HOOD

Main concept

According to the surveys conducted on the project site, it has been determined that there are visual and cultural differences among the neighboring communities. The site's location is such that it can effectively bridge this gap, diminish the differences, and promote greater interaction among the residents. Therefore, we have endeavored to design a center that, by finding suitable solutions, eliminates cultural boundaries and differences, provides voluntary services, and creates conditions for community gatherings in order to enhance the quality of life for the neighborhood residents

How does the design blur the physical and cultural boundaries between the two neighborhoods?

To achieve this, two main axes have been considered for the project, which play an effective role in inviting residents from the opposite sides of the site. At the intersection of these two axes, a social center has been designed where people can hold their cultural events and celebrations. It's as if these two axes accompany the residents, guide them into the project, and ultimately connect them at the central point despite all their differences.

What functions have been considered in the project?

In the project, enclosed and semi-open classrooms have been designed for holding various courses, counseling rooms, halls and temporary accommodation rooms for foreign volunteers and local residents, product stalls for neighborhood residents, and a social center for hosting various events and celebrations. However, it should be noted that the spaces have been designed flexibly and have the potential to change their use based on existing needs.

How does the design respond to the existing topography?

In this project, we tried to design the Hood Center inspired by the topography in a way that it sits well within the heart of the site. To achieve this, we considered the southern masses almost level with the street, designed the social center at the lowest point of the topography, planned the northwest entrance axis on the topography, and also connected the northern shells to street level.

Consideration of the site's climate in the design process

Given that the city is located on the coast and experiences high humidity, the ribbon-like form of the shells, along with the gaps and openings between them, effectively directs airflow into the center and allows for natural ventilation.

Additionally, we made an effort to select the most suitable materials considering the climate. Therefore, we used concrete for the shells and masses, which has good resistance to moisture, and for the shading elements, we utilized wooden reeds as they are readily available in this area.