Architects For Humanity | An International Architectural Competition to redesign a Housing Quarter for Earthquake Victims in Northern Syria , Azaz / Syrien

An International Architectural Competition to redesign a Housing Quarter for Earthquake Victims in Northern Syria

 

Mimaria Studio 

Molham Team

 

The Syrian conflict, now in its thirteen years, has resulted in one of the most significant displacements in recent history. Over 12.5 million people have been forced from their homes, leaving a vast majority in dire need of shelter, security, and a sense of belonging. The socio-cultural fabric of Syria has been deeply scarred, with buildings and infrastructure severely damaged. This crisis, compounded by the latest earthquake, has left millions homeless and eroded the essence of ‘dwelling’ – a space beyond the physical that fosters a sense of identity, community, and security.

 

1. City Challenges: Azaz faces overcrowding due to an influx of 2.9 million refugees. The emergency housing need has led to the repurposing agricultural land, posing risks to local food security and the environment. As a result of rapid development, the area’s natural environment and lack of public spaces have been negatively impacted.

 

2. IDP Challenges: The majority of IDPs live in harsh conditions with insufficient space and privacy, struggling to establish a new sense of belonging amid affordable housing shortages.

 

3. NGO Challenges: Despite being at the forefront of relief, NGOs face resource constraints and the challenge of rapidly building quality, low-cost housing.

 

We invite the international architectural community to rise to the challenge of designing innovative, sustainable, and culturally sensitive housing solutions for the earthquake and displaced victims of Syria. This competition seeks to address the complex crisis in Azaz by creating a new urban quarter that provides shelter and recreates a sense of home, community, and belonging.

 

. Design a Housing Complex: Participants are tasked with designing a housing complex that accommodates 450  families, incorporating cultural, commercial, educational, and public functions.

 

. Balance Social Responsibility and Community Diversity: The design must harmoniously balance social responsibility, community diversity, and vibrant public spaces, curating spaces that spark interactions and nurture a sense of community.

 

. Create Resilient and Adaptable Spaces: The design must be earthquake resilient and adaptable, considering future scenarios, changing community needs, and integrating public and private functions to foster a cohesive community fabric.

 

. Consider Cost Efficiency and Construction Feasibility: The design must be realistic, feasible, and cost-efficient, considering local resources, available skills, and budget constraints.

 

March 15, 2024 - Competition launch

April 25, 2024 - Deadline for Receiving Questions

May 2024 - Molham Projects seminar

July 30, 2024 - Registration deadline

July 31, 2024 - Submission deadline

August 2024 - Shortlist announcement

August 2024 - Winner announcement

 

TOTAL PRIZE FUND

4,500 $

 

1ST PLACE

2,000 $

+ Implementation possibility

 

2ND PLACE

1,500 $

 

3RD PLACE

1,000 $

 

20 honourable mentions & certificates

Honorary certificates + published work in publications, our website, social media pages, and exhibitions.