MAYUKWAYUKWA : A SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT

status: competition  entry ,2023

CENTER IN ZAMBIA

Considering the context of the project and the nature of the participatory type of construction

poses a unique challenge. The project emanates from the concept of a kind of ambulator

surrounding the existing plinth of the multipurpose hall which remains the central form of the

complex. The narrow courts act as a buffer and water retention point. Rainwater can be

harvested from the roofs and collected for gardening or filtered for potable or utilitarian use.

The whole complex is geometrically poised creating an oasis amid the apparent featureless

semi-arid landscape.

 The masterplan follows the same geometric rigor to accommodate gardens and

orchards and solar fields. Also, the same template can be repeated to formulate future

expansion by offsetting the same order. Nevertheless, the geometric control will ease

construction, as a very modular type of planning is incorporated. The compact and orthogonal

planning provides ventilation and vistas from vantage points. 

 Construction is mainly of CMU/ hollow type and can be arranged in many ways

flooring, seating, wall, and various detailing can be achieved. 

 Standard G.I. wire is used to form tendons of multiple strands by the means of a simple

winding device, which can be fabricated beforehand sending to the site. It can be used

to form a mesh that can hold the roofing support, thus avoiding the use of metal struts or rafters.

 Roofing is considered to be either in situ/ prefabricated ferro cement or corrugated

metal sheets. In case of unavailability, reeds/ fabrics or any other locally available

materials can be used or a combination of both can suffice. The technique is not unlike

the weaving of fabric and the method can be used in even remote areas and with varying

spans. Proper detailing will ensure the slope and inclination of the roof that will drain

water to the semi-circular courts or provide water to gardens for future use through

filtration and harvesting.

The cable system can be used in conjunction with CMU to make counterweight to

tighten cables. Also, the simple insertion of batons in the cable loop can tighten the

cable as well.

 In the case of existing structures, the cable mesh can form a kind of parasol. Thus,

protecting built forms from excess solar heat gain.

Walls are perforated to form a kind of ‘breathing wall’ thus avoiding the use of separate

windows for fenestration.

 Doors can be fabricated using the same technique of wire mesh around a frame. Privacy

can be achieved by simple fabric curtains or blinds made from local reeds.

Gardens in the four quadrants of the complex complement the surrounding landscape

and provide a kind of subtle connection, participation, and repose.