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The aim of the project is to investigate how a residential area could be more resilient to disasters. I have explored how this could be done by reusing or developing what already exists. The intention is to show how a residential area could be strengthened by such redesign, in collaboration with the residents.

The project is located at Kandidatvägen, in the southern parts of Ålidhem in Umeå. In the area, different hubs are designed, with different functions related to our basic needs such as food, water, or sleep. One of these hubs, for food production and storage without electricity, is illustrated in detail within the project. A common room (kvarterslokal) is transformed and equipped with food solutions to function without electricity. Spatially, walls are removed and folding doors are applied to the facade to create a more flexible space. The kitchen is mobile and can be used indoors and outdoors. The space is also provided with foldable furnitures and storage. In the inner courtyard, a greenhouse and a cultivation area for food production are located.

The residents could gather in the food hub if an electricity interruption occurs, and in ‘normal’ times, when people can use their apartments as usual, the space could be used in a similar way as today; as a social space for different activities. But with the new design, the space will be more flexible and enhance its usage.