San Diego Architectural Foundation

One of our favorite listening experiences is the Los Angeles based NPR radio show DnA: Design and Architecture, during which host Frances Anderton talks to world leaders in design about the latest in products, fashion, graphics, architecture and more.
     
On January 19, in a segment entitled "Will Design and Architecture Help Haiti Rise Again?", DnA addressed the devastation caused by the catastrophic magnitude 7.0 earthquake that shook the Caribbean nation to its core.
Shown here January 16, an aerial view of downtown Port-au-Prince, Haiti. Makeshift shelters are being erected in open locations throughout the devastation following a 7.0-magnitude earthquake on January 12, 2010. US Air Force photos: Master Sgt. Jeremy Lock
     
Among the causes of Haiti's devastation was poor construction in a chaotic, overpopulated urban center. DnA took a look at the history of architecture in Haiti, its connection to the powers that have dominated the country, as well as the ideas being circulated within the Haitian diaspora and many others who want to help, as to how best to rebuild the capital and its surroundings in a way that is sustainable and provides a greater level of human dignity for its traumatized inhabitants.
     
Is there a design solution to the desperate need for low-cost housing in overpopulated cities? Can good design trump political mayhem? Hear from the following experts in the U.S. and in Haiti as those questions and more are discussed.
   
Guests include:

• Patrick Sylvain: Instructor of Haitian Language and Culture, Brown University
• Joe Osae-Addo: Architect at Constructs LLC
• Ted Bardacke: Senior Program Associate, Global Green
• Cameron Sinclair: Co-founder of Architecture for Humanity
• Alejandra Lillo: Architect at Graft, Co-founder of Make It Right

Click here to be taken to the blue "listen" link.
   
We hope to see you at PechaKucha for Haiti at the Whistle Stop Bar in North Park on February 20. Click here for more information, and keep checking in for further details.
       
Other Ways to Help Haiti:
Many design and architecture organizations are mobilizing for both immediate relief and long-term rebuilding programs. Consider supporting one of these efforts from non-profit groups.  

• Architecture for Humanity is taking donations to support its reconstruction plan
• Habitat for Humanity is accepting donations to rebuild housing
• Article 25 is looking for donations to aid their disaster and development relief program
• Haiti: Ghana Responds is a Ghanian effort supported by architect Joe Osae-Addo
• Archinect offers a round-up on how else architects can help