Workshop: Elli Mosayebi | Domestic Fragments

Workshop leader Elli Mosayebi (Edelaar Mosayebi Inderbitzin Architekten)

Workshop assistant Álvaro M. Fidalgo

Project location Purmamarca, Jujuy, Argentina

Team Santiago Aguirre (Chile), Stephany Pavon (Honduras)

Duration Five days

Assignment

A critical intellectual engagement with forms of contemporary urban housing serves as the focus of the studio project, in the design of an apartment. In this, design is to be understood as an instrument for experiencing the present age and generating knowledge. The modest scale of the projects will allow us to concentrate on the many themes of the interior, the form of the dwelling, fundamental architectural elements and the climate.

Project

Each design starts with a specific idea of dwelling, prioritizing spatial and architectural potential over social relevance. The concept challenges the traditional idea of ‘individual dwellings,’ allowing for buildings designed for collective living where such distinctions become irrelevant. These structures may not only serve as dwelling spaces but also integrate work, contemplation, or other activities. The key requirement is that the apartment can accommodate multiple individuals living independently.

In addition to the dwelling concept, a specific architectural element can drive the design. This element, directly related to the intended purpose, can be a standalone inspiration or complement the primary concept. These elements encompass more than structural components like windows, doors, and stairs, extending to secondary and movable elements such as kitchen and bathroom components, as well as furniture like beds, tables, curtains, etc.

Ultimately it is also conceivable to take such an element as the primary origin of the project, i.e. to develop the dwelling on the basis of an architectural element or a piece of furniture. Can you imagine an inhabited staircase? How would you design a floor plan based on a chimney? Can the placement of columns define a dwelling space? How would a dwelling look that primarily serves sleeping, and in which the bed is at the centre? Who would inhabit such spaces?

Workshop: Elli Mosayebi | Domestic Fragments