Dwellings Ghana

In cooperation with Hans Otlhaar, from Nijmegen, and contractor ITS from Rotterdam, we developed an autarkic dwelling suitable for the African climate. The dimensions of the main module are 2,5 x 3 meters. It contains all basic services needed for two persons.
To economize on production and on transport we made a compact design. The module has the size of a 10-feet container and can be expanded by connecting and stacking the same module. In Ghana and Nigeria people mostly live outside. That’s why we designed a covered terrace with sun panels on which all equipment runs. A sun-collector on the roof provides hot water. The rainwater is collected in a tank underground. With a hydrofoor-pump the water can be transported.
A double filtersystem makes the water drinkable. The water is also used for cooling, by running the water trough tubes placed along the roof and floor. A mini biogas-installation composts the sewage waste. The gas produced is used in the kitchen for cooking.
A prototype is tested in the Netherlands. The intention is to build these modules in Ghana. The modules will be build by local contractors and with local materials this way the local economy will be stimulated.
After a long journey of two weeks the project is finally presented to the Ashanti people and their king. The king had a piece of land available for the middle class. A part of the income will be used to build schools and hospitals.

Inititive: Otlhaar designs, from Nijmegen; ITS Rotterdam, AchterboschZantman architecten
Location: Ashanti territory, Ghana
Realization: Prototype 2010, definitive modules unknown