The Resilient Home
Client / Location World Bank, Build Academy, AirBnB, GFDRR, UN Habitat / Multiple Across Africa
Year / Status 2018 / Unbuilt
Typology Un-submitted Competition Entry
Site Area / Built-up Area Varies / 50 sq.m.
Collaboration JohN / john.instagram.com
The Resilient Home is a study on incorporating local knowledge, materials and craftsmanship to combat climate change related disasters. The project was a response to the challenge organised by a host of international agencies to generate designs for disaster-resilient and sustainable houses that could be constructed for under $10,000 for people living in areas affected by or vulnerable to disasters caused by natural hazards. The proposed design is optimised for island conditions, to withstand effects of constant floods, mild hurricanes, storms and earthquakes. The structure is made of stabilised mud in the lower portion with a curved buttress wall, while the upper portion is made of local wood joined by metal clamps. The roof is thatched to reduce cost. The material pallet for the house is selected to make maximal use of locally available resources and impart public participation in construction. Perishable materials used in the upper portion can also be easily replaced in case it get destroyed during a heavy disaster. The idea behind a firm, curved, strong base and a light, airy top was to maximise security both in situations of flooding and earthquake.
