Our work in Africa started from the framework of OpenStructures.net. BC was asked
to scale the “Open Structures” model to architectural scale. This created a building process involving ultimate users and second-hand economies. Product, water and energy life cycles were integrated into this building process. OpenStructures’first architectural model was called Case Study (CS) 1: Katanga, Congo. This one was theoretical and based entirely on research. 5 years later, the Muyinga library
in Burundi is nearing completion.
Vernacular sources of inspiration.
An in-depth study of local architectural practices in Burundi informed the design of this building. Two months of fieldwork in the region and surrounding provinces gave us insight into local materials, techniques and building typologies. These experiences were applied, updated, reinterpreted and framed within Muyinga’s local knowledge and traditions.
The library is organized around an elongated covered circulation space. This “porch” is a space frequently seen in Burundian traditional homes, as it provides shelter from heavy rain and bright sun. This is where daily life takes place; meetings, conversations, taking a break, waiting – it is a true social space, grounded in community relations. The portico was intentionally oversized to serve as an extension of the library. Transparent doors between the columns generate interaction between the space inside and the portico. When fully opened, these doors simultaneously open the library to the adjacent plaza, offering breathtaking views of Burundi’s “milles collines” (1,000 hills).
At one end, the portico gradually flows into the street, where shutters manage access. These shutters are an important architectural element for the street façade; they make it clear when the library is closed or open. At the other end, the portico will continue as a circulation and access space for the future school.
A very important element in Burundian architecture, and African architecture in general, is the very present demarcation of property. It is a tradition that goes back to practices of indigenous tribes, where family settlements were assembled.
For the Muyinga library, a “compound wall” or common wall was considered in consultation with the community and the local NGO. This wall simultaneously facilitates handling the slope, by way of supporting wall constructed of stacked natural stone, low on the side of the plaza and playground on the school side, high on the street side. In this way, the view of the valley is unparalleled, while
safety along the street side remains assured.
The overall shape and construction of the library is the result of structural logic, arising in part from the choice of materials (compressed earth bricks and baked clay roof tiles). The locally produced roof tiles were significantly heavier than imported corrugated iron sheets. This inspired for the structural system of closely spaced columns at 1m30 intervals, which also serve as buttresses for the library’s high walls. This rhythmic repetition of columns is a recognizable feature of the building, seen from the outside as well as the inside. The roof has a 35% pitch with a cantilever to protect the unfired CEB bricks, while
contributing to the architectural character of the library.
The volume and façade stem from climatic considerations: a high space with uninterrupted ventilation helps keep out humid and warm air. As a result, the facade is perforated according to the rhythm of CEB bricks, which gives the building an illuminating effect at night.
The double height of the space on the street side made it possible to give a special place to the library’s smallest visitors. This children’s area consists of a wooden seating area on the ground floor, which can also serve for cozy group reading moments. Above, a large hammock hangs as a mezzanine, made of sisal rope, where the children can dream away in the world of their book.
The future school will meander playfully but intelligently through the landscape, creating playgrounds and courtyards and allowing existing slopes and trees to be incorporated.
