Berlin Fellowship 2024 — Architecture
Vita
Saikal Zhunushova is a Swiss-Kyrgyz architect who after studying architecture in Kyrgyzstan moved to Switzerland to complete a master’s degree in architecture at the ZHAW Winterthur. She founded her own office, Oekofacta GmbH, in 2017 and focuses on ecological construction with local materials and user involvement. In 2021, she was the third place recipient of Switzerland’s Foundation Award that promotes young Swiss architectural firms. Her conversion of a historic Flarzhaus was voted “Building of the Year” that the same year. Zhunushova specialises in solar-passive construction and the use of straw, wood and clay. She is currently working on projects in Switzerland and Kyrgyzstan.
Residency
During my fellowship, I plan to explore the Kyrgyz yurt as a symbol of femininity and community in a new context. With its soft, rounded forms and ecological aesthetics, the yurt embodies flexibility and stability. It requires the cooperation of at least five motivated helpers, encourages social interaction and symbolises hospitality. I want to use the flexible design to set up the yurt in different places and create new communities. The yurt’s summer outfitting is made from recycled textiles to combine sustainability and style.