Scraphouse

Collective Imagination explores the concept of communal living through architectural ideation and representation, emphasizing the importance of shared purpose among individuals.

In this project, I explored the dynamics of collective dwelling, examining how relationships, rituals, and material reclamation shape domestic and communal realms. I envisioned an alternative living environment that reflects modern collaboration and social interdependence. 'Scraphouse' is intentionally designed for ten artisans and five squirrels, but speculatively — this population is united by a common goal of creative innovation, scavenging for discarded metal and wood and transforming it into art installations. They conduct upcycling workshops for the local community, generating creative and economic benefits for the community. Similarly driven, squirrels gather and store nuts and acorns, preparing for the effects of climate change. As seasons change, artisans and squirrels collaboratively adapt the shared 'squirrel world,' creating a resilient, enclosed environment to accommodate and protect the squirrels against future environmental shifts.

Emerging as an intersection parking between East and State Street in New Haven, Scraphouse seeks to preserve the city's historical tradition of skilled craftsmanship and industrial innovation.