Comment of the Holcim Awards 2005 Jury for Africa Middle East
The project earns high distinction for its skillful engagement with a mountainous region that is isolated due to difficult terrain and lack of proper roads and communication infrastructure. Although operating in a context with extremely limited resources, the authors are commended for respecting the vibrant and dynamic culture by adopting a community-driven approach towards the development of both the functional program as well as generation of the design solution.

The work is consequent in promoting an appropriate design language in terms of the designated forms, materials, and construction technology. Decisions were driven by sensitive responses to indigenous material resources, locally available means of implementation, acculturated competences, as well as aspirations of the native population rather than imposing ideals of the design team. This evidences a high degree of ecological and social sensibility that is to be applauded.

The work is also merited for precision in selecting the site, as is the use of raw earth for construction that minimizes costly structural requirements. Strong partnerships (especially with the government’s Social Development Agency) also insure the feasibility of such an undertaking, one that promises to greatly improve the overall quality of life.