Mayukwayukwa Refugee Camp — I <> WE

Timber and thatch centre buildings among trees with people in the foreground

My role: Design and Visualization
Area: 6,500 sq ft
Typology: Refugee Camp
Scope: Competition
Studio: Mawi Design
Status: Top 30 (shortlisted)
Competition: Archstorm — team of 4
Tools: SketchUp, Enscape

Brief & intent

Develop the Sustainable Development Center (SDC) in Mayukwayukwa refugee camp, focused on empowering refugees with versatile livelihood skills. A modular structural system allows the center to expand, adapt and transform for different purposes. The “I > We” philosophy emphasises close-knit bonds formed through shared learning, exchanging skills, culture and experiences so that refugees feel a strong sense of belonging.

Concept

Three circles — sharing, community and identity. The circles are connected by social nodes that bring a sense of community throughout the centre.

Timber pergola structure around a tree with people gathering — Market place

Diagram of the individual, refugee community and wider community as three circles — Individual, refugee community and wider community

Legend of the circles of sharing, community and identity — Circle of sharing, circle of community, circle of identity

Zoning and circulation

Site diagrams showing the intervention area and the three circles linked by social nodes — Design concept — zoning

Site diagrams showing the casurina and reed wall, and phased staggering of classroom and dorm units — Design concept — zoning

Circle of identity

The kitchen acts as a communal eatery, with dining spilling onto the street and plaza. The street and plaza are spaces of culture and identity — an open market, gatherings, performances and heritage showcases. Multi-purpose classrooms form flexible indoor and outdoor learning environments that also host a library and impromptu discussions.

Diagram of a community space under a tree — A community space

Diagram of a crèche space under a tree — A crèche

Diagram of a market place under a tree — A market place

Plan

Views

Pergola-covered street with people and an office and dormitory block — Office room and dormitory

Open-air kitchen and dining area with people gathered — Kitchen and dining

Street view between timber-clad buildings with children in the foreground

Timber-clad building with an open porch and people gathered

Classroom unit

Long site section showing the centre buildings in a row — Site section

Timber classroom unit with a lattice wall and students outside — Classroom