architecture

2020

aborted

Collaborators: Nada Borgi | Omar Dally

Our main observation of the existing spaces of the family is the clear cut between internal and external spaces.

Built spaces are small and dark, limited by the constraints of the materials and traditional construction techniques.

The outdoor however is vast, vague lacking clear zoning whether in flooring, shading or delimitation.

The main intention of our proposal is to create more categories of spaces ranging from the most private to the most public. Following the direction of the site, the movements of the neighbors and the paths of the animals, a rhythmic wall draws the line between the built private space and the unbuilt outdoor accessible to all.

The Line however is fluid, not a cut line. It grows on both sides and creates various forms of communication between the outdoor and the covered buffer area. Patios, indoor outdoor table, covered passage and staircase occupy the buffer zone and delineates the private spaces of the extended family including the private views, gardens and terraces overlooking the open space on the southern side.

The house composition is an articulation of basic geometric shapes for ease and affordability of construction. Bordered by the agriculture plot from one side and the wet facilities from the other side, the house is a play of mass and void: the indoor kitchen, the living space and the bedroom blocks alternates with outdoor kitchen, pocket spaces and a shared garden with the existing cottage.

A light plastered finish gives a unified treatment for the concrete structure and the brick walls. Natural materials such as bamboo and wood studs shade the terraces on both floors. A rain harvesting system collects water on top of the kitchen roof.

Elements of landscape furniture are inserted around the site, a reminder of the simple aesthetic of the house itself. Terracotta pavement connect to the kettle and a circular bench highlights a main old tree of the site.