THE PATHWAY OF EMPOWERMENT
WOMEN'S HOUSE IN BAGHERE
KAIRA LOORO | ARCHITECTURE FOR PEACE
THE MAIN IMAGE OF THE PROJECT
DESIGN :
Located in the south of Senegal, the region of Baghere faces extreme isolation from the rest of the country. In this particular rural context, women lack access to basic services and face gender disparities, inequalities and discrimination. Despite their crucial roles in the rural area, women still remain among the most disadvantaged ones. The recognition of women’s place and rights contribute to the community progress and socio-economic growth of the region.
In this specific context, the project aims to provide a space for the empowerment of rural women that is open to the community. Shaping a place that stands as pillar in the promotion and protection of women’s human rights and engaging men to take part in this transformative process. The regular volume of the project is marked by different disruptions that reflect the social disparities. The idea behind the project relies on the successive repetition and interconnection of multiple elements that regenerate strength. As the active participation of women contributes to growth and resilience.
The building is designed to be raised above the ground level. This elevation protects it from possible floods during the period of rain as well as dust and humidity.
The plan is defined as a sequence of modular spaces, organized around two main axes. The separated spaces are connected by the main roof. The three internal areas are articulated according to three different sequences. A first sequence for meetings and dialogue, a second sequence for administrative management and a third sequence for training and knowledge transmission.
The spaces in-between set a perspective that may be seen from the main street allowing locals and visitors to enter from different paths. The project was conceived as a dynamic and flexible space that allows different spatial configurations. Panels can be installed and removed based on the spatial needs. Most of these panels could also be made by women, using local and traditional techniques.
The main structure is made of wooden pillars and beams stuck among each other. Above the structure stands a roof that protects the building. The roof is a totally independent structure. The supporting structure of the roof is covered by successive bamboo interconnection. Small and narrow openings would guarantee a natural transversal ventilation system.
In this specific context, the project aims to provide a space for the empowerment of rural women that is open to the community. Shaping a place that stands as pillar in the promotion and protection of women’s human rights and engaging men to take part in this transformative process. The regular volume of the project is marked by different disruptions that reflect the social disparities. The idea behind the project relies on the successive repetition and interconnection of multiple elements that regenerate strength. As the active participation of women contributes to growth and resilience.
The building is designed to be raised above the ground level. This elevation protects it from possible floods during the period of rain as well as dust and humidity.
The plan is defined as a sequence of modular spaces, organized around two main axes. The separated spaces are connected by the main roof. The three internal areas are articulated according to three different sequences. A first sequence for meetings and dialogue, a second sequence for administrative management and a third sequence for training and knowledge transmission.
The spaces in-between set a perspective that may be seen from the main street allowing locals and visitors to enter from different paths. The project was conceived as a dynamic and flexible space that allows different spatial configurations. Panels can be installed and removed based on the spatial needs. Most of these panels could also be made by women, using local and traditional techniques.
The main structure is made of wooden pillars and beams stuck among each other. Above the structure stands a roof that protects the building. The roof is a totally independent structure. The supporting structure of the roof is covered by successive bamboo interconnection. Small and narrow openings would guarantee a natural transversal ventilation system.
THE SUGGESTED SITE
MATERIALS :
The women’s house is designed to be entirely built with natural materials that can be found in the surroundings so that construction costs could be reduced.
The structure of the building consists of two main materials: Local wood and Bamboo vulgaris. The wood would be used for the main structure as it is characterized for being resistant and easy to assemble. Locally sourced timber beams and rose wood are used for the supporting structure. The wooden structure is covered by a bamboo vulgaris culms that are tied with natural fiber. Vertical panels are made of Bamboo, a lightweight element that allows easy transportation and handling. The project aims to be respectful towards the environment and can be built by the local community, using traditional methods and sustainable materials.
The structure of the building consists of two main materials: Local wood and Bamboo vulgaris. The wood would be used for the main structure as it is characterized for being resistant and easy to assemble. Locally sourced timber beams and rose wood are used for the supporting structure. The wooden structure is covered by a bamboo vulgaris culms that are tied with natural fiber. Vertical panels are made of Bamboo, a lightweight element that allows easy transportation and handling. The project aims to be respectful towards the environment and can be built by the local community, using traditional methods and sustainable materials.
CONCEPTUAL DIAGRAM
GENERAL AXONOMETRIC
FLEXIBLE AND ADAPTABLE SPACE
CONSTRUCTION PROCESS
CONSTRUCTION :
The modularity of the project allows multiple processes to take place simultaneously. The construction process begins with excavation for foundation of concrete footing. As soon as the execution of concrete piles is complete, it will be possible to install a wooden base platform raised from the ground by the attachment of floor joists. After the base plate has been laid, construction of wood frame structure begins where wooden pillars and rose wood beams are attached. Above these beams will be laid a wooden board surface in cross shape to enhance structural stability. The structure of the wooden roof is assembled afterwards and covered by half round bamboo. In This parallel process, vertical bamboo panels can be executed using local thatching techniques. They are then attached to the frame structure partitions. The system and materials used are proper to the self-construction processes. Women can contribute to the assembling at any different phase of this collaborative construction project.
PLAN AND SECTION
