Buildings that give more than they take

We are designers and builders collaborating to create ecological architecture in East Africa. Motivated in equal parts by idealism, pragmatism and professionalism, we have assembled a closely-knit team of professionals who together are committed to advancing green architecture in theory and in practice.

This approach emphasizes a deep immersion into the project's specific geographical and socio-economic context. It begins with a meticulous exploration of local climates, analyzing seasonal variations, temperature extremes, humidity levels, and dominant wind patterns. This climatic data is then harmonized with an inventory of locally available materials and the existing skill sets and techniques of the regional workforce.

Furthermore, true sustainability demands a keen eye on the local economy. By prioritizing local procurement and craftsmanship, projects can funnel resources back into the community, fostering sustainable economic growth and building local resilience. The ultimate goal is the formulation of climate-responsive, economical, and technically sound solutions—design outcomes that are optimized for energy efficiency based on their environment, financially viable for the client and community, and robust enough to stand the test of time using established, trusted methods and materials.

Research

This approach emphasizes a deep immersion into the project's specific geographical and socio-economic context. It begins with a meticulous exploration of local climates, analyzing seasonal variations, temperature extremes, humidity levels, and dominant wind patterns. This climatic data is then harmonized with an inventory of locally available materials and the existing skill sets and techniques of the regional workforce. By understanding and respecting these innate capabilities, designers can ensure that solutions are not only technically sound and build-able but also intrinsically linked to the cultural and natural landscape they inhabit, driving efficiency and minimizing transportation costs.

Furthermore, true sustainability demands a keen eye on the local economy. By prioritizing local procurement and craftsmanship, projects can funnel resources back into the community, fostering sustainable economic growth and building local resilience. The ultimate goal is the formulation of climate-responsive, economical, and technically sound solutions—design outcomes that are optimized for energy efficiency based on their environment, financially viable for the client and community, and robust enough to stand the test of time using established, trusted methods and materials. This holistic perspective moves beyond mere technical compliance to deliver integrated, responsible, and enduring architecture.

Design

This design philosophy creates buildings that are simultaneously functional, imaginative, and deeply rooted in their locality. The primary focus is on developing structures that grow from their environment, with every choice—from orientation to material selection—being a direct response to the site's unique physical and cultural characteristics. This ensures the architecture achieves a powerful sense of belonging, making the finished product feel harmonious and inevitable within its setting.

The combination of functionality and imagination delivers inspiring spaces. Functionality ensures the building meets all pragmatic needs, while imagination allows for unique spatial experiences and innovative use of light. By melding creative design with a grounded local context, the architecture becomes a living, high-quality extension of the place, setting a respectful new standard for the built environment.

Build

Our process involves direct, continuous collaboration with our associated craftspeople, which is crucial for closing the gap between drawing and making. This integrated approach ensures that design intent translates accurately into the final built form. By keeping the designers and builders closely connected throughout the project, we achieve optimal constructability and efficiency, transforming theoretical plans into practical realities.

This close partnership is vital for ensuring high quality through to the last detail. Our craftspeople are fully invested in the design vision, allowing us to maintain rigorous standards for fit, finish, and material execution. This hands-on, collaborative focus guarantees that every element—from major assemblies to minute features—is executed with precision, resulting in buildings that exhibit exceptional durability and superior aesthetic finish.

Share

We actively prioritize opening our process and knowledge to others through multiple engagement channels. We facilitate knowledge sharing through public talks and workshops, and by engaging in academic and professional collaborations. This approach ensures transparency in our methods and promotes the dissemination of best practices within our field.

Furthermore, we seek strategic partnerships that extend our reach and impact. By sharing our expertise and learning from others, we contribute to a broader industry dialogue, foster innovation, and build a community committed to superior design and craft. This commitment strengthens both our own work and the overall standards of the creative and technical fields we operate within.

For us, the How matters as much as the What. We see each project as a partnership with our clients, community and environment. Success is not only the finished building, but the process that made it possible.