Oasis strategically furthers community resilience and challenges land boundaries in Culebra; primarily for the residents of Villa Muñeco. Like elsewhere, affordable housing is lacking and food costs are high, leading to the concept, ‘Plant a Tree, Grow your House.’ The proposal focuses on water as a connecting feature, while fostering a sense of community through living and gardening. Oasis housing is composed of 25-foot modular units strategically placed in the north-east direction for natural ventilation, curved roofs for rainwater collection, and bamboo for storm-shutter windows. The gardens grow medicinal plants, vegetables, and trees that integrate and address the island’s public health concerns. Agroforestry and permaculture techniques protect the built environment and maximize food output for socio-economic benefits. The project develops in phases with the modular walls as the first built component. People in need can ‘grow’ their house, while also participating in the community gardens on site. We propose both transitional and permanent housing for a total of 9 units including studio, 1-bedroom, and 2-bedroom to minimize cost and displacement to residents who may experience different housing situations. By combining ecological and built considerations, Oasis facilitates community intimacy and connection, not only during emergencies but on a daily basis.
