The community centre in Figuig, Morocco, was developed as a community initiative, with the aim of building using local resources and a limited budget.
In this part of Morocco, close to the desert, temperatures range from 4°C in winter to 46°C in summer. The difference in temperature between night and day is very significant and therefore requires high thermal mass. The building’s structure is made of earth, reinforced and secured by a concrete skeleton. Concrete vaults, 4 cm thick, line the earthen vaults whilst also serving as formwork.
In summer, the building can be cooled by moistening the earth. The evaporation of water absorbs heat, thereby lowering the temperature of the walls.
Client: Local ADA Association
Project team: Jean Christophe Grosso (Architect) - Elizabeth Wardle (NGO Project Manager) - MaP3 (Structural Engineering)
Area: 320 m² Budget: €18,000 Completion: 2005
Localisation and Delivery Year :
Morocco
- Figuig
- 2005
Designers :
Jean Christophe Grosso (Architect) - Elizabeth Wardle (Oxfam Quebec) - MaP3 (Structure)
