Architecture in the Aftermath of Disasters

First Prize Tran Huu Khoa (Viet Nam)

The first prize stood out from the outset of the Jury’s deliberations for its strong and innovative design methodology, capable of addressing both the wider community context and the individual human scale, while expressing a deep understanding of culture and place in Douar Izloulen. Rooted in the vernacular and environmental specificity of the site, the proposal draws from local crafts, the cultural landscape, and active social engagement to develop a coherent and compelling strategy for reconstruction.

Its strength lies in the integration of zoning and land-use strategies with a community-oriented housing approach that makes consistent use of local materials, techniques, and skills. In doing so, the project frames rebuilding as a social act that strengthens cohesion and supports future livelihoods, demonstrating a strong community focus, an appropriate urban scale, and a sensitive response to context.

The proposal is further distinguished by its innovative “Magic Weaving” concept, which combines low-tech seismic retrofit systems with community-driven construction processes, enabling rapid, affordable, and culturally grounded recovery. This approach is reinforced by a clear multi-scalar vision, ranging from immediate house reinforcement to the creation of a village public core and, ultimately, a resilient network of connected settlements.

Altogether, the project offers a thoughtful, integrated, and transferable model for community-based reconstruction, with strong potential for long-term resilience in remote, disaster-affected regions.

Second Prize Patrick Yakana Baliaba, with Sidoine Baudrel Nde Keulek and Lizette Marlaine Tsafack Donfack (Cameroon)

The second prize, “Izlloulen Resilient Village”, is distinguished by its deep contextual understanding of the site and its careful reinterpretation of local traditions through innovative and resilient strategies. Grounded in a thorough study of climatic conditions, topography, environmental risks, and erosion, the project proposes a balanced approach that combines rammed earth construction with sustainable technologies for energy and water management, preserving cultural identity and local craftsmanship while enhancing structural safety, environmental performance, and adaptability.

The proposal outlines a comprehensive and realistic vision for a resilient village, addressing both territorial and social contexts through a community-centred design methodology aimed at improving the lives of affected citizens, including those with disabilities, and supported by a strong environmental focus and well-considered seismic strategies.

Its strength lies in an integrated masterplan that brings together agricultural infrastructure, water management, and erosion control within a coherent spatial framework responsive to climate conditions. The design introduces a generous volumetric typology embedded within terrace farming, organised around a social core for housing units, and inspired by vernacular solutions that incorporate urban voids to mitigate seismic risks.

Altogether, the project presents a scalable, community-centred model for resilient reconstruction, supporting long-term social, environmental, and economic recovery after disasters.

Third Prize Oğuzhan Safa Yağcilar (Turkey)

The third prize, “SUR”, demonstrates remarkable potential through its concept of regeneration, framing disaster as a process of rebirth supported by a deep understanding of the local context. The project proposes adaptive design solutions that enhance resilience, enabling communities to rebuild in ways that are both restorative and forward-looking, while strengthening their capacity for more resilient and adaptable environments.

The proposal is clearly and sensitively illustrated, appearing to emerge from the earth, and combines technical and environmental innovation with a strong focus on residents’ needs. Its design strategy integrates nature into the post-disaster process and prioritises repair over replacement, favouring flexible and adaptable building approaches.

A key strength lies in the creation of an earth-regenerating workshop that accommodates local crafts, supporting livelihoods and reinforcing cultural identity. This is complemented by a diverse range of housing typologies responding to different social needs, alongside a commitment to the continuity of traditional architecture through timber-framed structures with compressed earth blocks, enhancing seismic resilience.

The project is further commended for its attention to rebuilding community infrastructure and for the clear articulation of different building prototypes. Altogether, it presents a thoughtful and grounded approach to post-disaster recovery, with ideas that are both practical and buildable.

Fourth Prize Asude Gündoğdu and Sefa Cengiz Okan (Turkey)

The fourth prize, “CORE-NECT”, enhances post-disaster resilience through a network of public focal points organised around a central “core”, including spaces such as the Religion and Social Life Centre, supporting the touiza tradition of mutual aid. The project effectively combines macro-scale planning with a strong community focus.

Innovation is evident in the resilient energy infrastructure, which integrates solar power production with the restoration of the traditional seguia water network, promoting efficient irrigation and local resource independence.

The proposal demonstrates a sensitive approach to cluster planning, with flexible living units that respect the continuity of the cultural landscape, alongside strategies for consolidating structures and local economic infrastructure. Altogether, it presents a clear and well-researched approach to post-disaster recovery.

Fifth Prize Uğur Özkalaycı, with Müge Uysal and Şevval Tatar (Turkey)

The fifth prize, “Radix Rubra”, is commended for its focus on the revitalisation of craftsmanship and collective engagement in rebuilding with the landscape, addressing both ecological and cultural resilience within an urban–rural framework. Rooted in the memory of Morocco’s red landscape, the project proposes a strategy of “transformation without rupture”, using the existing fabric as a living ground for new growth.

The proposal demonstrates a strong sense of urbanism and an organic approach to spatial organisation, integrating contemporary structural and ecological strategies with local traditions. Particular attention is given to seismic resilience, in line with the requirements of the competition.

Altogether, the project presents a thoughtful and grounded approach to renewal, combining cultural continuity, environmental awareness, and community-based reconstruction.