New possibilities in new recipes: the design of a food-based acculturative facility for new immigrant women

• Main Author: Hamblin, Monika
• Other Authors: Karpan, Cynthia (Interior Design)
• Published: 2013
• Subjects: Women; Acculturation; Restaurant; food
• Online Access: http://hdl.handle.net/1993/22114

Most new immigrants to Canada bring with them an identity rooted in the culture in which they grew up. This identity will go through a shift in its adjustment to life in Canada. A number of factors have been identified that can contribute to increased stress during the acculturative process, and these are explored, specifically as they relate to women immigrants. With an understanding of the potential psychological experience involved in acculturative identity shift, this practicum projects proposes a response through the use of food and its preparation. Sources regarding food and culture were examined to provide supporting evidence to this strategy, as well as additional precedent examples. The programme of a culinary based school aims to provide new immigrant women with improved English language usage, work-applicable skills, a support system, and confidence, in order to help them find meaningful long term employment, in a way that addresses their specific challenges. The final design includes educational, lounge and personal spaces, a specially designed commercial kitchen, public dining areas, as well as other considerations.