The term “Dera” is a local word that refers to a communal living arrangement where two or more residential spaces are combined with areas designated for animals such as camels, donkeys, and hens, all managed by a single individual.
Given the harsh environmental conditions, including frequent sandstorms and intense sunlight, I designed the space with an indirect relationship between covered and open areas. Occasional sandstorms can inflict significant damage on temporary structures, so I integrated palm trees into the design to provide additional structural support. These trees are strategically planted on the south side of the courtyard, offering shade and further protecting the space from the desert heat, which is crucial given the region’s long summers.
In the Thal region, there is a strong preference for living in close-knit neighbourhoods. To respect this cultural value, I proposed a minimum of two residential units, each sharing a courtyard. This design not only fosters a sense of community but also preserves the local cultural identity. The area designated for animals is located near the central courtyard, allowing owners to keep a close watch on their livestock.
An elevated platform is included in the design for field surveillance, which will be utilised by the Dera residents who are responsible for overseeing the farmland. The perforated partitions in the design serve a dual purpose: they connect and separate the interior and exterior spaces, creating a fluid transition between the two. In the outer courtyard, couches are placed to provide comfortable seating, fostering a sense of belonging and enhancing the communal atmosphere.
Given the region’s low annual rainfall, which averages about 40mm and occurs mostly during the monsoon season, incorporated water collection channels in the roof and floor design. These channels direct the rainwater to a central water tank, from which the animals can drink, ensuring efficient use of the limited water resources available.
Bamboo and sun baked brick is used both to create a partially open feel and to provide structural stability, as it is a material familiar to the locals.
