Future Reference

To make an extension plan for Ein Hud is not the central issue. To get it approved by the authorities is the real problem. Planning instruments are used to hamper the growth of this village. We intend to expose this while still working within these limits.

There is an arbitrary 'firing line' dividing the village. A logical extension, following the terrain, is denied by this bureaucratic invention. By emphasizing this line, not only do we make it more tangible, we aim to show that the future lies beyond this wall – that there is still room for improvement and expansion.

This line will mirror the existing village – showing what is already there and projecting that which has to become. When properly designed, this wall can become a new focus for the town – a future centre for the expanded village.

The wall works on multiple levels. First and foremost it is a critique on urban planning in the region. A literal barrier which must be overcome. Secondly it gives focus to the village as a whole. As a backdrop it can unite the town and maybe echo a similar situation in Ein Hod. Thirdly, it will become an icon for Ein Hud, visible from the old highway. It could be repeated on a smaller scale as a signpost towards Ein Hud. Lastly, it makes the development of Ein Hud more visible. Major political accomplishments as well as demographic growth can be shown in modifications to the wall.

The wall is supplemented by a new route leading into the village. This route approaches Ein Hud from across the dale, passing the firing line. At the entrance to the village, the line is crossed a second time, this time literally through the wall. In this way we aim to strenghten the impact of our intervention.

On an urban scale, the wall replaces the mosque as the heart of the current village. This shift will benefit the future village, once it is allowed to expand across the wall. Once this happens, the wall loses its function and can be disassembled to create new routes between the mirror-halves. Sections of the wall may remain to create a sense of historical awareness or be used in the new building activities.

FUTURE DEVELOPMENTS:

In the present proposal, some hints to the future can be discovered. The hotel overlooking the valley to the south could start a chain of tourist developments. Combined with the information-office, they could become the focus of Ein Hud – Gate to Mount Carmel. To the north, the townhall combines with the arcade to form a municipal centre and meeting place. The school may double as a social meeting point in the evenings. It is clear to us that, once the village is allowed to expand eastwards, both the townhall and the square could and should be doubled – passing the wall into a new direction.