Disaster Project booklet

Table of Contents : Project Statement Precedent Hierarchy of Needs Concept Sacred Geometries Crystal Grids Master Plan Development Structural Spaces •Large Community •Infirmary

•Transitional Community •Dwelling Building Components Conclusion

Project Statement The objective of this project was to examine the extreme needs that arise in individuals who endure a disaster, man-made or natural. And upon examining these needs, develop a relief/recovery village that could be deployed in a array of situations. The core purpose of this design is to provide a safe and comfortable environment for those who have been displaced by disaster.

Any experience that threatens your life, safety or sense of security can cause emotional trauma.

There are a number of stages of emotional trauma that an individual undergoes after surviving a disaster. The initial reaction in the aftermath of a disaster for many people will be a blunting of their feelings. They will be stunned or numb. Initially people may not accept what has happened. Shortly after people will likely experience some symptoms of post-traumatic stress. They will have recurrent and intrusive distressing recollections of the events that they have seen and been through. This can include nightmares and daytime flashbacks.

Some will feel detached and estranged from other people and may not be able to have any loving feelings for a long time. There can be difficulty in falling or staying asleep, increased outbursts of anger, and difficulty concentrating.

While the after effects of an earthquake would require time to clear the rubble, rescue survivors, and repair the physical damage caused, similarly the individuals need some time to be allowed to recover and balance their emotional equilibrium, accept and cope with their losses, re-adjust to their surroundings, and rebuild their life accordingly.

Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs and The System of Chakras When confronted with a disaster, be it natural or psychological, humans revert to fulfilling basic needs. The psychologist Abraham Maslow developed a model that broke down these needs based on hierarchy . This psychological model in conjunction with the spiritual system of the chakras where the flow of energy drives the quality of life, is key for recovering on all levels.

Crown Chakra Self– Actualization

Third Eye Chakra Throat Chakra

Esteem Love and Belonging Safety

Physiological

Heart Chakra Solar Plexus Chakra Sacral Chakra

Root Chakra

At the base of this pyramid model is the most basic physiological such as water, food, warmth, shelter and intimacy. Only when the basic physiological needs are met can one start focusing on safety and need for law, order, security and stability. Progressing up the pyramid to the third level friendships are developed, as well as intimate relationships with a significant other.

The root chakra represents a personal foundation and feeling of being grounded. The sacral chakra represents connection and ability to accept others and new experiences. The Solar Plexus Chakra represents the ability to be confident and in control of our lives. The Heart Chakra deals with the ability to love. The Throat Chakra represents our ability to communicate, while the Third Eye Chakra deals with a sense of perspective allowing for the “big picture” to be seen. Lastly the Crown Chakra represents the ability to be spiritually connected Maslow explained that the only way to progress and achieve self actualization if the lower needs are satisfied. If any of the lower needs are not being satisfied we will regress. Similarly to the chakra system, if one of the chakra’s is blocked there can be no progression. A solid foundation is needed to be build upon.

Precedent: Hex House Designer: Architects for Society Square Footage: 431 Construction: Steel-and-foam structural insulated panels Description: Each Hex House unit contains two bedrooms, a kitchen, a bathroom, a living room and a small porch. Units can be combined to form larger homes, or they can be joined to share walls for enhanced thermal performance. The simple construction method of the Hex House facilitates full assembly by the inhabitants, using simple tools and a little training.

Analysis: This design is intended for long term use, and that is reflected in the scale of the units and the integrated self sustainability. Options for units to be combined to host more inhabitants is a great way to design small, but address occupant requirements on any scale. Simple enough for the occupants themselves to assemble makes the building process less intimidating. This also empowers the users to regain the ability to help themselves after being in a state of helplessness during a disaster. There is a seamless transition to an expanded community, however there seems to be a gap in a designated community area.

in¡clu¡sion the action or state of including or of being included within a group or structure. a body or particle recognizably distinct from the substance in which it is embedded.

A healing oneness. A regained center. A renewed sense of self.

Sacred and Blessed.

Sacred Geometries In nature, patterns, designs and structures are all around, from on a scale ranging from molecules to galaxies . All of these follow geometrical archetypes, which reveal the nature of each form and its vibrational resonances.

The Flower of Life is the modern name given to a geometrical figure composed of multiple evenly-spaced, overlapping circles. They are arranged to form a flower-like pattern with a six-fold symmetry, similar to a hexagon. The centre of each circle is on the circumference of six surrounding circles of the same diameter.

Metatron's Cube is a two-dimensional geometric figure created from 13 equal circles with lines from the center of each circle extending out to the centers of the other 12 circles. Six circles are placed in a hexagonal pattern around a central circle, with six more extending out along the same radial lines.

These forms are considered symbols of sacred geometry, due to their ancient, religious value depicting the fundamental forms of space and time. In this sense, it is a visual expression of the connections lifeweaves through all beings.

There is a principle of oneness underlying all these geometries that permeates the design of all forms. This principle of interconnectedness, inseparability and union provides us with a continuous reminder of our relationship to the whole, a blueprint for the mind to the sacred foundation of all things created.

Crystal Grids A crystal grid is an arrangement of crystals on a specific geometric (often sacred) shape that focuses the unseen universal energies in a particular way for a particular purpose. They can be used in a variety of ways however the most common use is as a healing tool.

The Focus Stone is the rock or crystal that is located in the center of a Crystal Grid. Its purpose is primarily to gather, focus and amplify and direct energies into the grid.

The Focus Stone is the part of the crystal grid that gathers in that Force, drawing it down and inward creating essentially a downward flowing wave of coherent energy that is then coalesced and amplified through the crystal.

The energy that flows out from the Focus Stone is then modified and shaped by the stones that immediately surround a center stone on the path , called the Way Stones. The Way Stones modify the energy, in a similar way to a pump in a water system. Energy is like water is flowing down a pipe, but if a pump is added it can amplify and modify the flow.

Desire Stones are the outermost stones on a Crystal Grids. They represent the end state that the Grid is constructed to produce.

Selection of Desire Stones is based on the specific final purpose of the Grid. These stones gather the energy that has been focused and shaped by the Focus Stone, the Way Stones and the Path of the grid itself.

The stones or crystals are activated by the intention and energy that the creator of the grid meditates on while arranging the layout.

Master Plan Development Pictured to the right is an aerial view of the entire complex.

Starting at the center is the large community gathering place, out from that are four infirmary structures. Moving out further from the center the third of the larger buildings is the transitional community space. Surrounding the communal structures are the modular living units that serve as temporary dwelling for those displaced by disaster.

As seen on the previous two pages the phases of development are depicted. Starting with the preliminary phase with the large community space, one infirmary space, and one transitional community space with a number of individual dwellings surrounding it.

The growth stage as depicted in the center of the three phases shows the community expanding, both in the landscape as well as the number of individuals it is capable of hosting. The difference between this stage and the previous one is the doubling of the number of transitional community structures and infirmaries.

The final phase of development is a term used loosely here, the grid is a guide to place structures along and the configurations are endless. But for these purposed this final stage consists of four infirmaries and five transitional community spaces, one central community space and ample dwelling units.

Central Community Space Shape: Geodesic Dome Square Footage: Construction: Aluminum Framing and Canvas Function: This structure serves as a community gathering space for those effected by the disaster. It is the first building assembled and is key to fostering a sense of oneness amongst the users.

This space is the hub of the community in which it resides, anything from resources to information is distributed here. The openness of the interior allows for any number of activities and uses. This can be a communal meeting space in the morning and a group meditation space in the afternoon. It is a space to fill whatever need the users as a group need in the moment. It’s size makes it easily identifiable from long distances Concept Connection: The shape resembles a large crystal cluster with many facets. Each facet is a part of the whole and without one, the structure would not be successful. This structure also serves as the center focus “stone� of the community grid. Its purpose as it relates to the grid is to harness and focus the energy of the grid and guide its direction.

Infirmary Space Shape: Elongated Tent Square Footage: Construction: Aluminum Framing and Canvas Function: This structure serves as a mobile field hospital. This field hospitals is self-sufficient and self-contained. Designed to adequately address resuscitation and stabilization, treatment and minor surgery. In addition to holding/observation areas capacity for treatment upwards of 20 patients per day, and enough stock of medical supplies to cover at least a month of continuous operation. Patients with severe traumas and illnesses can be stabilized until transferred to a larger medical facility with further capabilities.

Concept Connection: The shape of this structure resembles an elongated crystal point, or more traditional style tent. This crucial service structure is the first of the way stones of the grid, whose function is to foster a connection between the outer components and the focus stone or center of the grid/community. To have this interconnectedness one must be in a healthy state of body.

Transitional Community Space Shape: Multifaceted Origami Shape Square Footage: Construction: Aluminum Framing and Canvas Function: This structure serves as a transitional community space, the transition is between the large, community-wide space, and the individual dwelling units. Functioning as communal kitchen and restroom/bathing area the structure has 3 options of interior layout.

Concept Connection: The shape of this structure is similar to the large community center/focus stone in the way that it has multiple facets but far fewer than the larger structure. This transitional component serves as one of the way stones of the grid, whose function is to foster a connection between the outer components and the focus stone or center of the grid/ community.

Floorplan Descriptions: On the adjacent page are the floorplan options for this structure. On the far left, is the option where the entire space is a communal kitchen. The interior most space acts similarly to an “inclusion� in an actual crystal as a particle suspended in the structure. The far right plan is entirely devoted to a bathing and restroom area. And the center plan is a 50/50 combination of the two previous options.

Dwelling Space Shape: Hexagon Point Square Footage: Construction: Aluminum Framing and Canvas

Function: This structure is the most individually personal space of this community. Each unit hosts one family, and units can be combined to accommodate as many people as needed. To help restore a sense of ownership and individuality, the interior of these units are quite customizable by the users.

Concept Connection: The shape of this structure resembles a single crystal point known as a generator. These units are located towards the perimeter of the crystal grid where occupying the space of the desire stones and fulfilling their function of guiding the intention of the community.

Floorplan Descriptions: Depicted on the adjacent page are a variety of ways that a single individual space can be laid out. These layouts can be combined along any facet of the exterior and could have endless arrangements. Shown in the floorplans are a combination of seating areas, and sleeping areas. The two sizes of the bed which are shown are Full and Twin Extra Long. .

Structural Element Explained As depicted in the images on the previous set of pages, the dwelling unit’s assembly is very easy to operate. Staring with an umbrella– like state with legs that fold down from the arms, assembly takes almost no time at all. This utilization of time allows for energy and resources to be spent focusing on the individuals themselves rather than struggling with assembly instructions.

Once the frame is completely unfolded, there is a ground locking mechanism that ensures a solid connection with the earth, providing stabilization. These mechanisms are found at the base of each leg of the frame and operate on a hidden hinge system.

Also incorporated into this unfolding structural frame is a power system. There are multiple outlets on each leg that swivel to any orientation that suits the user and the layout of the space. These outlets are powered by the solar canvas which is explained on the following page.

Building Materials Explained Walls: The canvas used throughout this project is of a self– healing nature. It can be torn/cut and repaired an endless amount of times. With just the touch of a hand the fabric is fused together again. This feature allows the users of the structures to create any type of opening that they need. It enables the designs to of the structures to be ever evolving along with the occupants as they recovery from disaster.

The concept behind a “self-healing� material helps to interweave a healing atmosphere into even the barriers of the spaces themselves. As well as giving a visual healing cue, set into motion by the survivor of the disaster reminding them that healing is possible.

Roofs: The canvas of the roofs of the structures are equipped with solar energy harnessing features. This material is flexible and breathable while still retaining the integrity needed to absorb energy. The solar enabled portions of the fabric connect to the internal structure and provide power for the inhabitants or users of the structure at the time.

Floors: The floors of these spaces are flat matts of recycled material that provide a thermal barrier to the ground. The recycled materials give a purpose to an otherwise discarded material prompting the user of the space to contemplate what is considered unusable, discardable, and explore ways to reuse and include all things in life.

Conclusion Overall this process of analyzing the trauma that individuals who survive a disaster endure was very difficult to immerse myself in.

Being faced with loss on that scale, all personal belongings, any resemblance of a home, possibly even loved ones, it is impossible to imagine the state of mind that disaster survivors are thrust into.

Attempting to take a perspective on it was an emotional trial to say the least.

The focus of this community was to restore a sense a self, get in touch with what makes the individuals, individuals. Embracing this uniqueness in a safe and structured environment, adaptable when it needed, while maintaining a familiar rigidity.

From the self-healing nature of the materials to the interconnectedness of the community complex itself, each designed component amplifies the whole. All aspects of recovery can be addressed within this space. From the physical needs in the infirmary, to the emotional needs with a community that shares an impossible experience, this complex grid of inclusion is a source of solace.