Lily Papadopoulos Bartlett School of Architecture Unit 22
Term 2 Design Brief
Site: Nicosia Cyprus, Buffer Zone User: Generation Z as post war builders. The aim of this project is to implement the element of ‘play’ into a wounded landscape such as the Nicosia buffer zone which divides the island (the last divided city in Europe) between the southern Greek and northern illegally occupied Turkish side. This ‘no –man’s land’ has been frozen in time, where abandoned buildings now lie as ruins, untouched by human activity. What would happen if the politically aware and curious children of Nicosia are given tools of empowerment in this sensitive area and how would this influence Nicosia’s culture and divided society? Architectural towers injected into the divided ruins along the buffer zone would empower the children, allowing them to view the ‘other side ‘of their country. However I discovered another tool of empowerment and means of communication between the two sides- sound and music. The Ramallah concert became a key ingredient of inspiration for the project; The West-Eastern Divan Orchestra-a youth orchestra founded in1998, consisting of musicians from Israel and Arab countries. The emotional conductor stated "It is our belief that the destinies of these two peoples, Israel and Palestine, are inextricably linked ... either we all kill each other or we share what there is to share. It is this message that we have come here to bring." Through music, messages were shared and communication started to occur between two communities in conflict. My proposal is to apply this concept into Nicosia by designing musical towers which would sit within the decaying buildings along the buffer zone. The geometry of each tower would allow for sound to be amplified, focused, or directed through the means of parabolas and sound mirrors, allowing for a unique way of communication between the towers. The geometry and materiality of the towers would also allow for the building to be played upon. The towers remind us of the typology of the Mosque and Church tower but in this case music, whispers and whistles create an eventful atmosphere, similar to a carnival, where one can enjoy unexpected sounds coming from both sides of the city. One can enjoy listening from his private balcony, from a midnight stroll or a day at the market.