Brazilian firm wins humanitarian architecture competition in Africa

Girls' school in Mozambique designed by Klaus Schmidt of KAS ARQ

(Divulgação/CASACOR)

Creating a safe and welcoming project for girls from the region of Mozambique, Africa, was the objective of the competition promoted by Archstorming to benefit the NGO Kurandza , which seeks to build its new educational center and had a team of Brazilians as the winner. Klaus Schmidt , from KAS ARQ office, is leading the project together with Carolina Souza , Debora Nunes and Juliana Akemi , whose construction is scheduled for 2023. The new center will have classrooms, a daycare center, food, leisure and social areas. Designed to promote maximum integration between students and teachers, the building designed in a 'U' shape will allow children to explore, play and learn with more freedom, as its shape favors integration between students and teachers.

(Divulgação/CASACOR)

Among the premises adopted in the design of the space are the use of locally sourced materials, the use of simple construction systems, energy self-sufficiency and respect for nature and local traditions. In this way, sustainability was greatly considered in the project. In addition, of the semicircular shape that ensures the preservation of existing trees, the installation of photovoltaic panels to capture solar energy and the construction of underground reservoirs to store and reuse rainwater were planned.

(Divulgação/CASACOR)

For Klaus Schmidt, it is a moment of “great happiness for the entire team; we are ecstatic about the achievement and being able to contribute to such a noble cause. We are counting down the hours until we go to Mozambique to help build the project. It is a milestone in our careers and in our lives . Not only because of the international projection, but mainly because of participating in the history of the NGO Kurandza”, he points out, adding that through this project the team was able to demonstrate that there are no technological or financial restrictions that prevent a beautiful architectural result. “It is an achievement for the NGO and its 250 students. A source of pride for them, their families and all the residents of the village of Chivonguene. May it be a big step towards the development of female education in the region” , concludes Klaus.

(Divulgação/CASACOR)

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