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.
