Oregon continues to struggle with a rising homeless population, with recent statistics emphasizing a significant increase in the number of individuals experiencing homelessness. According to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development's annual Homelessness Assessment Report, Oregon and Portland led the nation in homelessness among families and youth in 2023. The Portland area had the highest percentage of unsheltered families experiencing homelessness among major cities, with 74% of homeless families unsheltered. Statewide, Oregon had the highest percentage of unsheltered, unaccompanied youth experiencing homelessness at nearly 70%. This crisis necessitates innovative and cost-effective solutions to provide safe, sustainable housing for those in need.
Drawing inspiration from global architectural designs can offer fresh perspectives and practical solutions. One country that stands out for its innovative yet affordable housing solutions is the Philippines. Filipino architects have developed designs that maximize space, efficiency, and sustainability, which could be adapted to meet the needs of Oregon's homeless population.
Pamana: A Duplex Dream
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| The "Pamana" Design |
The "Pamana" design by Carl Jheyms Urbano, a junior architect from the Lyceum Northwestern University in Dagupan City, Pangasinan, Philippines, is a duplex house estimated to cost PHP 2,363,200, roughly USD 40,000. This design offers an efficient solution by providing housing for two families within a single structure, effectively halving the cost per family.
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| "Pamana" Floor Design |
The Pamana design utilizes natural ventilation strategies, taking advantage of the local climate to reduce the need of HVAC systems. This approach could be adapted for Oregon's varying weather conditions by incorporating energy-efficient heating and cooling solutions.
Baluto: Compact and Resilient
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| The "Baluto" Design |
Another innovative design by Carl Jheyms is the "Baluto", a cost-effective container house designed for flood-prone areas. Boasting a compact size of 6 x 6 meters, the Baluto is estimated to cost less than PHP 500,000, approximately USD 8,500.
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| "Baluto" Floor Plan |
This design leverages the durability and availability of shipping containers, creating a resilient structure that can withstand harsh conditions. While HVAC systems are not typically included in Philippine designs due to the reliance on natural ventilation, adaptations could be made for Oregon's climate to ensure year-round comfort for residents.
Local Application: Learning from San Francisco
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| The "Tahanan" Project in San Francisco |
San Francisco offers a compelling example of how Filipino-inspired designs can be adapted for use in the United States. The "Tahanan" project, named after the Filipino word for "home", provides permanent supportive housing for adults who have experienced homelessness. This project, developed by David Baker Architects, draws on traditional Filipino design principles, incorporating communal spaces and natural light to create a welcoming environment.
When David Baker Architects was approached to design the six-story development, the goal was aggressive: produce 145 units of permanent supportive housing at under USD 400,000 per unit and have the operation up and running in less than three years. By 2022, Tahanan was fully leased to residents, all of whom are San Franciscans who have struggled with chronic homelessness.
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| Photos: Bruce Damonte courtesy of David Baker Architects; Getty Images. Illustration: Stephanie Davidson |
On the ground floor, unfinished exterior walls are textured by pouring concrete into molds lined with traditional Philippine banig grass mats and bamboo rods, creating a unique and culturally resonant appearance. Higher up, the building's staircase tower is encased in a perforated aluminum screen that depicts a pointillist interpretation of the centuries-old rice terraces of the Philippine Mountains. The building facade also takes inspiration from Philippine basket weaving, with interlocking panels of rust-brown sheet metal that create a woven effect.
The Tahanan project demonstrates how culturally inspired designs can be adapted to local contexts, addressing both aesthetic and practical needs. By incorporating elements like communal areas and efficient use of space, Tahanan provides not just a shelter but a sense of community and belonging for its residents.
Bridging Global Designs with Local Needs
While Filipino architectural designs like Pamana and Baluto offer innovative and cost-effective solutions, it is essential to adapt these concepts to meet the specific needs of Oregon's homeless population. This includes considering the local climate, the necessity for HVAC systems, and the integration of sustainable building practices. Additionally, the conversion of PHP to USD can still pose challenges as not all materials used in Filipino designs are available or suitable for the geography and climate of Oregon.
Adopting global architectural inspirations can provide a fresh perspective on addressing homelessness in Oregon. By learning from successful projects and designs around the world, there can be housing solutions that can be developed that are not only affordable but also sustainable and conducive to creating a sense of community and stability for those most in need.
Investing in innovative and affordable housing solutions for Oregon's homeless population is more than just a moral imperative - it is a practical necessity. When stable housing is provided, the strain on emergency services, healthcare systems, and law enforcement is reduced. By creating a supportive environment, individuals regain stability and become productive members of society, which benefits everyone.
Housing the homeless population means fewer people living on the streets, leading to cleaner, safer communities for everyone. It means children growing up in stable environments, which translates to better educational outcomes and a brighter future for the next generation.
By caring about and investing in these solutions, everyone is contributing to a more compassionate, sustainable, and prosperous society.
For more information:
🔗: Homelessness in Oregon hits record high in 2023
🔗: Inspired by Filipino Design, an Apartment Building Looks Homeward
🔗: Tahanan Supportive Housing
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