KAWE NEIGHBOURHOOD
School Project, autumn 2023, done in collaboration with Klara Löchte, Marta Pawlowska & Felix Olofsson
EMPOWER. CREATE. CONNECT.
A collaborative urban initiative for embracing identity
Our focus was on the northern part of the site, where we identified the potential to bridge communities — connecting residents of an unplanned settlement with new inhabitants. Inspired by the residents' dedication to building their own homes, we aimed to transform this commitment into a long-term vision through the introduction of community-led workshops. These workshops empowered self-help housing initiatives, fostering the creation of more affordable living spaces.
A clear street pattern and diverse building typologies formed the backbone of our proposal. We designed four distinct neighborhoods, each with its own identity, anchored by a central workshop or public space. Responding to the site's climatic conditions, three greenways channeled rainwater into the river during the wet season, while also acting as vital links between the new development and the existing settlement.
To promote climate resilience, all streets functioned as natural air corridors, while buildings were oriented predominantly West-East to limit direct sunlight penetration and enhance indoor comfort. This holistic approach created vibrant, connected neighborhoods that celebrated both community identity and environmental sustainability.
