ROLE OF NOSTALGIA IN FINDING AND SUSTAINING HOPE

Abstract

Originally diagnosed in the 17th century as a medical condition called “homesickness,” nostalgia has become an important emotional experience. It is now defined as the sense of "emotional longing for the past" that we have in time which reinforces our lives. Janelle L. Wilson calls nostalgia a "journey through memory" that shows us who we are by remembering who we were. This allows us to "bridge the temporal gaps" in our lives and find hope. This thesis explores the role of nostalgia as a powerful emotional and psychological tool for sustaining hope and reconnecting with authenticity in a rapidly changing world. Drawing on the idea that "nostalgia is hope turned backwards," the project repositions nostalgia not merely as a longing for the past, but as a form of reverse-directed hope. When individuals reminisce, they often seek out the comfort, familiarity, and meaning that once gave their lives structure and joy—elements that can now provide strength and guidance in the face of present-day uncertainties. Rather than remaining trapped in memory, nostalgia becomes a generative force: a reminder of past resilience, connection, and purpose that can help shape a more hopeful present and future. The design concept explores nostalgia as an experienced and therapeutic tool, which transforms individual and collective reflections into an immersive sensory engagement and spatial journey. Draws from past which were seen and felt - to develop emotional connection and hope. This approach distributes nostalgia not only as a memory