A few weeks ago, we featured an open ideas competition that asked participants to fortify the Airplot. ArchDaily reader Marc Drewes shared his proposal with us that placed in the top 5. The simplistic design, constructed of recycled concrete, proposes a “resistant piece of protest architecture” that will allow Greenpeace and the local residents to show their determination in fighting against the construction of a third runway at Heathrow airport which will lead to the destruction of many residences.
More about the proposal after the break.
Designed as a hybrid between anti-tank obstacles and tents, the structure provides a simple and yet powerful tool for the activists. They can sufficiently withstand attempts of demolition and satisfy the basic needs of protestors occupying it. Occupants enter through a hallway below grade into the “frustum of a pyramid”, a minimized volume to allow a maximized amount of space and stability. The design includes a roof terrace which can be used as a platform to speak to other activist outside.
Electricity is provided by photovoltaic cells on the roof, a fireplace (with filters in the chimney to extract harmful substances) provides heating, and rainwater is collected in a reservoir to supply water for the toilet.
It is the designer’s hope that after the structure loses its initial meaning its materials can be recycled, or the project can be used as a gardening shed, a simple dormitory or an art gallery.
