T3 Husn Camp: Urban Design by ciel grommen

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Husn Camp Island, Extending the Identity of a Palestinian Presence Thesis voorgedragen tot het behalen van de graad van Master of Science in de ingenieurswetenschappen: architectuur

AUTEURS_

LOTTE DIETVORST CIEL GROMMEN MARTHE THEUNS

PROMOTOR_ ASSESSOR_ LEZERS_

Prof. Dr. Bruno De Meulder Prof. Guido Geenen Prof. Dr. Lieven De Cauter PhD candidate Ismaeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;l Sheikh Hassan Prof. Dr. Kelly Shannon

ACADEMIEJAAR_

2011-2012

PREFACE In this design, we question if the temporary life in Husn camp can be considered and experienced by the residents as valuable for the present and the future. First a Concept Note summerizes all design proposals in a continuous text. Hereafter this text is retold in pieces while simultanuously illustrations and extra practical information is added. 1 Palestinian Refugee Camps in Jordan, a brief introduction 2.1 Husn Camp Island, Extending the Identity of a Palestinian Presence (Volume 1) 2.2 Husn Camp Island, Extending the identity of a Palestinian Presence (Volume II) 3.1 Decampenizing Talbiyeh, Scaping a City (Volume 1) 3.2 Decampenizing Talbiyeh, Scaping a City (Volume ||) 5

TABLE OF CONTENTS Concept Note

1 Centre

17 1.1 Framing the Platform

A Current State

B Design

1.2 The Border as a Plinth

A Characteristics

B Design

2 Residential

81 A. Current state

B. Design

CONCEPT NOTE 9

Illustration: Husn camp in the surrounding topography

Illustration: The remaining footprint in the landscape 10

1. A FORMAL STORY OF ARMATURES The concept of an armature seems a possible answer to the posed spatial issues in the analysis. Such an intervention

Centrality and the power to arrange certain

it is a solid and durable structure that constitutes a public gesture and can be time. It copes with Husn’s spatial qualities by responding to and emphasizing the camp’s location in relationship to its existing topographic characteristics.

exposition to the outside world, while simultaneously gesturing intimately to the camp residents themselves. This single entity has the ability to fold itself into the intimacy of different life patterns in the camp and so to become a symbol of identity. The insertion intends to create a centre for the camp, which, even in the future when the camp is slowly erased, could remain as a structure of meaning, a monument

of remembrance; ‘the remaining footprint of the camp’.

In Husn camp, two locations stand out and suit the introduction of complementary armatures. A framework on the central platform and a plinth on the southern border are imbedded as centre-armatures that refer to the entire camp population.

Located in the centre of the hilly camp of Husn, currently a large platform is exposed. On this platform a large void is located. This rare uniqueness of such a large open space in a refugee camp should be emphasized and validated so that it can continue to manifest itself as ‘emptiness’ in this densifying landscape.

To achieve this, a thin elongate framework of concrete beams and columns is implemented. The structure strives to have the affect of a retaining wall and to emphasize openness. It provides a physical structure in which an implementation of the current needs could be permitted. As these needs can evolve with time, the armature will become a permanent embodiment in which evolution is possible. spaces. The congregation of different organisation constitutes a synergy, namely the sum of the existing scattered communal entities of Husn result in a stronger collective identity. The assembled organisations colour the camp’s centre, while the structure as a whole marks Husn for the environment.

The second structure is grafted at the borderline. The border is a strong and determining entity, since it politically belonging to Husn’s community. In this way, the border can be seen as a line of identity. In Husn, the border has unique spatial qualities that can be applied to strengthen this interesting symbolism. As the camp feels like an island of concrete in its agricultural environment, the borders offers welcome breathing space that serves as a counterweight for the suppression of the dense camp. Because of its location (its proximity and opposition to the highway, the sharp outline of the wadi and the height differences) the southern boundary in particular, will remain a permanent exposure to the non-camp residents, despite the possible future parcelling. From the camp’s perspective, the presence of the wadi proclaims that this border will remain relatively unbuilt and so ensure the preservation of the current breathing space.

plinth is introduced. The plinth will accessibility and the relationship in two directions.

CONCEPT NOTE

2. FUNCTIONAL INTERPRETATION N of Husn. With regard to the practical interpretation of the armatures, we believe that the formulation of a deliberate urban vision and conceptual zoning can attribute to a better functioning of life in the camp as it is today. The following paragraph summarizes the conclusions from our search for the ideal interpretation of the implemented

believe that the life in exile, characterised by the permanent temporality, can be invigorated by a positive and clear experience of the Palestinian identity. The camp in particular, as the extraterritorial zone in the host country, has the ability to embody and perform Palestine and Palestinianness in Jordan. Unlike Palestinian refugee camps in Lebanon, the camps in Jordan are not fully exploiting this feature. An important reason is the state control that forbids every expression of Palestinian nationalism since the civil war in Jordan in the 70’s. Subtle elements of everyday life however, can help to keep the memory alive of Palestine, a space and time that are increasingly distant. An ideal site where the focus can be laid on symbolism and culture, is the abovementioned southern border. Beside the formal exposure of this border in the landscape and the interesting presence of the wadi, it connects some meaningful places like the ‘head’ of the spine, the cemetery and a new and monumental mosque in the south. The introduction of an olive grove, cultural centre and celebration hall is envisioned. The formal plinth-like articulation of

A second approach, resulting from the urban analysis, focuses on the constitution of an urban centre for the camp’s

community. Nowadays the loop and the spine locate most communal and commercial functions, but the scope and dynamics that could be generated by these, is rather limited. Because of the width and the continuity, this street system has the capacity to carry more functions. Our proposal is still to develop the platform of the spine. The formal approach of our design already decided to shape this constituted urban centre as an armature that consists of a concrete framework. Functionally, we distinguish between two different kinds of centres. In this way, this elaboration leads to the formation of a ‘head’ and a ‘body’ of the armature.

In line with the spine, it locates economical and commercial functions. In line with the plinth at the southern border, this place confers itself to serve as a symbolic and cultural centre, where rituals, intimacy and exposure to ‘the outside’ world go hand in hand. A market hall, cultural centre with library, a wedding hall … are possible functions that can be added to the present bus station and institutional buildings. The ‘body’ takes advantage of the available space to house centre functions of a larger scale such as schools, a the limited resources that most organisations suffer, a concentration of NGOs, CBOs … around the schools would enhance cooperation and support the communal landscape.

In Arab culture the notion of public and private is different. The formation of a centre would not respond to the

needs of the entire community of Husn. As social groups reside in different places, the residential grid cannot be underestimated as an important living environment of the refugees. Here the problem analysis concluded the absence of a street hierarchy, an important element in Arab culture. The insertion of neighbourhood streets would be constituted so that they can be used as an extension of the dwelling, as a collective courtyard for a group of relatives. At the overlap of such neighbourhoods, another condition is created. Streets arise as a pathway in between circulation patterns will be reduced. In this way the necessary maintenance and control of these pathways becomes a more convenient task, thinking about the safe street lights, garbage collection, prohibition of shelter extensions … In this way, hierarchy is a theme that is repeatedly deployed, because it is the tool that enables the representation and appropriation of the open space by the camps different groups of inhabitants.

CONCEPT NOTE

These two scales, the residential fabric and central armatures, which are explored in this design booklet, aren’t a full recourse yet. They do not seem to respond one of the clearest demands of Husn’s community: namely the improvement of the economical situation of the camp’s dwellers. Therefore new vibrant functions for the greater region have to be applied which can activate the existing markets. The necessity of a place of exchange and meeting determined out of an extensive analysis of the environment. Unfortunately this information has not been accessible for us and doing such a research was beyond our capabilities. Nevertheless we could think about the location of these functions. Most likely these functions will be of a larger scale. Seen the high population density and the yet rare open space, we conclude that Husn’s fabric cannot support these of functions that serve Husn camp, Husn village and even beyond. From the perspective of the camp, it would be another centre integrated in the camp’s urban system thanks to the ability of the existing commercial loop to be extended up to this border. The location on top of the hill and the beautiful view on the camp offers the opportunity for this platform to become a symbol of identity for Husn camp. For Husn village, this area is located in the planned expansion of this bursting village. Parcelling happened and slowly plots are occupied and streets are extended. The proximity of the highway that touches this area in the south is of a great advantage to attract people who travel between Amman and Irbid. The importance of this development may not be underestimated and this urban vision is essential to complement the design propositions for Husn camp. The performed urban analysis and resulting design happened on the scale of the camp, but they postulate the establishment of this platform. GREENE H., “Building to last: Architecture as ongoing art”, Architectural Book Publishing Company ,1981 RAMADAN A., “Specializing the refugee camp”, In : Transactions of the institute of British geographers, Royal Geographical Society, Cambridge, 2012. SHANE G. D., “Recombinant Urbanism: Conceptual Modeling in Architecture, Urban Design and City Theory”, 2005, published by Wiley-Academy, a devision of John Wiley and Sons Ltd

CONCEPT NOTE

1 CENTRE 1.1 Framing the Platform A Current State B Design 1.2 The Border as a Plinth A Characteristics B Design 17

1.1 FRAMING THE PLATFORM A. Current State A.1 Functions A.2 Use of Open Space

B. Design B.1 Framework B.2 Regulator B.3 Flexibility B.3.1 Body B.3.2 Head 19

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A. CURRENT STATE The current centre of the camp is situated along the spine and loop. All facilities and communal functions such as schools, the health centre, DPA... and shops are located here. Because of the width and the continuity, this street system has the capacity to carry more functions. Our proposal is still to develop the platform of the spine into the campâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s centre of gravity, because it stands out formally as a platform constituted of large scale open spaces. Moreover it serves as a main street for in- and outside.

CENTRE 1 FRAMING THE PLATFORM

Image taken from a roof on the parallel street of the spine. school.

Panorama taken from a roof on the spine. school on the right.

CENTRE 1 FRAMING THE PLATFORM

Panorama taken from the roof of the building on the corner of the spine and the loop in the south. View towards south, watching into the unused garden of UNRWAs camp manager. The picture is taken very early in the morning. Normally the place is more crowded as it serves as the main gathering place for informal taxiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s and busses. Their row of chairs has become women. The former DPA building and the campâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s carwash can be seen on the left.

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A.1 FUNCTIONS

Women Program Centre A community based organisation offers a lot of training courses for women and leisure activities for orphans. The buildings that exist are in a bad condition and a need for more rooms is urgent. The open area around these buildings is not used even though it is completely fenced to keep boys out.

UNRWA Primary Girl School The school is in big need for more classrooms. The current system applied provides 2 school shifts a day, so 2 times a day school is opened. Also already an additional wing was built at

Kindergarten This local kindergarten has two classes. The headmistress is happy with the condition of the building and play garden. She only complains about the mothers hanging around and chatting during the day, and the boys coming in to have a shortcut to the girls school.

Middle East Church Society This NGO offers sewing courses for women from in and outside the camp. They have a lot of success but it is raining inside the asbestos building and they are looking for another location. The garden is full of large trees, offering nice shadow for school children and chatting people from the neighbourhood. Al Karmel building bad condition and hardly used. The building is a meeting place for club members, young and old. On the street level shops are positioned. On the roof of the building there is a small mosque.

UNRWA Primary Boy School This school has the same shortage on class rooms and system as the girl school, however untill today no extension has been built here. The school yard accomodates the boys well. some large trees offer the shadow that is needed. Al Karmel new play garden Al Karmel built this fenced and locked playground to serve for the schools and other planned moments.

building of the spine and also one of the highest of the camp. Inside there are some big halls that are used today as meeting rooms for UNRWA, DPA itself, but also community meetings etc.. Buss Station Despite its equipped design with benches and waiting areas the use of this space is non-existing mainly because of the lack of shadow. Drivers park their busses on the loop where trees can provide shade . Jordanian Police station The police are positioned on a small plot that is completely fenced. There is not much interaction of the police with the inhabitants UNRWA Camp Manager used by UNRWA, nor by the residents. A big opportunity hides here.

UNRWA employees. Axonometric View, indication of the current functions Users

New DPA building Since December 2011, the DPA moved to this building.

Mixed Gender Groups Women Young Girls Men Young Boys

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A.2 USE OF OPEN SPACE As discussed in the analysis, gender determines the use of open space. Through the reading in order for the space to work appropriately for its users. All present open spaces are enwalled, nevertheless these walls do not pretend the function free so that consequently boys, playing football, dominate these spaces. The streets have a different character. As they form the only connection route between different functions, they cause spontaneous meetings between residents with another gender. Women discuss with men in the adjacent shopsâ&#x20AC;Ś However we concluded from our discussion with Joud, that this street life is very vital for the community and could be equipped better.

Axonometric View, pointing at the Use of Open Space Users Mixed Gender Groups Women Young Girls Men Young Boys

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Entrance Boy School Car Wash Buss Station

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A.3 TRAFFIC

Entrance Girl School

sidewalks are not used, people just walk everywhere in the street in between the cars. Moreover this is a big problem when the large amounts of school children enter and leave

have to drive around one another. Another important aspect is the parking habit in the camp. Cars are just parked in the street, sometimes even next to each other when drivers feel like chatting a bit. This problem occurs especially at the important crossroads. The southern crossroad with the carwash is a good example: men like to gather here because of the exposure and possibility to observe of the many circulating actors. Remarkable is also the condition if the street parallel to the spine. This street is dimensioned similar to the spine however its use is the same as other residential streets. This is a big opportunity for the centre.

Flows Pedestrian movement of school girls Pedestrian movement of school boys Buss route Car routes

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Images: 1 View on entrance of Primary Girl School. Collision of flows 2 View on wall of Primary Girl School. Boys climb over the walls to meet with the boys. 3 Street view of the street parallel to the spine. Too wide dimensioned for only residential use 4 Traffic congestion on the spine 5 View on Primary Boy School. The school yard is well adapted to the use: because of the differentr topographic plateaus different football fields can be organised. Sources: Authers, fieldwork conducted from August - Octobre, 2011

CENTRE 1 FRAMING THE PLATFORM

B. DESIGN the dense refugee camp of Husn should be emphasized and validated so that it can continue to manifest itself as ‘emptiness’ in this densifying landscape. To achieve this, a thin elongate framework of concrete beams and columns is implemented. The structure strives to have the affect of a retaining wall and to emphasize openness. It provides a physical structure in which an implementation of the current needs could be permitted. As these needs can evolve with time, the armature will become a permanent embodiment in which evolution is possible. fabric of Husn allows a different use of the bounded open spaces. The congregation of different organisation constitutes a synergy, namely the sum of the existing scattered communal entities of Husn result in a stronger collective identity. The assembled organisations colour the camp’s centre, while the structure as a whole marks Husn for the environment.

CENTRE 1 FRAMING THE PLATFORM

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B.1 FRAMEWORK A formal reading decided to shape this constituted urban centre as an armature that consists of a concrete framework. The rythms of the colums is anticipating on the existing buildings and the intended function. Generally the dimensions of a classroom are incorporated as a unit. The frame bordering the commercial spine constitutes a rhythm that is rather determined by the dimensions of an average shop in Husn.

Axonometric View, showing the Armature

CENTRE 1 FRAMING THE PLATFORM

Section AAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;

Bus station

Economic Strength

Communal Strength

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B.2 REGULATOR The structure implemented, strongly articulates the spaces along the linear spine and at the same time adjusted to one another. By strongly articulating the two sides of the spine and incorporating the parallel street of the spine, an interwoven system is realised. The idea is to intensify the left side of the spine as pedestrian axis of the camp. side the sidewalk will be enlarged to 4-6m. The right side however does not have a sidewalk anymore. The facing pedestrian crossings. Inside the armature, a parallel pedestrian network is created where circulation can happen more freely.

the spine. By relocating entrances of the inner area and providing parking spots, this street will become the street where family members are dropped off by car rather than on the spine. Also the bus route will be replaced from the spine to this street. This intervention is the result from a design exercise that Bridge crossing the spine Street level crossing Dropping off family members by car

the individual actor.

Buss Route

Regulating power of structure

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B.3 FLEXIBILTY The armature is a solid and durable structure that constitutes a public gesture and can be supplemented In this uniform structure, two different kinds of centres are functionally distinguished. In this way, this elaboration leads to the formation of a ‘head’ and a ‘body’ of the also on this different functional conception of these sites.

Body

The ‘head’ is located at one of the main entrances of the camp and at the intersection of two urban armatures. Because of this unique nodal feature, it is conceived as a hub where a multiplicity of functions can take place. The ‘body’ The northern part of the structure can be seen as the ‘body’ of the centre. It takes advantage of the available space to house centre functions of a larger scale such as places for different communal organisation that can in

Head

The functions of the different parts of the framework are not determined in detail, the structure only suggest the scale of the organisation it can contain. This structure forms a platform that can grow in height and transform over time as the need for space grows. The southern part can be understood as the ‘head’ of the structure. This part is proposed to be a vivid centre UNRWA, DPA, the car wash… make part of the daily camp routine. Through the structure this space is given an extra dimension. But this place is also envisioned to be occupied for occasional activities. A cultural, ritual layer is laid out over this daily life through implementation of a wedding hall, a cultural centre.. but also pavilions that can be appropriated temporary for a certain time according to the scope of the activity.

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B.3.1 Body Structure The armature is built up in a structure of columns and beans rolled out in the camp. vertical elements. These contain staircases, a water tap and space for plumbing and wiring. However through small differentiations in structure some important elements of the design are made visible and in this way create a basis for completion and growth. Across this long shape, mostly three columns can be found, whereof the middle is not placed the centre, so that the positioning of hallways or galleryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s or singular circulation systems is suggested. In this way typological

Architectural map projected on the axonometrie of the spineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s topography.

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Illustration: The second phase of the growing structure. 46

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Section AA’ Girl Section A large open space, spatially divided by its topographic levels, provided with shade and the necessairy seclusion. These buildings have their face towards this open space.

Section BB’ Boy Section A large open space, spatially divided by its topographic levels, provided with shade and intimacy by existing trees, deliniated by a wall making visible contact and ‘being seen’ still possible. Also the new building is concepted in this idea with its open side towards the spine.

2. C’

A’ 3.

’

E’

B’

Axonometric view, the essential sections and their implications for the users 48

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Essential Sections Section CC’ Women Section The concept of a patio building is applied here. This idea makes it possible to create internal open spaces free from gaze or contact with outside. However through the position and topographic opportunity, sometimes a patio can transform into a terras onto the spine.

In the structure there are 5 essential sections. These sections are a consistent story with the gender based zoning of the area.

Section DD’ Men Section This section consist of a terras on the spine level that gives out to the spine terras have an overview over the surrounding.

Section EE’ Blurring Section street of the spine. The height is incorporated in the building creating that the buidling is 2 faced. It can be directed towards both sides.

As a result off our design and analysis, but also through UNRWA ‘s Priority List, we designed several functions withit this framework. The following functions are thus only a proposition, and can be varied. 1. UNRWA Primary Boy School 2. UNRWA Primary Girl School 3. Al Karmel Building Groundlevel : Al Karmel sportsclub, entertainement centre for young men and boys Street level: Shops, resturants, thee houses... First level: an existing mosque with expansion possibilities 4. NGO parcelling 5. UNRWA’s Women Centre 6. Flexibel wing offering computeclasses, traning centres. 7. New indoor sports hall

Users Mixed Gender Groups Female Male

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Illustration: View on the womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s terras of the woman centre from the widened sidewalk on the spine

Illustration: View on the menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s terras on the expansion of the Al Karmel building from the widened sidewalk on the spine.

Illustration: View on the expansion of the boy school from the widened sidewalk.

` Frame for Different Identities On the spine different occupations resulting from the section translate in different faces charging the spine with identity. The combination of this edge with the pedestrian axis on the right is shown on the images.

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Accessibility over its length. From this path other spaces can be reached. Both the boy and the girl school are given an new entrance. For both of them this determine these entrances. Because of the enclosure of the girl school yard a permeable entrance is created where those things can happen that are not possible in the house or once entered the school yard, Also this large opening breaks up the fortress buildings walling the space. The boy school has more one space. A suggestion in the drawing of such a weak delimitation are elements such to the school and its students. The women platform is reached through a public bridge over the spine or by the entrance in the north. The menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s terrace is provided with parking space because often the car is used to visit such spaces. These parking spaces on both sides of the building give it a certain distinction from the street. From these parking spaces, the terrace can be reached. The NGO wing implementation of entrances here is dependant from its users.

Flows Vistitors Women Centre Pedestrian movement of school girls Pedestrian movement of school boys Pedestrian movement of passants Users Mixed Gender Groups Women Young Girls Men Young Boys

Dropping off school girls by family Buss route Car routes

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B.3.2 Head Functions As explained before, this part of the framework is build up with the same architectural language as the body and hosts a variety of functions from different meaning for the camp. A tension is created between daily life routine and special events, between banality and intimacy. Events as such can occur at the same time through the structure. This space is meant to be the hub of the camp.

The carswash is relocated to the bus station. Here the necessairy space is at hand for men to gather and hang around. This location also still provides the men with enough visibility towards passants.

The bus station is provided with a large shed providing the necessairy shade for the waiting busses

large wedding hall is located.

Pavillion 1 Pavillion 2 The old DPA building is reused because of the importance and good state of the building. Through small adaptations this building becomes the campâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s cultural centre. This cultural centre has functions such as a library, large halls for meetings by organisations or UNRWA, DPA... , shops where products made by people from the camp can be sold...

it is possible to make the transition from the framework towards the olive grive located on the plinth.

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Illustration: view from the communal square ad pavilion 2 towards the loop. On the back a wedding is taking place in pavilion 1 with dansers and music. Daily life in front keeps happening around it .

Illustration: view from the bus station towards the buidling of the wedding hall and pavilion 1 where a market is taking place. 56

Flexible Pavillion In the two pavilions on the site, another vision towards is designed so that a free appropriation and vertical growth is made possible. The two pavilions are meant to be appropriated temporary. The appropriations in mind are events going from very public such as a moving market for the whole camp, to a small family wedding... and everything in between: dance festivities organised by an organisation of the camp, a sport event, a play garden... The composition of the pavilions is as such that compositions are possible. It is a modular system where all buildings can work independently but can be at the same time combined or used all together. Many

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1.2 THE BORDER AS A PLINTH A. Characteristics Use B. Design B.1 Pathway B.2 Places of Symbolism along the Border B.2.1 Olive Grove B.2.2 Cultural and Communal Space B.2.3 Graveyard

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A. CHARACTERISTICS This second armature, we grafted at the borderline. The border is a strong and determining entity, since it politically assigns people to the zone of exception and Jordan and the belonging to Husn’s community. In this way, the border can be seen as a line of identity. In Husn, the border has unique spatial qualities that can be applied to strengthen this interesting symbolism. Because of the overview on the wide agricultural landscape, people from the adjacent blocks come here for tranquillity and breathing space as a counterbalance for the suppression of the dense camp. Actually, it is accessible by everyone, but because of the wideness and the neighbouring residential blocks, it has a very local character. The southern border in particular has very interesting features. The presence of the wadi proclaims that this border will remain relatively unbuilt and ensure in that way the preservation of a green line. Interesting is that it connects different meaningful places like the ‘head’ of the spine, the cemetery and a new and monumental mosque in the south. The proximity of the highway, the sharp outline of the wadi and the height differences constitute a permanent exposure to non-camp residents, despite the possible future parcelling.

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1. Cemetry, Image taken during our border-analysis,

1. 3.

3. Image of the current DPA-building, Picture taken from the border towards the spine,

CENTRE 1 THE BORDER AS A PLINTH

Axonometric view of a conceptual section in the Eastern part of the border

Axonometric view of a conceptual section in the Western part of the border

USE Two typical sections of the borderline were drawn, in order to point out the differences of these two parts of the border. As one can see, there is a characteristic altitude, which ensures a different dealing in both sections western part offer a beautiful overview, the lack of height

Upper Section

Lower Section

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B. DESIGN As an approximation of the southern border of the inner area of the camp, and on the other hand organises the accessibility and the relationship in two directions. Functionally emphasis is put on cultural and communal facilities in order to embody Palestinianness in the camp.

CENTRE 1 THE BORDER AS A PLINTH

Illustration: View from the highway towards the southern border, showing the plinth with her lineair pathway and corresponding squares.

Illustration: View from the border, showing the lineair pathway and corresponding squares.

B.1 PATHWAY The path is interpreted as a linear movement along the border. It highlights the sharp line of border-demarcation, while ensuring accessibility to the camp residents. This linearity is a movement, which, depending on the existing topography is standing now and then at the height of between the two. It favours the use of the surrounding Furthermore, it provides a connection of all the symbolic places along the Southern boundary, as the cemetery, the implemented place near the culture centre and may even develop into an economic axis, as a connection between the framed platform in the middle of the camp and the envisioned platform of exchange with the environment at the western border. over the entire path. These concrete tiles would slowly fade at the level where the path fades out into the

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B.2 PLACES OF SYMBOLISM ALONG THE BORDER ‘The Palestinian “camp” as a place of sanctuary from the homelessness and forgetfulness in exile. The Palestinian camp is the only place where your identity as a Palestinian is not contested within the state in which you exist. In the state of exile, identity is memory – that is constantly and tragically eroded by the effects of time.’ Subtle elements of everyday life however, can help to keep the memory alive of Palestine, a space and time that are increasingly distant. The introduction of an olive grove, cultural centre and celebration hall is envisioned. Hassan, Ismae’l Sheikh. ‘ Heterotopia and Spaces in the “Other Places” Explorations in Arab Perceptions and Language’

Illustration: View from towards the culture centre, overlooking the olive grove, square behind the culture centre and connection with the lineair pathway.

This illustration shows the convergence of different elements along the southern border. In the distance the head of the central platform can be seen. The new cultural centre, implemented in the former large DPA building, is extended with some outdoors pavilion that consist of a simple framework of columns and beams. A theatre makes an easy passage between this cultural and communal hub with the rather contemplating and withdrawn border, that is crossed by an olive grove.

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1. http://palestineposterproject.org/poster/under-an-olivetree-in-palestine 2. http://onthegroundglobal.org/sponsor-rap/ 3. http://engagingpeace.com/?p=775 1.

4. http://www.sidewalklyrics.com/?page_id=841 olives-a-violent-romance_b_1318073.html 6. http://www.palestineposterproject.org/node/247

7. http://mickeyboston.wordpress.com/2011/05/12/ el-seed-and-the-palestinian-olive-tree-%E2%80%93-sthenri-sugar-mill-gets-lush-awakening/ 8. http://alawda.newjerseysolidarity.org/july2006/ ismail-shammout.shtml

9. http://meerasethi.blogspot.com/2010/10/ visit-palestine-redone.html

10.

10. http://zatoun.com/treesforlife.htm

11.

11. http://www.uci.edu/features/2008/10/feature_ olivetree_081020.php

12.

12. http://www.amazon.com/Blossoms-Olive-Tree-IsraeliPalestinian/dp/027599001X

13.

13. http://www.henriveldhuis.nl/LocalFiles/Israel_Palestijnen/ Olijfboomgroep_Culemborg.htm

B.2.1.1 OLIVE GROVE We propose to introduce an olive grove, because it combines the symbolism of the olive tree with the interesting family habit of picnicking. Maybe even a system can be set up, so that each family or neighbourhood could posses his own tree in this grove. Symbolically, when the camp will slowly disappear, there will remain a trace and impression of this former community.

Olive Trees as a Palestinian Presence

The olive tree has great importance for the Palestinian culture and identity. Many Palestinian families have been depending on this tree for their livehood, and for centuries, this ubiquitous tree has given the muted colour scheme to the Palestinian lands, known from its gnarled trunk and stately branches.

caused to this peace symbol. The relative scarcity of this tree in the occupied territories shows the extent these historic orchards and the long life in exile caused national symbol and in this way in this way, it embodies the rootedness and durability. Nowadays, the symbol is represented in logo’s, paintings, websites … of Palestinian organisations and festivities. Several initiatives were undertaken to replant these trees in the region on order to symbolize the Palestinian existence. With this in mind, the plantation of an olive grove on the camp’s border appears as a highly symbolic intervention orchard will generate memories to the homeland and support the experiencing of the shared identity. Even when the camp would gradually fade, the olive yard would serve as a footprint of their stay.

Picnicking

Picnicking and barbecuing in the nature is one of the main family trips in the region. It can be seen as an exchange between the different generations in a family whereto an important transfer of stories and customs is related. All over Jordan, one can see groups of people sitting at green places beside the way, at a viewpoint… It is notable that people prefer controllable spaces with some streetlight and easy accessibility. The border is an ideal location for this nice habit: namely the olive grove has the ability to create private spots and simultaneously offering a wide natural environment. Sources: http://www.andrea-magda.com/fr/accueil.html http://www.jai-pal.org/files/Brochure_Dutch.pdf RAMADAN A., “Specializing the refugee camp”, In : Transactions of the institute of British geographers, Royal Geographical Society, Cambridge, 2012.

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1. Organisation selling products created by women in Palestinian refugee camps. Bayt Lothan, Kuweit. SOURCE: http://news.kuwaittimes.net/2011/11/15/

2. Al Asria dabke dancers performing in Gaza N03-72157623618720349/ 3. renovation of Cinema Jenin, Jenin Governaten, West Bank SOURCE http://www.architectureofconsequence.nl/ explore/projects/search_detail/_pid/kolom2-1/_rp_ kolom2-1_elementId/1_1047101

4. pipe and drum corps, named Guirab, Bourj al-Shamali Refugee Camp, Lebannon SOURCE http://www.csmonitor.com/The-Culture/ Music/2010/0715/Band-practice-for-refugees

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5. Faisal al-Husseini stadium in Ram SOURCE http://worldfootball.dailymail.co.uk/2011/03/ football-in-palestine-leading-a-country-to-independence.html 1.

6. wall painting by young artist, gaza. SOURCE http://ingaza.wordpress.com/palestinian-women/ 7. collage of pictures of Palestine SOURCE: Palestine Remebered

B.2.2 CULTURAL AND COMMUNAL HUB The importance of culture for the Palestinian refugees in exile is clearly expressed by Ismae’l Sheikh Hassan: ‘The Palestinian “camp” as a place of sanctuary from the homelessness and forgetfulness in exile. The Palestinian camp is the only place where your identity as a Palestinian is not contested within the state in which you exist. In the state of exile, identity is memory – that is constantly and tragically eroded by the effects of time.’ Beside the elements of everyday life that serve as symbols of identity, the memory of Palestine is kept alive through rituals and celebrations. In Husn camp we had the chance to participate a wedding and football tournaments… Both seemed to highlight and celebrate the shared Palestinian identity. It started up a joyful atmosphere in Husn camp: whole streets were cleaned and a great amount of people assembled to dance and party together. On weddings, Dabke is performed, a traditional dance where the Palestinians are very proud of and which is thought by many organisations. On football tournaments the posters, trophies and songs refer to Palestine. Infrastructure can support and facilitate the organisations of such events. The Finiq centre of the Westbank camp, Deheishe, can serve as an example.

CENTRE 1 THE BORDER AS A PLINTH

B.2.3 CEMETERY A cemetery in Islamic world is a place that will always remain, as Islamic tradition prohibits the removal of graves. It is characterised by sober tombstones, oriented towards Mekka, in an enwalled place at the edge of a settlement. The rare decorations are a result of the prohibition to idolize people or images because this honour only falls to Godâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s share. The deceased are believed to be in paradise soon, so that the cemetery is more a place of contemplation. (Ory 2012) For Palestinians though, this place in the camp has a is remapped â&#x20AC;Ś by the tombstones that substitute the cities and villages of Palestine.â&#x20AC;&#x2122; Even the people that are born in Jordan, die in here Palestine. (Hassan 2005) garbage winds around and no other elements typed the place beside a ruined pavilion. Fortunately people said that the NGO, Al Sanabel, was engaged to rehabilitate this space by cleaning up all waste. a silent and rarely visited place. Mostly people gather here after the evening prayer or in the morning before important holidays as the Eid... The visits are accompanied with other habits associated with these festivals, for instance the sharing of food with the poor during Ramadan. As to the funeral, this ritual in the camp takes place near the house: a tent is build on the street for a few days, in which guest are hosted. Only male members of the family attend the burial of the body at the cemetery.

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Appendix: Plans

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Roofplan, view from above

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A. Current State A.1 Physical Differences by Topography A.2 Physical Differences by Historical Evolution A.3 Evolution of the Block A.4 Use

B. Design B.1 Two Systems B.1.1 Preconditions B.2 Two Strategies B.2.1 Thresholds B.2.2 Opportunity in Open Plots B.3 Example 83

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A. CURRENT STATE In Arab culture the notion of public and private is different. The formation of a centre would not respond to the needs of the entire community of Husn. As social groups reside in different places, the residential grid, broadly considered as the negative of the central places, cannot be underestimated as an important living environment of the refugees in particular, for women, children and elderly. The problem analysis concluded that there is an absence of a street hierarchy, which seems to be important in Arab culture. Before a design proposal can be done, the general features of the residential space have to be analysed.

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Panorama taken from a roof in Block 2 on the spine. View towards the streets and on the roofs of the other houses

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Cross Section

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Longitudinal Section, typological section parrallel to the highway Cross Section, typological section through the most steep street, parrallel to the spine.

Image taken in block 1, towards the southern border

Image taken in block 3, towards north

Image taken in block 2, a clear gridstructure

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A.1 PHYSICAL DIFFERENCES BY TOPOGRAPHY As for Husn camp, there are 2 very interesting sections through the camp. One of them is parallel tot he highway, and the other is parallel to the ‘spine’. We noticed in the southwest of the camp, the steepest slope. This has important implication for the current fabric. Near the southern border, most of the streets are implemented like a stairway, which ensures that these streets are not accessible by cars, let alone disabled or elder people. area, so there is no noticeable difference in steepness in comparison with the other blocks. Also for the construction of a shelter, this has important other camps or cities. Because of the slope; none of the roofs is very private, as everyone can overlook another’s roof.

These two pictures show the differences in the steepness of the streets, and its direct result in staircases,... Source: Fieldwork August 2011

panorama, an overview over Husn camp in its landscape, taken from the opposite hill

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Most dense fabric, located in Block 2

Less dense fabric, located in Block 4

View in Block 1, towards the southern border, steep slopes 90

A.2 PHYSICAL DIFFERENCES BY HISTORICAL EVOLUTION Physical Differences by Historical Evolution In 1969, the UNRWA and Red Cross obtained this area that was hired by the Jordanian Government as a temporary shelter for a large group of Palestinian refugees. Because of her condition, the area was only occupied in several stages. First of all, block 2 was taken, with some open plots left, because of the rocky soil. Later on, the shelters of block 1 and 3 were established, with an exception for the part in the southwest, which was to steep and not yet needed. Another year later, block 4 was taken, as

1969

in this space and more gardens are present. In the end, the rocky soil got dynamited and even the steep slopes were taken. All these physical barriers had an effect on the condition of the shelters of today. The plots in block 2 were initially only 10m x 10m, but got expanded in the long evolution of the camp. This results in the densest fabric of the camp nowadays. The other plots were 9m x 12m. Also, there could be made a distinction in the orientation of the blocks, as the oldest are orientated north-south. The plots of block 4 are the largest, as most of its population headed back to West-bank, and their plots were occupied by residents of block 2, who preferred a larger area.

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‘70 Scheme about the growth of a block

Section during the ‘70. Residents recieved zinc or asbestos rooms.

‘80 Scheme about the growth of a block

‘90 Scheme about the growth of a block

Section during the ‘80. Residents are adding more zinc or even concrete rooms.

Current state Scheme about the growth of a block

Section during the ‘90. Residents replaced almost every zinc room for concrete.

Section of the current state. Stairs, steps, balconies are narrowing the streets 92

A.3 EVOLUTION OF THE BLOCK examination of two block of block 2, because it is the most dense block in the camp. From our conversation with the UNRWA camp manager and some historic pictures we obtained, we understood that at the establishment of the camp, everyone received one of two zinc/asbestos rooms, depending on the size of the household. Time by time, people replaced these rooms for concrete ones, but still there are some original rooms remaining. Little by little, every empty space was taken for the expansion of the house, what was always present in historic Arab cities. When the horizontal expansion was completed and people started to expand vertically, despite the lack of decent foundations. This expansion resulted in a lack of open space, both domesticated and public. Constructing stairs etc. on the streets turned out to be more the rule than the exception. Seen the trends these extensions are not predicted to diminish. The most important reason is the habit that when a son marries, his new established family moves into the parental home. The shelter is than often extended with new rooms and an extra kitchen. In this way

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Reasons for not using the streets Less Frequently Positive actions that occur

A.4 USE There are several things that make sure the streets cannot be used by everyone, let alone be domesticated. This makes that streets can not be dominated by women and in this way, they wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t sit on the streets. Then there is wideness of the streets, Because some streets of the block have such a width, that one can gaze at them from another shelter. Nevertheless all these barriers, there is still some activity in the streets, mostly by little children who are not gazed at, or men, who are mostly the reason for the uncomfortable feeling of women. We notice some ceremonies taking place on the streets, since there is no other place for this.

More Frequently

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West of the Western part of the loop, there are recently additions. Remarkably, these shelters have a different orientation than the other part streets that more intime spaces got created. 96

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We took this pictures on the southern border, where the shelters are the most recent and the grid has the most exceptions. In this case, the street was not closed off, but the shelters were placed in a way that an inner area was obtained.

A.5 INTERESTING CONFIGURATIONS In the problem analysis is stated that no hierarchy is implemented in the residential grid. Nevertheless , from a rough reading of the plan, we noticed several exceptions to the grid. The deviations implied an increased intimacy. There are different ways to create this intimate gesture, as one can close of the street, or manipulate the grid-structure by the implantation of later shelters. Especially the most recent blocks show these deviations on the grid. These irregularities can be enabled because of the unclear rules and control in the camp.

We visited on this block, who had cut of the street in order to receive a domestic open space. Several households are living together around this courtyard, in a composition that one could compare with the one of the cul-de-sac in the historic Arab city. A closed door was used, in order to close the inner space from the street

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B. DESIGN

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Illustration: Impression of a street in between neighboorhouds

Illustration: Impression of a neighboorhood street 100

B.1 TWO SYSTEMS As hierarchy is an important characteristic of open space in an Arab urban environment, the insertion of neighbourhoods’ streets could enhance the use of the streets by different groups of people. The current

is very high. This system would be complementary to streets will become appropriated. Additionally, presence living around it. Users of this system are limited to residents and visitors of families living there. Where these different neighbourhood systems meet, another condition is created. At the intersection ‘inter-neighbourhood streets’ are achieved, accessible for all. These streets are important for the permeability of a block. The streets here are pedestrian routes where economic activity colours the streets: small groceries, hairdressers, and coffee houses… The location of these streets is grafted on communal functions such as schools, mosques, and kindergartens… These streets are accessible for everybody. Through the implementation of a simple set of furniture such as lightning, benches, planters… The streets are facilitated to become safe pathways as an alternative for the loop and spine and to diminish accessibility for cars.

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B.1.1 Preconditions To be able to position the different neighbourhoods there are 3 determining elements that are important. First of all the existing social structures in the camp

Orientation in the camp by Family Name (Area) Based on a general map generated in a conversation with Osama, resident of Husn camp and volunteer in different organisations, 10/09/2011 0. Abu Qraean 1 Alimroj 2. Al-Baraat 3. Al-Bqai 4. Al-Duan 5. Al-Fuqah 6. Al-Masri 7. Al-Nserat 8. Bashtaw 9. Beer Sa Baa 10. Hawasa 11. Jalwli

12. Kahawshi 13. Karawt 14. Kasrawi 15. Maluh 16. Sawafta 17. Sherain 18. Shadad 19. Swarki 20. Tal Zater 21. Uups 22. Wade 23. Zbadiat

The design is meant to be a participatory process, this condition is a given that needs to be decided in correspondence with the residents. A second element is the location of the communal functions. The proposed safe pathway in between the neighbourhoods aims at connecting these functions. A last element is the street width. This is a very important element, since parking space is essential in order for the street to be able to be domesticized. Street width is the determining factor if a car will be able to pass. However because of the current building culture in the camp, this is very volatile information. This info is used for further design but probably dimensions have already changed a lot.

Communal Functions Schools (Primary and Secondary) UNRWA Health Centre Communal Organisations Mosques

Street Width, measurements based on AutoCad Map received from UNRWA CIP Jordan 3m

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Parking Strategy 2 Implementing a new typology on an open plot that allows parking spaces. Parking Strategy 1 If the turning circle determined by the street streets can be used to park cars.

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B.1.2 Traffic Scheme Today the car is often referred to by residents themselves as the reason why they donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t like to sit on the streets. Nonetheless the car is treasured possession that handled with care. People prefer to park the car near the shelter, as they distrust people for stealing it. conscience of the caution of the possessors, it chooses to provide space inside the neighbourhood. door on the vertical streets. The horizontal shorter have more or less no front doors on them and therefore neighbourhood. Because these cross streets are designed small loop system is achieved.

Figure above: Turning circle car in the camp Figure left:

By car vegetables, animals... are sold from a truck driving through the shelters

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Illustration: Neighbourhoods of block 2

Illustration: Community spaces positioned around close to block 2

Illustration: Schematic overview of the street width. The dots illustrate the crossings where it is not possible to turn by car. 106

BLOCK 2 AS AN EXAMPLE As an illustration to the previous concepts, the system is applied to block 2, the oldest and most dense block of the camp. Based on the location of neighbourhoods and communal functions, and the dimensions of the street a possible positioning of 7 neighbourhoods can be suggested. The upper blocks are accessible at the inside so here loops are implemented as explained previous. The lower blocks however do not have enough space for turning so here, cars have to park at the edge of the neighbourhood.

Illustration: Schematic overview of the 7 proposed neighbourhoods 107

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B.2 TWO STRATEGIES Two architectural means are proposed to create the necessary seclusion for the neighbourhoods to work. At the edges thresholds are implemented to make visible where the grid is not accessible anymore for outsiders. Inside the tissue, the opportunity of current empty open plots is utilized to implement functions and neighbourhoods. These new functionalities and limited accessibility will trigger communal life.

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B.2.1 THRESHOLDS The tools proposed are only very basic concepts. By implementing these, the neighbourhoods will become more domesticated and over time maybe a tendency of building the streets will occur.

Accessible by car

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Image: Some examples of possible tresholds. According the organisation of the

Illustration: Panorama taken on one of the original markets. Here neighboorhouds are enhanced by implementation of basic tools.

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TYPE 1 Ground level: Implementation of a communal function, economic or organisational. Behind the volume a closed of garden is positioned. Eg. A hairdresser for women with outside garden Second and Third level: Implementation of housing units, directed towards the streets. No windows are allowed on the left side of the volume to assure privacy for the closed of garden. Women or men Space

TYPE 2 - Variation on 1 Ground level: Open terras leading to a community place in the plot. Second and Third level: Implementation of housing units. These houses can have windows on the open space. Open space for all inhabitants

TYPE 3 Ground level: Parkin spaces are provided in the back of the plot. This position creates a square in front of the space, an also is more safe for the cars. If not the parking can bee fenced.Second level: A terras on the roof of the parking with an economical function Open space for all (in neighboorhoud) or men only (at the edge)

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B.2.2 Opportunity in Open Plots Inside blocks occasionally there are empty plots. Today these plots are not used unless for garbage collection. These plots have a big opportunity in the sense that by choosing their functionality and characteristics neighbourhoods.

This typology can be implemented both at the edges of neighbourhoods and inside, since the open space is enclosed and can be locked.

these new functions go parallel with implementing built environment. These buildings host different functionalities. First of all residential units are provided. conventional housing system as explained before. Eg. a divorced women with her children, a young couple, a single person... Secondly other functions can be implemented varying from economic such as a hairdresser, accountant.. to communal such as a group of women cooking together, an NGO or CBO... Dimensions for these units are based on the measurements of the typical matrasses people live, sleep and sit on (1.6m by .8m). A special parking unit is provided because of the urging parking problem. This parking can be combined with a manâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sitting space with a teahouse, a football/coffee houseâ&#x20AC;Ś

This typology can be implemented only inside neighbourhoods, since the open space is always accessible.

Depending on the street dimensions, this typology can be implemented preferably inside the fabric. But it can also work at the border.

Economic or communal function Residentiel Units

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Illustration: view from within a neighboorhoud towards a new implemented typology consisting of 2 housing units above an open plot serving as a community space.

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