The Hat House
By Sophie Yang
About
Through community surveys and research, it was identified that flooding causes roof damage and disrupts transportation. Additionally, families tend to live in larger groups rather than just couples. This project focuses on accommodating the community’s growth, providing flexibility for future expansion and ensuring that homes can adapt to the needs of future generations.
Project Insights
Unit Technical Drawings
The technical drawing reflects an innovative approach to flood management and water collection. The design incorporates a hat-shaped roof, inspired by ancient African fractals, to direct rainwater efficiently to the water collection columns placed at the diagonal corners of the house. This system avoids the need for costly traditional rainwater collection methods, instead channeling water into an underground storage system. The design addresses the flooding issue by ensuring minimal overflow, providing the community with more water during dry seasons while safeguarding the structure against water damage.
Unit Overview
The units are designed to accommodate large, multi-generational families. The flexible layout allows for future expansion as families grow, ensuring that the homes can adapt to the changing needs of residents. The interior spaces are configured to support communal living while providing enough room for privacy. The innovative water collection system, combined with durable materials, ensures that the homes remain functional and sustainable over time. This adaptability is key in responding to both the current housing needs and the future growth of the community.
Community Layout
The community layout takes into account both the flooding concerns and the need for flexibility in family structures. Homes are arranged to encourage communal living while maintaining room for individual growth. The water collection system is a central feature of the layout, with each home contributing to the overall water storage capacity of the community. This approach not only addresses flooding but also enhances the community’s resilience, ensuring a sustainable water supply year-round. The design encourages social interaction while giving families the freedom to expand as they grow.