Landscapes of penal incarceration

Abstract

New Zealand Prisons have developed unsuccessfully within the confines of their own intent, which is to both punish and rehabilitate the prisoner. Currently the design of prison landscapes is determined by the requirements of the minority, these are the five percent of offenders held at maximum security level. The focus of prison design has been control and surveillance rather than rehabilitation and the emotional well being of the prisoners and statf within them. This thesis initially discusses the history of punishment from public space through to incarceration. Reviewing the ideologies and philosophies that have directed the spatial and programmatic intention of the first prisons and the influence that these have on present prisons in New Zealand. The 'see-saw' political journey of New Zealand prison reforms has inhibited the development of an honest rehabilitative landscape solution. This thesis explores an alternative approach to prison landscape design, initiating positive change through an absolute departure from the existing. A move away from what has repeatedly been a proven failure. The design is guided by the words from conversations with those who use the space, ex-prisoners, people who have been confined within the prisonscapes. Their words have informed the design brief. The design development of a landscape solution that is defined by the actual needs of those who use them is not radical in any other context. However in this case, if is the context of the landscape environment that is being tested. The design questions the notion of a prototype or an ideal model that fits all, in contrast the design investigation is site specific. The Wanganui Prison site communicates an environment that is culturally and ecologically specific. The design interprets the historical and social landscape, acknowledging their importance in the process of creating a positive and humane environment. The prisoners participate in creating their own landscape, they are pro-active in their own rehabilitation. The outcome is a positive environment, a sincere and realistic solution that considers rehabilitation and reintegration of the prisoners back into the community. Through creating a nurturing landscape the prisoners articulate self respect, and respect for their environment.