The Set Theory

On October 7, 2023, many settlements in the Gaza Envelope were severely affected by Hamas attacks, with some kibbutzim completely destroyed. The estimated time for residents to return is currently measured in years. Most of the evacuated kibbutzim demanded to remain together, in times of emergency as in routine, as has proven to help preserve family structures and relationships, and contribute to the healing process of the evacuees as a community. The temporary order permits the establishment of up to 500 housing units for the evacuated communities, without the need for a detailed plan or building permit. While this highlights the urgency, it also increases the risk of significant environmental damage.

The project focuses on the case of Kfar Azza and Ruhama, both kibbutzim in Sha’ar HaNegev Regional Council. Kfar Azza was destroyed, and its displaced residents are expected to be temporarily housed in Ruhama, the easternmost kibbutz in the regional council, in a dedicated neighborhood that will be built on open land with high ecological value. The area of this new neighborhood will be about one-third the size of the current kibbutz. In order to minimize environmental degradation, which is the main drawback of temporary housing, the project first focuses on utilizing the ‘wasted’ areas within the hosting kibbutz and strengthening its core structure. This will be achieved through significant added construction within the existing kibbutz, and by revitalizing the agricultural area, transforming it into a cultural, employment, and tourism hub that will serve both communities. In the second phase, the most suitable areas for expansion, those that are not environmentally sensitive, were selected according to the required number of housing units after the additional construction within the kibbutz boundaries. Finally, the conclusions and principles of the process were integrated into a parametric design, aimed at optimizing the expansion plan, minimizing environmental impact, and creating a planning model that significantly shortens the waiting time for the evacuees to have a place they can call home.