The Tetra Colony is an architectural design project aimed at providing sustainable housing solutions in the aftermath of the February 2023 earthquake in Hatay, Turkey. This project consists of 80 housing units designed to accommodate individuals affected by the disaster. By integrating modular elements with communal spaces, Tetra Colony seeks to address the urgent need for cohesive living environments that foster social interaction and resilience.

Community Focus Through Modular Design

The Tetra Colony prioritizes community rebuilding by employing a design that centers on social interaction among residents. Each unit has dual cubes: one for living and dining, and another for sleeping. This distinctive layout not only maximizes space efficiency but also allows for customization based on individual and family needs. The modular design enables the units to be stacked or arranged in various configurations, which is essential for adapting to different site conditions and maximizing land use.

Central to this project is the inclusion of communal spaces—such as a community kitchen, garden, and orchard—that encourage residents to participate in joint activities and share resources. This focus on communal living is a key differentiator from typical housing developments, which often prioritize individual units over community engagement. The project seamlessly integrates these collective spaces, reinforcing the importance of social ties in post-disaster recovery.

Sustainable Features and Materiality

Tetra Colony embodies principles of sustainability through its use of carefully selected materials. Key components include high-tech fabric canopies that collect rainwater and provide UV protection. This innovative feature enhances the resilience of the units and promotes water conservation. The use of thermally modified wood for the walls not only provides durability but also supports eco-friendly construction practices.

Further emphasizing sustainability, the design incorporates photovoltaic panels to generate solar energy for household use, while waterproof insulated panels enhance energy efficiency and moisture resistance. Aluminum posts provide structural integrity while ensuring the construction remains lightweight and recyclable. The integration of water collection tanks is also a vital feature, enabling the management of rainwater and gray water for domestic applications.

The Tetra Colony represents a forward-thinking approach to architecture, demonstrating that efficient design can balance individual living needs with communal interaction. As a response to the urgent housing crisis in disaster-affected areas, this project showcases innovative architectural ideas that prioritize social and environmental sustainability.

For those interested in exploring the architectural plans, architectural sections, and other architectural details related to Tetra Colony, further insights into its design concepts and functionalities await in the full project presentation. Engaging with this work will provide a deeper understanding of its architectural design and community-focused living solutions.