthermore, these design choices often fail to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), which mandates that public spaces be accessible to all.
The Harm to All Individuals, Disabled or Not
While hostile architecture is most damaging to homeless and disabled populations, it affects everyone. Urban spaces are meant to be shared, and the need for rest and respite is universal. Pregnant women, elderly individuals, and people with chronic illnesses all benefit from public seating and areas where they can take a break. However, when these spaces are designed with hostility in mind, they become inhospitable to anyone in need of rest.
Moreover, the presence of hostile architecture in a community reflects broader societal values. It signals that certain behaviors, and by extension certain people, are unwelcome. This not only fosters a culture of exclusion but also contributes to the erosion of social cohesion and community trust.
Real-World Examples of Hostile Architecture
To understand the real impact of hostile architecture, it's important to look at specific examples. The article from Interesting Engineering provides a comprehensive list of various hostile designs used in cities worldwide. These include:
Spiked surfaces under bridges or in front of buildings, intended to prevent people from sitting or sleeping.
Benches with armrests or slanted designs that make lying down impossible.
Bollards or strategically placed planters that block off areas to discourage gathering or camping.
These designs, while often unnoticed by the general public, are a clear message to those who are homeless or disabled: you are not welcome here.
Solutions to Address the Concerns of Hostile Architecture
While the intent behind hostile architecture may stem from a desire to maintain order and aesthetics in public spaces, it is crucial to recognize that these designs harm some of the most vulnerable members of society. Rather than implementing exclusionary tactics, we should focus on more compassionate and inclusive solutions.
Enhancing Access to Homeless Shelters: Many homeless shelters lack the necessary resources to accommodate individuals with disabilities. By improving access to these shelters and ensuring they are equipped with the resources to meet the needs of disabled individuals, we can provide a safe and supportive environment for those who are homeless. This includes making shelters physically accessible, offering specialized healthcare services, and providing adequate support staff trained to assist individuals with various disabilities.
Making Public Transit More Accessible: One significant barrier for homeless individuals, particularly those with disabilities, is the lack of accessible public transit. Public transportation should be designed with universal access in mind, ensuring that individuals with mobility issues or other disabilities can easily use these services. Accessible public transit would allow those in need to reach shelters, healthcare facilities, and social workers, connecting them to essential services and support networks.
Integrating Services Through a Comprehensive System: A fragmented approach to addressing homelessness and disability exacerbates the isolation of these individuals. A more effective solution would involve creating an integrated system that connects shelters, healthcare providers, social workers, and public services. By fostering collaboration among these entities, we can create a network that offers continuous support, rather than isolating individuals and leaving them to navigate a disconnected system.
Conclusion
Hostile architecture is more than just a design trend; it is a deliberate strategy that reinforces social inequalities and perpetuates the marginalization of vulnerable populations. However, by adopting more inclusive and compassionate approaches—such as enhancing shelter access, improving public transit, and creating integrated support systems—we can address the underlying concerns that lead to the implementation of hostile architecture in the first place.
Urban design should foster inclusivity and accessibility, rather than serving as a tool of exclusion. It is imperative that we re-examine the purpose and impact of public spaces and demand designs that reflect the values of equity, compassion, and respect for all people.
References
Interesting Engineering. (2023). 15 Examples of anti-homeless hostile architecture that you probably never noticed before. Interesting Engineering. Retrieved from https://interestingengineering.com/culture/15-examples-of-anti-homeless-hostile-architecture-that-you-probably-never-noticed-before
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). (2021). Addressing social determinants of health among individuals experiencing homelessness. SAMHSA Blog. Retrieved from https://www.samhsa.gov/blog/addressing-social-determinants-health-among-individuals-experiencing-homelessness
Publications.lib.chalmers.se. (2017). Form follows hostility: Defensive architecture, modernist design, and the exclusivity of public space. Chalmers Publication Library. Retrieved from https://publications.lib.chalmers.se/records/fulltext/253746/local_253746.pdf
