Jorejick’s Family Home, Karatu, Tanzania

competition | 2020

A family home in Getamock, Tanzania is designed to cumulate the cultural and current construction practices of the Jorejick family. Translating into a replicable module that will serve as a family home. Individual modules are designed to work as a composite unit for a family of fifteen, providing personal space while being a part of the whole. Keeping in mind existing pathways and vistas, the spaces are arranged to combine and segregate activities and functions.

The minimalist design approach aids in creating functional spaces while retaining a simplistic aura. Since the materials and technology used for construction are a part of the family’s common practice, repairs and maintenance could be conducted without any additional training. 

The roof structure is a single pass one-sided roof supported by a wooden built-up truss using treated softwood sections. In addition, ventilators are provided that allow heat to escape and let in natural light. Since multiple modules are housed under a single roof, it helps tie together individual spaces while creating an interesting transition through space types and probable functions. This opens and builds possibilities rather than restricting the family within four walls and roof. The single roof is designed as a large catchment providing the possibility of water-supply through the year, pertaining to the challenges of water resources faced by the family.

Standing on a stone foundation, the load-bearing walls are constructed with locally baked bricks set in mud mortar. Being a part of the family’s traditional system, the wall plastering activity would be turned into a community event. An in-situ cement floor also reduces the need for regular maintenance, and a generous overhang not only protects the walls but also provides a sheltered walking space.

Simple, low-technology and locally-sourced design solutions, coupled with a coherent process with the help of the family, are key elements in realizing the possibility of the project and easing the process of transitioning into the reinterpreted design. Crucial to the design strategy is the understanding of land, human and animal habits of the Jorejick family.