Quarryhood
Basic information
Project Title
Quarryhood
Full project title
Nomadic Settlement. Stretching Boundaries of Future Communities. Adaptive Architecture.
Category
Reconnecting with nature
Project Description
Located in a disused lime quarry, this project employs tensile structures in deliberate contrast to the quarry's enduring stone formations. This juxtaposition serves as a reminder that, like the tent fabric, our societies and cultures are delicate, requiring care, adaptability, and unity to navigate the ever-shifting world landscape toward a resilient future. The "tent in tent" concept enables a modular environment, like smaller tents fitting within larger ones, allowing flexible use of spaces.
Geographical Scope
National
Project Region
Romania
Urban or rural issues
It addresses urban-rural linkages
Physical or other transformations
It refers to a physical transformation of the built environment (hard investment)
EU Programme or fund
No
Description of the project
Summary
One of the objectives aligned with the goal of this approach is to project on the historical background of the city the shift in connotation of this industrial landscape of the limestone quarry which is now seen as a wound into the natural and urban environment, towards a means of healing, unifying and providing. Gathered from the quarry, limestone played a crucial role in not just shaping the city physically, but also in creating public spaces where incongruences between multi-ethnical groups progressively dissolved. Inspired by this collective recollection, the future proposal plans to honor and expand on the city's unity, diversity, and inclusive cultural heritage by converting the quarry into a place where distinct identities converge. By employing a modular, tent-based architectural approach, the project aims to create a harmonious coexistence space that mirrors Tulcea's historical heritage of neatly hosting diverse communities. The "Quarryhood" project for Tulcea's limestone quarry represents a flexible and scalable community that can develop under a clear strategy of expansion according to the size and needs of the groups it shelters. The project targets groups affected by crises such as pandemics, geopolitical conflicts, or natural disasters like earthquakes, and flooding. The core objective is to foster an all-encompassing environment, functioning as a self-sustaining community that caters to the essential needs of its inhabitants. It's designed not merely as a shelter but as a comprehensive space that integrates healthcare facilities, educational resources, communal areas for social interaction, and playgrounds for children. By providing educational opportunities and fostering cultural exchange, these settlements empower future users to develop the skills and knowledge necessary for self-reliance. Education and community interaction are key in helping them not just survive but also thrive, enabling them to reintegrate into society with confidence.
Key objectives for sustainability
The network of tents epitomizes the principles of "reuse, recycle, relocate" using PVC membrane as an eco-friendly material. The tents boast an efficient, low-maintenance design. The use of a secondary tensile membrane as a thin-shell structure serves multiple purposes, as it can economically span large distances. It shelters the tents from the weather while aiding in thermal regulation.
The conical shapes are achieved using edge cables anchored into the stone formations of the quarry, and a galvanized steel framework incorporating central rings—all the elements are used to create tension in the membrane. Each central ring is connected to a glazed structure, providing zenithal light and ventilation for an environmentally friendly living space. This approach significantly reduces embodied energy, aiding the transition towards achieving net zero emissions.
The modular design of 'building' the community out of tents ensures an adaptable construction method. This approach optimizes space, reducing material waste, and accommodating diverse functions efficiently.
Additionally, the project implements a comprehensive water management system leveraging the proximity of the Danube River. This system collects meteoric waters and stores reserves obtained through drilling. It further integrates a natural mini-delta for water cleaning, employing a distribution piping network, sand filters, plants, and drainage—a sustainable solution to purify water for the community.
The large covering membrane may serve a dual purpose by acting as a catchment area for a rainwater harvesting system. The design can follow the scenario of integrating downpipes for efficient water collection, contributing to sustainable water conservation practices within the community. Also, the proposal aims to establish a photovoltaic park adjacent to the quarry. This renewable energy source fuels vital aspects of the camp, including such as lighting, charging stations, water heating, and medical equipment.
The conical shapes are achieved using edge cables anchored into the stone formations of the quarry, and a galvanized steel framework incorporating central rings—all the elements are used to create tension in the membrane. Each central ring is connected to a glazed structure, providing zenithal light and ventilation for an environmentally friendly living space. This approach significantly reduces embodied energy, aiding the transition towards achieving net zero emissions.
The modular design of 'building' the community out of tents ensures an adaptable construction method. This approach optimizes space, reducing material waste, and accommodating diverse functions efficiently.
Additionally, the project implements a comprehensive water management system leveraging the proximity of the Danube River. This system collects meteoric waters and stores reserves obtained through drilling. It further integrates a natural mini-delta for water cleaning, employing a distribution piping network, sand filters, plants, and drainage—a sustainable solution to purify water for the community.
The large covering membrane may serve a dual purpose by acting as a catchment area for a rainwater harvesting system. The design can follow the scenario of integrating downpipes for efficient water collection, contributing to sustainable water conservation practices within the community. Also, the proposal aims to establish a photovoltaic park adjacent to the quarry. This renewable energy source fuels vital aspects of the camp, including such as lighting, charging stations, water heating, and medical equipment.
Key objectives for aesthetics and quality
Another objective of the project is to enhance the aesthetic appeal and overall living experience through purposeful design principles and cultural integration. The concept of "tent in tent" employs a mise en abyme framework, producing layered spaces that encapsulate different types of functions. By arranging the tents in a manner that creates intermediary spaces, the project promotes communal engagement and shared experiences. This design places emphasis on visual beauty, focusing on textural elements while maintaining a clean and inviting aesthetic for the eye. These outcomes are achieved through cost-effective and sustainable measures. Additionally, the cost-effectiveness of tensile architecture aligns with sustainability goals, allowing for the creation of aesthetically pleasing, yet budget-friendly, living spaces.
Inspired by the architectural principles of Frei Otto, the project seeks to provide a sustainable solution, catering to a minimum group size of 64-112 individuals. Designed as a versatile living space, the settlement takes cues from Otto's philosophy, emphasizing adaptability and organic growth. It aims to mirror his observations that a lightweight, tensile structure offers natural and efficient solutions, resonating with the needs of a community seeking refuge in times of crisis.
Quarryhood's visionary design incorporates a central worship space carved into stone, symbolizing the permanence of faith amidst life's transience. The extracted stone can be sustainably repurposed for sitting or meditation spaces, fostering spiritual connection and community enrichment. This innovative approach transforms geological elements into meaningful assets for collective well-being, by creating a space that is addressed to people's need for prayer and introspection. This space also pays homage to Tulcea City's multi-ethnic history. In the 19th century, an ecumenical church was erected, serving as a place where diverse religions could gather for collective prayer.
Inspired by the architectural principles of Frei Otto, the project seeks to provide a sustainable solution, catering to a minimum group size of 64-112 individuals. Designed as a versatile living space, the settlement takes cues from Otto's philosophy, emphasizing adaptability and organic growth. It aims to mirror his observations that a lightweight, tensile structure offers natural and efficient solutions, resonating with the needs of a community seeking refuge in times of crisis.
Quarryhood's visionary design incorporates a central worship space carved into stone, symbolizing the permanence of faith amidst life's transience. The extracted stone can be sustainably repurposed for sitting or meditation spaces, fostering spiritual connection and community enrichment. This innovative approach transforms geological elements into meaningful assets for collective well-being, by creating a space that is addressed to people's need for prayer and introspection. This space also pays homage to Tulcea City's multi-ethnic history. In the 19th century, an ecumenical church was erected, serving as a place where diverse religions could gather for collective prayer.
Key objectives for inclusion
The project prioritizes inclusivity through its architectural design and layout, emphasizing "Design for All." Ensuring accessibility for every member of the community, including vulnerable groups, is at the core of its design ethos. Spaces are easily navigable, providing access to essential facilities.
The organic in-between spaces that result from the modular arrangement of the tents become communal areas that encourage social interaction and community engagement, aiming to break down barriers of isolation and foster a sense of community belonging. By configuring zones that specifically cater to the primary requirements of these communities, individuals within the local context responsible for healthcare, sustenance, and educational provisions establish direct engagement and interaction with these distinct groups of people.
In addition, the so-called educational centers are multifunctional spaces that can be used also as workshops or crafting points where groups of people can become the ones sharing with the locals their vernacular know-how in different fields. Under 'one roof' it is intended to create an environment where different age groups can interact and share experiences.
Moreover, these educational centers, serve as versatile spaces that extend their functionality beyond mere learning hubs. They also operate as workshops or crafting points where diverse groups engage with locals to exchange their vernacular know-how in various fields. The overarching aim is to foster self-reliance within the hosted communities and to cultivate strong relationships with the surrounding local communities.
It is equally important to manage to establish a space where multiple generations can convene, interact, and collectively share their knowledge and experiences in a unified environment. This space is supposed to resonate with the identities of its diverse residents, promoting a sense of belonging and community identity.
The organic in-between spaces that result from the modular arrangement of the tents become communal areas that encourage social interaction and community engagement, aiming to break down barriers of isolation and foster a sense of community belonging. By configuring zones that specifically cater to the primary requirements of these communities, individuals within the local context responsible for healthcare, sustenance, and educational provisions establish direct engagement and interaction with these distinct groups of people.
In addition, the so-called educational centers are multifunctional spaces that can be used also as workshops or crafting points where groups of people can become the ones sharing with the locals their vernacular know-how in different fields. Under 'one roof' it is intended to create an environment where different age groups can interact and share experiences.
Moreover, these educational centers, serve as versatile spaces that extend their functionality beyond mere learning hubs. They also operate as workshops or crafting points where diverse groups engage with locals to exchange their vernacular know-how in various fields. The overarching aim is to foster self-reliance within the hosted communities and to cultivate strong relationships with the surrounding local communities.
It is equally important to manage to establish a space where multiple generations can convene, interact, and collectively share their knowledge and experiences in a unified environment. This space is supposed to resonate with the identities of its diverse residents, promoting a sense of belonging and community identity.
How Citizens benefit
The introduction of a modular design is expected to provide residents with an empowered role, granting them agency in determining the arrangement of the settlement. Citizens will actively participate in decision-making, providing essential input in configuring and adapting modular spaces to meet their specific needs. This approach is projected to result in a sense of proprietorship and community pride, fostering an environment where residents will feel a sense of ownership over their living spaces due to the use of tensile architecture. Its flexibility and adaptability are anticipated to complement the modular design, allowing for ease in reconfiguring spaces in accordance with the community's preferences. This adaptability is expected to allow adjustments without major disruptions, aligning with the evolving needs of the community.
Additionally, the engaged participation of locals is anticipated to foster a heightened level of interaction and collaboration among community members. Facilities such as healthcare or education supported and managed by local individuals, are envisioned to serve as focal points for interaction, where the community will actively shape the social and functional landscape of these spaces. This inclusive participation is expected to contribute significantly to fostering community cohesion and mutual support among people.
Additionally, the engaged participation of locals is anticipated to foster a heightened level of interaction and collaboration among community members. Facilities such as healthcare or education supported and managed by local individuals, are envisioned to serve as focal points for interaction, where the community will actively shape the social and functional landscape of these spaces. This inclusive participation is expected to contribute significantly to fostering community cohesion and mutual support among people.
Physical or other transformations
It refers to a physical transformation of the built environment (hard investment)
Innovative character
Quarryhood's innovation extends beyond its role as a community project, positioning itself as a versatile solution adaptable to various circumstances, including use as a refugee camp for foreign communities or emergency dwellings for local citizens. The strategic integration of facilities for education and workshops distinguishes it from conventional approaches, emphasizing a holistic environment for physical, educational, and social well-being. The project's overarching goal is to create comfort on physical, spiritual, and visual levels for all users, making it a groundbreaking model that transcends traditional limitations and addresses the diverse needs of communities and refugees alike.
On the other hand, at the heart of Quarryhood's innovation is its adaptive tensile architecture, a departure from conventional fixed structures. This design choice showcases a dynamic response to the ever-evolving needs of communities, providing a flexible and scalable solution that contrasts sharply with mainstream, rigid architectural approaches.
Cultural inclusivity and diversity are also hallmarks of Quarryhood's innovative approach. For incorporating the cave-like space for prayer and serving as a hub for diverse communities, the project consciously embraces the cultural tapestry of the region. Through this dichotomy of spaces and materials: fabric-limestone and tent-cave, the project aims to make out of the archetypal symbols of the world a way to better connect to its universal truths and states of being.
This stands in stark contrast to mainstream solutions that may neglect the importance of cultural nuances, positioning Quarryhood as a pioneer in fostering unity within diversity.
On the other hand, at the heart of Quarryhood's innovation is its adaptive tensile architecture, a departure from conventional fixed structures. This design choice showcases a dynamic response to the ever-evolving needs of communities, providing a flexible and scalable solution that contrasts sharply with mainstream, rigid architectural approaches.
Cultural inclusivity and diversity are also hallmarks of Quarryhood's innovative approach. For incorporating the cave-like space for prayer and serving as a hub for diverse communities, the project consciously embraces the cultural tapestry of the region. Through this dichotomy of spaces and materials: fabric-limestone and tent-cave, the project aims to make out of the archetypal symbols of the world a way to better connect to its universal truths and states of being.
This stands in stark contrast to mainstream solutions that may neglect the importance of cultural nuances, positioning Quarryhood as a pioneer in fostering unity within diversity.
Disciplines/knowledge reflected
The Quarryhood project employed multi-level engagement strategies, fostering effective communication and collaboration both horizontally and vertically among stakeholders from various levels.
At the local level, engagement was designed to connect different ethnic communities within the city. Strategies included multicultural fairs that already take place within the city and in its proximity, community events, and workshops, encouraging bonding and understanding between multicultural groups. This approach aimed to create a platform for cultural exchange and cohesion among various ethnicities residing in the city. The involvement of local stakeholders facilitated a deeper understanding of their needs and aspirations, contributing to a more culturally sensitive and inclusive project.
Regionally and nationally, efforts were directed at aligning policies and strategies that accounted for the diverse community makeup. Stakeholders operating at these levels facilitated the integration of local initiatives into broader regional development frameworks. Their involvement aimed to bridge the gap between local aspirations and regional/national strategies, fostering a harmonious exchange that considered the distinctive cultural fabric of the city and the environmental significance of the Danube Delta.
At the local level, engagement was designed to connect different ethnic communities within the city. Strategies included multicultural fairs that already take place within the city and in its proximity, community events, and workshops, encouraging bonding and understanding between multicultural groups. This approach aimed to create a platform for cultural exchange and cohesion among various ethnicities residing in the city. The involvement of local stakeholders facilitated a deeper understanding of their needs and aspirations, contributing to a more culturally sensitive and inclusive project.
Regionally and nationally, efforts were directed at aligning policies and strategies that accounted for the diverse community makeup. Stakeholders operating at these levels facilitated the integration of local initiatives into broader regional development frameworks. Their involvement aimed to bridge the gap between local aspirations and regional/national strategies, fostering a harmonious exchange that considered the distinctive cultural fabric of the city and the environmental significance of the Danube Delta.
Methodology used
Site-specific analysis is a cornerstone of Quarryhood's methodology, taking into account the environmental, geological, and cultural attributes of the disused limestone quarry. This examination ensures that the project not only takes advantage and tries to create a symbiosis with the existing landscape but also maximizes its potential to have a new use. The first phase of the camp is situated on the third quarry's ledge due to mobility reasons as it is in direct connection to most of the paths and roads. The panoramic quality of this ledge was another reason, as it overlooks both the quarry and the city.
Secondly, another essential pillar in the methodology is the exploration and contemplation of the fundamental needs and lifestyle dynamics of the communities it aims to serve. This analysis serves as a foundational step in crafting a design that goes beyond the superficial. The minimal dimensions of spaces, carefully documented through the study, became the basis for creating adaptable and functional living areas within Quarryhood. The optimal arrangement of facilities, informed by the research, guarantees an efficient use of space, fostering a harmonious environment for the inhabitants.
Consequently, the Scenario Planning for Crisis Situations undertaken by Quarryhood has yielded a strategic advantage – the potential for expansion and adaptable use, contingent upon the number of users. This foresighted approach ensures that Quarryhood can respond to varying circumstances, such as increased demand due to crises or evolving community needs. The project's adaptability becomes a proactive feature, aligning with its commitment to resilience and sustainable growth. In essence, Quarryhood's approach is not confined to the architectural blueprint; it extends into the realms of anthropology, sociology, and community psychology.
Secondly, another essential pillar in the methodology is the exploration and contemplation of the fundamental needs and lifestyle dynamics of the communities it aims to serve. This analysis serves as a foundational step in crafting a design that goes beyond the superficial. The minimal dimensions of spaces, carefully documented through the study, became the basis for creating adaptable and functional living areas within Quarryhood. The optimal arrangement of facilities, informed by the research, guarantees an efficient use of space, fostering a harmonious environment for the inhabitants.
Consequently, the Scenario Planning for Crisis Situations undertaken by Quarryhood has yielded a strategic advantage – the potential for expansion and adaptable use, contingent upon the number of users. This foresighted approach ensures that Quarryhood can respond to varying circumstances, such as increased demand due to crises or evolving community needs. The project's adaptability becomes a proactive feature, aligning with its commitment to resilience and sustainable growth. In essence, Quarryhood's approach is not confined to the architectural blueprint; it extends into the realms of anthropology, sociology, and community psychology.
How stakeholders are engaged
The Quarryhood project employed multi-level engagement strategies, fostering effective communication and collaboration both horizontally and vertically among stakeholders from various levels.
At the local level, engagement was designed to connect different ethnic communities within the city. Strategies included multicultural fairs that already take place within the city and in its proximity, community events, and workshops, encouraging bonding and understanding between multicultural groups. This approach aimed to create a platform for cultural exchange and cohesion among various ethnicities residing in the city. The involvement of local stakeholders facilitated a deeper understanding of their needs and aspirations, contributing to a more culturally sensitive and inclusive project.
Regionally and nationally, efforts were directed at aligning policies and strategies that accounted for the diverse community makeup. Stakeholders operating at these levels facilitated the integration of local initiatives into broader regional development frameworks. Their involvement aimed to bridge the gap between local aspirations and regional/national strategies, fostering a harmonious exchange that considered the distinctive cultural fabric of the city and the environmental significance of the Danube Delta.
At the local level, engagement was designed to connect different ethnic communities within the city. Strategies included multicultural fairs that already take place within the city and in its proximity, community events, and workshops, encouraging bonding and understanding between multicultural groups. This approach aimed to create a platform for cultural exchange and cohesion among various ethnicities residing in the city. The involvement of local stakeholders facilitated a deeper understanding of their needs and aspirations, contributing to a more culturally sensitive and inclusive project.
Regionally and nationally, efforts were directed at aligning policies and strategies that accounted for the diverse community makeup. Stakeholders operating at these levels facilitated the integration of local initiatives into broader regional development frameworks. Their involvement aimed to bridge the gap between local aspirations and regional/national strategies, fostering a harmonious exchange that considered the distinctive cultural fabric of the city and the environmental significance of the Danube Delta.
Global challenges
Quarryhood emerges as a visionary response to critical global challenges, offering innovative and localized solutions that resonate across emergency housing shortages, cultural inclusivity, and the repurposing of industrial landscapes.
Firstly, Quarryhood tackles the global issue of cultural inclusivity by creating a space that celebrates diversity and fosters harmonious coexistence. It draws inspiration from Tulcea City's rich multicultural history, providing a blueprint for creating inclusive environments in regions with a history of hosting diverse communities.
The project introduces modular, tensile structures that provide swift and adaptable shelter for displaced communities. This local solution represents a scalable model capable of meeting the immediate needs of diverse populations affected by pandemics, natural disasters, or geopolitical conflicts. It is a pragmatic approach to crisis response, emphasizing the importance of rapid, flexible, and sustainable housing solutions.
Furthermore, Quarryhood tackles the global dilemma of repurposing unused industrial landscapes. Through the transformation of abandoned stone quarries into functional settlements, the project pioneers a sustainable solution to the often neglected issue of underutilized spaces. This local solution not only breathes new life into neglected landscapes but also demonstrates the potential for turning industrial scars into assets for the community. Quarryhood sets a precedent for responsible and creative land-use practices, advocating for the thoughtful redevelopment of existing infrastructure.
Firstly, Quarryhood tackles the global issue of cultural inclusivity by creating a space that celebrates diversity and fosters harmonious coexistence. It draws inspiration from Tulcea City's rich multicultural history, providing a blueprint for creating inclusive environments in regions with a history of hosting diverse communities.
The project introduces modular, tensile structures that provide swift and adaptable shelter for displaced communities. This local solution represents a scalable model capable of meeting the immediate needs of diverse populations affected by pandemics, natural disasters, or geopolitical conflicts. It is a pragmatic approach to crisis response, emphasizing the importance of rapid, flexible, and sustainable housing solutions.
Furthermore, Quarryhood tackles the global dilemma of repurposing unused industrial landscapes. Through the transformation of abandoned stone quarries into functional settlements, the project pioneers a sustainable solution to the often neglected issue of underutilized spaces. This local solution not only breathes new life into neglected landscapes but also demonstrates the potential for turning industrial scars into assets for the community. Quarryhood sets a precedent for responsible and creative land-use practices, advocating for the thoughtful redevelopment of existing infrastructure.
Learning transferred to other parties
Quarryhood offers a replicable model with transferable elements applicable to various contexts and groups. The methodology, rooted in comprehensive research on refugee camp morphology, ensures adaptable design based on minimal dimensions and essential facilities. The Scenario Planning for Crisis Situations, allowing for expansion or adaptable use, proves universally relevant
Technologically, the sustainable aspects of the tensile architecture, such as the use of eco-friendly materials and quick, low-maintenance installation, can be applied elsewhere.
The communal worship space carved into the stone exemplifies a replicable cultural strategy, promoting inclusivity and symbolizing faith's enduring nature. The main idea is that the existence and the design of such a space fostering diverse religious beliefs and meditation is of higher importance than the material used for it. The project's philosophy aims to incorporate this type of space, made out of a different material than the PVC membrane used for the tents, no matter if it is carved stone, wood, bricks, rammed earth, or other vernacular solutions. Each community can find a different language for erecting their prayer space together.
Numerous unused industrial landscapes, such as stone quarries, have the potential to serve as a network for emergency dwellings similar to Quarryhood. Repurposing these sites collectively could yield significant benefits. Firstly, the availability of diverse landscapes enables tailored solutions for varied community needs, from shelter to cultural enrichment. Secondly, a network allows shared resources, optimizing logistical and infrastructural support. Thirdly, the collaborative approach fosters knowledge exchange and best practices, enhancing the overall effectiveness of emergency settlements.
Technologically, the sustainable aspects of the tensile architecture, such as the use of eco-friendly materials and quick, low-maintenance installation, can be applied elsewhere.
The communal worship space carved into the stone exemplifies a replicable cultural strategy, promoting inclusivity and symbolizing faith's enduring nature. The main idea is that the existence and the design of such a space fostering diverse religious beliefs and meditation is of higher importance than the material used for it. The project's philosophy aims to incorporate this type of space, made out of a different material than the PVC membrane used for the tents, no matter if it is carved stone, wood, bricks, rammed earth, or other vernacular solutions. Each community can find a different language for erecting their prayer space together.
Numerous unused industrial landscapes, such as stone quarries, have the potential to serve as a network for emergency dwellings similar to Quarryhood. Repurposing these sites collectively could yield significant benefits. Firstly, the availability of diverse landscapes enables tailored solutions for varied community needs, from shelter to cultural enrichment. Secondly, a network allows shared resources, optimizing logistical and infrastructural support. Thirdly, the collaborative approach fosters knowledge exchange and best practices, enhancing the overall effectiveness of emergency settlements.
Keywords
Emergency Dwellings
Adaptive Architecture
Industrial Landscape
Multicultural Heritage
MultiLayer Living
