A team of third-year engineering students from the Silesian University of Technology in Gliwice, consisting of: Zuzanna Dzień, Aleksandra Kowalczyk, Wiktoria Musiolik and Wiktoria Słowińska, under the scientific supervision of Dr. Jerzy Wojewódka, created an unusual project that combines a modern approach to architecture with local building traditions. The "Three Houses One Home" project is their response to the needs of women in Senegalese villages, for whom giving birth in safe conditions is still an unavailable luxury.
situation
© Zuzanna Day, Aleksandra Kowalczyk, Wiktoria Musiolik, Wiktoria Slowinska
inspiration of local style and culture
The main idea guiding the authors of the project was to create a space that fits in with the local landscape, and at the same time a place that is comfortable and safe for pregnant women and during childbirth. The students of the Silesian University of Technology realized that a sense of security is crucial for women giving birth, so they designed a building reminiscent of a family home.
axonometry
© Zuzanna Dzień, Aleksandra Kowalczyk, Wiktoria Musiolik, Wiktoria Słowińska
Inspiration for the design was drawn from local building traditions. The use of bamboo, clay or traditional fabrics was intended to both emphasize the authentic character of the building and ensure its acceptance by the community. The traditional aesthetics, as well as the incorporation of symbolic kauri shells - associated in Senegal with motherhood - made the building particularly meaningful and embedded in the local culture.
cross section
© Zuzanna Day, Aleksandra Kowalczyk, Wiktoria Musiolik, Wiktoria Slowinska
a place for education, meetings and support
The project is not limited to providing childbirth conditions in a safe environment. The building was planned as a meeting center for women from nearby villages. Its space provides opportunities for workshops and educational classes on health, hygiene, infant care or preparation for childbirth. Educating women is a key element in improving their health situation and awareness of available medical care options.
cross-section
© Zuzanna Dzień, Aleksandra Kowalczyk, Wiktoria Musiolik, Wiktoria Slowińska
One of the goals of the project was also to create a place where women can share their experiences. As a result, the building is not just a medical facility, but also plays a socio-cultural role. Shared activities and conversations strengthen the sense of community, which, especially during difficult moments such as pregnancy or childbirth, is invaluable.
visualization
© Zuzanna Dzień, Aleksandra Kowalczyk, Wiktoria Musiolik, Wiktoria Słowińska
architectural solutions for a demanding climate
The students made sure that the building not only served a functional purpose, but was also adapted to the demanding climate of the region. The structure was designed with natural air circulation in mind, which is crucial in a hot climate. Ventilation between the walls and the roof helps maintain the right temperature inside, and the building was sited on elevated ground to protect it from flooding.
An important element was the creation of shaded areas around the building. Planted trees and greenery between the segments provide shade and a place to rest. A straw-covered roof further protects against the heat, and traditional fabrics were used on the facade to increase thermal comfort and enhance the aesthetics of the building.
visualization
© Zuzanna Dzień, Aleksandra Kowalczyk, Wiktoria Musiolik, Wiktoria Słowińska
sustainability and local materials
The use of local materials, such as bamboo, wood, clay and stone, reduced costs and the environmental impact of construction. At the same time, elements such as the corrugated metal sheets used in the roof structure ensure a high standard of hygiene and durability of the building.
The construction process is based on traditional techniques passed down from generation to generation, making the project supportive not only of pregnant women, but also of local artisans. This has made the building an example of cross-cultural cooperation and a sustainable approach to solving global problems.
visualization
© Zuzanna Dzień, Aleksandra Kowalczyk, Wiktoria Musiolik, Wiktoria Slowinska
Responding to Senegal's challenges
Through the use of thoughtful solutions, the Three Houses One Home project measures up to one of the most important health challenges in the region - high infant mortality and health complications in women during childbirth. The comfort, education and safety provided by the building can significantly improve the quality of life of the local community. This project proves that architecture can be more than just a structure - it can become a response to the real needs of society.
visualization
© Zuzanna Dzień, Aleksandra Kowalczyk, Wiktoria Musiolik, Wiktoria Słowińska