The Haven: Designing for Community and Disaster

Join us for a day of imagination and creation with the National Organization of Minority Architects, Houston’s Project Pipeline, and Architecture Center Houston’s Kids+ Architecture Committee.

Living in the Bayou City, we are used to experiencing flooding, hurricanes, strong winds, and freezes that can cause our homes to lose power or damage them. During these events, many families are in need of an emergency shelter that can provide a warm bed, healthy meals and activities for kids.

Aspiring student architects will be challenged with designing their own “Haven”:  a community center, which can act as an emergency shelter in times of need.

Community centers can be designed around a hobby or favorite activity. Imagine an indoor skateboard park, a musical instrument playground, or suspended gaming stations. And, on the flipside, when disaster strikes and the lights go out, the community needs a place that keeps everyone safe and comfortable.

Students will be led through a series of design exercises, be able to identify storm-resistant building features, take a tour of their site, and design their own Haven, a community center that could function as an emergency shelter. The Haven will be based on a theme of their choosing.

The workshop will be held at the Alief Neighborhood Center, a civic hub that brings together city services and community activities under one roof. Raised above the floodplain, it serves as both a dynamic community anchor and a safe refuge during high-water events.

Additional information about the class:

• Students will work in teams.
• Students will come away with an understanding of basic architectural concepts.
• Students will tour the Alief Neighborhood Center and understand how it supports the community daily and during times of disaster.
• Teams will present their designs to the group, explaining features and design decisions.
• Architects & designers will be on hand to guide participants, answer questions, and share experiences.
• Lunch will be provided.

This interactive event is perfect for students who are currently in 4th-6th grade who are excited to explore the world of architecture and unleash their creativity. Through fun activities and teamwork, participants will learn how to design while developing essential skills in problem-solving and collaboration. Join us for a morning of excitement & inspiration as we build dreams and foster the next generation of architects!

This workshop is generously sponsored by AIA National and the National Organization of Minority Architects, Houston.

All parents/guardians must complete the student registration form for their student to participate in the workshop. The student registration form can be found here