For Tanzania

Hostels for Hope is a competition entry. The design of the site and the structures are based on the function of the Baobab tree; a tree that represents healing in indigenous Tanzanian cultures. The site is minimally modified to allow for accessibility throughout the living areas and healing garden. Each compound houses 10 patients and is comprised of living quarters, bathrooms, living area, kitchen, and outdoor living area. The roofs mimic the leaves of the baobab tree, funneling water to a cistern to be reused. The large central gutter serves as a structural beam for the common steel pipe to connect to reaching outwards to also provide shading for either side of the buildings. The steel structure allows for flexibility in the construction process and doesn’t rely on exact measurements. Bricks are made on site using agricultural waste to fire the kiln. The community will be engaged in the construction of the hostels providing training and fair paying jobs for workers.