London Layover: Impermanent dwelling in a nomad's city

Abstract

Presently, 190 million people live outside of their countries of origin. Almost all have moved in search of a better life: higher wages, or an escape from war or persecution. However, a small but growing demographic is merely seizing opportunities to feed its curiosity and satisfy its sense of pursuit.

London is a Mecca for such migrants that choose to fulfill career aspirations and to embark on the global adventure. These New Nomads are of both genders, young, skilled, and have an ease of mobility afforded by the virtual permanence of the Internet. They come to the city alone, leaving friends and family behind, and they often leave again in the same way. But during their stay, they build relationships, accumulate belongings, make homes. Here are some of their stories.

This thesis predicts a changing of the notion of 'dwelling' in this, our market-driven, resource-limited, technology-fluent world. New efficient ways to negotiate the exchange and sharing of space and commodities are needed. The proposed Living Marketplace is designed for the passing individual with an undetermined itinerary. It is a communal hub for nomads, migrants, transients—minorities navigating amidst uncertainty and impermanence, as they each make the journey of their lives via London.