The Extendable Patio House as Public Support

A theoretical social trend prevailed in the Western World during the mid-20th century aimed at creating a sense of belonging to the community, a physical and personal identity and affiliation to a place through planning and architecture. This trend gained popularity especially after the dismantling of CIAM in 1956 at Dubrovnik, the organization of Team X, and in light of research by the SAR group (Stichting Architecten Research). A short-lived project initiated by the Public Housing Project in the State of Israel expressed this trend. During the years 1956-1959, small one-story row houses were built in order to provide housing for newly arrived immigrants. The houses were initially partially built; the dweller was expected to complete the remainder of work using his own resources and during his free time. The perception whereby the resident is expected to extend his home on his own and bear the responsibility for building his house corresponded with the prevailing belief that social pluralistic contents could be implemented using architecture. The addition to the house was determined in advance. The one-story row house was to be extended along its length while incorporating a small patio that would serve as a source of light and ventilation. Due to the existence of the patio, the above-mentioned extended house was called “The Patio House,” and is the subject of this paper. This paper examines the design of the house in light of the prevailing theoretical background, the attempts made to implement it, and the results. The conclusions relate to the implementation of support system buildings in the context of public housing.