The evolution of Chinatowns is the result of the colonization by the Chinese. Even though they did not begin with the typical colonialism method of establishing a settlement, they eventually inhabited, cultivated and influenced the development of the new territory.
Chinatown’s story on many levels is relatable to the materialization of other (cultural) settlements. These displaced individuals congregated and created a ghetto/ community of their own. While dealing with the constraints of the existing fabric, they re-appropriated the landscape to fit themselves into the desired context.
Looking back at the migratory population in Hong Kong, I will propose to spend the next two weeks studying the infamous ‘Chungking Mansion’ which is perhaps comparable to the Kowloon’s Walled City, due to the densely occupied condition of the building.
Located at a major intersection of the busiest commercial district in Hong Kong, the Chungking Mansion is known for having the cheapest accommodation in Hong Kong. Therefore housing immigrants of different ethnic minorities (mostly temporary immigrants staying indefinitely), while its vacancies are available to other travelers. It also functions as a commercial centre appealing to a majority of the immigrants.
In light of this case study, I hope to find a resolution between the two case studies ‘Chinatown’ and ‘Chungking Mansion’; as both tackles the issue of resettlement of displaced individuals in two very different manner.
Hopefully this will aid me with the development of a “Transient City” or “Center of Refuge” that will facilitate ‘displaced’ individuals (displaced in very loose terms as it has yet to be defined) in both permanent and temporary transition.
Hey, you know the word diaspora, like the Jewish Diaspora? This definition comes from Wikipedia: diaspora "refers to the movement of any population sharing common ethnic identity who were either forced to leave or voluntarily left their settled territory, and became residents in areas often far removed from the former." Comes from a Greek word meaning 'to spread seeds.'
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