Constructing Equality: Why Architecture needs Feminism

By Megan Batty

Architecture is a device that within society can create impacts on varying scales. The domination of this device from traditional conceptions of patriarchy, ‘’a sexual hierarchy which is manifested in the women’s role as mother, domestic labourer, and consumer within the family.’’ [1]. This gender hierarchy has introduced shadows over women and other marginalised groups within the urban landscapes design and acknowledgments. This article introduces the theory of ecofeminism, and how the patriarchy has moulded the architecture profession to accommodate and align with outdated and non-inclusive concepts and drives within the design world. This needs to change; but how?

How can the application of Feminist Theory compromise outdated tones of traditional architectural design practice?

‘’Feminist design is not just about who does design—it is about how we do design and why.’’ [2] . The feminist theory embodies a range of social ideologies, reflecting the diversity of different groups worldwide. It counters traditional thinking, behaviours and social norms expected of women by opposing the social injustice of traditional patriarchal society [3]. The theory is about defying the different avenues that promote inequality, oppression and injustice and thus promoting the drive of social justice and equality. It makes considerations of how systems of power can dictate and change our world through suppression of a range of intersections of society [4]. This is an interesting aspect to apply to the future of architecture and how the built environment can become more inclusive in future designs and concepts. The application of feminist theory not only enables a critique of past decisions but can also influence future social dynamics of society through representation within the architectural context.

Ecofeminism; the future of Architecture?

One intersection of the feminist theory that can be applied appropriately and with direct benefit is the ideology of eco-feminism, which was introduced in the period of the 1970’s/80’s and sought to make connections between the growing feminist and environmental movements of the time [5]. The methodology adopted uses contemporary feminist philosophy to critique and investigate the ideas surrounding sexuate difference. The theory introduces discussions using basic feminist principles in gender equality and proposes a re-evaluation of non-patriarchal structures and envisioning the world that holds a larger respect for organic processes [6]. This can be applied to the context of design for environmental and socio-political sustainability within architecture and the urban landscape through sustainable and inclusive options. There are several crucial parallels between treatment of women and that of nature, so investigating the links surrounding the critiques of dominant forces, such as the patriarchy, is a logical outcome of creating expansions within both the environmental and feminist movements.

Women are at a proportional disadvantage when it comes to being impacted and affected by environmental issues. A UN report discusses the disparity between the average male and female monetary wealth divide and how this thus makes them a more dependent group to the natural environment; for example, being at a higher risk of being displaced by the impacts of climate change. Even though women have been shown to be directly impacted by climate change, they are continually uninvolved within planning for reconstructions post disasters and conversations discussing future climate policies. An example of application of ecofeminism to designs and concepts is the inspiring architect Yasmeen Lari, who may not identify as an ecofeminist, but applies a bridge and example of appropriate application of the context of the built environment benefitting society. Through using clay and lime, her project of ‘’the Pakistani Chulah (outdoor stove) is a low-cost, smokeless option that replaces an extremely polluting structure for women’s health. It is an elevated platform of clay brick which protects from floods and provides a more hygienic and ventilated workstation for women.’’ [6]

The feminist theory has many intersections that can be applied appropriately to the growth and change of the architectural practice. Focus on more groups than just women could broaden understanding and lead to a deeper enrichment when designing for the future of urban spaces. There is a range of data in support of how women map and move through cities; something I highly recommend reading and exploring. I found through creating this article the added values and change just one architect and urban planner can create for a large group of people. This is not only inspiring for me personally as an aspiring architect but also leads to a hope further afield from just the world of design. A brighter, more exciting future for women and marginalised groups is on the horizon; almost.

It is time to dismantle and adapt how we build more inclusive and sustainable environments.

Sources:

[1] Beechey, V. (1979). ‘On Patriarchy’. Feminist Review, No.3, 66-82.

[2] Place, A. (2023). Feminist Designer- On the Personal and Political in Design. MIT Press .

[3] R.Tong. (2001). Feminist Theory. International Encyclopedia of the Social and Behavioural Sciences , 5484-5491.

[4] Crosman, A. (2020, Feb 25). Feminist Theory in Sociology. Retrieved from ThoughtCo: https://www.thoughtco.com/feminist-theory-3026624

[5] N.Claire Napawan, E. B. (2007, July). Women’s Work: An Eco-Feminist Approach to Environnmental Designs. Retrieved from The Avery Review: https://averyreview.com/issues/27/womens-work

[6] Ghisleni, C. (2023, May 16). Eco-Feminism in Architecture: Empowerment and Environmental Concern. Retrieved from ArchDaily: https://www.archdaily.com/1000291/ecofeminism-in-architecture-empowerment-and-environmental-concern