Do it together architecture
Contents |
[edit] Introduction
The acronym for do it yourself - DIY - is used to describe the concept of self-repairing, building or resolving an assortment of issues (including those that are not construction related). It is generally understood to mean the task has been addressed without requiring the assistance of professionals.
In direct contrast to this concept, the term do it together - or DIT - has been introduced in conjunction with architecture and communal collaboration, particularly in the area of residential buildings.
[edit] Origins
The term DIT is borrowed from the language of cohousing. Cohousing is a method of living that has become established in several countries around the world. Created and run by residents, cohousing developments are communities where people not only know their neighbours but actively manage their neighbourhood alongside them.
The idea of DIT architecture builds on the cohousing concept to form a collective approach to the design and construction of neighbourhoods.
[edit] The purpose of DIT architecture
In DIT architecture, not only does the construction process become a form of community building (both literally and figuratively), it also becomes part of a training method for those interested in learning new skills and participating in the programme. In addition to encouraging residents, DIT architecture may involve members of non-profit organisations, volunteers and unemployed people from the community.
Also referred to as a type of open-source architecture or crowd sourced architecture, DIT architecture involves people who may be outside the traditional construction professions, but who are invested in the outcome of the project. Ideally, they are motivated to share any applicable skills and infuse the “co-created” outcome with their various social experiences and cultural backgrounds.
[edit] Changing the dynamics
As an emerging ideology, DIT architecture is a by product of the crowd funding era. It breaks established business conventions associated with client-architect relationships and changes the dynamic of who controls the process.
Instead of being driven by decisions dictated by an external consultant, the participants in a DIT architecture arrangement take on key responsibilities, including decision making, materials sourcing and even the building process itself. And while an architect may provide a baseline starting point, it is up to the collaborative community to take the project through to completion - and then live in it and continue adding to it.
DIT architecture is intended to have a less formal, more “human” sensibility, with the purpose of developing a place that projects a sense of togetherness both in its creation and its use.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
Featured articles and news
Heat pump announcements, what homeowners need to know
An 'ultimate guide to heat pumps' from a heating company.
Construction contract awards reach £7.1bn in February
Their highest level in seven months.
The journey to sustainability in heritage
Research is the key to better understanding.
Heritage approaches to adaptation, mitigation and loss.
Bridging the gap between policy, finance and installation.
Development on brownfield land
Definition, background, policy and the latest consultation.
With the Design Framework for Building Services.
Retrofit of Buildings, a CIOB Technical Publication
Pertinent technical issues, measures and the roles involved.
ECA joins HSE campaign to support mental health
Working Minds’ five simple steps based on risk assessment.
Mental health in the construction industry
Mental health issues in brief with related articles.
Transitional arrangements, Building Control and the BSR.
For pre-October buildings with substantial progress by April.
How to write an inspection and test plan
ITPs for quality control and assurance particular elements.
Why quality counts in domestic ventilation systems
From products, to systems to the installation.
Empowering the Future with CIOB Academy
Lifelong learning, upscaling, and reskilling for the built environment.
Winners of the 2024 ASBP Awards
Project, Product and Initiative according to the 6 pillars.