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completed while on exchange at the universidad de chile, ‘a house for the president’ was an exploration into the symbolic and pragmatic role of a political leader. the project sought to mediate the duality of the ‘presidential’ identity (president as work and president as person) through generating a dynamic structure that could transform depending on user needs.

+ construction drawings
+ services
+ environmental control systems

“There they stand, isolated, majestic, imperious, brooded over by the gigantic water-tower and chimney combined, rising unmistakable and daunting out of the countryside – the asylums which our forefathers built with such immense solidity to express the notions of their day. Do not for a moment underestimate their powers of resistance to our assault. Let me describe some of the defenses which we have to storm.” – Enoch Powell

This project explores the correlations between the socio-architectural archetypes of the ‘institution’ and the ‘home’ as they relate to perceptions of appropriate housing models for dependent people. Indeed, it was not until the 1950s and 60s that the nineteenth century ‘institution’ was deemed archaic, perceived to be representative of a destructive hierarchical system that emphasized administrative control and supervision at the expense of a resident’s basic rights for privacy, autonomy and social connection. Reformers demanded a change, instigating a movement towards more normative and, arguably, more humanitarian approaches that empower the resident, represented both socially and architecturally in the archetype of the contemporary ‘home.’

The ‘institution’ and the ‘home’ present us with ideals, each embodying the desires and beliefs of a particular society at a particular time. However, due to the programmatic and social requirements of this type of housing, neither model is, in itself, fully appropriate. Thus, this project operates as an investigation of the in-between, an attempt to mediate these unique typologies in order to reveal a new housing approach – a reconceived institution – that appropriately balances the benefits of administrative support emphasized by the ‘institution’ with the benefits of resident autonomy and control exemplified by the ‘home.’

My project explores these qualities through applying them to the design of a permanent, supportive home for chronically alcoholic homeless individuals in Wellington city. My project utilizes two Wellington buildings – the Wellington Fever Hospital and a new home in Porirua – in order to explore the institution-home dichotomy. These buildings provide a physical analogy of the societal transformation that has occurred, an attribute that I intend to exploit. The resultant design will be formed through creating a dialogue between the old ideas expressed by the institution and the new ideas expressed by the home. In essence, the Fever Hospital will provide the foundation onto which the Porirua home will be physically and symbolically overlaid, emphasizing their distinction and alluding to the creation of a reconceived institution.

Based on my findings, I was able to create a synthesized solution that drew on a variety of sources, including feedback from actual users. Specifically, through comparing the archetypes of ‘institution’ and ‘home’, it was possible to identify five specific spatial qualities that render the institution inappropriate (and the home appropriate) for contemporary notions of suitable housing for dependent individuals. These traits, in turn, suggest ways in which supportive housing could be ‘reconceived’ to spatialize mechanisms of distributed control, and thus empower both staff and residents.

+ report: covers resultant design methodology and in depth account of the spatial qualities that distinguish “institution” and “home”

+ blog: documentation of the project’s development

Semi Permanent Housing for Global Disaster Relief

Rebuild

This projects explores the idea of sustainability in relation to relief housing, suggesting that a natural disaster provides an opportunity to consciously rebuild with consideration to the environment. These units are temporary and, as such, should not create a large ecological footprint. They are merely a stepping-stone towards recovery and should promote sustainable development – that is development that meets the needs of today without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. In this way, they may inspire the victims and those who are witness to the disaster, to do the same.

Reclaim

The proposed design consists of a thin, hollow framework into which dry, upgraded soil is poured. One of the benefits of this design is that virtually any material, provided that it is weatherproof and rigid, can be used for the framework. Because of this, materials can be chosen according to availability, geography and capital. However, as these units are being mass produced, possibly by the thousands, it is imperative that green materials be investigated. Recycled (and recyclable) materials should be investigated and chosen with efficiency and effectiveness in mind. The material’s resistance to corrosion, rotting, termites and other pests must be evaluated.

The primary structural element utilized is Earth. Earth is free, abundant, and ecologically sustainable. It provides superior acoustic and thermal insulation and is fire and termite resistant. The use of a sod roof also provides acoustic and thermal insulation, as well as storm protection. Earth gives the victims back a sense of security through its thick walls that continue to strengthen as they age. By using earth, the act of rebuilding becomes one of reclaiming: the victims are given the ability to regain control over their environment. Earth is also locally available and therefore does need to be transported long distances the site. Further, with earth as the primary structural material, other materials are used sparingly ensuring less energy is used in material production and recycling. This also allows for quick construction and immediate finishing.

Recycle

The shelter can easily be assembled, altered and/or disassembled by unskilled labourers. All joints are bolted through predrilled holes that help to line up elements. If required, extensions can be easily added to the structure with little disturbance to the occupants – panels simply bolt onto external columns. Structures are also easily dismantled – once the bolts are removed the panels simply come apart. Materials can then be reused in similar way, recycled, or composted.

For maximum efficiency with respect to materials and energy, activities that require similar facilities (ie. toilets and showers) could be grouped together and shared. For instance, a shared ablutions block between four or more dwellings would minimize the amount of piping and the number of pumps required. It would also facilitate a simpler and more efficient water collection and heating system. Activities such as cooking and laundry could be shared amongst the dwellings’ occupants, promoting a sense of community and support. This sense of community could also be nurtured with the creation of shared courtyard space between clustered dwellings.

As much as possible, these structures must take advantage of natural resources, reclaiming control over the environment – earth, wind, rain, and sun. Earth, for instance, is used as a thermal and acoustic insulator. The wind and sun are used for power and for temperature control. Because of this, the structure is able to adapt to any site to make the most of wind and sun directions. Rainwater is collected for use as bathing and washing water.

+ final print

“By 2030, 1 person in 4 will be a slum dweller…squatters are the largest builders of housing in the world and they are creating the cities of tomorrow.” [Neuwirth, Robert. Shadow Cities. New York: Routledge, 2004.]

What can architects offer to a society that developed without them?

Through this project, I wish to suggest alternative ways in which architecture can aid in poverty alleviation, moving away from the quick, temporary and/or iconic building that has dominated contemporary architectural methodologies of international development, and instead discovering ways in which the enormous potential found in these areas can inform constructive, long term-solutions. The shear magnitude of slums and their continued growth around the world, demands a drastic change in architectural and building methodologies, and who better to inform this change than the largest builders of housing in the world – the squatters themselves. The question driving this project thus becomes, what can architects offer to a world that developed without them?

To explore this question, the project focuses on the informal settlements, or “favelas”, of brazil. it utilizes extensive research, in combination with site analyses and discussion with former residents, to develop a design approach that is heavily informed by the strengths and potentials of the favela community, as well as the challenges and opposition faced by these settlements. Through this, the project stresses the ability to discover sustainable outcomes that build upon existing initiatives, allowing them to enhance the design process.

“And when a new, planned building rises in the slum Рbe it a public toilet or a sewing co-operative Рit immediately becomes a monument. It was conceived by an architect, it indicates things are changing: People understand they now have the right to what was only available in the so-called ‘formal city’ [ordinary neighborhoods].” [“Favelas: Brazillian Heatwave.” http://www.jauregui.arq.br/favelas2_ing2.htm]

The question of what can architects offer to a society that has developed without them can be alternatively regarded as questioning what these societies have been unable to provide for themselves. In this project, the residents of favela Rocinha have been unable to gain access to basic sewerage, a conspicuous necessity that stands out against the area’s seemingly developed multi-story brick buildings and prevalence of TV antennae and stereos. In this context, the role of the architect can be seen as an incredibly important one.

Through building on the strengths and potentials of the area, effective and economic solutions can be discovered, which improve health and the economy, instill a sense of pride and self worth in the residents and reduce stigma and social segregation – all the while appreciating what these faveladors have created. Architects can provide much needed leadership and a crucial liaison between informal and formal sectors, orchestrating the coming together of numerous social and building associations. Favela residents have proven themselves as extremely capable and determined; architects can offer these areas the means, both practical and aesthetic, to help themselves.

Seeing potential in Rocinha’s tendency to develop along natural contours and drainage paths, my proposed design is a simple and cost-effective gravity-based sewerage system that integrates seamlessly with the existing pathways that weave organically throughout the settlement. In essence, this solution formalizes the existing trend for raw sewerage to run down the hillside, often rendering the beautiful São Conrado beach located below, unsuitable for swimming Р“these alleyways serve as Rocinha’s sewerage systems and the chocking stench is part of (daily) life.” [Dreams Can Be Foundation. www.dreamscanbe.org]

Rocinha is just one example of the multitude of informal settlements scattered across the globe and the predicted growth of these areas demands drastic changes in contemporary building methodologies. Through this project, I hope to have illustrated the invaluable role of architects can play in this change, suggesting how simple and effective solutions can be realized and the sustainable, long-term effects they can produce.

+ supporting documentation: covers identifying challenges to development, reinforcing strengths and existing initiatives, characteristics of Rocinha, and related case studies.

[breathing, a privilege?] Killer smog and social inequality: in search of an urban transport design solution for Santiago’s poor

Chile’s capital city, Santiago, has spread considerably over the last fifty years. This trend has had a significant impact on the city’s environment, as well as on it’s society. Pollution levels, both air and water, have escalated due to the unregulated expansion of industry and car use. Currently, this poses a substantial threat to both the health and productivity of Santiago’s residents.

Urban segregation and inequality has too grown in tandem with the city’s expansion, instigated by the creation of numerous social housing projects on the city’s perimeter. This practice served to fortify the social spacing and differentiation between classes, literally marginalizing the poor and causing them to remain nearly invisible throughout the central city. The resultant loss of public spaces, quality services, job opportunities, as well as a sense of pride in their surroundings, has greatly inhibited residents’ ability to overcome poverty.

The aims of this project are therefore twofold – providing effective solutions to the ever-rising pollution levels, while addressing poignant societal issues that are currently facing Santiago’s poor.

The underlying concept driving this design was provoked by an anti-pollution petition banner which read: “Respirar ¿Un Privilegio?” or “breathing, a privilege?” Launching from this most basic and fundamental human need, I began to examine the role of architecture in providing its users with quality of life. The resultant project sought to reevaluate existing transport infrastructure, in order to generate a space that greatly enriches the lives and well-being of those who use it.

The project, a bus interchange for the residents of La Pintana, provides the people of La Pintana with access to work opportunities, education and healthcare services by encouraging local development, generating access to public transportation and providing daycare services for working parents. The design facilitates social interaction and community growth, by providing a space that the community can have a part in creating. The site is also a point of leverage for changing attitudes and raising awareness of green practices, providing it’s users with a healthy and aesthetic environment to be proud of. Like breathing, the benefits provided by space, are intrinsic and integrated – the users benefit simply by using it.

+ photos from site: La Pintana, Santiago
+ report: contains contextual information relating to urban segregation and pollution in La Pintana, along with the full design brief and related case studies

Current campaigns in Wellington suggest an existing harm reduction mentality towards alcohol consumption in New Zealand. Both the ‚ÄúStay Safe in the City” and ‚ÄúIts not the drinking campaign‚Äù acknowledge that drinking is an issue, but rather than promote abstinence, suggest ways to reduce the risks and harmful behaviour associated with the activity (by providing resources to support conscientious decision-making).

“We’ve taken a realistic approach with our messages. We’re not saying don’t drink instead we’re saying if you’re drinking make sure you eat something as well. We’re not saying don’t go out ‚Äì we’re saying when you go out plan how you will get home. Everyone has a part to play in keeping themselves and the city safe, whether you’re just out for a few drinks after work or out for the opera, or a gig.” - Campaign to Keep Safe This Christmas.

“We don’t necessarily want to stop people drinking; we just want them to be responsible and aware of the dangers of excessive consumption,” says Dr MacAvoy.

The ‚ÄúIts not the drinking campaign‚Äù put out by the Alcohol Advisory Council of New Zealand specifically sets out to raise awareness of New Zealand‚Äôs drinking culture ‚Äì ‚Äúthe culture where we drink too much at a time and accept being drunk.‚Äù Check out some of the posters here. Harm reduction is also mentioned as a strategy in ‚ÄúNew Zealand and it‚Äôs Drinking Culture.” Put out by Alcohol Advisory Council of New Zealand.