Architects for Humanity: An International Competition to Redesign Housing Quarter for Earthquake Victims in Northern Syria

"Architects for Humanity" is an international competition launched by Mimaria Studio in collaboration with Molham Team, inviting architects, designers, and urban planners from around the globe to engage in a transformative challenge.

We invite the international architectural community to rise to the challenge of designing innovative, sustainable, and culturally sensitive housing solutions for the earthquake victims of Syria. This competition seeks to address the complex crisis in Syria by creating a new urban quarter that provides shelter and recreates a sense of home, community, and belonging.

In these challenging times, the situation in Syria has highlighted how deeply war and natural disasters can disrupt lives. For thirteen years, the Syrian conflict, combined with the latest earthquake in February 2023, has displaced over 12.5 million people, making it one of the most significant displacements we've seen. Over a decade of devastating conflict has scarred Syria's socio-cultural fabric and severely damaged buildings and infrastructure, leaving millions homeless. Families have lost their homes, sense of safety, and place in the world.

In architecture, the term 'dwelling' transcends the physical realm, embodying a sense of tranquility, safety, and belonging - elements the victims of displacement have lost. Home is more than just four walls and a roof; it is a space that nourishes a sense of identity, community, and security. As such, what is required is more than providing temporary relief or basic shelter for these displaced communities. The necessity is for long-term, sustainable solutions that address the root causes of their situation and work towards their reintegration into the social fabric, enabling them to reclaim their sense of 'dwelling.'

Design Program

Area: 48.300 m²

Housing Units:

Total: 450 units

Typology: Apartment blocks.

Community Facilities:

Public Square (4000 m²): A vibrant community square integrated with the commercial stores and bakery, designed for gatherings and events.

Youth Center (1500 m²): Multi-purpose hall, library, workshop rooms, and separate sports halls (GYM) for women and men.

Mosque (400 m²): A space for community prayers, accommodating both men and women in separate areas.

School (2500 m²): A primary school spread over two to three floors, featuring 18 classrooms, sports fields for football and basketball, dedicated teacher's rooms, and external restrooms.

Commercial stores and Bakery (700 m²): Integrated with the public square, commercial stores (25m2 per store), and bakery with production facilities.

Prizes

1st Prize - $2000 + Implementation possibility
2nd Prize - $1500
3rd Prize - $1000

20 Honorable Mentions + Certificate + Published work in publications, our website, social media pages, and exhibitions. 

Schedule

March 15, 2024: Competition launch 
April 25, 2024: Deadline for Receiving Questions 
July 31, 2024: Submission deadline 
August 2024: Shortlist announcement 
August 2024: Winner announcement

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