conventional, single-family compound lot. An additional story reduces
the building footprint, increasing the maximum number of dwellings
on a typical plot. This strategy becomes increasingly relevant as the city
expands and commuting distances increase.
Local Resources
The project establishes a model for local development by leveraging
earth-based construction–not only for its sustainable attributes and
cultural associations–but also as an attractive and desirable commodity.
Compressed earth block offers an excellent method for integrating earth-
based construction with the contemporary demands of the construction
industry.
Thermal Comfort
The homes require nothing more than a simple fan to keep things cool–
even during Niamey’s hottest days–when temperatures often reach well
into the 100s. Living spaces open out onto self-shading courtyards, which
are cooled by both cross and stack ventilation. AD
africandesignmagazine.com
59