TRI-PLUS: HOUSING FOR RELOCATED FARMERS IN RURAL CHINA
(Team: Ana Luisa Rolim with students Hugo Santiago, Larissa Falavigna, and Maria Julia Jaborandy)
HONORABLE MENTION Bee Breeders Global Housing Crisis international Modern Collective Living Challenge
Tri-plus symbolizes a flexible system of enclosed and open spaces, inspired by the significance of the number three in Chinese culture. The design features a 3.30 x 3.30m void system framed by a slim post-and-beam structure, serving as a hub for collective spaces such as greenhouses, gardens, and playgrounds. This layout follows the principles of traditional Chinese architecture, emphasizing axiality, symmetry, hierarchy, and enclosure.
Axiality is reflected in the layout's paths, varying in length to create a hierarchy of spaces. Symmetry is evident in the residential units, with central courtyards and washing areas breaking the symmetry. Hierarchy is established through the polarization of private components, while enclosure is emphasized by defined physical limits at both urban and housing unit scales.
The design promotes flexibility, with a two-story configuration accommodating residential units and allowing for expansion without altering green space coverage. Openness is integral, with private courtyards for each unit and various planting areas throughout, aligning with the importance of open spaces in Chinese architecture.
An interview with the author is available on the Bee Breeders web page.
The project has also been featured on Archdaily.
 Ground floor with collective productive spaces and residential courtyard typology |  Tri-plus' rational |  Tri-plus' key strategies |
|---|---|---|
 Diagram of public and private spaces on ground floor |  Ground floor plan |  Diagram of public and private spaces on 1st floor |
 First floor plan |  Overall isometric view |  Tri-plus inserted in a rural site |
 The typical residential unit reflects the traditional Chinese home: parents' and children's rooms sit in opposite ends, with laundry + bathroom in between, and kitchen + dining across from the living area. |  Conceptual illustration of a typical residential unit |  Model of typical residential unit |
 Section through typical residential unit |  Sustainability diagram |  As in the Chinese domestic tradition, the courtyard is the centerpiece of the house. |
 Tri-plus' perspective section |  Ground floor modules: perforated brick wall, pig pen, greenhouse and vegetable garden + stairs / seating area. |  Ground floor collective spaces |
 First floor productive collective spaces |  Tri-plus inserted in a traditional urban setting |