OPEN SOURCE ARCHITECTURE
Andras Dankhazi
Audrius Ringaila
Masayasu Shinoda

Open Source Architecture (OSA) is an urban programme that enables communities to influence their built environment. Action at community level is increasingly important. Our scheme proposes a framework for the production and transportation of temporary mobile multi-purpose units, which can be instantly deployed to any location at any time and then supplied with local products.

The units use air construction. The proposed small-scale inflatable buildings are made of the most common urban waste product - plastic bags. The construction itself imposes many benefits: it can be reused many times, it is lightweight and easily transportable, it can be installed and maintained without environmental damage.

The inflatable units form a symbiotic relationship with the urban texture. The instant and mobile nature of the construction enables rapid placement of the units influencing transport patterns.

Shortening travel distance makes urban areas denser and more energy efficient, promoting walking and shopping. Small-scale units can be installed in the park, in a parking space, in or on existing buildings. Thus housing areas turn into mixed-use neighbourhoods, while local products can reach local people. OSA enables communities to organise markets and community members or the producers to become merchants at any time, anywhere.

Jury's Title: Evocative use of full-circle thinking