PROJECT DESCRIPTION:
This project aims to decrease the need for affordable housing by allowing potential residents the ability to self-construct dwellings in unfinished building ruins. The construction ruin depicted in this project is located in the center of Caracas, Venezuela and already poses's the necessary skeletal structure for residential dwellings. The building materials that will be used for construction are designed to be produced within community facilities also located within the building.
The first step in achieving this project will be to set up the necessary workshops, where construction materials can be manufactured, stored and sold. Future residents, with construction experience, and outside specialists will train community members to produce these materials.
Once carpentry and metal shops are completed and enough material has been produced, construction can begin on the residential dwellings.
The building shall be divided into various zones. The rear of the building will have a patio area reserved for the dwelling parcels. The front of the building will house the material workshops and communal work spaces. The first and second floors will then house retail spaces where residents can gain income by selling these produced goods.
On the third floor the metal and the carpentry workshops will manufacture the expanded metal and sunshades, made of waxed textiles, for use on the building’s façade.
All materials will be easy to produce within the buildings facilities. The future residences will find a place to live, learn and work, while providing goods to the surrounding community. By constructing their homes with materials and money earned within the building, their identification with the building and community grows.
How an individual constructs his/her dwelling, in the designated areas, is relatively free. Water, gas and electricity must be provided before construction can begin. Once installed, families can start with materials that are readily available and affordable to them. As time passes, inexpensive starter materials can be replaced with more durable alternatives. The construction of the building is an on-going process and can range between 5-15 years, depending on an individual’s available resources.
