Web 2.0 Inspires Architecture 2.0, and World a Better Place

Architecture for Humanity creates sustainable, low-cost housing for both impoverished and disaster-hit communities. James Baty of AFH is here at Web 2.0 Expo to evangelize 'Architecture 2.0,' which is an exciting and innovative example of Web 2.0 principles:

• Diverse object sets
• Collaborative design and development process
  
• Open source tools
• Creative Commons licensing model (that makes home designs and drafted plans free)
  
• A writable web for donors, architects, and funding agencies
• Design re-use and collaboration

This open source-inspired, community-based design comes from the idea that communities should be involved in the designs impacting their own homes. As a result, design ends up being culturally and environmentally appropriate. For example, roof-set rain catchers will be appropriate in some local environments, but not others.

The Open Architecture Network was created by Cameron Sinclair in part from the 2006 Ted Prize, and has already grown to include over 500 projects and 4,000 members. Its work is to improve people's lives through collaboration. Click here to see more of the $700 house plan pictured above. Currently, only 5% of the world's home benefit from the safety and enabling aesthetics derived by working with a professional architect - and so now, even a slumdweller can grab onto a lifeline for a better home.

Comments

[Jonah Reynolds]

April - May 2007
This spring an experienced Earthship crew will be starting construction on Europe’s first residential Earthship to have a building permit. The total project consists of enclosing the structural shell of the building; tire walls, roof beams, insulation, greenhouse framing, and glazing. The water and power systems will also be installed enabling the project owners to utilize solar power and the water caught on site for further construction purposes. Greywater planters will be constructed, interior walls will be built, and with time permitting finishes will be started.

(BLOG) normandy.earthship.net

[Cameron Sinclair]

Hey,
Thanks for the report on James Batys' presentation of the Open Architecture Network. One quick correction, James works with Sun Microsystems (who helped build the network) rather than at Architecture for Humanity. We'd take him if we could!

Anyway check out the Open Architecture Network and for any (information) architects out there, please feel free to contribute. We are only one month old so if you see any errors or room for improvement - email us or better yet show us how to fix it!

Cheers
Cameron