UK X France

A political block characterized by an unwavering commitment to human rights, Europe has struggled with its response to waves of foreign migrants seeking to reverse their fortunes in a more promising land. This is perhaps most exemplified at “The Jungle,” a temporary migrant camp nestled near the tunnel that connects France and the UK. The French and British government have allocated resources towards building a wall in Calais in an attempt to manifest a physical obstruction to entering the tunnel, a move that has received criticism running the gamut from Europe’s far right to refugee organizations. 

This proposal seeks to alleviate the harsh conditions that migrants face in Calais, as well as the distant relationship they have with local residents. Envisioning what a human rights NGO could do, a mobile refugee services center X hoops space is explored. The design transforms a bus, where the interior of the bus becomes a space for refugee services, and the exterior of the bus is used as a gigantic, fragmented hoops backboard. Its mobile nature is integrated with the ephemeral nature of “The Jungle” and allows for it to be easily moved to wherever the next migrant camp is situated. The gigantic, colourful backboard serves as a mural that brings awareness to the camp as it moves throughout the town, as well as offers a unique, fun sporting environment where both migrants and locals can play.