This book is part of the European Cultural Center's exhibition at the
European Cultural Center at Palazzo Mora during the 2021 Venice
Architecture Biennale. GHETTO is a theoretical project which proposes
wealth transfer from American tourists to Iranian refugees seeking
shelter and fundamental human needs, with the intention of creating
inclusive cities where all feel welcome.
In collaboration with the UNHCR, HPA proposes GHETTO: Sanctuary for
Sale which includes within it a twofold narrative and architectural
manifesto while positing the question, "What does it mean to be a
citizen?" Two graphic novel narratives, written from both the
perspective of the tourist and the refugee, describe how each individual
may become a citizen of the collective world community. The book
illustrates how the innovative timeshare-refugee housing model
inherently supports the potential to change the world view to encourage
inclusivity. Demonstrating the studio's credo in this theoretical
project, Henriquez Partners Architects aims to elicit meaningful
discussions concerning models of architectural practice that enable
diverse cultural landscapes to thrive and promote social good on the
tiny planet we call home.