CATCH ME IF YOU CAN : GEYLANG SUBTERFUGE

Abstract

The thesis explores the unspoken relationship between the State authority and the unauthorized organization (mafias) in Singapore and how it can be manifested into architecture. The relationship is one where the government understands that a total elimination of the mafias is impossible and the next best solution may be to consolidate them into one area, Geylang. Thus the mafias are given space to operate. On the other side, the mafia understands very well that they have to keep within this space, as their operation has to be kept hidden from the public eye. As a resultant, respect is given to the State. In short, if the public does not get affected by the mafia operation, the state does not interfere. But once the line is crossed, the State will step in to control the situation, thus resulting in constant raids. Therefore this thesis explores into the mafia operation and reinvents devices and spaces that help to keep their operation within the space, given by the State.