Introduction
Tapis Rouge, situated in Carrefour-Feuilles, Haiti, is a testament to community resilience and collaboration. It is one of several public spaces developed as part of the LAMIKA program, aimed at fostering social cohesion and improving living conditions in earthquake-affected areas. Funded by the American Red Cross and executed by Global Communities, the project embodies an inclusive approach to urban revitalization.
Community Context
Carrefour-Feuilles, ravaged by the 2010 earthquake, grapples with infrastructural challenges and precarious living conditions. Clusters of homes, devoid of basic amenities, cling to steep slopes, accessible only through narrow corridors. Despite these hardships, the vibrant social life thrives within the labyrinthine alleys and communal spaces, serving as the lifeblood of the neighborhood.
Transformation After Tragedy
Following the earthquake, Tapis Rouge emerged from what was once a tent camp for displaced individuals. Positioned atop a slope, it overlooks the ravines, serving as a gateway to the homes below. The project sought to reclaim this space, transforming it into a community-centric hub fostering social interaction and pride.
Community-Oriented Design
At its core, Tapis Rouge embodies a community-oriented design philosophy, recognizing public space as a catalyst for identity formation and social cohesion. Through extensive community engagement, the project empowers residents by instilling a sense of ownership and belonging. The design process prioritized safety, cleanliness, and crime reduction, envisioning Tapis Rouge as a sanctuary for collective activities and gatherings.
Architectural Features
The plaza’s focal point is an open-air amphitheater, serving as a gathering space for community events. Surrounding it, vibrant Flamboyant trees provide shade, while concentric rings delineate various zones within the plaza. These zones include outdoor exercise equipment, terraced greenery, and discreet water distribution infrastructure, seamlessly integrated into the urban fabric.
Artistic Expression
The perimeter wall, adorned with colorful murals, reflects Haiti’s rich artistic heritage. Collaborative workshops involving local artists and residents resulted in vibrant designs, celebrating the community’s resilience and cultural identity. The artwork serves as a testament to collective creativity and collaboration.
Sustainable Solutions
Tapis Rouge incorporates locally sourced materials and sustainable technologies to ensure long-term viability. Pre-cast concrete pavers, locally fabricated, adorn the plaza, adding vibrancy to the urban landscape. Solar lights illuminate the space, enhancing safety and accessibility, while outdoor workout equipment promotes health and well-being among residents.
Conclusion
Tapis Rouge stands as a beacon of hope and resilience, symbolizing the transformative power of community-led initiatives. Beyond its physical features, it represents a testament to the strength and solidarity of Carrefour-Feuilles residents, fostering a sense of pride and belonging in the face of adversity. As a multifunctional public space, Tapis Rouge continues to inspire social cohesion and urban renewal, embodying the spirit of resilience in Haiti’s informal neighborhoods.
