The Hub of Hope: Realising an Evacuation Hub at Pula Village, Philippines (Practitioner paper)

Abstract

A group of Arupians formed a collaboration with Hong Kong-based NGO in contributing to the less privileged East Asia community at Pula Village, Philippines. There is an urgent need for a safe space during the severe typhoons throughout the year. The village currently do not have access to clean water and proper sanitation facilities. The Hub of Hope is birthed in response to those needs. Apart from meeting the basic physiological needs by providing a shelter, safe drinking water and proper sanitation facilities to improve hyenine and cleanliness, the Hub is the village’s central space for social happenings. Hosting activities such as weddings, schooling and medical treatment. It is an incubator promoting health, well-being and self-actualisation, contributing to SDG Goal 3 and 6. Humancentric approach to research and design was taken to best suit the local culture, ways of life and demographic. With site survey on geological and existing housing conditions; interviews with villagers; analysis and research on local construction methodology and locally sourced building materials. The Hub adopt a modular design using local materials and maximising the use of local skills and traditional crafts. Passive designs were adopted, using CFD analysis to maximise natural ventilation performance, shading and fenestration to optimise solar heat gain and daylighting performance. Off-grid renewable energy system is also integrated into the Hub for resilience purposes. As the design can be easily replicated by the villagers, the Hub opens the opportunity for villagers to use the same method in building for themselves resilient homes against adverse weather of the region. Creating a self-sustainable solution for the community in line with SDG Goal 11. Eventually, the Hub can serve solely as a community centre. This Hub of Hope is a catalyse, opening opportunities to improve the quality of life and inspiring hope for the community.