by Center for Architecture
(HATY) – in Ukrainian, “HOUSES”
(COHATY) – in Ukrainian, “TO LOVE”
CO-HATY is a co-housing project for people who lost their homes due to war.
On May 2, the Center for Architecture opened Constructing Hope: Ukraine, presenting the work of over a dozen participants applying architectural thinking to support Ukraine’s short- and long-term reconstruction efforts. The double-height gallery on the mezzanine level features a full-scale prototype of a bed designed by the Ukrainian NGO METALAB, which provides temporary emergency accommodation for internally displaced people in Western Ukraine. As part of their March 2022 CO-HATY initiative, the team designed a ready-to-assemble, modular bed that exemplifies their commitment to thoughtful design, sustainability, and adaptability to diverse living situations.
Draped on the displayed bed is a handmade quilt designed by artist Yuliia Holiuk and handmade by local craftswoman Nataliia Shevchyk. In this quilt, the designer shares the unique story of the METALAB team. White thread stitched over the red cotton fabric depicts the team and volunteers sitting at the common table and having dinner. This everyday ritual became an important notion of care for the team and their volunteers to look forward to during their hard days of work. During these daily dinners, the team became a family, where they would share their daily learned experiences while sharing grief about the ongoing war in Ukraine. On the quilt, the team is surrounded by the Khersonian sun and flowers as a symbol of hope. The original concept of the embroidered tablecloth storytelling was developed by designer Yulia Rusylo for the “Beauty of Care” project at the Venice Architecture Biennale 2023.
Learn more and bid in the CO-HATY quilt silent auction to take home a symbol of Ukrainian resistance and support reconstruction efforts. All proceeds will be donated to METALAB.