As the sukkah is a temporary shelter and will be constructed in Capitol Park to celebrate Detroit’s design culture and to sponsor live activities, this proposal aims to test the minimum that the sukkah needs to meet the requirements and to minimize the impact on the environment while allowing it to be connected to public space as much as possible.

This sukkah design is unique in that it consists of two independent components: a wall and a roof. Both are circular in shape, maximizing the area and minimizing the perimeter. The entire structure is constructed from stainless steel, with the wall serving as a fence-like structure, defining a space for a person to dwell. The ring-shaped net roof is adorned with tree branches and leaves as S’chach. This roof not only provides ample shade but also creates a transition space between the public park and the dwelling space, accessible from all directions.

The net and S’chach elements of the design are not just aesthetic features. They are designed to interact with the natural environment. As the sun changes position in the sky and the wind varies in speed and direction, an ever-changing shadow is cast. This dynamic interplay between the environment and the operable sukkah creates a unique experience for the people in the park. This design not only offers potential uses for various events but also enhances the entire park, transforming it into a vibrant community space.

 

Year: 2018

Type: Design Competition Entry