Archive Global
Archive Global (Architecture for Health in Vulnerable Environments) believes that housing should have a positive impact on health. Operating from the built environment for health outcomes, we prioritize housing design as a key strategy in combating diseases around the world.
Archive is unique in its approach and focus - using housing design as a key component to improve health worldwide. We believe that national and international development strategies must take into account the role of housing in addressing health risks in the most vulnerable communities. In order for these strategies to be successful and accessible, they must be incorporated within a diverse context of behavioral changes and increased access to health facilities. To achieve our mission we use a threefold approach:
RESEARCH: Our research focuses on how the built environment contributes to disease in vulnerable communities everywhere, and what design interventions can act as a preventative strategy for improved health outcomes.
DESIGN: We believe in the need to research, design, test, and build practical housing improvements that combat the challenges of poor health. We do not believe in generic housing answers.
ADVOCACY: Building awareness and promoting healthy behavioral changes in the communities in which we work, and advocating for adequate housing as a human right is a fundamental pillar in all of our projects.
Archive Global began as independent travel and research grant awarded to founder Peter Williams by Columbia University. Peter’s research focused on issues relating to fear, epidemics, public health policy planning, and the built environment. Founded as the Archive Institute in 2006, the organization initially facilitated cross-disciplinary research from leading academics and professionals from the social sciences, medicine, architecture, and construction. Over the years, the organization has expanded its mission into implementing targeted interventions to the built environment, mostly around improving the inadequate existing housing stock in order to combat preventable diseases, and measuring the impact these interventions have on the health and quality of life of the family members.