Adobe for Women

Adobe for Women is a non-profit humanitarian association founded by blaanc and Rootstudio. The goal of this project is to recover a 20 year old concept by Mexican architect Juan José Santibañez consisting of fund-raising and building 20 sustainable houses in the indigenous villages of San Juan Mixtepec and Santiago Ayuquililla, in the southern Mexican state of Oaxaca. The houses are intended for 20 women in difficult circumstances who will participate in the building process. They are energy efficient and built with local materials such as adobe and bamboo. Each house, with a simple, rectangular plan is formed by two nucleus's: One private and one public. Each one is formed by two intersecting arches that cross in the center underlining the notion of space and marking each areas activities. This allows ample spaces even though the area is small. The patio presents itself as an extension of the house directly connected to the kitchen. It is supported by a wooden structure lined with bamboo, placed with spaces in between making the wall translucent. The patio opens to vibrant natural surroundings, creating a privileged socializing area. The single floor house is punctuated by the color on the doors, which can vary depending on its occupants and should use strong marking colors, which are characteristic to Mexico. The variety of textures present in the adobe, bamboo and roof tiles contribute to a richer and more harmonious entirety. The houses implementation, other than the simple and isolated version, may be implemented in the community two by two by sharing the patio area in the case of a larger family or close relatives, such as cousins or brothers. Energy efficiency, over the entire life cycle of a building it is the single most important goal of sustainable architecture. Low-tech design solutions such as using passive solar, sustainable materials, waste management and water management respond well to the local climate of San Juan Mixtepec and Santiago Ayuquililla. These women have fought their whole lives for their children and their dignity. With our work and help, they will continue to do this in their own home. Their story is a lesson about life for all of us: with a little help, great projects can be achieved.