1.
Yona Friedman, in his article On Models of Utopias and Social Ecology, emphasises the power of architecture in fostering "non-paternalistic arrangement" and "egalitarian social utopia". To realise such utopia, he advocates for small, autonomous, self-sufficient communities called critical groups, where individuals are both conscious of their collective and individual agency within a subsistence-oriented practices.
2.
Every action provokes a reaction. The Israeli repression and systemic
demolition of structures, including schools, have paradoxically strengthened
Palestinians' sense of collective power. Each community in Palestine embody
the essence of a critical group, demonstrating resistance and solidarity. This project aims to support the critical group by proposing a legible and
recognisable architectural form.
3.
The proposal is a system of linear structure with a user manual. This
framework enables the critical group to construct collective gathering space
realised by their own manual labour. By building their own environment for
activities and rituals, the building process itself become an invaluable form
of shared knowledge, relating each other within the community.
4.
The project employs repetitive modular elements adaptable to varied site
conditions, using lightweight, inexpensive, and locally available materials
like 18mm plywood, polycarbonate panel, 2x4 treated timber, straw bale
insulation, and corrugated roof panels. Universal plywood sheets (1220mm x
2440mm) are CNC-cut into simple, interlocking geometries – T, I, L shapes –
forming a waffle-like column and beam system based on a 2400mm grid. All
components are prefabricated to streamline construction and reduce material
waste.
5.
CNC-cut plywood components are designed with notch joints, enabling easy
assembly and disassembly. This system allows for easy relocation, repair, and
expansion, accommodating the community's evolving needs. Rubber hammers
replace nails and glue, ensuring flexibility and adaptability in response to
potential disruptions.
6.
To minimise foundation work, the proposal follows natural contours. Where
necessary, thermo-clay walls made of wooden palette and filled with excavated
earth improve thermal inertia. The roof is insulated with straw bales, and the
polycarbonate walls are lined with vinyl bubble sheets for thermal comfort.
7.
The project includes two parallel structures: a skillion roof for classrooms
and a barrel vault for shared facilities. There is no level difference between
two spaces, allowing people to negotiate and constantly change the layout of
classroom using the partition walls and curtains.
8.
This project realises Friedman's vision by proposing legible form with
practical framework for self-sufficient communities. Accessible materials and
modular designs empower communities to create collective space of resilience
and autonomy — architecture as a tool for revolution.
1.
Yona Friedman, in his article On Models of Utopias and Social Ecology, emphasises the power of architecture in fostering "non-paternalistic arrangement" and "egalitarian social utopia". To realise such utopia, he advocates for small, autonomous, self-sufficient communities called critical groups, where individuals are both conscious of their collective and individual agency within a subsistence-oriented practices.
2.
Every action provokes a reaction. The Israeli repression and systemic
demolition of structures, including schools, have paradoxically strengthened
Palestinians' sense of collective power. Each community in Palestine embody
the essence of a critical group, demonstrating resistance and solidarity. This project aims to support the critical group by proposing a legible and
recognisable architectural form.
3.
The proposal is a system of linear structure with a user manual. This
framework enables the critical group to construct collective gathering space
realised by their own manual labour. By building their own environment for
activities and rituals, the building process itself become an invaluable form
of shared knowledge, relating each other within the community.
4.
The project employs repetitive modular elements adaptable to varied site
conditions, using lightweight, inexpensive, and locally available materials
like 18mm plywood, polycarbonate panel, 2x4 treated timber, straw bale
insulation, and corrugated roof panels. Universal plywood sheets (1220mm x
2440mm) are CNC-cut into simple, interlocking geometries – T, I, L shapes –
forming a waffle-like column and beam system based on a 2400mm grid. All
components are prefabricated to streamline construction and reduce material
waste.
5.
CNC-cut plywood components are designed with notch joints, enabling easy
assembly and disassembly. This system allows for easy relocation, repair, and
expansion, accommodating the community's evolving needs. Rubber hammers
replace nails and glue, ensuring flexibility and adaptability in response to
potential disruptions.
6.
To minimise foundation work, the proposal follows natural contours. Where
necessary, thermo-clay walls made of wooden palette and filled with excavated
earth improve thermal inertia. The roof is insulated with straw bales, and the
polycarbonate walls are lined with vinyl bubble sheets for thermal comfort.
7.
The project includes two parallel structures: a skillion roof for classrooms
and a barrel vault for shared facilities. There is no level difference between
two spaces, allowing people to negotiate and constantly change the layout of
classroom using the partition walls and curtains.
8.
This project realises Friedman's vision by proposing legible form with
practical framework for self-sufficient communities. Accessible materials and
modular designs empower communities to create collective space of resilience
and autonomy — architecture as a tool for revolution.