Interview about The Square Housing Units , winner of the A' Architecture, Building and Structure Design Award 2020
The Design idea was to study architectural relations between different shapes that are being composed together to create like moving units. The Project consists of 6 units each one is 2 shipping containers fixed over each other forming an L Shape Mass. these L shaped units are fixed in overlapping positions creating Voids and Solid to give the feeling of movement and to provide sufficient daylight and a good ventilation environment. The main design goal was to create a small house for those who spend the night in the streets with no home or shelter.
View detailed images, specifications, and award details on A' Design Award & Competition website.
View Design DetailsThe concept of the geometric layout of the units is designed to form a hollow square configuration, with various sections intentionally removed to create openings that facilitate airflow throughout the entire project. This design not only enhances ventilation and natural light for residents in all areas but also ensures that air can access the courtyard from both the top and sides of the structure. Additionally, this geometric form is crucial in providing privacy for each unit, as it allows for individual private spaces free from external disturbances.
The use of nanotechnology coatings, such as self-cleaning glass and anti-bacterial surfaces, directly aligns with the goal of providing sustainable, low-maintenance housing for vulnerable populations by reducing both upkeep costs and environmental impact. For instance, self-cleaning glass coatings reduce the need for frequent washing by allowing rainwater to naturally clean the surfaces, which minimizes water consumption and reliance on cleaning agents. This feature is particularly beneficial in areas where water may be a limited resource and residents may lack easy access to cleaning services. Similarly, anti-bacterial surface coatings enhance the health and hygiene within these housing units by inhibiting bacterial growth on frequently touched surfaces. This reduces the spread of infections and lowers the need for harsh disinfectants, aligning with both sustainability and the well-being of residents. These low-maintenance innovations not only cut down on recurrent maintenance costs but also extend the lifespan of housing materials, resulting in longer-lasting structures that are more economically and environmentally sustainable.
The central courtyard in The Square Housing Units draws from the rich tradition of Islamic and Arab architecture, where courtyards historically serve as focal points for community interaction, privacy, and climate control. By integrating this cultural element, the courtyard becomes more than just an architectural feature, it fosters social cohesion, enhances safety, and supports communal resilience, especially important for vulnerable populations. This layout encourages social interactions, providing a familiar, inclusive environment where residents naturally meet, support one another, and build a sense of belonging. Such an arrangement addresses the isolation that vulnerable communities might face and instead nurtures a neighborhood atmosphere, which is critical for mental well-being and community resilience.
The Tetris game served as a significant source of inspiration for me, as its units and shapes interact in a harmonious and flexible manner, allowing for the formation of a diverse array of configurations. This concept highlights the immense potential for developing various architectural forms that can function both as individual units and as cohesive communities or neighborhoods. The project embodies the vision of future expansions, adhering to consistent design standards and a unified way of living.
The inspiration for the square primarily stemmed from the profound and often heartbreaking experiences of the homeless and war refugees. These individuals, who have faced unimaginable hardships, deserve a life characterized by dignity, safety, and respect. Their struggles and resilience served as the foundation for the square project, which seeks to create a space that not only acknowledges their plight but also actively works to improve their circumstances.This idea aims to strengthen connections among people from diverse backgrounds, encouraging dialogue and understanding between community members. By bringing together individuals from various walks of life, the square aspires to cultivate a stronger, more inclusive community that upholds humane living standards for all. It is a place where empathy and compassion can flourish, allowing people to share their stories, experiences, and resources.
The natural ventilation system in The Square Housing Units was carefully crafted to strike a balance between voids and solids, creating a highly functional, energy-efficient environment that enhances resident comfort. The arrangement of voids allows for cross-ventilation throughout the units. Air can flow through open spaces, entering from cooler areas and exiting from warmer ones. This consistent airflow cools interiors without relying on mechanical air conditioning, which reduces energy consumption and operational costs. The strategic placement of voids in relation to solid walls also minimizes direct sunlight exposure, reducing heat buildup in interiors and creating a more naturally comfortable indoor environment even during the hottest hours of the day.
This balance between privacy and community fosters an inclusive environment where residents can enjoy meaningful interactions with neighbors and a sense of shared identity, while still having the dignity of private, personal spaces for themselves and their families. The design of The Square Housing Units thus promotes a resilient, respectful community structure that empowers residents to feel connected without sacrificing their autonomy.
the use of shipping containers and innovative materials in The Square Housing Units provides a low-cost, durable, and flexible building approach that meets the affordability and sustainability needs of developing regions. These choices lower initial construction costs, reduce long-term maintenance and operating expenses, and ensure that the housing solution can be deployed efficiently and sustainably, ultimately improving accessibility to quality housing in these areas.
The Square Housing Units has the potential to grow into an adaptable, tech-enabled, community-centered housing model that can respond to future urban challenges. By combining resilience, sustainability, and social engagement, it could offer a scalable, long-term solution to urban housing issues, fostering sustainable growth in urban landscapes worldwide.
the central court and backyard spaces in The Square Housing Units are much more than just communal areas they are catalysts for daily connection, cultural expression, and collective empowerment. By fostering a space for interactions and shared activities, these areas encourage residents to build lasting relationships, transforming the housing complex into a close-knit, vibrant community that improves the quality of life for all.
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