Integration of local resources in the Guinea-Bissau single-family house architecture design

Abstract

This paper presents an architectural project design for housing for a middle-high class family in the Biombo region, Guinea-Bissau (Gulf of Guinea region, West Africa). Climatic conditions, natural and labour resources, social characteristics and local architecture all have to be reconciled from an integrative perspective and a challenge for architect designers. To implement the architectural project design, a methodology tested in rural Angola has been adapted, which simultaneously benefits and harnesses resources from global industrial technology. Passive cooling and sun protection strategies are applied and the articulation between local and global technologies is promoted, guaranteeing a dwelling house with dignified comfort conditions that are appropriate to the region.