Who are you? What makes you unique? What do you value? How do you connect with others? Do you prefer order and structure, or spontaneity and impulse? Everything changes in an instant. After a disaster, people are affected physically, mentally, and emotionally. Who they were is no longer who they are. Individuals experience loss and the process of recovery is intimidating. Each person is affected and impacted differently, and because of this their needs for recovery are diverse. There is no ‘one size fits all’ approach to disaster recovery. Individuals require spaces where they can express themselves and their needs are met. Developing spaces that fits individuals needs for privacy, interaction, and support will help individuals transition from the disaster to a ‘new normal’ and contribute to the restoring and rebuilding effort.
The modular approach to the master plan allows for customization of the configuration. The community, culture and disaster dictate the formation, shape, and type/quantity of units within the plan. Incorporating common outdoor spaces encourages interaction and activity. The implementation of a color coding system helps users navigate the plan and identify use, designating type of space and use.
The shell of the structure is composed of thermal polycarbonate sheeting. The curved, slanted roof encourages air circulation to the interior and around the exterior. The semi transparent shell permeates natural light from the exterior while thermal qualities provides protection from the elements. Entrances on the corners increase interior circulation and living space and at the same time provide opportunities for units to be connected on the sides. The LIVE unit is built to provide shelter and safety, but the use and function is determined by the inhabitants. The peg wall system allows users to configure the storage/living space as they require.
Dispersed throughout the master plan, the SERVE units hold bathroom and kitchen facilities for the surrounding units. The communal design of the produces a holistic atmosphere allowing for individuals to be involved and take part in typical daily activities, such as cooking and socializing. The full separation between uses the peg wall system on the kitchen side. The shared bathrooms utilized the resources available. Water is directed to the concentrated SERVE units. The bathrooms provide privacy and amenities that individuals are used to, but makes the limited resources available in an efficient manner.
