Architectural Competition
"Agri-tent Center"
Mayukwayukwa village
Zambia, Africa
Concept and project goals
The main goal of the project was to integrate the existing construction on site into the solution and create multifunctional areas formed around a central gathering space. The form came out of the need to supply agriculture with water. The sloping roof, which looks like an inverted tent with a central opening, is designed to collect and direct water to the central collector. The water collector and the water surface in the middle, apart from having a role in collecting and carrying water to agriculture, also serve as a traditional central gathering space. All facilities are arranged around collector pool, orienting all activities towards the center. Objects are grouped by function, and segregated to form a well-ventilated, flowing space. The tent-like roof overhangs all the buildings, forming a covered living space, protected from external influences.
Construction
Based on affordable materials known to Mayukwayukwa region, the membrane/roof structure (structural columns,beams etc.) is made out of timber, with steel connections and concrete foundations. Final roof covering is made of tent-like cloth/fabric (very cheap and affordable) with addition of flexible solar panel system. Walls and floors of housing units are made of stunned bricks, which allows air and heat circulation. Doors are made of local timber structures, as well as windows, which have an addition of wooden shades on the outside.
