2018 - Light Pavillion

LIGHT PAVILION

-BACKGROUND:
Humans are naturally equal. However, factors such as race, faith and social-status have differentiated us. Some of us have always lived life peacefully, good and rosy, while many of us have frequently lived in fear and poverty.

Example of those caught-up in this unfortunate reality of life are the displaced people(refugees). We have them in most parts of the world, and the reasons for their displacements, ranges from natural disasters to man-made mayhem and wars.

-SITUATION:
Africa has had its share of internally displaced people, their numbers in millions. A more popular but sad case is the North-Eastern part of Nigeria. The once peaceful atmosphere of lovely people, suddenly got stricken by deadly insurgents, resulting in deaths of thousands of people and leaving millions homeless.

These homeless multitudes, who already lost nearly everything, including their social lives, are made to live and cared-for in IDP (internally displaced persons) camps, created by governments and NGOs.

-OUR “LIGHT” INTERVENTION:
As architects and problem solvers, we decided to give these people hope by reminding them, they can still live happily with themselves, enjoying in peace and security.

We proposed a special, easy-to-assemble pavilion, using cheap and locally sourced materials that includes; bamboo, used tyres and earth. This structure called the “Light Pavilion”, is a simple yet colourful prototype shelter designed to serve as a social space for these poor camp dwellers.

The unique and interesting thing about this pavilion is the application of photo-luminous glow-paint of various colours on each bamboo used on the roof. This paint which is charged and recharged by sunlight, completely transforms the bamboo into “light-emitting-rods” that glows beautifully at night.

The pavilion is designed to provide colourful-shade from the scorching sun during daytime, for children playing and learning and also for adults while they relax, enjoying the fresh air.

In Evenings and nights, the bamboo begins to glow, lighting-up the pavilion space, which can serve as venue for community meetings, social gatherings/events, as well as games and entertainment.

The whole structure basically becomes a communal-magnet for both children and adults alike, during the days and at nights. It is another way of using architecture and light to create a better social living.