Date of Submission
Spring 5-13-2026
Degree Type
Undergraduate Thesis
Degree Name
Bachelor of Architecture
Department
Architecture
Committee Chair/First Advisor
Ehsan Sheikholharam
Abstract
Hyper-globalization transformed cultural boundaries and experiences. Identities are
no longer bound to a single construct—but forged at the intersection of complex and
layered vectors of belonging, especially those with multi-cultural backgrounds.
For many Americans with ethnic backgrounds, a sense of belonging is
fragmented, as their identities are stretched across multiple cultural frameworks. The
built environment of the American cities rarely reflect hybrid identities or collective
narratives- leading to misrepresentation and cultural invisibility. How can architecture create a space representative of such hybrid identities? How can design help foster a sense of belonging for hyphenated identities, particularly for East-Asian Americans? This thesis investigates the role of architecture in providing a place where Asian Americans in urban metropolises such as Atlanta reinvent their hybrid identities. The project breaks down into three phases: Firstly, Investigation of current East-Asia American places in Buford Highway Corridor: Chamblee, Doraville, Norcross,and Duluth. Secondly, Investigation on East-Asian- American art expression using collages as a thinking method. Thirdly, proposing two categories of Hybridity: entrance to the park and entrance to the event space in Duluth, Georgia. The thesis seeks to understand how hybrid identities navigate space- exploring transitional, in- between, and third spaces
using collaging as a tool to translate fragmented temporalities and perspectives into spatial expression, engaging themes of resistance, hybridity, and new relational forms.
The goal of this thesis is to create a place of belonging for East-Asian-Americans by addressing issues of fragmentation and misrepresentation through architecture. Although some say food, cultural motifs, and art are the best representation of hybridity, however, it can lead to stereotypes essentialism, museumification, exotification,and fetishization. These five factors freeze culture in time, strip its agency, and allow outsider control. A place of belonging
by contrast, resist static representation embracing living rituals and evolving
cultural expression.