African Design Magazine March 2017 | Page 23

Research , both within academia and on-going on-site contextual and social research , is the base for our projects development . The partners ’ trajectory of scholarly work has allowed ASA to test ideas with diverse clients , communities and with students in different settings and conditions . In the realm of academia , the founders and most of the members work have with the young Department of Architecture at the Kigali Institute of Science and Technology , now part of the University of Rwanda , is a further testament of the firm ’ s mission in the potential of empowerment in education through architecture . Their engagement in the development of innovative and socially responsible solutions for the wider possible number of individuals reinforces the belief that architecture is a right of everyone . AD
The ensuing process is a constant interaction of stakeholders ’ participation , architectural practice and research . Each member of ASA is dedicated to the approach that design is a tool to empower communities and lead to a stronger , prosperous and sustainable future for Rwanda . To us , the measure of success of our designs comes in their benefit to their primary users , as well as their value to the whole community and impact on the surrounding context as a means to empower , enrich and enhance lives . Good design balances originality and beauty with sustainability , durability and functionality .
Research , both within academia and on-going on-site contextual and social research , is the base for our projects development . The partners ’ trajectory of scholarly work has allowed ASA to test ideas with diverse clients , communities and with students in different settings and conditions . In the realm of academia , the founders and most of the members work have with the young Department of Architecture at the Kigali Institute of Science and Technology , now part of the University of Rwanda , is a further testament of the firm ’ s mission in the potential of empowerment in education through architecture . Their engagement in the development of innovative and socially responsible solutions for the wider possible number of individuals reinforces the belief that architecture is a right of everyone . AD
Click here to watch an interview with ASA Studio on designing in Rwanda

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