Havana Underground, Modern Revolution in City Perception by Lucie Linderova

HAVANA UNDERGROUND MODERN REVOLUTION IN CITY PERCEPTION

Bc Lucie Linderova, BATCoM 2017-2018 Manchester School of Architecture, MA Architecture and Urbanism 2015 - 2017 Bachelor at VIA Horsens, Architectural Technology and Construction Management 2012 - 2017 Bachelor at CTU in Prague, Architecture and Civil Engineering DELF B1 CAE

French language English language

STUDENT ORGANISATIONS BEST (Board of European Students of Technology) is a constantly growing non-profit international student organisation. Since 1989 we provide communication, cooperation and exchange possibilities for students all over Europe. I became member in local group in Prague in June 2013. I was working for year in PR group mostly as Press Ambassador and then I was elected to Vice President for Human Recourses. We are providing connection between students, universities and companies. We mainly organize educational courses for european students, engineering competitions and some workshops and trainings for our members. With BEST I had lots of opportunities to improve my soft skills and work in international environment. I have become alumni member in 2017. ISC ( International Student Club) is creating an international community at CTU in Prague. The goal is to integrate exchange students into life in the Czech Republic and into events at the university. We create surroundings where different cultures meet and has oportunity to cooperate among nations in the Europe. I was part of Buddy programme where you take care of individual Erasmus student coming to your country.

I would like to thank the Manchester School of Architecture for giving me the opportunity of participating at 9th Caribbean WinterSchool in Havana which formed the base for this thesis. This would not happen without the hard work and dedication of all international organizers of that workshop and supportive tutors from all around the world. I would like to thank my Havana team for enjoyable teamwork and great start of this interesting journey. My thanks also belongs to MSA tutors: Eamonn Canniffe, Julie Fitzpatrick, James Dyson and Claudio Molina Camacho for guidance and motivation through whole process. And I would like to especially thank my family and friends for their continuous support through all my career choices. I could not have done it without them.

HAVANA UNDERGROUND MODERN REVOLUTION IN CITY PERCEPTION

Lucie Linderova Manchester School of Architecture 2018

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Revolution is a sense of the historical moment; it changes everything that must be changedâ&#x20AC;? Fidel Castro

1. Life in Havana

...social, cultural, economic and environmental background of the city Urban development Climate Street life Transport Public spaces Housing

2. Vedado

CONTENT

...arising Modern Havana Design strategies Location Landmarks Mobility Building heights Site analysis

3. 9CWS

Concept Masterplan Environmental strategy

4. HAVANA UNDERGROUND ...modern revolution in city perception Manifesto Sustainability Masterplan Design principles Havana underground Bridge

5. La Furnia

...from hole to public space Secret garden Possible transformations

6. Housing crisis

...lifetime residential dwellings Target groups Movable partitions scheme Common spaces

INTRODUCTION

I am Lucie Linderova, graduate of VIA University College in Architectural Technology and Construction Management and Czech Technical University in Architecture and Civil Engineering and this is the final thesis for my current study programme MA Architecture and Urbanism at Manchester School of Architecture. My thesis project is located in Cuba in Havana where I have spent 3 weeks participating at 9th Caribbean WinterSchool. The aim of WinterSchool was to discus new design strategies for district completion in teams of European and Cuban students. The programme of this workshop offered for the students to experience the city, talk with local citizens and find out their expectations for a future development. The design process has been supervised by international architectural tutors and in the end each team of students has proposed their own design solution for the chosen site. Havana is beautiful yet complicated city with thrilling history giving it extraordinary lifestyle, incredibly lively culture opens to social interactions forming strong community. The city is south-after to experience this daily street festivals filled with music and dance. Thanks to the tropical climate local people are used to live outside mainly in shadows from trees and buildings. Because of its colonisation history the city is not created for this lifestyle and although the locals are trying to find the way to adapt to it, the city needs radical change in building environment. Havana is facing economical and sociological crisis. In consequence, the population is supposed to increase in the city which needs renewal of the built environment to accommodate those changes. I have taken the scheme from Caribbean WinterSchool and kept developing it as possible solution for Havanaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s issues. I am introducing the design scheme as precedent to demonstrate considerate environmental friendly design exposing the sustainable strategy to local people. This sustainable urban design is enhancing lifestyle for citizens in much greater area than just the site itself. It is an example for future developments to make Havana self-sufficient city for first time in its history. 7

WHAT

New design strategies for district completion in Havana, Cuba.

PURPOSE

Havana will face an economical and sociological change in the near future. In consequence, the population is supposed to increase in the city which means the city will need the renewal of existing built environment.

STRATEGY

Transforming the city to be able to successfully accommodate the expecting urbanization.

METHOD

Discovering necessary social and economical strategies for district completion and recreating the typical Cuban pedestrian friendly urban ambience that encourages outdoor living and social and cultural integration.

1 LIFE IN HAVANA Social, cultural, economic and environmental background of the city

“Is there a reason for so many colours on your buildings? What do you mean? We take colours of our houses really seriously, everyone has mainly just one but everyone can choose the colour they like.” Prof. Dr. Arq. Rubén Bancrofft, 9CWS

URBAN DEVELOPMENT

Spanish Colony Cuba had great international relevance spanish architectural influence ...sloped roofs ...big openings ...cross ventilation ...protection from sun and rain

Representative Revolution Democratic Republic Cuba had great big influence in Caribbean massice development - american style urban regular patterns

Socialist Republic

social benefits in education, health 60. - best decade of architectural care, jobs and social security development as integration of different aspects people started to own their houses and could paint them in whatever no private sector colour they like - just state construction centralized production in big scale plants with national coverage

infractructure improvement - investments into railroads and industry

big investments for installation and maintenence low efficiency in energy consumption US embargo - economy collapse

economical prosperity but no consideration to cuban culture and life style

1600

1750

slow economic recovery -main income from tourists dependency to import - high cost in production no private sector apart from international companies low productivity in state sector weak maintenance policy

architectural influence ...in the beginning, good examples of modern architecture ...later, industrialization in construction, production in large scale plants

american architectural influence ...in the beginning, neoclassical and eccletic style low rise up to 4 stories development ...later, high rise buildings and modern movement in suburb areas

1519

Now

1830

1900

1925

1960

Data based on 9CWS Lecture Ecclectic Overview about Cuba, Prof. Dr. Arq. RubĂŠn Bancrofft

CLIMATE

High humidity and rainfall Constantly high temperatures Minimal seasonal variation in temperature

DAYLIGHT

SITE AND BUILDING ORIENTATION The aim is to reduce internal temperatures, maximise ventilation rates to increase the effectiveness of evaporation, and provide protection from sun, rain and insects.

Regular land and sea breezes

BUILDING SHAPE

SOLAR CONTROL SUMMER - protect from sun

WINTER- let sun in

WIND FROM EAST CROSS VENTILATION

LIVING IN SHADOW Data based on 9CWS Lecture Considerations to design with climate in tropical areas, Prof. Arq. Yanamari Bancroft PÃ©rez

STREET LIFE

One of the colonisation legacy of Cuba is its incredibly lively culture, the mixture of various cultural elements from Spanish and English colonisers combined with African culture when colonisers brought them originally as slaves to the island and then later American influence during occupation in 21st century came together in orchestra of really specific vibrant cultural and social customs filled with music and dance. And same as Cuban culture, the Cuban streets are alike; friendly, vibrant and filled with music. Streets are on permanent watch, all balconies are facing streets, people are used to have rocking chairs in front of their entrances to observe what is happening outside, streets are filled with constant movement of passing people, people meeting each other or performing on the streets. Due to US embargo on Cuba for almost 60 years now, Cuba has food and medical shortage and all establishments mainly banks but also supermarkets are permanently overcrowded and for entering you are waiting in long queues. But street life has adapted to permanent waiting situation to enter shop or for means of transport and offers many small street markets and movable kiosks with local vegetable, snacks, beverage to keep you occupied. 14

Cafes and restaurant have seating on public squares

Colonnades with attached shops and fast food providing shade

Queues for buses, public spaces, people meeting

Movable kiosks with goods on streets

TRANSPORT

American cars

Bicycles

Tricycles

Street in Cuba is like living museum you can walk through, the mixture of means of transport is unbelievable. In one road you can find horse carriages, bicycle carriages, taxis which are usually old American cars but also modern cars, buses, bicycles, tricycles, pedestrians and other specific vehicles like coco taxis. Surprisingly everything is fitting into one road with pedestrians and dogs randomly crossing with minimum traffic lights or any other movement coordination and natural organisation just by speed of who is faster gets to notional faster line. Meanwhile taxis are more tourist attraction, local people travels with buses but because there is no timetable, bus stops are constantly filled with people and sometimes blocks the whole street.

Coco taxis 15

PUBLIC SPACE

Havana is the greenest city I have ever visited. They have small parks and seatings on almost every corner. Thanks to the local climate people are living outside not in their buildings so they need a lot of public space accessible for its residents and tourists. Each public space is determined by different function, you have parks where you can enter just to buy the best ice cream or attend the best salsa festival or half open constructions used for cultural scenes. Even public buildings are open towards the streets to interact with passing people. Then there are many promenades the best known MalecĂłn going around the sea side where people do their morning jogging, meeting friends in the evening or just go for a walk to clean their minds. Cuba started to use internet just couple years ago which means there are still almost no places where you can get connected apart from Wi-Fi parks which are important part of public space now. This internet scheme empowers people even more to interact and gather outside.

Small public parks and squares between housing

MalecĂłn promenade around Havanaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sea side

Seating incorporated into street life

Commercial and public buildings open towards the street

HOUSING

Destroyed buildign used as tricycle storage/renting

Half-destroyed building with still occupied ground floor

Contrast between alive but poorly maintained building and better preserved but quiet building next door

Internal patios

Havana will face an economical and sociological change soon. In consequence, the population is supposed to increase in the city which means the city will need the renewal of existing built environment which is in poor condition now. Cubans are really good in keeping houses and not demolishing them which gives you diverse palette of housing from different historical periods. But they are not having money for maintaining them. You can see ruins where people are living using just the parts which did not fall yet. And where all the floors are gone, they are using just the external envelope for storages. Those half-destroyed houses are common and incorporated in blocks next to normal buildings. Lot of patios and courtyards are common in Cuban houses since it helps wind to cool them down. They do not have heating and hot water and they don’t use insulation in their buildings. Sun and wind are the main tools to control the internal climate, so they are shaping their buildings to naturally protect them from sun and to catch the wind. Another problem in Cuba is lack of lifetime housing. After Revolution, people became owners of their own houses. There is nothing like renting scheme apart from newly build developer’s projects which are mainly for tourists or local people excluding one room of their own house to offer it as “casa” for travellers and having some additional income. That makes it really difficult for young people to move into their own and mostly several generations are living in one house. 17

VEDADO Arising Modern Havana

city issues

ECONOMY private sector in construction is formed by international companies focusing on profitable buildings for tourists construction for residents needs to be financed by state - low productivity and lack of housing

providing lifetime housing adaptable to different target groups with incorporated mixed use facilities supporting residentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; growth and development

IMPORT DEPENDENCY

ENERGY

state economy is depended on import

energy supply depends on import and is significant with high cost

high cost of building materials and energy supply

no heating in housing and poor water supply with no hot water supply

providing sustainable urban development using local materials and improving waste strategy with possible recycling and upcycling strategies

using renewable resources and local climate in buildings to improve energy efficiency and providing solutions regarding life cycle cost and energy saving

INFRASTRUCTURE poor economic situation does not allow any investment into infrastructure existing infrastructure cannot adapt to all new changes of the city

integration of â&#x20AC;&#x153;urban islandsâ&#x20AC;? - sites which were left behind the city development and are vast and unconnected now - with cheap and innovative solution making them part of the city again

design methods and strategies 19

LOCATION

We are based in Old Havanaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; s west neighbour district called Vedado, newly rising modern business center. In contrast to regular urban pattern of whole city the concerned site in size of one urban block has been left undeveloped for decades due to its problematic terrain with 16m deep hole called la Furnia. The level of the whole site ground is much lower than adjacent street level which cut off the plot from the city life. The site is adjacent to La Rampa street which is really busy cultural commercial route with huge traffic linking several districts with seaside promenade MalecĂłn, one of the largest public places in Havana. There are university and hospital complexes in the near proximity with some semi-public parks.

URBAN GRAIN

VEDADO

OLD HAVANA

ELOPMENT

DENSITY OF DEV

UR ID

GR AN TR N

SIT 23

#landmarks 24

Amended analysis from group work during 9CWS

CONNECTIONS

MOVEMENT

#mobility 26

The site is located next to La Rampa street, one of the busiest streets in Havana. This street is main route across several districts for cars, taxis, buses and all the other cuban multifarious means of transport. There is bus stop just next to void in between buildings at La Rampa street. Another bus stop is located in front of our site and several others are at Calle J close to Havana libre hotel. Thanks to several hotels around the circulation of people is significant and can be forseen as chaotic which does not stop even in evening hours when people are coming from the city center or local businesses. Site is in the close proximity to university complex which brings a lot of students to this area. Popular street for students is Calle L lining the boundary of the site offering a lot of restaurant, cafes, bistros, print shops and similar smaller businesses. Amended analysis from group work during 9CWS

#building heights high rise development

raised development

4-5 floor levels

2-3 floor levels

sea level

The original urban development of Vedado consists of regular clusters moderate in height. That arrangement provides each user with view to the sea side. During 50s some high rise buildings appeared on the scenery and disturbed the original planning. If the site would be occupied by international investors there is high chance that they would propose another high rise hotel or other facility for tourists. But we want to create better built environment for locals as experiencing Cuban culture is what all tourist is coming for. So by focusing on Cubans we are getting interest of tourists too. We have talked to residents around our site and their wishes for the future development was to keep them this view. Therefore we are introducing proposal moderate in height providing view points from public terraces, roof tops, private balconies and patios which gives them overlook above the tidal wave to help understand the busy and chaotic city around them. Amended analysis from group work during 9CWS

SITE ANALYSIS

existing buildings

temporary buildings

conrete

gravel

L CA

: 23

M RA

LLE

Corner existing buildings on our site are protected. The proposal conserve all existing buildings on the site since they are still functioning and we are promoting economical, ecological and socially most suitable solution without wasting any resources. The site has challenging terrain with hole inside called La furnia. Whole site is lowered from street level which left it abandoned for decades. There are some small temporary structures which we are removing. La furnia is a deep hole approximately minus five levels lower than the street level. It is filled with greenery looking almost like a local jungle or oasis. We are using this natural place to turn it into quiet relaxing zone just by little interventions.

LE AL

LLE

This project is based on participation at 9th Caribbean WinterSchool in Havana. This workshop was a three-week program organised by MĂźnster School of Architecture in collaboration with Manchester School of Architecture and other European universities hosted by Faculty of Architecture at CUJAE University in Havana. The aim of the WinterSchool was to discuss new design strategies for the chosen site. The workshop brought together people from different cultures and background to support diversity and mutual development in design methods. It was expected from participants to find solution suitable for Havanaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s specific climate and economical and social situation. Havana will face an economical and sociological change in the near future. In consequence, the population will increase in the city which needs renewal of the built environment to accommodate those changes. The workshop has been divided into study teams of different nationalities where every team had one local student to help them with understanding of local customs in designing. The design process was supervised by international professors and evaluated in three presentations in the end of each week to track the progress. Our final design proposed lifetime housing, with commercial and leisure facilities to serve not only tenants but improving whole neighbourhood area. Because of challenging and articulating terrain, we have worked in different levels to reintegrate the site into the urban structure again as it has been left behind for past few decades. The design scheme offers fast connections through the site same as slower promenades towards the green public space free to access for all citizens. I have kept developing this scheme to demonstrate solutions to cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s issues by considerate and sustainable design enhancing lifestyle of citizens and visitors.

BUSY CITY

URBAN OASIS

GSEducationalVersion

La furnia is what makes the site special and it became the centre of our concept. But instead of seing it as an obstacle we see urban oasis in its existing greenery. Havana is busy city thanks to its rush and vibrant culture and its popularity between tourists. That is why we are introducing quiet zone as contrast to the city - hiden, safe and protected - the urban oasis.

GSEducationalVersion

La Furnia is already protected by existing buildings around which serve as noise barrier. The greenery around reduces pollution and urban heat. The fact that you have to descend to the hole makes it the quiet and calmer place because it eliminates people just crossing or using it as a shortcut. It is escape for citizens from the chaos in the city accessible without leaving the city.

GSEducationalVersion

CONCEPT Concept developed during group work at 9CWS

public private

terrain

public

zoning

private

park

park bus

terrain

existing buildings

terrain levels

existing buildings

bus

commercial

commercial P

bus

park housing

connections

functions commercial

university

park

terrain levels

public area private area comercial area

university

functions slow way fast way

public area private area

Group work at 9CWS

Buildings are placed and shaped to use natural resources to create comfortable microclimate. Buildings are orientated to north-south direction where bigger openings on north side and smaller on the south side allow natural cross ventilation. East and west facades are solid to block the direct horizonal sunbeams of sun rise and sun set. The arrangement of buildings casts wanted shadows to open spaces in between them. The wind is coming from east where high rise Havana Libre hotel blocks the wind in la Furnia. It is another reason why to choose this place for open public space because we need the wind to cool the buildings. The site is divided into zones with commercial functions along La Rampa street and next to la Furnia connected to the public place and residential cluster following mainly residential development at Calle 25 and Calle L. The proposal focuses on site reintegration into the city so the connections and accessibility are really important. There are fast ways through the site on street level in form of bridges and slower more enjoyable ways descending towards la Furnia.

MASTERPLAN La Rampa

Calle J

Calle L

Calle 25

Group work at 9CWS

MASTERPLAN - furnia level La Rampa

Group work at 9CWS

Calle J

Calle L

Calle 25

La Rampa elevation

La Rampa elevation Calle 25 elevation

Calle 25 elevation

Calle L elevation

Calle J elevation Calle J elevation 38

Group work at 9CWS

quiet zone La Furnia is hosting the main public place, the quiet zone in form of park using the existing greenery. Because of the articulate terrain we are proposing different functions on different levels which provides more activities on one place but also gives another dimension to perception of the place. Above this quiet zone there is hanging grid linked to the bridges providing shadow to the public place incorporating hanging units in which people can lift themself to have their own private quiet room. The way to this units leads through public building attached to park at la Furnia to provide certain control above their use and help with their maintenance.

unive

rsity

how to get there

bus

library

Group work at 9CWS

sun and wind

Group work at 9CWS

environmental strategy 1. to consolidate the urbanized areas and not to grow in surface _occupation of barren lots _growth in height 2.maximum use of the natural resources _increase of the vegetation in the public spaces _adaptation to the existing topography

urban smart city

01. to diminish the temperature of the buildings with passive resources _cover that allow the ventilation _green facades _protection elements 02. construction materials _wood _concrete with plastic bottles 03. volume that allows the ventilation and natural illumination 04. management of the natural resources _solar energy _wind energy _gathering of rain waters _reuse of water

benefits see external

green building architectural

better mental function and memory

10-25%

natural light professionals more productive 18% the students obtain higher punctuation 5-14% efficient equipment the productivity is increased

3. waste strategy

23% with a better illumination 11% with a better ventilation 3% with an individual control of the temperature

energetic concept Group work at 9CWS

4 HAVANA UNDERGROUND Modern revolution in city perception

“There is an urgent need for ‘a transcendental change’ and a shift to sustainable development if the place is to be saved.” Raul Castro

MANIFESTO 46

SUSTAINABILITY Due to stateâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s poor economy and difficulty with importing materials and supplies, the considerate approach to building is required. The proposal provides sustainable solution by passive design using natural resources and recycling strategy enhancing the environmental impact. The solutions are to be visible to public spaces to encourage citizens towards the ues of renewable resources.

COMMUNITY Considering the complexity and diversity of demands of future tenants the proposal offers new thriving vibrant mixed-use community. Housing and supporting facilities are flexible and adaptable to all age groups and individuals same as families creating therefore long-life homes instead of temporary solutions.

INCLUSIVITY The isolated site is to be reintegrated into society again enhancing not just life for its residents but also offering functions which are missing in the neighbourhood. The problematic areas are transformed into new public places open to everyone.

SUSTAINABLE URBAN DEVELOPMENT

SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT “development that meets current needs without compromising future generations opportunities to meet their own needs” Brundtland Report 1987 “Our Common Future”

It is impossible for whole world to achieve high living standards of western countries. The planet would need six times more resources. And with global warming it takes the climate to get just 4-6 degrees warmer to cause serious irreversible damages such as flooded countries, temperature reaching up to 50°C in summer creating new deserts, serious shortages leading to wars and finally uninhabitable areas on Earth which may cause extinction up to 95% of all species. The majority of population lives in urban areas and the building industry takes up to 40% of world’s energy and material consumption. Therefore, sustainable urban development proposes the reform in built environment focusing on long term impact to energy consumption considering life cycle of products and services introducing regulations to meet present and future needs for humanity and nature. Sustainability is based on three aspects: economic, social and environmental, which needs to be considered all together to maintain the current lifestyle without compromising it for future generations. Sustainable urbanism integrates walkable and compact design combining mixed-used developments interconnected by high-performance infrastructure for better efficiency and reduced usage of all natural, material and economic resources.

World Commission on Environment and Development (1987). Our common future/Brundtland Report. Oxford: Oxford University Press Farr, Douglas (2011). Sustainable Urbanism : Urban Design with Nature, Hoboken: John Wiley & Sons

NATURAL VENTILATION buildings shaped and placed to allow wind come in and cool spaces naturally SOLAR ENERGY sloped roofs allow to integrate solar panels to gain energy from natural resources RAINWATER COLLECTION drainage is incorporated into design and rainwater is collecting from sloped roof and green facades during rain season, stored in watertanks underground and reuse to save unnecessary resources MICROCLIMATE differentiation of places and interactions between interior and exterior creates comfortable microclimate GREENERY public spaces are offering greenery which is needed to balance the urban heat, reduce noise and pollution within the city SOLAR CONTROL public spaces are designed in shadow cast by buildings, facades are protected from heat by external corridors and green facades. COMMUNITY site offers facilities not only for its tenants but also other citizens enhancing the life style among the city 50

integrated solar panels on sloped roofs

rainwater collection water warm naturally in tank in void below sloped roofs

cross ventilation

sun screening green facade community gardens reducing sun heat

patios and atriums alowing wind to cool the places

EXISTING 52

PROPOSED 53

The sloped demanding terrain is the unique attractive element architects love to work with. It represents challenge to show new strategies how to incorporate the obstacle into design that it becomes one of the potentials on the place. I am trying to keep the history of this place alive by incorporating la Furnia into my design. Therefore I am introducing new ground floor level like a landscape descending into la Furnia. This urban landscape is linking the street level with la Furnia providing pleasant promenade with seating places on its way till you reach the bottom with the secret garden - the truly public space for all citizens and visitors. Athrough there are lot of greenery around Havana streets the issue lies with inclusivity of those places. The most of those â&#x20AC;&#x153;publicâ&#x20AC;? places are not accessible unless you become the customer of the business who owns this place no matter if it is the park for cafe or best ice cream shop in the city or terrace just for hotel guests. What I am proposing is public space free to use for everyone unconditionally.

INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR INTERACTION

provides the common spaces with open and free impression. It also helps the breeze to come into the buildings and naturally cool them down. This interaction creates micro-climate for comfortable indoor and outdoor places.

GREEN FACADES

dividing corridors with exterior. It is pleasant semi transparent barrier, which provides shade, absorbs heat and helps with pollution.

GARDENS

help to reduce the urban heat, city pollution and noices and creates pleasant environment supporting the community sense between residents.

TIMBER STRUCTURE

Timber is the least demanding material for energy consumtion considering its life cycle. Timber can be grown on site and after it life span can be easily recycled for other uses.

MATERIALS 57

LA RAMPA

CALLE J

CALLE L

CALLE 25

SCALE 1 : 1250

intended purpose on this project. This drawing shall be read in conjunction with all other relevant drawings, specifications and associated documentation. Any discrepencies, errors or omissions are to be reported to the originator before proceeding with work.

MASTERPLAN

All dimensions are to be checked on site by the contractor prior to proceeding with any work.

Hazard Identification ref

COPPELIA CAFE

ROOF LEVEL

hazard

date

BUS STOP

BRIDGE OVER LA RAMPA STREET

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UNDERGROUND PROMENADE

t: 0789 401 2780 architecture.unknown@gmail.com www.architectureunknown.co.uk

SECRET GARDEN IN LA FURNIA HOUSING CLUSTER

LINKING BRIDGE client

PARK WITH PLAYGROUND

OWNER

COMMUNITY GARDENS COMMUNITY CENTER

project

PEDESTRIAN ZONE

FLOOKERSBROOK ASSISTED LIVING

HAVANA LIBRE HIGH-RISE HOTEL

drawing

Unnamed

LA RAMPA

CALLE J

CALLE L

CALLE 25

SCALE 1 : 1250

CIRCULATION ROOF LEVEL

LINKING BRIDGE CONNECTION TWO BUILDINGS AND SERVES AS QUICK PASSING WAY THROUGH THE SITE ON STREET LEVEL WALKWAYS DESCENDING GARDEN IN LA FURNIA

TOWARD

SECRET

ENTRY TO HOUSING CLUSTER AND LINKAGES IN ITS COURTYARD CONNECTING PARK WITH PLAYGROUND, COMMUNITY GARDENS AND UNDERGROUND PASSAGEWAY ON LEVEL BELOW

LA RAMPA

ENTRANCE TO APARTMENTS

RESTAURANT WAITING PLACE FOR BUSES

RETAIL UNITS

PLAYGROUND

CALLE L

PARK

SQUARE FOR MOVABLE KIOSKS

CALLE 25

COMMUNITY GARDENS

RETAIL UNITS

ENTRY STREET LEVEL

SECRET GARDEN

SCALE 1 : 1250

CALLE J

CAFE MARKET PLACE

0 SCALE 1 : 500

LA RAMPA

CALLE J

CALLE L

CALLE 25

SCALE 1 : 1250

Hazard Identification ref

COPPELIA CAFE

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BUS STOP

CINEMA

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MIXED-USE APARTMENTS

HAVANA UNDERGROUND

t: 0789 401 2780 architecture.unknown@gmail.com www.architectureunknown.co.uk

COMMUNITY CENTER

client

OWNER

project

FLOOKERSBROOK ASSISTED LIVING COMMUNITY GARDENS drawing

Unnamed

ROOF LEVEL CHURCH

FUNCTIONS 65

VIEW POINT TERRACE VIEW POINT TERRACE COMMUNITY CENTER EXISTING BUILDINGS PROTECTING SECRET GARDEN LINKING BRIDGE

NATURAL AMPHITHEATER

SECRET GARDEN IN LA FURNIA HOUSING CLUSTER

HAVANA UNDERGROUND PROMENADE

CALLE L

CALLE J

LA RAMPA

CALLE 25

SCALE 1 : 1250 68

ELEVATIONS

The existing buildings closing our site from one corner accomodating various retail units on the ground floor and housing on higher level. This scheme runs through the proposed buildings as well. The retail units on street level help interactions and suit to cuban street life. Along La Rampa street the proposed building is also incorporating waiting space with seating for bus stops and improving the circulation on the street. The proposed buildings are defining the block but also offering multiple entrances into the site. The public buildings are having large openings through the mass to attract people inside. And whole street level is designed to provide various activities and make the site more accessible. Part of Calle L is tranformed into pedestrian zone for better connection between student park and beginnig of Havana underground. It also benefits to all small businesses on street level along this street covering the way up to the university campus.

DESIGN PRINCIPLES 70

The design principles for our site are connectivity and circulation. The site is functioning in several levels and therefore the coherence is key to users orientation through the site. The proposal includes what were the citizens missing in the surrounding. For transparency and easy orientation the buildings are open towards the inner courtyards, directing the way into the secret garden. In upper floors the proposed buildings are offering views towards the sea side and into the site. Linking bridge above the secret garden is joining two public buildings and several levels of commercial and leisure activities and also crossing the busy La Rampa street enhancing the circulation around the site.

STREET LEVEL

BUS STOP One of the problems at La Rampa streets was not enough place around bus stops so people were waiting on the street making it almost impossible to pass through. Within the proposed building along La Rampa the sheltered passage and restaurant with rooftop terrace is provided. This sheltered commercial space is serving also as bus stop waiting place so it removes people waiting for buses from the streets and improve the circulation. The building also provides opening into the block where people can descend to the secret garden or pass by bridge to the other side 72

LEVEL -1 TO -3

COMMUNITY GARDENS The housing complex is offering its tenants much more than just accommodation. There are shared common rooms, park, playground and community gardens open anytime free to use. All those places are supporting interactions between people and helping to form the community. Those gardens are easily accessible in the housing courtyard giving tenants place to grow fruit, vegetable or plants by their own choice. It replaces the need of having individual gardens improving socialising within the group and bringing together different cultures and generations. 74

LA FURNIA LEVEL -5 COMMUNITY CENTER The Community Center is building connected with secret garden in la Furnia. This is public building accommodating local library, workshops, office places free to use for all the citizens accompanying by canteen, restrooms but also restaurant and cafes with enjoyable view above the secret garden. This building is the landmark of the site demonstrating the sustainable design. Part of this project is not only about use of the sustainable strategies and incorporating them into the design but also about introducing the sustainability to local people which means it needs to be visible. That is why I am leaving uncovered timber structure and using green facades falling and merging with greenery in la Furnia. The building has large opening through towards the garden to be seen as a window showing what is happening inside. It also exposes the openess and accessibility of the design. 76

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Innospace Manchester M1 5GD

TIMBE STRUC BROW

t: 0789 401 2780 architecture.unknown@gmail.com www.architectureunknown.co.uk

client

OWNER

project

FLOOKERSBROOK ASSISTED LIVING 0

drawing

Unnamed

SCALE 1 : 1250

HORIZONTAL TIMBER GREEN FACADES TIMBER STRUCTURE CLADDING drawn by date Author

0 SCALE 1 : 500

checked by scale dwg no

Checker

EXTERNAL OPENINGS THROUGH BUILDING

date

A3 rev

CLEAR GLAZING ALLOWING LIGHT THROUGH THE RETAIL

ER BRIDGE WITH STEEL CTURE PAINTED IN WN

CLEAR GLAZING ALLOWING LIGHT THROUGH THE RETAIL

EXTERNAL OPENINGS THROUGH BUILDING

TIMBER STRUCTURE

VERTICAL TIMBER CLADDING

FACADES 79

PROPOSED BUILDINGS ABOVE STREET LEVEL

HAVANA UNDERGROUND

PEDESTRIAN ZONE

HAVANA UNDERGROUND

PARKING

STORAGE AND UTILITY IN BASEMENT OF EXISTING BUILDING NATURAL PARK The potential of sloped terrain is in providing multiple levels for multiple functions. It is completely different approach than designing on narrow site where one plot has one function. This allowed me to created completely new world under the housing complex. This underground is connecting the spaces below all buildings introducing coherent, enjoyable, sheltered promenade accessible from several staircases which serves also as light wells providing enough light into the lower levels. The place is descending towards la Furnia by systems of stairs and ramps which form also seating corners for resting on the way. The passage is surrounded by retail units and significant part is dedicated to street gallery where pieces of talented local people can be exhibited or the place can be transformed to host cultural events demanding larger capacity. 80

SECRET GARDEN NATURAL AMPHITEATER

CASE STUDY UNDERGROUND CITIES

Underground places are so far a mistery representing great adventure for the freedom of its design. Already between Indians the underground was considered as a holy place. Released from earthy environment the underground places have deep spiritural significance. They are seeked for being in touch with the origins of life. Underground provides the getaway from earthy problems which naturally helps to find peace. The underground crypts and temples afford the luxury of real tranquility presenting the perfect base for meditation and reflection. The underground places brings the new perception to all aspects of architectural and urban design without the traditional spatial restrictions. Those spaces provoke to exploration of hidden spaces and raising the elementary questions about connection between nature and the built environment. Buildings are usually wanted to be seen on the exterior but building underground is more about connection with the landscape. The moving away from nature started back in Ancient Greece, the origin of western architecture, where the man placed himself above the nature and nature automatically stoped being part of the architecture. And it took centuries to change the detached relationship between nature and architecture again. With modernists movement the buildings were reinstated in harmony with its evironment. Le Corbusier and Frank Lloyd Wright started the revolution in open spacious design corresponding with its surroundings. This approach inspired a lot of modern underground architecture where the building does not just respond to their environment but creates part of the landscape. â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Water Temple by Tadao Ando in Japanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Google images Linderova L. (2018). Cities and Urbanism: Ideologies and Future. MSA MA A+U

‘MUSEUMPLEIN’ Amsterdam visit, 2014, Photographer: Lucie Linderova

LEVELS

0.0

-1.8

-3.6

-5.4

-7.2

-8.7

CONNECTIONS

FUNCTIONS

GALLERY AND ENTRY RECEPTION WITH INFORMATION POINT

RETAIL UNITS ALONG THE MAIN PASSAGE

HARDWOOD STAIR SEATING IN RESTING AREAS

GALLERY STORAGES AND PUBLIC TOILETS

UNDERGROUND LIFE The system of ramps and stairs forms the passageway lined with shops, boutiques, grocery stores, workshops but also seating places creating enjoyable sheltered promenade towards the garden in la Furnia. Timber structure and finishes are used to refresh the space so despite that the place is under the ground level it still can feel like an open and bright environment.

BRIDGE The bridge is fast connection through the site on the street level but also connects upper and lower levels so the visitors can decide if they want to just pass the complex or engage with what it offers. The runners of the bridge are designed as support for the longest span and structure is hiden in side balustrades visible only from outside painted in brown to match timber cladding from its inner leaf. That way nothing disturbs the view from the bridge. It is symbol of linkages and connectivity within the site but also functions as an attraction. It is like the discovery path to perceive the space from different horizons. It is the link between two public buildings next to La Rampa street and Calle 25 joining the commercial and leisure functions. Those buildings arehaving openings to see through to the secret garden in la Furnia and attract people to enter the site. The linking bridge is like the information point, the users can see from above what is happening where which helps them with the orientation through the site. 90

NATURAL PARK WITH SLOPING TERRAIN

STREET GALLERY GREEN FACADE CORRIDORS TO EXISTING BUILDING TO IMPROVE THE INTERNAL CLIMATE AND LIMIT THE OVERHEATING FROM EAST

RETAIL UNITS

CONNECTING STAIRS&LIGHT WELLS

COMMON CORRIDORS

RETAIL UNITS

BRIDGE PASSING THROUGH THE BUILDING CROSSING LA RAMPA STREET

APARTMENTS

ROOFTOP TERRACE

TERRACE FOR APARTMENTS 91

CASE STUDY TREETOP WALKWAY

Treetop walkways appeared on the scene couple years ago and became very popular between its visitors. The more places like this are now appearing. The walkway by itself does not oppress the trees. It is the lightweight constructed walkway around the trees providing magnificent views on the way and sometimes even little climbing frames for childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s and adultsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; entertainment. It is simple attraction which brings people back to the nature and promotes the heatlhy lifestyle. 92

Tretop walkway visit at Lipno, Czech Republic

Photographer: Iva Linderova

LINKING BRIDGE The bridge allows the visitors to look at the place above its tidal wave. The site has multiple functions on different levels which makes it unique and interesting for its visitors but also more complicated to undestand whole complex. The bridge offers the overview from above to what is happening on the site and also brings the viewer better orientation and appreciation for compact use of the space.

LA FURNIA From hole to public space

â&#x20AC;&#x153;The use of trees and vegetation in the urban environment brings benefits beyond mitigating urban heat islands including reduced energy use, improved air quality and lower greenhouse gas emissions, enhanced stormwater management and water quality and improved quality of life by providing aesthetic value, habitat for many species, and can reducing noise â&#x20AC;? Green Infrastructure, United States Environmental Protection Agency

BRIDGE OVER LA RAMPA STREET

ROOFTOP TERRACE

STREET GALERY

RESTAURANT PUBLIC TOILETS AND GALLERY STORAGES

LINKING BRIDGE

CAFE

OFFICES

SECRET GARDEN

NATURAL AMPHITHEATER

PUBLIC LIBRARY

GROUP STUDY ZONES/ CONFERENCE ROOMS

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SECRET GARDEN La Furnia with its existing greenery was already the oasis in the middle of abandoned site. It needed to be preserved and with just a little landscaping interaction it is to be turned into pleasant garden hidden and protected from the chaotic, busy and noisy city as Havana can be. With its expanse and years of growing trees it is the piece of wild nature the cities lack of.

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GREEN AMPHITHEATER To preserve the wild nature in the secret garden, minimum interventions are used. But since there is already the slopping terrain I have decided to cultivate the side next to existing buildings to shape the terrain into natural amphitheater. It does not disturb the ambience of the place thanks to keeping the greenery and offers seating places instead of sharp green wall.

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POSSIBLE TRANSFORMATIONS

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One of the expectations of sustainable design is its duration and chance to adapt to new circumstances which prolongs the life span of each development. The place needs to be able to accomodate changes and be as flexible as possible. The secret garden with its natural amphitheater can be used just as a garden for resting and calm place to wonder. Or it can host various caltural events, the space can be transformed to open-air theater, summer cinema, dance floor, or base to any open-air festival.

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S U M M E R C I N E M A

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O P E N A I R T H E A T E R 107

5 HOUSING CRISIS Lifetime residential dwellings

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â&#x20AC;&#x153;Havana will face an econmical and sociological change in the near future. In consequence, the population will increase in the metropolis. This means not only a renewal of the built environment.â&#x20AC;? Objectives, 9CWS

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BUS STOP

110

GALLERY

RETAIL UNITS

WAITING PLACE

APARTMENTS

HAVANA UNDEGROUND

COMMUNITY GARDENS

PARKING

RETAIL UNITS

APARTMENTS

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Thanks to the proximity of university campus, concentration of elderly people and general demand for lifetime homes for families and couples the proposal is targeting four main groups: Families, Students, Seniors and Tourists. Tourism is main economic income of the country which makes tourists the part of their everyday life and a lot of people are renting a room for short-term use as additional family income. Considering the complexity and diversity of demands of future tenants the proposal creates new thriving vibrant mixed-use community. Housing and supporting facilities are flexible and adaptable to all age groups and individuals same as families. This prolongs the longevity of the complex and supporting functions are keeping people from the urge to move out. Apartments are supported by common spaces on each floor for gatherings, meetings, playing traditional cuban dominos or leaving children to play together in safe environment. Apartment units themselves are adaptable using movable partitions. The core is attached to two units which can be rented to two students or two seniors sharing the core or together for families. The movable partitions are easily maintained and the tenants can change the units arrangements by themselves.

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TARGET GROUPS

FAMILIES

STUDENTS

TOURISTS

SENIORS

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APARTMENTS

SCALE 1 : 1250 COMMON SPACES

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SCALE 1 : 500

MOVABLE PARTITIONS SCHEME

OFFICE/WORKSHOP

FAMILY

STUDENTS&SENIORS

TOURISTS

CORE WITH MOVABLE PARTITIONS

fixed partitions

movable partitions

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COMMON CORRIDORS External corridors divided by green facades are their own common places. Cubans are used to sit in front of their houses watching the streets and this arrangement allows that possibility. They can see through the green facade outside and are protected by sun and heat which the green facade absorbs. Corridors are wide enough to accomodate seating zones and patios allowing wind to circulate and cool down the buildings naturally. The patios also connects the individual floors visually and gives therefore the housing cluster coherence and linkages between individual units empowering people to engage and create community from individuals living next to each other.

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CONCLUSION The proposed urban complex is promoting sustainable design proving that any site no matter how decayed can be injected with life using economical means. The design strategy is focusing to long term use and adaptability to possible future changes instead of shortsighted developments of high-rise buildings with desolated landscape that will be waiting in 50 years for next real estate transaction. By considerate approach and compact design the abandoned and isolated site has been reintegrated into the city life enhancing the living conditions for all citizens and tourists coming to visit Havana in its unforgettable thriving cultural life.

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TO GROUPWORK PLEASE REFER TO Lucie Linderova (CZ), Karla Maria Lemus Mesa (CU), Gast Marie Theres(DE), Neocleus Katerina (DE) 9CWS - 9th CARIBBEAN WINTER SCHOOL 19.2.2018-20.3.2018 hosted in Havana by Instituto Superior Politècnico José Antonio Echeverría CUJAE Münster School of Architecture Escola Tècnica Superior d‘Arquitectura de Barcelona Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya

LITERATURE

• 9th Caribbean WinterSchool (2018), Havana, MSA WinterSchool, www.msa-caribbeanwinterschool.eu • Prof. Dr. Arq. Rubén Bancrofft (2018), Lecture Ecclectic Overview about Cuba. 9CWS • Prof. Arq. Yanamari Bancroft Pérez (2018), Lecture Considerations to design with climate in tropical areas. 9CWS • La Habana (2007), REGULACIONES URBANÍSTICAS Ciudad de La Habana: El Vedado, Municipio Plaza de la Revolución. Ediciones Unión • A.M. de la Pena Gonzales, G. D. Quintero, Arquitectura y Medioambiente. Cuba: Efe Consultores • A.M. de la Pena Gonzales, G. D. Quintero, Urbanismo y Medioambiente. Cuba: Efe Consultores • G.Z. Brown (1994), Sol, Luz y Viento: Estrategias Para El Diseno Arquitectonico. Mexico: Editorial Trillas • Meijenfeldt, E. and Geluk, M. (2003). Below ground level: Creating Spaces for Contemporary Architecture. Basel: Birkhäuser. • Linderova L. (2018). Cities and Urbanism: Ideologies and Future. MSA MA A+U • World Commission on Environment and Development (1987). Our common future/Brundtland Report. Oxford: Oxford University Press • Farr, Douglas (2011). Sustainable Urbanism : Urban Design with Nature, Hoboken: John Wiley & Sons

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HAVANA UNDERGROUND Modern revolution in city perception Lucie Linderova Manchester School of Architecture 2018