Marco Corazza (M.Sc.)
Axel Körner (M.Sc.)
Viral Doshi (M.Arch.)
Mehnaj Tabassum (M.Arch.)
2012 – 13
Many simple elements comprise a complex system, where the relationship that exists between each element is significant. Two characteristics inform complexity: differentiation at the material level and functional integration occurring at the structural/component level.
Situated on a delta, as well as occupying a coastal geometry which ushers in storms, the situation of Bangladesh faces a perpetual phasing of [persistent cycle of] inundation. Current infrastructure does little to reduce the widespread devastation that occurs from cyclones and floods, in the existing rural settlements. Yet a massive barrier strategy cannot be adopted in such a scenario where the cycle of water remains an integral part of an agricultural community.
As flood prone areas often deal with unstable ground conditions, Bangladesh would serve as the prime site for the application of lightweight and highly resistant structures made of fibre composites. Current architectural typologies narrowly focus on creating a large enclosure to situate as many people as possible throughout the duration of the storm, with no consideration for the occupancy time frame as well as internal usage.
By emphasizing programmatic drivers, the architectural framework will be adapted for various uses of wind and water as the precursor for complexity in spatial organisation, network connectivity and aggregation techniques.
Collective Morphogenesis focuses on the translation of biological processes into behaviours embedded at differing scales, at the material system level as well as a global aggregation. The M.Arch goal will be to generate a village morphology through an extensive research driven by cultural context, ecological system responses, strategies of organisation, network connectivity and flow dynamics.
