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AWEWE

Ksenia
Ofray

As a result of rapid urbanization in the 1970s, Khartoum,
the capital of Sudan, has thousands of migrant families
living in poverty. The conditions of displacement make it
impossible for Southern Sudanese women to continue in
Khartoum the cultural traditions that they had practiced
at home. The AWEWE is a non-governmental organiza-
tion that promotes recreation and leisure activities that
address these issues.

The overall design goal was to accommodate as much of
this community as possible and give them a safe place,
drawing a parallel between these women as unique mem-
bers of the Khartoum community and the design elements
of this secure and enjoyable space. In the same way that the
women get together to empower themselves, the design
components unite to create a strong model: the concrete
plates of the entire structure integrate with wood planks
that travel through the space and soften the interior.

The building shape is repeated in the interior and becomes
a pattern for areas such as reception, studios, and a perfor-
mance hall. Some of the interior elements extend to the
exterior landscape, creating a strong connection between
the building and the surrounding area. The use of local
materials ensures an environment the community is
familiar with.

Degree: Moscow State University of Railway Engineering,
Russia, Bachelors of Civic Engineering. ksofray@gmail.com

Faculty: Kevin Estrada and Augustus Wendell

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