Women's house | Competition

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Women's house

Kaira Looro Competition

authors:

Julita Banaszak & Jerzy Sroka

With no country reaching gender equality yet, it is a global issue and an obligatory condition to fulfil sustainable development. The people are the foundation of the changes, but architecture should be giving them the support for discussion, a safe environment, and encouragement. We perceive this space not only as a Women’s House but as a place that should be open for everyone who could seek assistance with any difficulty, as a frame for many, both planned and spontaneous stories to happen. The building is simple from the outside, created with natural and soft materials that enhance an atmosphere of safety. The structure is divided into 3 zones with the heart, rendered in the form of a circular atrium. The round shape itself, geometrically perfect, is a symbolic representation of equal rights and community gatherings. At the same time slightly imperfect as round huts seen in the surrounding area. It also serves as an entrance with suspended ornamental textiles. The forum and adjacent dialogue space create the dialogue hub, encouraging women to raise their voices in social and political matters as an equal part of the community.

Construction phases:

phase 1 - external walls and water collection system
phase 2 - the columns and bare roof girders
phase 3 - corrugated metal sheets cladding
phase + afterlife - disassembling the structure with material recycle

3 steps towards gender equality