A perspective rendering from "Capsule Web". Credit: Jonathan Gayomali

Manila, the capital of the Philippines and its second-largest city, is beset by heavy traffic, public health problems, homelessness, pollution, water sanitation issues, and a growing number of informal developments. According to Jonathan Gayomali, this is due, in part, to its underdeveloped infrastructure.

In his project Capsule Web, Gayomali proposes a solution in an infrastructural trend that has been increasingly employed around the world in cities like La Paz and Medellín: the urban gondola, or “capsule”. “The proposal for a secondary transportation system using a system of towers and capsules allows [for] another direct connection from the slums to the railway, while allowing the existing infrastructure to still function, creating a layering-effect on the infrastructure,” he writes.This tweaking of the transportation system suggests not only the expanded movement of people, but also of waste and supplies.

“This tweaking of the transportation system suggests not only the expanded movement of people, but also of waste and supplies. With capsules designed specifically for the transportation of these, the resulting environment will be one of improving health and preparation,” Gayomali continues.

In addition to the average, day-to-day problems facing Manila, the city is also vulnerable to natural disasters, notably typhoons. “Typhoon Haiyan, also known as Typhoon Yolanda, was the most devastating typhoon the Philippines has seen, and resulted in millions of dollars in damage and took thousands of lives,” Gayomali writes. His proposal would provide the means for people, particularly inhabitants of informal developments, to reach safety when faced with floods.In addition to the average, day-to-day problems facing Manila, the city is also vulnerable to natural disasters, notably typhoons

Gayomali suggests that his “capsule towers” could also become community centers. The backside of his proposed towers would store emergency supplies, while the front side would serve as a flexible space for gatherings and events.

Check out the gallery for elevation drawings of the "capsule towers".

Capsule Web was selected from an open call to be part of Archinect's October 2016 theme, XXL. Interested in submitting your own work? Our current open call is focused on XS – find more info here.