Urban fragments in Dir Al- Sune

Liv Grete Strømme Framgard, Fall Semester, 2010

The word ”informality” in relation to architecture often give negative associations, like illegal building, refugee camps and slums. But what about the beautiful and charming old quarters like the Old City? Why are they so attractive, even though nobody planned them?

Since informal architecture, meaning immediate housing built by non-architects, is not planned in a larger scale, it is built up around the human body. Architecture in a human scale has short distances, varied angles and is relatively intimate. Not being able to see the entire length of road ahead and every facade of the buildings create a unique sense of place and curiosity.

How can we translate the qualities of such informal architecture into a modern structure that meets the needs of the inhabitants, has urban potential, yet keeps the scale and advantages of a local community?

The primary motives of the project are:

1: urbanizing
by increasing building density is environmentally friendly as buildings cast shadows on each  other, giving a natural cooling effect. Shaded areas are needed for the comfort to play and  relax. It also leaves larger open spaces that  can be enjoyed by everyone, and create a better shared sphere that opens for the future inclusion in the urban fabric.

2: human scale
working with variation, distance and scale, I wish to learn from traditional, informal building, and create a comfortable and unique environment.

3: social sustainability
“the house with several faces” gives each housing unit access to different levels, and adaptability.  Future generations might require new uses or expand  the house by turning courtyards, terraces or semi-public space into new rooms.

4: the new and the old
traditional elements such as the courtyard, which functions as light well, ventilation and social arena, combined with modern roads and functional planning.