Artist Biography
Allyson Czapiga is a senior student at Endicott College working towards receiving a Bachelor of Fine Arts in interior architecture. She is from Assonet, Massachusetts. She always knew that interior architecture was the correct fit for her. Growing up, you would always find her watching HGTV, playing home design video games, and rearranging spaces throughout her own home. Throughout her time at Endicott College, she achieved the Dean’s List for many semesters. She was also able to study abroad at Munster Technological University in Cork, Ireland where she enhanced her knowledge by learning how to design in another country. She returned to Cork for her semester-long internship where she took part in a residential design internship. These experiences have helped prepare her for continuing her goal of becoming an interior designer. Allyson would like to continue working in residential design in the future.
Thesis Abstract
Beyond Walls is a center that provides environmental refugees with all of the resources they will need when coming to the United States after experiencing a natural disaster. The name of the center proves how the organization goes “beyond walls,” by providing more than just a shelter for those in need. When entering the United States, many environmental refugees’ needs are not met and they do not receive a lot of resources. The space features learning areas such as classrooms, libraries, and computer labs to assist the users in learning how to speak English and other languages, as well as how to create resumes and cover letters. There are dining areas that will allow the users to share their traditional cuisines with others. There are also places where the users can practice their religions freely. There is also a market where the users can practice purchasing items as well as their math and social skills. In addition to these spaces, there are residential areas for the environmental refugees to seek shelter. There are different style types for rooms to ensure that everyone can be accommodated. These include family apartments, solo apartments, and dorm style spaces. There is a small portion of the space that is open to the public. This cultural celebration space allows for members of the community to join the environmental refugees in creating traditional artwork, watching performances of songs and dances, and eating traditional food.