In a time when we can design three dimensional virtual worlds, we have denied our world significant pre-planned solutions to known problems likely of needing structured, competent and unbiased solutions.
Attached are two images of a prototype urban revitalization concept initially designed for New Orleans which may with some modification begin to highlight a rational approach to basic community development within an urban setting applicable to Haiti. Canals indicated in the prototype may be replaced by levee's to protect from flooding and mudslides. Earthquake resistant design would necessitate using one foot expansion joints to meet the challenges imposed by the probability of severe Earthquakes.
Utilising the capabilities of the U.S.S. Wasp to transport all of the prepositioned, modular pre-fabricated stressed skin structures integrated into the designed urban plan, with modular plumbing and sanitation, solar and wind generation modules containing pre-fabricated (triage) hospital, (utilized later as an operational clinic), school, library and resource facilities combined with market place, housing, shops and integrated community center, with multi-faceted housing elements, secured by earthquake and hurricane resistant pile systems and ground anchors, integrated with geo-textile soil stabilzation systems and drainage ditches.
By initial utilization of the capactity of the U.S.S. Wasp LHD-1 to carry 1000 marines and 1000 skilled and fully equipped construction,architecture,engineering and allied service teams, stabilization and clearing of the prototype urban site could commence within 5 days of any disaster with follow up of modular urban units in the second week. Adding an additonal 1000 skilled worker's the entire framework could be installed within 21 days of a disaster occuring. The prototype can be modified for all types of natural disasters and utilize environmentally safe lightweight structures and materials. The exterior appearance could be altered to address cultural prefereances once the initial trauma has been addressed.
It is vital to have regard for the common aspects of design, when we attempt to solve a housing crisis, particularly one which attempts to bring back life to a community traumatized by an Earthquake, Hurricane or Natural Disaster.
Housing is not a formulaic. It must take on the innate characteristics of the society and structures culturally acceptable to the well being of those living as families and sharing a life within a community. Just as with a family, relationships, those between Housing and Spaces, movement created through well defined area's of activity and repose are inseparable in achieving harmony. Vital also, are the those relationships to marketplaces, play areas, schools, clinics, places of worship, community centers and the intermediate and broader aspects of landscape and environment. Essential to everyday life are the sounds, color and light which blend themselves into daily life. Respect for the history and aspirations of a culture in all of it's forms can provide the spark which can develop a broad understanding of community. Foremost in this process is the ability to Listen and translate multiple concerns into a measured Creative Response.
The process of human interaction creates the need for solutions to overlooking, privacy, the spaces between buildings and how spaces are oriented to take advantage of environment. It's easy for the designer to create an urban slum. The creation of harmony with culture and meaningful relationships between spaces will produce acceptable solutions and welcoming places in which to grow and thrive.
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