Arba Minch, Ethiopia – Initial design phase
A speculative eco-lodge with 45 chalets on an amazing and unique site overlooking the African Rift Lakes. The lodge is to be constructed utilizing the local vernacular and materials built by local skilled labour. James Barnett visited a variety of tribes and examined their excellent construction skills and varied vernacular styles. The lodge is expected to be low energy in construction, use and life span and fully self sustaining. The design was drafted with pencil and ruler on a tiny table in a guesthouse on site in Arba Minch under the extreme conditions of tropical storms, power cuts and diseases!