SE Valley Times

Arizona State University (ASU) architecture students have joined forces with peers from An-Najah National University in Palestine to reimagine a kindergarten building in Nablus. The project is part of the Climate Futures Exchange, a two-year initiative funded by a $300,000 grant from the J. Christopher Stevens Virtual Exchange Initiative.

Phil Horton, clinical associate professor of architecture and co-director of ASU's Center of Building Innovation, explained that this collaboration initially aimed to address infrastructure needs at the Balata refugee camp. However, following recent escalations in conflict involving Hamas and Israel, the focus shifted towards a more uplifting endeavor — renovating a kindergarten.

The design efforts emphasized learning through play, incorporating features like movable bookshelves and a rooftop playground while retaining the building's original shell for sustainability. Students communicated via Zoom and WhatsApp to exchange cultural insights vital for empathetic design.

"One of the most important facets of design thinking is empathy," Horton noted. "Trying to understand the needs and desires of those who will use the space you're designing."

The cross-cultural exchange offered ASU students insights into Palestinian life and vice versa. "There are some things we had no idea were prevalent in their kindergartens," said Uor Fawzi, an ASU student involved in the project.

ASU's Brick by Brick studio also fosters social responsibility through sustainable construction methods using compressed-earth bricks. This program will continue next year with plans to support refugees with innovative shelter designs.

Horton highlighted that such projects help dismantle stereotypes and foster mutual understanding among diverse groups: "For our students to take interest in things like Eid... helps break down stereotypes."

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