Food and Culture

1. Name: Kimberley Ee Sze Ann
Student ID: 0315319
RESEARCH PROPOSAL
Title of research: TRANSFORMATION OF FOOD THROUGH URBANISATION. A study on the
migration of people from rural to urban areas and its effect on the food industry.
Main Research Question:
To understand the migration of people from rural to urban areas and how the food industry has
been affected by this cultural change.
Objectives:
 To understand how the movement of people from rural to urban context has affected
the spaces we associate with the food industry.
 To understand the importance of time and development on the food industry and locate
the aspect of what is perceived as good food.
Significance:
This research is important as it underlines how food which is a necessity and form of cultural
identity has a major impact on architecture and spaces used by people. When people migrated
from rural to urban context they did not leave food behind but instead developed the industry
in terms of spaces and places we associate with food. Yet despite this some of these places
have remained unchanged and the food itself can almost always be traced back to its cultural
roots. Thus it is important to see how this research will identify the changes on the food
industry and the perception of people on what makes good food.

2. Name: Kimberley Ee Sze Ann
Student ID: 0315319
Methods and Expected Outcomes:
The methods that will be undertaken in this research include observations, interviews and
photos. The aim will be to mainly observe the spaces where food is prepared and served.
Interviews will also be prepared for the food vendors as well as the customers. The questions
for the food vendors will aim to identify the background and history of the food being served.
Meanwhile, customers will be asked questions relating to their expectations of the food and
their perception on the spaces and environment surrounding it.
The outcomes that can be expected of this research include a documentation video, photo
book, article or poster as these materials can clearly document the aims of the research and
easily be shared to the public.