5.2. Sustainable Livelihood Framework

And also, this is a kind of partial upgrade with reclaimed materials they have the developed with the kind of whatever, they have able to procure from the past site or with their feasibilities, they have made some modifications to their shelters. And within a month 53% of the house owners have started to upgrade their shelters and this is very quick, within a month if this kind of change is 53%.

In the first month after receiving assistance, 53% of homeowners made improvements to their shelters. They utilized reclaimed materials and made modifications based on what was feasible for them. The rapid upgrade shows how quickly individuals can respond to their living conditions when support or resources are available.

Imagine a person moving into a new apartment. In just a few weeks, they might replace old lamps, add curtains, and even repaint walls to reflect their style. Similarly, these homeowners are making quick improvements to turn temporary shelters into more comfortable living spaces.

The priorities were first doors, second walls and the third is windows, so the ventilation aspect.

The homeowners prioritized their upgrades, focusing first on installing doors, then walls, and finally windows, highlighting the importance of security, structure, and ventilation. This shows how certain features are essential for immediate comfort and safety before moving on to aesthetic improvements.

Think of building a basic treehouse. First, you would want a strong floor (walls), then a solid door to keep out intruders, and finally, you would add windows for light and air. This prioritization ensures the treehouse is functional and safe before decorating.

Some beneficiaries bought their own timber for walls, doors and windows... Others sold a plastic sheeting and hired the local artisans to build adobe walls.

Homeowners employed various economic strategies to afford their upgrades. Some purchased timber to improve their shelters, while others sold plastic sheeting and engaged local artisans for traditional building methods like adobe walls. This illustrates the resourcefulness and adaptability of individuals in managing their livelihoods.

Consider someone who wants to buy a new phone. They might save money from their job, sell an old gadget, or even trade in something valuable they own. Similarly, these homeowners are creatively pooling resources to enhance their living conditions.

And some paid for the labour in kind using the tools they were given in the shelter kit and some sold their tools once shelters were complete to buy household furnishings.

Some beneficiaries used the tools provided in the shelter kit to aid in labor for their upgrades. Others opted to sell these tools once their shelters were built to purchase household goods, demonstrating how resources can be transformed into economic opportunities.

Think of it as students using school supplies to assist in projects. After completing, they might sell or trade those supplies to get something else they want, just like homeowners exchanged tools for furnishings.

So, with this, the government have understood that yes there is a possibility that to scale up this process... they launched the project build about 40,000 low cost houses.

Recognizing the success of initial upgrades, the government decided to scale up the project, aiming to build around 40,000 low-cost houses. This exemplifies how successful small projects can lead to larger initiatives, benefiting more people.

When a local community garden thrives with a few plants, the organizers may decide to expand it to include more plots and invite more people to participate, spreading benefits to a larger community.

But when you talk about the theoretical understanding of it, you know as I said you in the beginning transition shelter is not a noun, it is a verb, it is a process.

The concept of transitional shelter emphasizes that housing isn't just a structure; it's an ongoing process where occupants actively shape their living spaces through their experiences and needs. This view pushes against the idea of static housing, focusing on dynamic living where people continuously improve their environment.

Consider making a home-cooked meal. It's not just about assembling ingredients; it involves ongoing adjustments and creativity to make it delicious. Likewise, creating a home is a continuous process of making it fit the inhabitant's needs.

So, that is where he talks about the use value derived from this approach was more significant than the market value...

The emphasis on use value means that the benefits housing provides to its users are more crucial than their market value. The focus is on how housing meets human needs and improves living conditions rather than on its financial worth. This perspective acknowledges the significance of housing in enhancing lives.

Imagine receiving a treasured family heirloom that's not worth much financially but holds immense sentimental value. Similarly, what matters in housing is how well it serves the family's needs and enhances their quality of life.

And similarly, John Habraken supports on 3 levels of decision making; one is the tissue and the support which is the base building...

John Habraken outlines three levels of housing decisions: the 'tissue' (urban layout), 'support' (main structure), and 'infill' (personal modifications). Recognizing that these levels adapt over time allows communities to engage in housing development relevant to their specific needs.

Think of building a sandwich: the bread is the structure (support), the ingredients you choose are your personal touches (infill), and the overall presentation and context is like the tissue. Each part plays a role in creating a satisfying meal, just as each level contributes to effective housing.

So, this keeps changing very frequently and the system of subdivision allows users to interface with a level that is relevant to them.

As housing needs evolve, the adaptability of the levels where decisions are made helps ensure that residents can respond to their context. This flexibility leads to housing solutions that are responsive to changes in preferences and circumstances.

Consider a school classroom that allows for flexible seating arrangements. As teaching styles or subjects change, students can rearrange their seating or collaborate in different ways, similar to how housing can adapt to varying needs.

Similarly, buildings are also essentially made of 6 time bound layers. This is space time phenomenon which Ian Bentley also talks about it...

Buildings consist of different identifiable layers that reflect time. These layers include the site, structure, surfaces, services, plans, and furnishings. Each layer has a different lifespan and can be upgraded or replaced independently, impacting the overall functionality of the building strategically.

Think of a concert that has an opening act. The main stage setup might endure for years, while different performers and lighting can change daily. Just as each layer can be adjusted without affecting the core, housing can be adapted through its layers.

And we have to understand when we are dealing with this kind of poor communities, one has to look at the livelihoods framework, it is not just only a shelter...

In addressing housing needs, the focus must extend beyond merely providing shelter; it should encompass understanding the livelihoods and access to resources of communities. Factors like social, economic, and political resources impact their abilities to create sustainable living conditions.

Consider a community garden program that provides seeds and tools. If gardening resources are also combined with training on sustainable practices and community support, the garden can thrive, enhancing the overall quality of life and sustainability.

The enabling approach, how we can enable this process and one is the finance you know because this is one the enabling approach recognizes the bottleneck to housing created limited access to finance...

Addressing barriers to housing requires understanding financial, regulatory, and material considerations. Limited financing, insecure land tenure, and regulatory challenges can hinder housing initiatives, so creating an enabling environment is crucial to support sustainable housing efforts.

Imagine trying to build a treehouse without nails or tools. Even if you have a fantastic design in mind, lacking essential resources will prevent you from making progress. Similarly, effective housing solutions require the right conditions and support to be successful.

Also, the materials and labour because materials have a major cost implications and also inappropriate building regulations can inhabit the production of housing...

Engaging communities involves recognizing the importance of material access, labor resources, and the need for tailored building regulations that accommodate local practices. By including community feedback in policy, housing becomes more effective and meaningful.

Consider a food co-op where community members have a say in products offered and even contribute to labor. This grassroots approach ensures everyone’s needs are addressed, leading to a more successful and fulfilling marketplace.

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