Joana Rafael is an architect and researcher working on ecological issues related to pollution and contamination in buildings and territories, with a particular interest in the material conditions of construction and environmental contamination. Her research investigates the materiality and limits of physical infrastructures in relation to Earth systems, as well as human–nature relations mediated by dynamics of human impact, with particular attention to radiological contamination. In parallel, she develops a practice of collaboration with artists, research and writing, as well as consultancy on projects in the fields of architecture, art, and ecology. Joana has taught courses related to Contemporary Culture at institutions including ESAP, ISCE Douro, Central Saint Martins, and the University for the Creative Arts. She is a member of CEGOT and CEAA, and co-founder of REFINERY BOARD. Joana holds a Master’s degree in Architecture and Urban Culture from Metropolis, as well as a Master’s in Research Architecture and a PhD in Visual Culture from Goldsmiths, University of London. She also obtained a specialization certificate in Healthier Materials and Sustainable Construction from Parsons School of Design. She is currently completing a Master’s in Visual Arts Education. Alongside her academic work, Joana is a farmer.

Reserve

Published in Adaptative Reuse: Theoretical Glossary and Design Labs edited by Andrea Crudeli

This text is from a section taken from the doctoral project (2017), where I explore the concept of "reserve" which originates from the Latin "reservare," evolving into a multifaceted notion encompassing preservation and safeguarding, integral to architecture's role in protecting and managing resources. This idea spans from historical foundations to modern homes, where architectural spaces function to secure, store, and preserve both physical and symbolic assets, underscoring resource use and sustainability.