Open Architecture Network

PROJECT DESCRIPTION:
The shape of the building is the effect of the combination of the two preliminary thoughts and their further formation which was meant to lead to a satisfying effect. The first of the preliminary thoughts bases on the division of the building into three parts according to the functions of these parts. The three separate aims which are somehow joined together.

Another idea which influenced the appearance of the building is an attempt of reference to mandala, as the element of the Buddhist tradition, and in a sense a tradition which is close to the local community.

The fusion of these two ideas resulted in the project of the building which arms split apart centrally, separating particular functions and gathering the technical elements in one point which allows to keep the costs of cable and pipe installations low. Splitting arms will allow to keep apart ill and healthy users of social rooms of the centre.

The angles of splitting of the walls result from materials which were chosen for construction of the building and their physical properties. As the main building material has been chosen soil, which as a special mixture is pressed in wooden formworks and then is a solid and a natural construction. Soil is a material which is very easy to obtain as it can be excavated at the building site, which lowers the costs of transport. The very process of construction of buildings made of pressed soil is very easy and requires only a short training. The simplicity of the process will enable to engage the inhabitants of the village to co-work which in turn will give them an opportunity to influence the building they will then use.

It is worth mentioning that pressed soil is a very good insulating and temperature regulating material which will be an additional advantage in winter and in summer it will help to avoid overheating. Another positive feature of pressed soil walls is the fact that they do not create a homogeneous grey surface but wide stripes of natural colours.

For roof cover have been chosen roofing slates which are widely used as covering material in the vicinity. Due to this the inhabitants will be able to take part in the process of construction also at this stage as they probably have the greater knowledge and skills in this area. The use of slates will make the object match traditional local buildings.