2014 Cal Poly Architecture Thesis book

DEREK MCFARLANDJONATHAN REICH STUDIO

THESIS 2013-2014

4 AREA CAMEROON | DEREK MCFARLAND

NOTE FROM DESIGNER

As a student, I am constantly questioning the idea that there is more to this world than just designing for the 1% in the western world. How can my architectural talents be used to further humanity and change the world. After four years of intense architectural practice and theory resulting in nothing physical to show for, I desire my thesis year to be spent towards something great. I am proud to say, that alongside Journeyman International, I will be serving as the Architectural Designer for the African Research and Exchange Academy (AREA) project in rural Kumbo, Cameroon. This project marks the first time that I will be able to utilize my skills and talents for the making of a better world. I am extremely exciting for this amazing opportunity and I believe it will become a turning point in my architectural path. The book you are holding represents my initial research for AREA and I am looking forward to presenting the final design soon. In the coming months, our team will be hard at work to bring this project to life at full scale. Please stay in touch.

Sincerely,

Derek McFarland

5FORWARD

TEAMSUMMARY

RESEARCH

DESIGN

CONSTRUCTAPPENDIX

PRECEDENT

Executive Summary 8

Project Teams 10

Project Research 16Africa in Miniature 18People of Cameroon 20About Cameroon 22Economics of Cameroon 26About Kumbo, Cameroon 30Culture of Kumbo 36Climate 42Volcanic Line 44Vernacular Architecture 46Water in Kumbo 48Electricity/Waste in Kumbo 54

Project Precedents 56

Project Design 70AREA 72Site Context 76Site Analysis 82Program 84Preliminary Design 90Conceptual Design 92Final Design 100

Typical Wall Construction 130Project Cost Estimation 132Construction TImeline 136

Cameroon Trip 146Cameroon Photos 154Vellum Furniture 156Physical Models 160Abstract Show 162Section Show 164Final Studio Show 166Fall Final Posters 168Blind Review Posters 170Va no Va Posters 172Chumash Posters 174

7FORWARD

JOURNEYMAN INTERNATIONAL - Design and Project Management - Daniel Wiens, Steph Fellows, Andrew Goodwin

LOCATION: Kumbo, North West, Cameroon POPULATION: 20,549,221 SLOGAN: Africa in Miniature CLIMATE: Dry Season (Mar -Oct) Wet Season (Nov-Feb) REGIONS: 10 Regions, 58 Departments, 315 Communes CURRENCY: Central African Franc RELIGION: Mostly Catholic Christian LANGUAGE: English and French

LOCATION: Operations - Boulder, Colorado Campus - Kumbo, Cameroon GOALS Water: collection, distribution, and treatment Energy: affordable, reliable, and renewable Agriculture: sustainable, efficient Health: nutrition, food, water, sanitation Social Enterprise: to improve well-being

AFRICAN RESEARCH & EXCHANGE ACADEMY - Non-profit and social venture based in Boulder, Colorado - Dr. Ajume Wingo, Eric Wirba


DESIGN: African Vernacular and Volcanic Influence SQUARE FOOTAGE: 111,900 SF PROGRAM: Conferences, Research labs, Recreation, Housing, Amenities, etc WATER: Water collection, treatment, and storage facilities ENERGY: Solar power and Bio-Mass facilities AGRICULTURE: Livestock, Crops, Bees facilities MATERIALS: Concrete, Local Stone, Rammed Earth, Light Steel, Green Roofs

TOTAL PROJECT COST: $39, 979, 400 PHASE ONE TIMELINE: begin: 01/2015, complete phase one: 01/2019 PHASE TWO TIMELINE: complete phase two: 01/2020

LOCATION: 6 Miles North-East of Kumbo, Cameroon SIZE: 366 Acres LANDSCAPE: High Mountains, rocky/volcanic, grazing lands CLIMATE: Strong east winter winds, 60 inches per year of rain EXISTING: Neighboring personal houses and gardens

9PROJECT TEAM

1 0 AREA CAMEROON | DEREK MCFARLAND

1 1PROJECT DATA

PROJECT TEAMS

JOURNEYMAN INTERNATIONALThe Journeyman International vision was launched with the intent of filling the expertise void between international NGOs and the new facilities they construct. While developing a dental clinic in Belize as a senior project, a group of architecture and environmental design students from Cal Poly University began recognizing the potential to fill this need with a construction focused non-profit endeavor. Since filing for incorporation in 2009, Journeyman International has designed an orphanage in Mexico, a development center in Zambia, a dental clinic in Belize, and many many more. These projects were a catalyst and we are just getting started.

OBJECTIVES

Partner with reputable NGOs and design construct humanitarian facilities.

Relieve the construction burden of partnered NGOs, allowing them to focus on their mission.

Introduce economically feasible Green construction fundamentals in the developing world.

BUSINESS MODELIn close partnership with several universities, the Journeyman business model relies heavily on the talent and labors of architecture, engineering, and project management students. By capitalizing on student thesis senior projects, and accredited internships from Californias best technical schools, the Journeyman business model thrives. These circumstances result in a higher quality of effort, research and passion than we find in the professional industry. All student projects are then review by licensed and professional tradesman.

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J I AREA


In specifics, Journeyman provides the following services:

Feasibility study - The Journeyman team assesses if the project can be constructed at the specified location, overcoming all logistical concerns within the projected budget.

Costs data analysis - Journeyman teams travel to the project location to procure material, labor and equipment price data. This step is crucial for developing an accurate estimate in a developing nation.

Conceptual Project Estimate - Prior to any official construction documents, J.I. assesses the project details to formulate a line item projection of the project costs.

Research - A Journeyman team will spend hundreds of hours researching the site, region, feasibility of project goals, and cultural considerations required for project success.

Schematic Design - Journeyman designers will develop schematic design concepts for the owner and officials to review.

Final Design - Journeyman designers will create construction ready plans and specifications.

Construction analysis - The Journeyman project management team will develop the project schedule, budget, contracts, site logistics maps, safety plan, storm water pollution prevention plan, and evacuation plan.

Project Management - Journeyman will send a full time project manager to the field.

Grant Proposal - The Journeyman team will develop an extensive grant proposal for the project.

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SERVICESDaniel Wiens - President

Steph Fellows - Operations

Andrew Goodwin - RED Studio

Serhino Espinosa - RED Studio

Derek McFarland - Designer

1 3PROJECT TEAM

PROJECT TEAMS

AFRICAN RESEARCH & EXCHANGE ACADEMY

African Research & Exchange Academy (AREA) engages innovators in the making of a better world. They promote audacity in individuals to rise and face challenges. To that end, they bring together talented people with the resolve to initiate, develop, and realize tangible solutions for a brighter tomorrow.

They offer residencies to regional and international scholars, leaders, artists, writers, and thinkers. They also provide educational and cultural opportunities to local and international high school students.

AREA consists of two entities: a social enterprise and a non- profit artists residency. Both are based in Boulder, Colorado with operations at the central campus in Kumbo, Cameroon.

AREA partners with individuals, organizations, and businesses from around the world to fill the voids left by unsuccessful approaches that unduly fragment human problems into pieces making them difficult, if not impossible, to resolve.

AREA fosters and promotes innovative solution to human problems. AREA offers state- of- the- art facilities in Kumbo, Cameroon to its partners and clients that are designed to meet their diverse needs.

AREA facilities include residences, office spaces, conference halls, and classrooms for workshops and instruction.

AREA partners with individuals, organizations, and businesses that share a common vision of economically and ecologically sustainable development.

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J I AREA

AREA MAJOR PILLARS

Student exchange Agriculture: sustainable and efficient agricultural practices

Water: collection, distribution and treatment of water

Health: nutrition, food, water, sanitation, and health education

Energy: affordable, reliable, and renewable energy resources

Innovative solutions


Ajume Wingo born in Nso in the North West Province of Cameroon. He attended Cameroon College of Arts, Science and Technology (CCAST) Bambili where he studied History, Economics and Geography. He also attended the University of Yaounde, Cameroon where he studied law at the Faculty of Law and Economics. He obtained his BA from the University of California Berkeley and an MA (1995) and PhD (1997) from the University of Wisconsin Madison. He is currently an Associate Professor of Philosophy and the Director of the Center for Values and Social Policy at the University of Colorado at Boulder and an Associate of the W.E.B. Du Bois Institute at Harvard.

Eric Wirba, Assistant Director of AREA, is a principal in the development and operations of AREA Cameroon. Eric, who grew up in the Kumbo region with his brother Ajume, has worked in the past on international humanitarianism, serving as operations director of the Himalayan Institute, Cameroon. He was critical in getting the institute Cameroon operations up and running. Eric has also specialized as a consultant in food and health matters. Eric is deeply satisfied to be a part of a multicultural team, where people from different races and cultures gather together to benefit each other, their communities, and our collective knowledge.

Ajay Kumar Paplu is the Operations Manager for AREA. He is also responsible for business and sustenance operations at the Cameroon site. Ajay, an attorney by trade, hails from Jharkhand, a state in Indias Eastern region.

Dr. Ajume WingoFounder/President

Eric Wirba Assistant Director

Ajay Kumar PapluOperations Manager

1 5PROJECT TEAM

1 7PROJECT DATA

REGIONS

DEPARTMENTS

COMMUNES

CLIMATEREGIONS

AREA sq mi 183,569

1058

3155

1500s1300s0200 BC 1884 1913 1916

MANDARAKINGDOM

FOUMBANKINGDOM

FIRST BANTUTRIBES SETTLE

IN LAND

HISTORY

GERMANS COLONIZE

E Q U ATO R

R E L I G I O N D E M O G R A P H I C S

N A T I O N A L F L A G

KUMBOESTABLISHED

ALLIES DROVE OUT

GERMANS

GREEN FOR FORESTS

RED FOR UNITY

YELLOW FOR SUN AND SAVANNAHS

STAR OF UNITY

CAMERO

ON

HIG

HLA

ND

ERS

EQUATORIAL BANTU

KIRDI

NIGR

ITIC

NW

BAN

TU T

ULAN

IOTHER

AFRICAN

ETHNIC GROUPS

Cameroon has been know as Africa in Miniature because of its highly diverse culture and geography. Cameroon is slightly larger than the state of California and contains roughly half the population at 20 and a half million people. Cameroon is bordered by 6 countries and the Atlantic Ocean to the west. The country is broken up into 10 regions and inside each of these regions are divisions and communes. There are 315 communes in total. Cameroon has a very diverse landscape because it holds five different climate regions. The forests, mountains, tropics, savannahs, and the Sahel. It is also know for its extremely bio-diverse plant and animal life.

AFRICA IN MINIATURE


CAMEROON

CHAD

NIGER

NIGERIA

C. A. R.

CONGO

1959 1961 1972 1986 1994-19961919

E Q U A T O R

FRENCHINDEPENDENCE

CAMEROONFEDERATION

UNITED REPUBLIC

OF CAMEROONNIGERIA AND

CAMEROON CLASH OVER OIL

BRITISH ANDFRENCH

OCCUPY LAND

1 9PROJECT DATA

MT. CAMEROON13,435 ft

MOUNTAIN ANDHIGHFIELD

SAVANNAH

SAHEL

TROPICAL HUMID

FOREST

The population total in Cameroon was 20,549,221 in 2012. The average life-span is 53.7 years with 40.5% under the age of 15, 56.2% between the age of 15-60, and only 700,000 people over the age of 60. Cameroons population is evenly divided between urban and rural dwellers with its highest density in urban settings such as Douala, Yaound, and Garoua. Over 250 ethnic groups live in Cameroons 10 provinces. Across the different regions, communities have an allegiance to local chiefs, know as Fondoms, as well as being ruled by central government In the northern regions, the Fulani are the dominate culture where women take care of the house while the men herd cattle or work as farmers. In the western highlands, groups include the Bamoun and the Bamilk who are particularly known for their farming skills and their spirit-focused traditional religion. Across the southern regions, the first settlers were the pygmies, who to this day retain their traditional nomadic lifestyle in the rainforests of the south. Here the women grow the familys food and the men provide meat and maintain crops.

PEOPLEPOPULATION20,549,221

C L I M A T E Z O N E S


F A R N O R T H

N O R T H

A D A M A W A

C E N T R E

E A S T

S O U T H

L I T T O R A LD U A L A

G A R O U A

K U M B O

Y A O U N D E

W E S T

N O R T H W E S T

S O U T HW E S T

CAMEROON UGANDA

UNDER 15

15-60

OVER 60

GERMANYU.S.A.

13.3%

20.6%

66.1%

20.1%

13.3%

66.6%

40.5%

56.2%

3.3% 2.0%

49.9%

48.1%

P O P U L AT I O N A G E S

2 1PROJECT DATA

GEOGRAPHYCameroon is the 53rd largest country in the world and is slightly larger than the U.S. state of California with a total area of 183,569 square miles. The diverse country contains five completely different climatic zones. In western Cameroon is an irregular chain of mountains, hills, and plateaus that extend from Mt. Cameroon almost to Lake Chad at the northern tip of the country. This region includes the Bamenda, Bamilk, and Mambilla highlands. It also contains some of the countrys most fertile soils, notably around volcanic Mt. Cameroon This mountain region is volcanic with a rural countryside of large rock plugs. The dense forests of the south and northwest contain numerous plant and wildlife species none more critically endangered than the cross river gorilla of the northwestern region. The tropical humid climate in the central regions has a very long wet season with heavy rainfall while the savannah and the Sahel are incredibly hot and dry. The semi-arid climate is home to numerous grazing wildlife including Lions, Cheetahs, Rhinoceros, and Gazelle.

TOURISMIn the recent years, tourism in Cameroon has been growing as the government has encouraged investment from airlines,hotels, and travel agencies. The government promotes Cameroon as Africa in Miniature, where one can see numerous diverse cultures, landscapes, and wildlife. Impediments to further growth of the tourism sector include poor transport infrastructure and corrupt officials who may harass visitors for bribes. Popular vacation sites for visitors in Kribi and Limbe.

ABOUT

8260PLANTS

322REPTILES

936BIRDS

409MAMMALS192

AMPHIBIANS

Cameroon Landscape


2 3PROJECT DATA

SPORTS + RECREATIONCameroonians take pride in victories at international competitions, making sport an important source of national unity. Traditional sports in Cameroon include canoe racing, swimming, tug of war, and wrestling. The most popular sport is football, or as the United States call it, soccer. The Cameroon national football team, nicknamed The Indomitable Lions has gained world recognition since their strong showing in the 1990 FIFA World Cup. They have qualified six times for the FIFA World Cup and won the gold medal in the 2000 summer Olympics. The Cameroon National team has recently qualified for 2014 World Cup in Brazil where they hope to bring home prize.

LANGUAGECameroon has 286 listed different African languages. The official languages are both English and French due to Cameroons colonization history. The country strives towards bilingualism and has establish many bilingual schools to further this effort. Lamnso is primary language of Nso people in the northwestern region. Lamnso is a language to reckon with around Kumbo because it is a native language which has been used for several generations by the indigenes of the Nso tribe and has stood the test of time. Furthermore, Lamnso has gained more grounds in recent years on account of its introduction as a study language in some local organizations and institutions.

ABOUT

Samuel Etoo of the Cameroon National Team,

The Indomitable Lions


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In the 25 years after Cameroons Indepen-dence, it was one of the most prosperous countries in Africa. The combination of an overvalued currency, government mis-management, and the drop in prices for its principal exports of petroleum, cocoa, coffee, and cotton led to a decade-long recession. Cameroons economy is highly dependent on commodity exports, and swings in world prices strongly affect its growth However, Cameroon is endowed with an abundance of natural resources, including in the agricultural, mining, forestry, and oil and gas sectors. Less than 5 percent of Cameroonians have access to a bank account. Inflation remains low in Cameroon, as many basic commodities, including fuel and food items, are either subsidized or subject to government price controls. France and China are Cameroons main trading partners, but the United States is a leading investor in Cameroon.

EXPORTS + INDUSTRIESCameroons primary export is crude oil and you would think that this abundance would result in a wealthy country., however it does not. Lumber, Cocoa, Bananas, Rubber, and Cotton are also Cameroons main exported items. In 2011 the country sold 5.36 billion US dollars worth of goods. The countries main industries include petroleum production and refining, aluminium production, food processing, light consumer goods, textiles, lumber, and ship repair.

ECONOMICS

COTTON

COFFEE

RUBBERBANANAS

C R O P S


= 20,000,000 US dol lars

OIL

METAL

CROPS

LUMBER

FISH

CHICKEN

CATTLE

PIGS

E X P O R T S

L I V E S T O C K

2 7PROJECT DATA

POVERTY vs WEALTHLike many countries in Africa, Cameroon boasts considerable natural resources. The country is located in the lush jungle area of the continent, just under the Sahara Desert. This area is known for its incredibly rich soil, and is a land teeming with potential. However, like much of Africa, Cameroon is continuing to struggle with its economic situation. While the rest of the world is seeing its poverty rate drop every year, most of Africa sees small to little change. The poverty epidemic continues to hold an iron grip around the country, and issues such as extreme starvation, lack of suitable water supplies, a lack of education and disease continue to hold down Cameroon. It is estimated that nearly 40% of Cameroons population is under the poverty line and live off of at most one dollar per day. The majority of the poverish community live in rural areas. The key factors identified as the causes of poverty are: household size, education level, socioeconomic grouping and access to productive assets. Poor rural people believe that better living conditions would come from job creation, better communications and transportation, improved access to education and information, stable prices for staple foods and better health care, water and credit. Under its long-term development vision Vision 2035 Cameroon has set itself the objective of becoming an emerging, industrialized and democratic country by 2035. This vision is set within the framework of four overall goals: 1- Reduce poverty to a socially acceptable level; 2- Make the transition to a middle-income country; 3 - Achieve newly industrialized country status; 4 - Strengthen national unity and consolidate the democratic process..

CURRENCYThe official currency in Cameroon and 13 other African countries is the Central African CFA Franc. Cash is king in Cameroon, especially in remote regions where its the only way to pay. It takes 465 Cameroon Francs to spend the equivalent of $1 of US currency.

ECONOMICS

Central African Franc


2 9PROJECT DATA

ABOUT KUMBOThe capital of the Bui-Division is Kumbo, a hilly settlement situated 6500 ft above sea level. It is a mountainous town with three hilly villages. Tobin to the east is the administrative sector of the town, Mbve to the north is the commercial center, and Squares is the residential hub for the town. Kumbo is also the capital of the Nso Kingdom, of the traditional local Nso people of the Bamenda Grasslands. The Fon or king of Nso is located in Kumbo and his palace is situated in Squares. The Fon palace is the hearth of Kumbos social, political, and cultural activities. The villages that constitute Kumbo are: Kikaikelaki, Kitiwum, Kishiy, Kimbo-squares, Kikaikom, Kiyan, Shisong, Mbuluf, Nkuv, Kingomen, Kitumen, Sakir, Mbotong, Bamdzeng, Ndzeen, Tobin, To-oy, Marem, Bamkika-ai, Rovitangta, Njavnyuy, Mbah, Ntseni, Mbveh.

NORTHWEST REGION + BUIThe northwest region is located in the western highlands of Cameroon. There are around 1.7 million people who reside in this region and 80% solely rely on agriculture and livestock as their primary source of income. The terrain in this region is remarkable with dense rainforests and rolling mountain hills. The second highest mountain in West Africa, Mount Oku is located in the Bui-Division, one of 7 sub-divisions in this region.

INFORMATION

NATURAL LANDSCAPEIn Kumbo, there is a wide diversity of landscapes, and its rivers are punctuated with rapid spectacular waterfalls. These waterfalls empty themselves into the River Bui and Rookimbo. It is said that Bui and Kumbo are named after these rivers respectively. Through out the region, there are two seasons: the dry and rainy seasons. This leaves the landscape green and lush from March to October and red and dusty from November to February.

DEPARTMENTS

COMMUNES

AREA sq mi 6,877

731

POPULATION1,237,358

BUI DEPARTMENT


N G O - K E T U N J I A

M E Z A M

M OM O

B O Y O

B U I

D O N G A - M A N T U N G

N I G E R I A

M E N C H U M

K U M B O

BAMENDA

NKAMBE

S I T E

MT. OKU9,879 f t

M B I A M E

N K U M

N O N I

O K U

D Z A K W A

S I T E

KUMBO

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TRANSPORTATIONTo travel to Cameroon, one must take a plane to one of the major cities such as Douala or Yaounde. Once in the borders, the main source of travel is by bus or car. As the majority of roads are not paved, it is best to use a 4x4. Township taxis and motorcycles are the main mechanical transportation means in Kumbo but the majority travel by foot. In the next 10 to 15 years, the Kumbo Council is planning on paving all roads in, out, and around the city. In doing this, Kumbo will experience great developmental strides and future economic success. They are currently looking for funding.

TRANSPORTATIONThe Kumbo Municipality is very scholarized, with more than 80% of children regularly enrolled in many institutions. There are over 67 primary and nursery schools, over 20 secondary and high schools and 2 post secondary professional schools. The council states that educating a child is educating the nation, thus they take great strides in making education one of its top priorities. Schools in the area are often held in private homes although some schools have existing infrastructure.

INFORMATION

GOVERNMENT STRUCTUREIn the early settlement of Kumbo around 1820, there was Nso people and the Fon Kingdom. The Fon of Nso acted at the social, political, and economic leader until 1977 when the Kumbo Council was established. Led by Major Njong Fonyuy Donatus, the Kumbo Council. The Kumbo Council Administration has a total of thirty-three (33) permanent staff members and employs over some forty others on seasonal basis. Kumbo is seen is having great potential for the future and an economic explosion is predicted to occur in the years ahead.

100,000

200,000

300,000

2012 2017 2022 2027YEAR

P O P U L A T I O N G R O W T H P R O J E C T I O N


ROMAJAI

S H I S H O N G

L U N

BAMBUI

TO BALEM

H

KIKAIKELAKI44,050

SHISHONG44,275

KUMBO80,012

RESIDENTIAL

COMMERCIAL

ADMINISTRATIONK U M B O

SQUARES

TOBIN

MBVEH

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LANGUAGEThe predominant languages are: Lamnso, English, and French. English is primary but native Lamnso is a language to reckon with around Kumbo because it has been used for several generations by the indigenes of the Nso tribe.

CATHEDRALThe first missionaries in Kumbo from Germany, arrived in 1912 and established their mission in 1913. The Cathedral of Kumbo was erected by Pope John Paul II in 1982, with territory taken from the Diocese of Bamenda. It is Roman Catholic and is built primarily from local stone blocks.

FONS PALACEThe Nso palace is the heart of Kumbo. Built on ten hills as Kumbo is, the palace is constructed on a sloping hillside below the ancient market known Kimbo. Built with mud-brick, stone and cement blocks, the main attraction on entry are the two Mfuh (warrior) houses. The palace is a major attraction and the centre of a strong cultural expression of its people. During traditional rites and ceremonies, this palace can be a cultural heaven for its people.

RELIGIONThe religious demographics of Kumbo are primarily Christian. Generally, Roman Catholics outnumber all the other members of other churches in Kumbo. About 70% of the population are Christians, 25% Muslims and 5% others. The Traditional Religion of ancestral worship and practices is gradually loosing grounds in Kumbo. Today, only a very insignificant number of the Kumbo indigenes still practice this.

INFORMATION31% CATHOLIC

24% MUSLIM

6%OTHER

19%BAPTIST

10%PROTESTANT


SQUARES

MBVEH

3 5PROJECT DATA

CULTURE

The Nso people number around 700,000 and originate from the Bamenda Grassfields in the Northwest Region of Cameroon. Both the people and the capital of Kumbo are referred to as Banso (people of Nso). Within the Nso political economy, symbolic capital remains the primary object of accumulation. Women produce material wealth, which men convert to symbolic capital to gain access to more productive and reproductive labour and thus to more material wealth. The literacy rate of the Nso is very high, over 90%. The Nso dynasty is an offshoot of the Tikar dynasty, which was founded around 1299 by Princess Wou-Ten. Through the next 700 years, the Nso people went through many different leaders or Fons and states such as Mbiame, Oku, Nseh, Noni, Din, and Nikar. The Nso people have a very rich culture with dance, art, ceremonies, kola nuts, and palm wine. The balance between the sacred and utility are the heart of Nso culture.

FON of NSOA Fon is a chieftain or king of a region of Cameroon, especially among the Wedikum, Tikar, and Bamilk peoples of the Bamenda grass fields. He rules of 13 other kingdoms. The Fon is supported in his duties by the seven notables called Vibais. The current Fon of the Nso people in Kumbo is Sehm Mbinglo I. He is situated in his palace located in Squares. Currently the Fon is a more symbolic representation of power for the people. He does not deal with the local governments. As a sign of respect, one shall never look direct to the face.

Fon Sehm Mbinglo I of Kumbo


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ON DEATH - JUJUThe Nso people have a very interesting perspective on death. Most cultures treat death as something to be saddened about, however Nso celebrate this event. They believe that death is built around the soul and the transmigration of the soul from this world to another The celebration of death is about the celebration of life and this event involves dancing, partaking in the eating of kola nuts and the Jujus. Death is not the end, only the beginning. Jujus are masked men, or spirits, and are seen dancing to drums and followed by children when death occurs.

KOLA NUTKola Nuts play a vital role in the traditional, social, spiritual, and cultural practices of Cameroon and West Africa. It is chewed in many cultures as a social activity and ease hunger. These nuts are also used as religious objects and offerings during prayers, ceremonies, and significant life events. It has both symbolic and monetary value and is considered a great welcoming gift to show hospitality. Kola is said to have power through fortune and misfortune telling. Although bitter in flavor, it also contains addictive caffeine. Many cultures consume Kola nuts in group settings by breaking up the nut and passing it around. When a dying Kola Tree is not producing fruit, the Nso people perform am extensive cutting down ceremony with children present. The Kola Nut is given the same importance as a woman or a baby girl, it gives life.

PALM WINE (MELU)In addition to Kola Nuts, Palm Wine is also consumed in social gatherings. Palm wine is an alcoholic drink made from the sap from the Raffia Palm and then fermented by natural conditions. It only takes around 2 hours for the palm to turn alcoholic. Currently, the local Raffia Palm Tree is having the same importance as the kola nut.

CULTURE

Kumbo, Cameroon

Kola Nuts


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AGRICULTUREThe main food crops produced are: cocoyams, maize/corn, beans, plantains, groundnuts, kolanuts, sweet potatoes, bananas and pepper. Coffee, which is the principal cash crop around this area is produced in hundreds of tons. It is normal for women to take care of the crops, while the men work in other businesses. Once a week, the Mbve market is filled with fruits, vegetables, crops, and nuts. This weekly event is a huge source of income for the people of Kumbo as many individuals around northwest Cameroon travel to this.

HEALTHThe St. Elizabeth Hospital Shisong and the Banso Baptist Hospital are the two primary medical facilities in Kumbo. Both of these hospitals offer many services that people will travel all over Cameroon to receive. These hospitals also include training schools for surgeons and health personnel. In addition to modern medicine, traditional practices are still plays a vital role in the Kumbo culture. They serve a greater need especially where the patient cannot easily identify the cause of an ailment or cannot afford the high cost of modern medicine. Due to major diseases such as HIV/AIDS and yellow fever, the average lifespan for a Cameroonian is only 53 years old.

INDUSTRIESThe main industries in Kumbo are surrounded by agriculture and livestock. Self-employment is highly practiced in Kumbo through trading. Every day, Kumbo ships truckloads of potatoes, beans, maize, and even kolanuts to Duoala, the economic capital of Cameroon. Due to the lack of street lights, nearly all business have to close shop when the sun sets. The main livestock in Kumbo consist of Chickens, Goats, and Cattle.

CULTURE

Mbve Market, Kumbo


4 1PROJECT DATA

JANUARY

JULY

FEBRUARY

AUGUST

MARCH

SEPTEMBER

APRIL

OCTOBER

MAY

NOVEMBER

JUNE

DECEMBER

DR

Y B

ULB

TE

MP

ER

ATU

RE

- C5 C

0

10

15

20

25

30

41 F

50

1050

5C TEMPERATURE

HUM

IDIT

Y

41F

59

1559

68

2068

77

86

3086

35 95

40104

10%

20%

40%50%60%70%80%90%

30%

1132577

COMFORT

EVAPORATIVECOOLING

HIGH-MASSCOOLING

HIGH-MASSCOOLING AND NIGHTVENTILATION

CONVENTIONALAIR-CONDITIONING

PASSIVESOLAR HEATING

NATURALVENTILATION

The climate of Kumbo, Cameroon consists of two seasons; the dry season and the wet season. The dry season usually occurs between the months of November through February. During this season Kumbo is very dusty as all roads are non paved. The wet season takes place from March through October and during this season the average rainfall is around 60 inches (1550mm) per year. This climate is considered moderate/tropical. The data presented is from a local Kumbo weather station. The average temperature is 66 F with a high of 82 F and a low of 55 F. Sustainable strategies for this location are passive solar heating and natural ventilation to achieve thermal comfort as seen in the Psychrometric Chart below. In the colder months and primarily in the afternoon, Kumbo receives strong east winds from the east.

CLIMATE

P S Y C H O M E T R I C C H A R T


11+ MPH9-10 MPH7-8 MPH5-6 MPH2-4 MPH1 MPH

S

E

N

W

S

E

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W

50F

JMONTH F M A M J J A S O N D

60F

80F

70F

90F

JMONTH F M A M J J A S O N D

4 in

8 in

12 in

16 in

INCHES OF RAIN PER YEAR (AVG)

AVERAGETEMPERATURE

60

66

W I N D R O S E _ W I N T E R A F T E R N O O N

A N N U A L W I N D R O S E

4 3PROJECT DATA

A very notable landscape feature of Cameroon are the extremely large volcanic swells that create mountaines and shear plumes. These swells form the Cameroon volcanic line; a 600 mile straight line of 10 volcano-capped peaks. 9 of these are currently active. This line is arranged half on the continent of Africa and the other on the ocean floor. The islands Bioko, Principe, Sao Tome, and Annoban are formed from these volcanic underwater mountains. The highest peak is Mount Cameroon at 13,435 feet. Because volcanic soil is exceptionally fertile, Cameroon flora is highly lush and green during the raining months.

CONCEPTThe site for the project is located directly on the end of this volcanic line. Like the country, this 330 acre site rises and falls creating a very diverse and interesting topography. In Cameroon, Volcanos have severely impacted the country over the years through many eruptions, lava flows, and deadly gases. As a architecture design concept, it would be interesting to see how this explosive act of nature can impact building form and space organization. This project can explore the relationship between dynamic forces of volcanic nature and a beautiful calm research center. The spaces can be fluidly connected like lava flowing and local materials could be sourced to provide the primary aesthetic.

P i c o d e S o To m 6 , 6 4 0 F T

M o u n t M a n e n g o u b a7 , 9 1 0 F T

M o u n t C a m e ro o n1 3 , 4 3 5 F T

P i c o d e P r n c i p e3 , 1 1 0 F T

M o u n t O k u9 , 8 7 9 F T

VOLCANIC LINE


C E N T R E

S O U T H

L I T T O R A L

W E S T

N O R T H W E S T

S O U T HW E S T

C A M E R O O N

G A B O N

N I G E R I A

E Q U AT O R I A LG U I N E A

P i c o B a s i l 9 , 8 7 8 F T

4 5PROJECT DATA

E A R T H

T H AT C H L E A V E S

W O O D

B A M B O O S T O N E

B A U M A M

K O T O K O

M O U N D A N G F O U L B E

M U S G U M

M A S A

P Y G M Y F U L A N I

M O F U

T I K A R

B A N T U

Due to Cameroons diverse landscape and climate, housing typologies vary from region to region. The villages in the northern region build dwellings with earth block as the primary material. The Musgum hut is considered one of the worlds most historically advanced architecture forms. The dome is design off of the catenary arch, the ideal mathematical form to bear maximum weight with minimum material. Many of the early Cameroonian settlements are constructed in a cluster of units around a circle with connecting walls. From region to region, the climate influences the vernacular architecture. The Pygmys and Bantus of the south, construct their dwelling units primarily out of leaves, bamboo, and local wood. The use of thatch roof is very common in most regions.

VERNACULAR DIVERSITY


F A R N O R T H

N O R T H

A D A M A W A

C E N T R E

E A S T

S O U T H

L I T T O R A L

W E S T

N O R T H W E S T

S O U T HW E S T

4 7PROJECT DATA

Only 2.5% of the earths total water is freshwater. 70% of this water is locked in snow caps in mountains, 29% is located underground, and only 1% is accessible for human use. Water is a very precious resource, and 1.1 billion people do not have access to clean water. When having access to water, many men, women, and children walk miles after miles in unsafe and dangerous environments to bring back a jug of dirty water. The process of achieving clean pure water is very time consuming. Many in rural communities must boil this water killing millions of bacteria and diseases. Because the time commitment to clean water, these individuals cannot spend the time studying or building a businesses. When a village has clean water readily available, the city will grow economically and socially.

ORGANIZATIONSCurrently many organizations and humanitarian efforts are helping the rural population and villages. The Water Project: Cameroon, a partnership between Thirst Relief International and The Water Project, seeks to address the clean water needs. This organization is working in the village Nkuv, just outside of Kumbo, providing BioSand filters to help ease this rural water crisis. On an international scale, the World Health Organization estimates that a child dies every eight seconds due to a water-related disease. In addition to the Water Project, Water for Cameroon are also installing BioSand filters in rural locations.

THE GLOBAL CRISIS


4 9PROJECT DATA

Fortunately, Kumbo has had the financial and physical resources to provided the town clean water. The northwestern region of Cameroon has a plenty of water through annual rainfall and river watersheds. The Kumbo Water Authority is responsible for the collection of water from the watershed, treating that water to ensure that it is clean and safe to drink, and distribution. The treatment of the water is carried out through a sedimentation tank, then filtered in 3 slow Sand filters, and then followed by a manual drip chlorination system. The ability of Kumbo to provide clean water has led to their economic success and potential to grow or explode.

DISTRIBUTIONKumbo has implemented a water distribution system to provide its people water through the tap. Unfortunately, Kumbo does not have the financial resources to test the water for bacteria more than 2 times a year. For AREA, clean water distribution through an advanced piping system is vital for the well-being and sanitary concerns for the project.

KUMBO, CAMEROON

WATER EDUCATIONThe process of converting inpure dirty water to fresh water is not an easy task, even for traditional treatment plants. However, the Eco-Machine by John Todd provides solutions for waste-water management and recycling. This machine can be either a tank based system traditionally housed within a greenhouse or a combination of exterior constructed wetlands. In their most basic design, waste-water pulses

Kumbo Water Authority Treatment Facility


5 1PROJECT DATA

WELLS + PUMPSWith 29% of the freshwater underground, it is no surprise that wells are a great solution to the water crisis. This water pools in voids beneath the earths surface. By drilling holes, one can reach this treasure. Hand pumps such as the India Mark 2, can supply enough water to support a small village of 300 people.

SOLUTIONS

BIO SAND TREATMENTThe BioSand Filter is a genius idea, that treats dirty water through a simple filtration system of gravel and sand. This design can either be used as portable household object that can fit in any home or as a system for a larger complex. This device can remove up to 97% of the pathogens found in contaminated water. The filter consists of a container either made from durable plastic or concrete, a lid, and layers of sand and gravel. As the water is poured in the container, it passes through the gravel and sand so as to separate impurities, bacteria, and pathogens from the water. This BioSand concept can be applied to larger scale and be able to filter water for an entire village or complex.

ECO-MACHINE TREATMENTThe process of converting inpure dirty water to fresh water is not an easy task, even for traditional treatment plants. However, the Eco-Machine by John Todd provides solutions for waste-water management and recycling. This machine can be either a tank based system traditionally housed within a greenhouse or a combination of exterior constructed wetlands. In their most basic design, waste-water pulses through a minimum of three different ecological systems that process and filter it in different ways. Each ecological system is isolated from the others so that it can treat waste-water based on its own unique needs, after which the water cycles on to the next community.


WATER CATCHMENTWatershed in Cameroon and some other parts of the world remain the main sources of fresh water and the immediate source of sustainability for the entire population within the communities, especially in the Bamenda Highlands of the Northwest Region. With heavy rains come rushing rivers and floods. By utilizing catchments, Kumbo and the outside regions store, treat, and deliver clean water. In rural projects such as AREA, water catchment is a great solution and necessity.

CONSTRUCTED WETLANDSConstructed wetlands borrow the function of natural wetlands by purifying water and restoring nutritive balance. System are composed of sealed beds or channels filled with sand, gravel, or other media and vegetation. Water travels from one bed to another and through channels over the course of its treatment. Employing gravity acts as a beneficial circulative force. There are two alternative designs of constructed wetland technology are Free Water Surface and Subsurface Flow. The first, FWS, permits exposure of the processing water to the atmosphere. In the later, SF, water level is maintained below vegetation, gravel, and media. The processes involved in water treatment are filtration of suspended solids, absorption of pollutants by plants or microorganisms, and chemical conversion

RAINWATER HARVESTINGKumbo receives on average 60 inches of rainfall per year. By harvesting this resource in rainfall roof collection cisterns, Kumbo and the surrounds villages could greatly benefit. Implementing a state-of-the-art system on buildings and distributing will create more jobs and higher living conditions. More water could be devoted towards agriculture, landscaping, and would be priced lower.

5 3PROJECT DATA

Kumbo has a very heavy dependence on poorly constructed and maintained individual sewage systems. Some households have no sewage facilities and many have inadequate toilets systems and conveniences. The streets show evidence of waste disposal as the town attempts to deal with the many hundreds, possibly thousands of people who pour into it each day to work, shop, or engage in financial transactions. This is most notable around the Mbveh market area. Waste and waste water recycling and composting is not practiced in Kumbo and many outside settlements

CURRENT STATE

The electricity supply in Kumbo comes at high costs with frequent blackouts. The supply is inadequate for the population and many are without power due to financial reasons. The network is full of irregular connections and installations. The Kumbo council is currently working on expanding the electricity network and sources. By 2017, Kumbo is planning on installing public streets lights and extending fiber network for communication. By 2022, new sources of energy are planned to be set up and the electricity grid network to be expanded. Hydroelectricity is very reliable and renewable resource in the area. For the rural settlements, electricity generators are the primary sources for power.

CURRENT STATE

Waste outside of the Mbve Market

Kumbo power distribution plant


5 5PROJECT DATA

5 7PRECEDENTS

LOCATION:

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Gabarone, Botswana, Africa

SHoP Architects, New York

In Progress

270,000 SF

$50 million

w

The ability to design a massive contemporary architectural icon that is both extremely sustainable and highly functional makes this project a great precedent for AREA. The initial concept began with the ideas of Dunes and Deltas of the local Botswana geography. The final design presents a series of four long slender buildings that seems to reach out of the ground, reminiscent of the local sand dunes. The multi-layered overhanging storeys are covered with an energy blanket of a grass, plants, and photovoltaic panels. The four building bars (dunes) are connected in a series of bridges with lush courtyards (deltas) dispersed between and beneath. Programmatically, this building will contain an abundance of meeting spaces, an auditorium, high-end restaurants and lounge areas, fitness facilities, and state of the art research laboratories and workstations . Even though this project seems that it is an economic and architecture stretch for Botswana, the use of regional materials, local architects engineers and builders help with the project feasibility. Similar to AREA, the BIH is planned to be an iconic architecture piece for Africa.

BOTSWANA INNOVATION HUB

5 8 AREA CAMEROON

5 9PRECEDENTS

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The Masdar Institute of Science and Technology is the first completed project in Normon Fosters master plan for Masdar City. Masdar City is aimed to be the first zero carbon and zero waste city in the world. The design of this building incorporates a variety of passive and active environmental strategies and will be used as a test-bed for the sustainable technologies that will be explored for implementation in future Masdar City buildings. The buildings have self-shading facades and are orientated to provide maximum shade as well as sheltering adjacent buildings and the pedestrian streets below. The Institute is the first building of its kind to be powered entirely by renewable solar energy as the entire roof is coated in solar panels. The project is an independent, research-driven graduate school developed with the ongoing support and cooperation of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). It is programed to support up 800 Masters and PhD students for research and experimentation. This is a great example of how architecture in a rural site can be beautiful, innovative, full of local culture expression, and very sustainable.

MASDAR INSTITUTE

Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emerits

Foster + Partners

2010

43,000 SF

$250 million

6 0 AREA CAMEROON

6 1PRECEDENTS

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Perched on a hilltop in a mountainous region, the campus overlooks a verdant valley in northern Rwanda. Outdoor walkways and landscaped courtyards capitalize on the regions temperate climate and beautiful scenery. The 155-bed hospital has four wards, mens, womens, maternity, and pediatric, plus a central building that contains emergency and operating rooms, intensive and postoperative care units, consultation rooms, a pharmacy, and a lab. The project is utilizes sustainable architecture strategies, while using local materials and labor and employing passive ventilation strategies that mitigate the spread of infectious disease. Rather than bring in expensive heavy equipment and professional laborers, MASS a trained and paid nearly 3,900 area residents to excavate the site and build the facility with mostly local materials. The primary cladding of exterior walls were of local volcanic rock. This is great example of how great architecture can fit contextually with the site all while benefiting the local culture and people.

BUTARO HOSPITAL

Burera District, Rwanda

MASS Design Group

2011

65,000 SF

$4.4 million

6 2 AREA CAMEROON

6 3PRECEDENTS

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The Mapungubwe Interpretation Centre is located on the border between South Africa and Zimbabwe in the Mapungubwe National Park. The complex landscape of the park was both the inspiration for the design and the source of the materials for the construction of this building. The complex is a collection of stone cladded vaults balancing on the sloped site, against the backdrop of Sandstone formations and mopane woodlands. The vaults were designed using a 600 years old construction system to achieve a low economical and environmental impact. The ambition was to also integrate local unskilled labor into a poverty relief program by training them to produce the over 200,000 tiles necessary in the construction of the domes. The project is a great example of how contemporary architecture can incorporate historical building practices in new and innovative ways.

MAPUNGUBWE INTERPRETIVE CENTER

Mapungubwe National Park, South Africa

Peter Rich Architects

2010

16,150 SF

unknown

6 4 AREA CAMEROON

6 5PRECEDENTS

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The Druk White Lotus School is located in an extremely rural site in the mountains of northern India and is only accessible for six months of the year. The schools aim is to give children from this remote part of India a high-quality, modern education, whilst engaging with local cultures or traditions. The task was to create a structure that would celebrate and enhance local values, while at the same time making the most of cutting-edge technology and construction methods from the West. Sustainability had to play a vital role in this project due to its harsh climate and rural nature. Because the region is at risk of earthquakes and mud slides, the school uses a timber frame structure with timber robust connections and steel cross-bracing to make sure it with stands disasters. For the project, all the building materials were sourced locally and ARUP relied heavily on local expertise, tradesmen and local building techniques throughout the project. Conceptually, the design is centered around the ancient circular Madala form which is the symbol of wholeness and the ultimate model of organization. This is a great precedent for innovative design without sacrificing tradition.

DRUK WHITE LOTUS SCHOOL

Shey, Ladakh, India

Arup Associates

2001

13,350 SF

$424,000

6 6 AREA CAMEROON

6 7PRECEDENTS

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The Kantana Film and Animation Institute is located outside of Bangkok, Tailand and houses undergraduate students of the local university. Instead of being completely hi-tech looking on the exterior, the building fits in perfectly with its surroundings. The primary material brick is an readily available material for common cultural heritage of Thai society. The simplified from of the brick is transformed into undulating geometric profiles. The massive eight-metre-high walls are supported by a steel inner structure, the cavity between inner and outer skin affording protection against heat transfer. Not only do these the jagged walls frame a lush green garden for students, with corridors that create a sort of labyrinth, but it also acts as a stout defense against crazy tropical weather. The interior of this project is very contemporary while the exterior blends in the environment with its natural materials and tones. The is great precedent for AREA in that local materials can be re-purposed in innovative forms while still adhering to the cultural traditions.

KANTANA INSTITUTE

Nakhon Pathom Province, Thailand

Bangkok Project Company

2011

21,500 SF

$1 million

6 8 AREA CAMEROON

6 9PRECEDENTS

7 1PROJECT DATA

MISSION + VISIONThe African Research and Exchange Academy [AREA] is both a social enterprise and a non-profit organization with operations occurring in Boulder, Colorado and the state-of-the-art campus to be built just outside of Kumbo, Cameroon. Dr. Ajume Wingo founded AREA on the belief that a meaningful life for any human being is a life of responsibility to others and to the planet that sustains human life. By partnering with individuals, organizations, and business around the world that share the common vision of supporting and sustaining the development of the human intellect in order to make possible a fulfilling life for this and future generations, AREA is committed to implement new holistic initiatives and solutions to the way we conduct business, live in the world, and relate to one another and to our environment. AREA is first, last and always about people and the environment that enables them to thrive. These partners are pollinators of change, interested in complete solutions, approaches and actions to human circumstances and problems. The campus in Kumbo, Cameroon will be a place where a broad collection of students, artists, writers, thinkers, technological innovators, entrepreneurs, kings and queens, political activists, and so on would gather from all over Africa and the world for the cross-pollination and collaboration of ideas to bring elicit change locally and globally.

There is a tendency among experts to analyze and divide the problems human beings face into neat boxespolitical, scientific, economic, social, environmental, emotional, cognitive, primitive, modern and so on and so forth. Yet, authentic human problems and life-changing initiatives are never neatly parceled in tidy discrete boxes. There is growing need for a new approach to analyzing and solving human problems that recognizes the unity of the human being with the planet that embodies the human life.

AFRICAN RESEARCH AND EXCHANGE ACADEMY


THE CAMEROON CAMPUSIn a collaboration with the Transformative Education Forum (TEF) and efforts by the African Sustainable Agriculture Program (ASAP) and AREA, Cameroon was selected as the pilot location for this educational base. The involvement of Cameroonians was evident at the beginning through the support of the Fon who was willing to donate land (project site) for AREA. AREA programs will offer residencies to regional and international students, artists, writers, and thinkers while also providing educational and cultural opportunities to local students. This campus will serve as a centripetal endpoint for scholars, artist and thinkers but it will also be a converging center for Kings and Queens from across Africa as well as African statesmen and their counterparts from the rest of the world. AREA will offer state-of-the-art facilities in Kumbo, Cameroon to its partners and clients that are designed to meet their diverse needs. These facilities include residences, office spaces, conference halls, and classrooms for workshops and instruction, leisure facilities for health and enjoyment, and sustainable and economic infrastructures. Construction is planned to begin in May of 2014 and officially open in the summer of 2015. The architecture of this research center is key as the structures should elegantly announce a new era for Africa. The campus should encourage people to come from all around the world.

PARTNERSHIPSAREA seeks partnerships with individuals, organizations, businesses or the combination thereof that share a common vision of economically and ecologically sustainable development relating to these five pillars:

1. Water: collection, distribution and treatment 2. Energy: affordable, reliable, renewable3. Agriculture: sustainable, efficient4. Health: nutrition, food, water, sanitation5. Social Enterprise: to improve well-being

These partnerships, in addition to the African Research and Exchange Academy, will be honest in the pilot facility in Kumbo. The African Sustainable Agricultural Development (ASAP) is committed to developing sustainable commercial agriculture in West Africa, building a fertilizer plant in Cameroon as well as developing a research and training facilities at AREA. Independent Power Systems (IPS) is also partnering with AREA, through their operation of solar and wind renewal power system to West Africa. They will plan to use AREA for training, research, workshops, offices, demonstration and for developing their public relations. Other potential partners include Gazogen, Inc, a Vermont Based company developing multi-purpose steam power electrification plants for use in African villages and for pressing and processing palm oil kennels, Agua Inc., a company that provides sustainable water treatment and biotechnology, and the Navti Foundation in Kumbo Cameroon is a non-governmental organization that aims to help underprivileged women, children and rural populations live peaceful and sustainable lives by assisting them in developing to their full potentials.

7 3PROJECT DESIGN

WHO?AREA will used by International High School and University level students and U.S. Peace Corps as an academic/professional exchange program where they will partner with local Africans on making the world a better place to live. Additionally, AREA will be used as a social gathering and meeting place for high ranking diplomats, kings and queens, and anyone who wants to help better humankind - starting in Africa.

WHY KUMBO?While some might speculate that Kumbo is not the right location for this type of project, It is the perfect location because of its underdeveloped rural natural landscape, wonderful people, and rich African culture/history. AREA Cameroon will strengthen the city of Kumbo economically and socially, putting Kumbo on the map.

HOW WILL AREA SERVE KUMBO?AREA is first foremost about Kumbo. One cannot change the world without first transforming whats around oneself. A large portion of Agriculture, Energy, and Water that AREA produces will be given back to Kumbo to help stimulate the local economy. In the construction of the academy, new trades and skilled workers will be developed.



ww

GAZOGEN INC. STEAM ENERGY

AFRICAN SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURE PROGRAM (ASAP)

INDEPENDENT POWERSYSTEMS (IPS) SOLAR/WIND ENERGY

UNIVERSITYSTUDENTS

AFRICANUNION

PEACECORPS

HIGH SCHOOLSTUDENTS

AGUA INC. WATER TREATMENT

7 5PROJECT DESIGN

MOUNT OKU

17.05 MILES [27.4 K

M]

CATHEDRAL

MBVEH MARKET

CONTEXT


5.91 MIL

ES [9.5

KM]

20

7 7PROJECT DESIGN

16

5

1

3

EXISTING CONDITIONS


2 3

45

4

6

2

7 9PROJECT DESIGN

WATERSHED

MARSH

P R O J E C T S I T E - 3 6 0 A C R E S

E X I S T I N G FA R M L A N D

R O C K C L I F F

TREE

STREAM

T O P O G R A P H Y L I N E - 1 0 F T

C L I F F E D G E

A C C E S S TO S I T E

ANALYSIS


0 500 1000 2000

8 1PROJECT DESIGN

ANALYSIS

SUNBecause the site is in Cameroon and very near to the equator, the sun passes overhead and throughout the year one can receive direct sunlight from the north and the south

SITEThe AREA site is extremely rural and free from any development. Wild ferns have taken over the hillside so that could be an issue to maintain and control. The site contains three main hills and valleys between them and the landscape varies from rocky to lush.

WINDIn the winter months there are strong eastern winds. The architecture of area should respond to this weather and shelter the complex from the harsh cold winds.

WEATHERKumbo, Cameroon rains almost 60 inches per year. This is an invaluable resource and should be harvested and stored for the dry season. Weather barriers will be an issue and very costly.


SUMMER SOLSTICE APRIL 6: HIGHEST POINT WINTER SOLSTICE LOWEST POINT72.3 60.5

SUMMER SOLSTICE (JUNE 21)

VERTICAL POINT(APRIL 6: 12:23)

WINTER SOLSTICE (DECEMBER 21) AMPM

AMPM

8 3PROJECT DESIGN

conference hall/stage (200+ capacity) cafe/bar convenience store/shopping restaurant/kitchen library/study room health center

Modern gymnasium/rec center weight room yoga center (indoor/outdoor) cycling room locker room w/ showers

large swimming pool + spa natural pool/spring 4 acre gardens outdoor soccer/basketball fields

(5-30) - Africa style huts (5 each) (1) - dormitories (50 people) (3) - 2-bedroom apartments (3) - modern 2-story houses (1) - VIP 4 apartment building

Parking Pathways and on site transportation Agriculture facilities (stables, fences) poultry farm bee farm

security offices bathrooms classrooms (9/10) Lobby, reception, check in

crops and food watershed - waste water recycling waste composting Water catchment and distribution, pipeline electricity generation / distribution

CO

MP

LEX

LEIS

UR

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UP

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CLASSROOMS AMENITIES SERVICES DORMS HOUSE POOL LIVESTOCK SUSTAINABILITY

SUSTAINABILITY

CONFERENCE HALL

HOUSE VIP GARDENS STABLES / POULTRY

BEE FARM / CROPS SUSTAINABILITY GYM EXPANSION

HUT GYM / YOGA / WEIGHT ROOM WETLANDS

HUT HOUSE INFRASTRUCTURE

INFRASTRUCTURE

2 0 1 4 [ P H A S E 1 ]

2 0 1 7 [ P H A S E 4 ]

2 0 1 5 [ P H A S E 2 ]

2 0 1 8 [ P H A S E 5 ]

2 0 1 6 [ P H A S E 3 ]

2 0 1 9 [ P H A S E 6 ]


P R O J E C T T I M E L I N E


C O M P L E X

L E I S U R E

S U P P O R T

R E S I D E N C E S

8 5PROJECT DESIGN

CLASSROOMS

C O M P L E X

A F R I C A N R E S E A R C H A N D E X C H A N G E A C A D E M Y

R E S I D E N C E S

CONFERENCE HALL AMENITIES SERVICES

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ROOM

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CAFE

LIBR

ARY

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AURA

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SDORM HUT HOUSE APT.



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FITNESS EXPLORE ENJOY

GYM

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YOGA

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AGRICULTURE SUSTAINABILITY INFRASTRUCTURE

8 7PROJECT DESIGN

PRELIMINARY PROGRAM ZONING

The site for the African Research and Exchange Academy is around 360 acres and the topography creates 3 high points around the site, marshlands, valleys, and cliffs. To the right is a very initial study of possible locations of the primary facilities. The main complex will be the first thing you see on the site and this structure will act as the gateway to AREA. It will include conference rooms, classrooms, a performance hall, shopping, restaurants, and support services. Behind the main complex will include the gym, pool, and gardens. The green shows where the residences are initially located. This location is more private and highlights some of the best views around Kumbo. To the west of the main center, the surrounding hillside will host food crops, livestock, and site infrastructure.

C R O P + L I V E S TO C K L A N D

RES IDENCES

WAT E R C ATC H M E N T

M A I N C O M P L E X

G A R D E N S A N D A M E N I T I E S

M A I N P O O L + G Y M

INFRASTRUCTURE


8 9PROJECT DESIGN

PLANNING PROCESS

The initial design for the master plan of the AREA complex went through many phases. Because it is located on a very large site and in a rural setting, water harvesting and distribution and energy generation were essential. A good amount of time was spent in program zoning and after returning from Cameroon, the design grew out of itself. The sketches below display the changes in the overall master plan of the entire site. To the right, showcase the transformation of the main complex plan and water filtration system.


CONCEPTUAL DESIGN1

2

3

4

5

9 1PROJECT DESIGN

PRELIMINARY CONCEPT DESIGN

The adjacent diagrams depict the preliminary design decisions that create the initial form of the complete. Influenced from both the volcanic landscape and traditional African architecture, AREA is a state of the art sustainable/green complex that will educate everyone who inhabits the space. Water plays a vital role throughout the whole complex.


EXISTING SITE: 8 SLOPE

WATER FILTRATION + GARDENSORIENTATED WITH THE TOPOGRAPHY

MAIN COMPLEX DESIGN IS INFLUENCED FROM THE TRADITIONAL MUSGUM HUT COMPOUND PLAN ARRANGEMENTS

HOUSING STEPS DOWN THE SITE AND IS ARRANGED IN A 32 ANGLE TOWARDS THE CITY OF KUMBO

ENTIRE CENTER IS BLENDED WITH THE TERRAIN AND IS REMINISCENT OF THE VOLCANIC LANDSCAPE AND LAVA FLOWS

9 3PROJECT DESIGN

0 100 400

SCALE200

AGUA INC

CONSTRUCTEDWETLAND

FILTRATION

WATER

ENERGY

HOUSING

ROOF DESIGN:MOUNT OKU

RAIN CATCHMENT

DESIGNPRELIMINARY DESIGN


0 100 400

SCALE200

HUTS

HOUSES

CONSTRUCTEDWETLAND

FILTRATION

APT.

ENTRY

GYM

SERVICES

YOGA

SPA

RESTAURANT

POOL

LOUNGE

OFFICECONFERENCE

MAIN COMPLEX

BEES

CHICKEN

STABLES

AGRICULTURECENTER

WATER CATCHMENT

9 5PROJECT DESIGN

PRELIMINARY DESIGN

The design is influenced by the landscape and is one with the landscape. The terrain grows up and around the complex. a series of rock walls protrude the hill in a radial pattern. The organic pathways encourage social interaction and also educate the visitors on sustainable water and agricultural methods. The tower, which is technically a inhabitable and fully functioning pressurized water tower, creates a dynamic feature at the top of the hill. It reminiscent of the towers of hill castles as well at the volcanic plugs.


9 7PROJECT DESIGN

TOWER SKIN

LEVEL 4: VIEWING

LEVEL 3: READING

LEVEL 2: LOUNGE

ROOF

PRESSURIZED WATER TANK

TOWER DESIGN

MAIN COMPLEX DESIGNThe architecture design of the main complex includes residences, office spaces, conference halls, and classrooms for workshops and instruction, leisure facilities for health and enjoyment, and sustainable and economic infrastructures. The main building is the focal point of the complex. It is the point of entry and includes the lobby, lounges, gathering spaces, and support spaces.

PRELIMINARY DESIGN


MAIN LEVEL

SUB LEVELS [1-6]

0 100 400

SCALE: 1: 100200

CONFERENCE

LOBBY

REST.HEALTH

SECURITY

LOUNGE

POOL SPA

BIKE

WEIGHTROOM

OFFICE

RESEARCH LABS/CLASSROOMS

HOUSING

HOUSING

GARDENS

GARDENS

GARDENS

WATER FILTRATION

WATER CENTER

ENERGY CENTER

9 9PROJECT DESIGN

FINAL DESIGN

DESIGN

1 0 0 AREA CAMEROON | DEREK MCFARLAND

1 0 1PROJECT DESIGN

DESIGN SUMMARYThe African Research and Exchange Academy engages innovators in the making of a better world. It will promote audacity in individuals to rise and face the growing challenges of this world. To that end, the academy will bring together talented people with the resolve to initiate, develop, and realize tangible and sustainable solutions for a brighter tomorrow. Emerging out of the earth, AREA is located just outside of Kumbo, Cameroon. Here is a place where a broad collection of students, artists, thinkers, technological innovators, and political activists would gather from all over Africa and the world for the collaboration of ideas to bring elicit change locally and globally with a focus on rural sustainability practices of energy, water, agriculture, and waste. Essentially, a think tank for sustainable ideas. Influenced from traditional African architecture and the local volcanic landscape, AREA is to become a state-of-the-art international research center and retreat in Kumbo with the operations occurring in Boulder, Colorado. AREA is a real project and it is both a social enterprise and non-profit organization. The client is Dr. Ajume Wingo of Harvard and the University of Colorado Boulder. This facility includes residences, office spaces, conference halls, classrooms for workshops and instruction, leisure facilities for health and enjoyment, and sustainable and economic infrastructures. AREA is first, last, and always about people and the environments that enable them to thrive.

FINAL DESIGN


1 0 3PROJECT DESIGN

84

5

3

6

7

CONCEPT

W A T E R F I L T R A T I O N + G A R D E N S O R I E N T A T E D W I T H T H E T O P O G R A P H Y

E N T I R E C E N T E R I S B L E N D E D W I T H T H E T E R R A I N , R E M I N I S C E N T O F T H E V O L C A N I C L A N D S C A P E A N D L A V A F L O W S O F T H E A R E A

H O U S I N G I S O R I E N T E D T O W A R D S T H E N E A R B Y T O W N O F K U M B O

T H E T O W E R G R O W S O U T O F T H E M A I N C O M P L E X A N D S E R V E S T H E P U R P O S E O F A P R E S S U R I Z E D W A T E R T O W E R F O R T H E C O M P L E X

H O U S I N G S T E P S D O W N T H E S I T E F O R M A X I M U M P R I V A C Y A N D V E I W S

W A T E R I S H A R V E S T E D , D I S T R I B U T E D , A N D R E C Y C L E D O N S I T E

G R E E N S P A C E S E M E R G E F R O M T H E R E C Y C L E D W A T E R S Y S T E M A N D C R E A T E G A R D E N S O F I N F O R M A L C O N N E C T I O N S

M A I N C O M P L E X D E S I G N I S I N F L U E N C E D F R O M T H E T R A D I T I O N A L A F R I C A N P L A N A R R A N G E M E N T S


84

5

3

6

7

1 0 5PROJECT DESIGN

SITE PLAN

MAIN COMPLEX

Situated on a 360 acre rural site, the complex contains three primary functional zones - Agricultural, Water + Energy, and Learn + Live + Enjoy. As the program expands over the years, more space will be allocated towards agriculture and housing. The main occupant facilities are located at the summit of one of the three hills granting great views, visability, and a presence in Kumbo, Cameroon.


0 400 1600

SCALE: 1: 100800

RAINWATER RESERVOIRSTABLES ENERGY

AG SERVICES

BIO-GAS +WASTE

WAT E R + E N E R G YFA C I L I T I E S

AGR I CU LTURALFAC I L I T I E S

L E A R N + L I V E + E N J OYFA C I L I T I E S

1 0 7PROJECT DESIGN

FLOOR PLAN

8

9

10

11

12

LEGEND

CONFERENCE ROOM

PRIVATE HOMES

EXERCISE ROOMS

RECEPTION

SHARED HUTS

SPA FACILITY

GENERAL STORE

WATER RESEARCH CENTER

LOCKER ROOMS

CAFE

ENERGY CENTER

SECURITY/HEALTH

CLASSROOMS

WATER FILTRATION

KITCHEN

VIP HOUSING

LEISURE POOL

OFFICES/FLEX SPACES

SHARED APARTMENTS

GYMNASIUM

RESTAURANT

1

8

15

2

9

16

3

10

17

4

11

18

5

12

19

6

13

20

6

14

21


12

3

4

5

5

67

13

14

15

15

16

17 17

19

20

21

18

1 0 9PROJECT DESIGN

DIAGRAM PLAN

GROUND FLOOR LEVEL

SECOND FLOOR LEVEL

THIRD FLOOR LEVEL

FOURTH + FIFTH FLOOR LEVEL

ROOF LEVEL

W a t e r / E n e r g yH o u s i n g

H o u s eC l a s s r o o m sP o o lP u m p i n g S t a t i o n

C l a s s r o o m sM a i n E n t r a n c e / R e c e p t i o nS e r v i c e sG y mR e s t a u r a n t

W a t e r Ta n kL i b r a r y S t u d yB a r / L o u n g e

G r e e n R o o f sR e f l e c t e d M e t a l R o o f


1 1 1PROJECT DESIGN

The tower, a dynamic architectural feature of the complex, curves upward to a height of 60 ft responding to radius of the main circular forms on the site. The tower functions as an inhabitable water tank tower. At a height of 60 feet, the water is pressurized and ready to be distributed to the entire complex. The lowest lever acts as the pumping and mechanical room. As one can see in the cross section (below), the architecture takes into account the existing topography and tappers down the site. Floors 2, 3, and floor of tower each have specific programs and can be used by anyone in AREA.

WATER TOWER

P R E S S U R I Z E D WAT E R S TO R A G E TA N K


COMMUN I CAT I ON

FAC I L I T I E S

WATER

NATURE

70%

4%

1 2 %

1 4 %

1 1 3PROJECT DESIGN

Facilities encourage intellectual growth and collaboration. Individual classrooms are positioned directly west of the main entrance lobby to cater to lecture and lab needs. A large multi-purpose space lends itself to a variety of functions from performances to lectures. Impromptu collaboration spaces and individual study areas are dispersed throughout.

MAIN BUILDING + LABS

L E A RN

1 3 C L A S S R O O M S

LOUNGE

C O N F E R E N C E R O O M

SHOPP I NG

CAFE

R E C E P T I O N / C H E C K - I N

L I B RARY


L E A RNAXON

KEYP LAN

P LAN

1 1 5PROJECT DESIGN

Nestled into the earth, AREA includes 40 individual dwelling units ranging from three large 2000sf single family houses, five 1500sf spacious VIP apartments, 20 small apartments that can accommodate up to 4 people, and finally 11 huts that can fit up to 4 people per unit. The variation in housing lends itself to the diversity of residents; from students to kings. In using the local topography, the housing units blend into the environment and create comfortable places to call home.

HOUSING

L I V E

2 0 A P A R T M E N T U N I T S

1 1 H U T S [ T O E X P A N D ]

4 L A R G E P R I V AT E H O U S E S

5 L A R G E V I P D W E L L I N G S


KEYP LANH U T A X O N H O U S E A X O N A P A R T M E N T S A X O N

A P A R T M E N T S P L A N

H U T P L A N H O U S E P L A N

1 1 7PROJECT DESIGN

E N J O Y

H E A LT H S E R V I C E S

GYMNAS I UM

SECUR I T Y

S P I N C L A S S R O O M

A R E A O F F I C E S

W E I G H T R O O M

Y O G A S T U D I O

L O C K E R R O O M S

While AREA fellows are hard at work empowering other, when needed, individuals can take a break to exercise and explore all the amenities AREA has to offer. The main restaurant is always open whether you just need a quick drink or a hot meal. In Africa, food is the essence of all communication and social interactions, and likewise, at AREA it is too. The complex also contains world class recreational facilities including an indoor gym, spa, yogo and weight lifting studios, and outdoor fields and courts. Additionally, the facility operates with its own health center, security, and facility offices.

AMENITIES


E N J O YAXON

AXON

KEYP LAN

P LAN

P LAN

1 1 9PROJECT DESIGN

ENTRANCE

The entrance and lobby had to be designed with upmost care. It is the first opportunity AREA has to make a lasting impression on any visitor that happens to arrive here. The lobby opens up in a 2 story high space with natural lighting and ventilation and is surrounded by a second story walkway. As the tower curves from the ground, it forms a series of seating for social interactions. Materiality in this space incorporates a use of locally harvested materials but its application is beautiful - Polished concrete, stone column, bamboo ceilings, and rammed earth walls to just name a few.


1 2 1PROJECT DESIGN

WATER SYSTEM

SITE GOALS

CONSTRUCT A RAINWATER RESERVOIR

PROVIDE EFFICIENT PUMPING AND PIPING TO COMPLEX

CREATE WATER FILTRATION AND TREATMENT PLANT ON SITE

EDUCATE THE VISITORS

HARVEST RAINWATER AND STORE IN CISTERNS FOR LATER USE AND RECYCLE WASTE WATER IN CANALS

MAIN COMPLEX

GREY WATER RECYCLING CANAL

WATER TOWER

SWIMMING POOL

Alongside Agua Inc, a sustainable international water filtration and distribution company based in Boulder, Colorado who provide systems of water filtration through natural cycles of plants. A constructed wetland similar to a living will be constructed on-site and will follow the natural topography. At the bottom of the hill, a rainwater reservoir will be developed. All waste-water and rainwater will be stored and transferred down the hill through the complex in designated water canals that display the filtration and treatment processes. Once the water is filtered to a level suitable to drinking, it is pumped up the hill and stored in the water tower. From there, it is pressurized and then distributed around the complex.

50 200

SCALE100


TIERED WATER FILTRATION

TIERED STEPS THATFOLLOW THE CONTOURS OF THE HILL

NATURAL FLOWOF WATER

CONSTRUCTED WETLAND

RAINWATER RESERVOIR

HAND PUMP

EDUCATIONAL WATER STORAGE

COVERED INTAKE

CARBON PREFILTER

PREFAB CISTERNSEMBEDDED IN WALL BIO-SAND FILTER

MACROPHYTE PLANT

1 2 3PROJECT DESIGN

Every architectural move and design decision at AREA was executed for a designation reason. For example, many of the buildings roofs slope downward. The justification for this design is not merely aesthetically pleasing but it also functions to drain away the heavy rains and to harvest this renewable water source through rainwater catchment canals all over the site. Many roofs are designed to support living growing plants and grasses that blend the building into the landscape but also lower indoor room temperatures. Shading and walkway coverings are essential due to the hot dry season and very wet rainy season.

ENVIRONMENTAL DESIGN

G R E E N R O O F


3 12

SCALE6

R A I N W AT E R C AT C H M E N T

S O L A R R E F L E C T I V ER O O F

1 2 5PROJECT DESIGN

FINAL DESIGN


RES TAURANT

GYMNAS I UM

1 2 7PROJECT DESIGN

1 2 9PROJECT DATA

GABION WALL DETAIL

Throughout the complex, Gabion Walls compiled with local rock from the site are used as both as an aesthetic piece but also it adds to the performance of the building. Gabion Walls essentially are metal cages filled with stones. In our case, the stone are local volcanic rock from Kumbo and the AREA site. The combination of raw stone and smooth concrete likens itself to new era in African development and architecture.


1 3 1CONSTRUCTION

PROJECT COST ESTIMATION TOTAL SQUARE FEET: 111,900 sf DIVISION 1 GENERAL CONDITIONS TOTAL - $1,480,000.00 Permit $40,000.00 Cost Estimating included Equipment Fuel included Plan Reproduction $10,000.00 Travel $50,000.00 Subsistence $20,000.00 Inspection/Testing $50,000.00 Clean-Up $50,000.00 Final Clean-Up $10,000.00 Small Tools included Misc Gen Condition $500,000.00 Trailer/Storage included Temporary Utilities $750,000.00 Bonds included All Risk Insurance included Safety/OSHA Permit included Temporary Fencing included Project Closeout included DIVISION 2 SITE WORK TOTAL - $7,505,000.00 Equip Move In/Out included Traffic Control $10,000.00 Demolition $20,000.00 Driven Piles nic Surveying $75,000.00 Construction Water (dust control) included Dewatering (flood control) included Shoring included Rough Grading $2,000,000.00 Fine Grading $500,000.00 Excavate road $100,000.00 Trench/Backfill $100,000.00 Soil Treatment nic Underground Utilities/Water $200,000.00 Erosion Control (SWPPP) $50,000.00 Underground Elect connection included Rainwater catchment system included Base Rock $500,000.00 Asphalt Concrete Paving $100,000.00 Site Concrete $1,500,000.00 Retaining Walls $750,000.00 Perimeter fencing $150,000.00 Green Roof $700,000.00 Landscape/Irrigation $750,000.00


DIVISION 3 CONCRETE TOTAL - $9,400,000.00 Sub Base included Forms & Accessories $500,000.00 Form Liners (for aesthetics) $50,000.00 Reinforcement (rebar) Cast-In-Place Conc $8,000,000.00 Tree Grates nic Caissons nic Curing & Sealers $50,000.00 Precast Concrete $500,000.00 Floor Toppings nic Rammed Earth $300,000.00 CMU Grout nic

DIVISION 4 MASONRY TOTAL - $750,000.00 Concrete masonry units nic Brick nic Stone/Gabion $750,000.00 DIVISION 5 METALS TOTAL - $975,000.00 Structural Steel $500,000.00 Metal roof $250,000.00 Crane & Hoisting included Misc Metal Fab $75,000.00 Concrete Stairs included Handrails & Railings 150,000.00 Gratings nic DIVISION 6 CARPENTRY TOTAL - $700,000.00 Rough Carpentry nic Glu Lams/Trusses nic Finish Carpentry $200,000.00 Cabinets $200,000.00 Counter Tops $200,000.00 Architectural Mill Work $100,000.00 DIVISION 7 THERM.&MOIST. PROTECT TOTAL - $1,260,000.00 Waterproofing $750,000.00 Water Repellent nic Insulation $100,000.00 Roofing $50,000.00 Roof Accessories $50,000.00 Metal Siding nic Deck Coatings nic Flashing & Sheet Metal $250,000.00 Do

2014 Cal Poly Architecture Thesis book

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