Open Architecture Network

PROJECT DESCRIPTION:
The mass of the building recalls the vernacular construction techniques of the area and is anchored into the earth while the curved truss canopy, a new construction technique introduced, hovers above providing additional shading and shelter. This design expresses the relationship Nyaya health has to the community by adding new resources to an already existing context.

The natural beauty of the landscape as well as its influence on the resident’s lifestyle makes the landscape an important issue to address as well. The gentle slope of the roof fits the silhouette of the landscape. The multipurpose room faces the road and acknowledges the public creating entrance while the housing portion gestures towards the mountain scenery creating privacy and framing breathtaking views. The two building create a central outdoor space and a series of covered public and private outdoor spaces. The linear design of the canopy allows for expansion of the residences and/or multipurpose room while keeping the open courtyard form.

Materials and Construction: Rubble stone, mud, timber, corrugated tin.

The remote location of the site, economic restraints, and community involvement suggest that the materials and labor should reflect the vernacular architecture of the area. The type of construction used in their vernacular is rubble stone masonry with mud mortar and a mud plaster finish. Timber is used for floors and roof structure and the roof is finished with slate shingles or corrugated tin covered with thatch. These construction techniques and styles are familiar to the community and the materials are readily available within meters of the site.

Rubble stone masonry construction lacks tension to keep its integrity during seismic events. Improving joints and connections and increasing strength by adding tension members can improve the buildings performance. Techniques such as wood banding are used in other areas of Nepal and are relatively inexpensive. Other techniques are available such as anchoring the floor to the wall with steel bolts, however, this techniques is more expensive and technologically advanced. The community would benefit more from low tech, inexpensive solutions that could be reproduced in their own construction.

The canopy is also designed to be produced by the local labor force. The curved truss roof system is simplified by segments which can be achieved on a low budget with limited materials and resources using short, straight pieces of lumber. The Lappish Civic Center by Bjerk and Bjork can be used as a precedent example of this type of curved truss system.