Community Narrative: Christiansburg Institute

I want to investigate the relationship between social narratives, the role of an architect, and creating community spaces. I want to understand how the involvement of community members can influence the design process. As a case study, my thesis will explore the Christiansburg Institute as a direct influence on the African American community in Southwest Virginia. Specifically, I will work to understand my own heritage and connection to the institute. In reflection, I will establish my own approach to honor the legacy built before me through architecture and planning.

My research will begin by interviewing four legacies of the Christiansburg Institute; my grandmother, grandfather, great-aunt, and great-uncle. I expect that the interview candidates may grow to include other relatives and close peers. For larger groups, I can facilitate COVID-friendly focus groups either online or in spaces approved for in-person discussions. However, my main objective at this time is to hear the four distinguished candidates’ specific stories.

I will document the responses for “experiences at the Christiansburg Institute and community spaces.” I believe my findings will show me the rituals and spaces that formed the community. These will be documented through in-person and video interviews. I plan to use their responses as a guide to what I will design to honor the space.