Cascading Community- Graduate Thesis Flip Book

CASCADING COMMUNITY

BROOKE MCDERMOTT ROGER WILLIAMS UNIVERSITY

Cummings School of Architecture

Professors: Andrew Cohen, Ginette Castro

CASCADING COMMUNITY CENTER

Brooke McDermott

Degree: Masters of Architecture

Cummings School of Architecture

Roger Williams University

Date: January 2, 2024

Submitted in fulfillment of the requirements for the Master of Architecture degree

SIGNATURES

AUTHOR SIGNATURE DATE

ADVISOR SIGNATURE DATE DEAN SIGNATURE DATE

“

Water is life and may exist in abundance. But, access to potable water in some parts of Ghana seems to remain just a dream of those that need it. The lack of potable water is a challenge experienced by residents in both rural and urban communities in Ghana, but, it is more prevalent and disturbing in the rural communities where some lack basic water facilities and others have to walk very long distances only to get to a contaminated source.”

-Ishmael Lamptey

Cascading Community Center

Water is life.

Cascading means the falling of water rapidly, while a cascade is associated with a small waterfall. In terms of the proposed community center, this name embodies the functions of the architecture; it works to cleanse and provide water for the community to use and consume. With this, there is also intended to be a rapid collection and sense of community and belonging as a result of the architecture.

PART I: RESEARCH

Introduction/ Problem Statement

In many parts of the world, we often overlook the simple comforts in our daily lives, such as sanitary toilets, shoes, and readily available resources like clean water. Unfortunately, in some regions of the world, these resources are not easily accessible, leading to significant challenges in everyday life. In Ghana, Africa, a population of 27 million face harsh realities where six million lack access to clean water. Nearly 23 million lack access to proper sanitation facilities, and almost 1,000 children under five succumb to diarrhea annually due to contaminated water and inadequate sanitation. In various regions, women undertake long journeys to water sources, only to discover that the water is contaminated and undrinkable, leaving them with no alternative. Looking deeper into the issue, limited access to clean water also adversely affects agriculture, significantly diminishing another essential resource. These distressing statistics reveal the daily struggle for the Ghanaian community that stems from lack of clean resource and highlight the urgent need for comprehensive solutions to address these fundamental challenges.

Although this water is unsanitary, it is the only source of water for the village of Kyeamekrom. As a result, this contaminated water is used for drinking and washing as well as for building construction.

In Kyeamekrom, Ghana, located in the Bono East Region of Ghana, there is only one water supply for a population of 7,000 people, shown in the images to the left. Villagers travel long distances to arrive at this already contaminated pond water that is shared with animals. This water is filled with diseases like Cholera, Dysentery, Bilharzia, and Trachoma.

In 2013, the non governmental organization, Serve Ghana Inc., was formed to provide limited clean water to specific areas of Ghana. The organization works to drill two boreholes to source the water for these communities with the water reaching ten kilometers from the pumps. They constructed mechanized water systems to provide clean water for some communities including, Adaprase, Komfuorkrom, Papase, Enyima, Bamire, Tanoso, Offuman.

Even with this, the resource for many communities remains limited and small amounts of clean water is rationed for the population.

Limited clean water sources can often be rationed between multiple districts distributed by a pump system. If the pump system breaks, there could be no access to water for up to a week which could be detrimental to some community members.

“One person out of every ten has to spend more than 30 minutes to access an improved source of drinking water. Another 11 percent of the population, still drink from surface and other unsafe water sources.” -UNICEF

Experience/ Motivation

My awareness of simple privileges deepened significantly during a mission trip to Ghana, Africa, in 2017. In the pre-trip meetings, our group received detailed briefings, with a particular emphasis of the severe limitations on water usage in the region we would be traveling to. This region was the Central Gonja District located just outside Tamale, the second largest city in Ghana in Northern Ghana. We were sternly warned about the dangers of consuming natural water due to contamination with bacteria and disease. Consequently, we were instructed to rely solely on bottled water for drinking, brushing our teeth, and washing our faces. This necessary adjustment was challenging and prompted me to contemplate the broader issues arising from the scarcity of this essential resource in the challenging natural terrain of Africa.

Another eye-opening experience during the mission trip was the contrast in accessibility to public buildings, a crucial aspect in any community. Our primary work location was a small medical clinic with only one doctor serving several distant villages. Each day, people would line up early in the morning, extending all the way to the road, hopeful to receive medical attention. Unfortunately, at the end of the day, many had to leave without receiving the care they needed and return the next day to try again. As the adults waited in line, children played and engaged in conversations with our group, some even asking for our clothes and shoes, items that were not commonplace for them.

These encounters underscored the harsh disparities and prompted me to contemplate and appreciate the transformative power of architecture in shaping a community. It sparked my interest in exploring how architectural solutions could not only address the pressing issue of providing clean resources but also serve as a powerful tool for holistic community development in regions facing such challenges. The experiences I gained during my immersive week in Africa altered my perspective, leaving me with a profound perspective on the impact of basic resources and infrastructure on the lives of individuals in underserved communities.

Project Statement

The goal of this project is to address the clean water crisis within a village in Ghana, placing importance on integrating local culture seamlessly into the project. This entails a deep understanding of the community’s values and traditions, ensuring that the community center becomes a natural extension of their identity. Beyond its utilitarian purpose, the project will foster community cohesion with architecture that reflects local aesthetics and responds to the specific site and climate. Celebratory events will mark the achievement of clean water access, turning the center into a symbol of unity and empowerment. By combining practical solutions with cultural sensitivity, the project aims not only to provide vital resources but to strengthen and celebrate the resilience of the community it serves.

Jubilant Tree, Fabrizio Primavera & Chiara Schina, Tanzania, Proposed 2020.

Methods for Clean Water

Rainwater harvesting systems are made up of five components, a catchment area, a connecting method, pre-filter, storage area, and delivery method. There are three variations of the catchment area which include ground, rock, or rooftop. Rooftop harvesting is the only method that allows for water to be stored above ground in storage tanks made from specific materials including, ferrocement, galvanized steel, plastic, brick, or stone masonry. The slanting roofs direct the flow of water into a storage system to hold the water until use and usually lasts for about three months. This water is useful for non-potable applications like irrigation, bathrooms, washing, and cleaning. Rainwater systems require low maintenance and cost making it a good method for harvesting water.

Rainwater Harvesting

Borehole Filtration System

Borehole water purification systems enable the collection of potable water found underground. In Ghana, the total renewable groundwater recorded was 26, 300 MCM/year, making it a dependable resource for drinking water and is used by about 41 percent of the population in the region. These systems are made possible by drilling into the surface of the ground and using a pump for the water to then be filtered through sediments to create safe drinking water. The flow of water for a large borehole system can be depicted through stages. The untreated water from the ground is extracted using a water pump and directed through a series of tanks where it undergoes filtration. After this, the treated water can be stored in another tank and then be readily available for use. Access to the water in this region is typically a type of borehole pump similar to the one illustrated below.

Architectural Intention

The intention of the project is to create a communal public building that can serve as a place where the architecture contributes to providing sanitary resources for an entire community specific to Ghana. In order to do this, some important aspects intended for use require looking deeper into the process and methods of purifying water, and how these things can be incorporated into a vernacular architecture. The project would use less energy and create a smaller impact on the environment while still achieving good indoor thermal comfort. When thinking about construction techniques and materials, local resources would be necessary to lower costs as well as increasing accessibility. Local vernacular materials found in Ghana include bamboo, earth/ laterite, grass, and rammed earth. In addition to local materials, it will be important to consider the inclusion of native crops that flourish well in Africa’s climate. This space would connect to a type of communal kitchen where the community could have the option of coming together to use the resources. I believe that architecture properly implemented within a community can work to better both the environment as well as the social standing of the community by utilizing native resources and pulling emotions from its users.

Materiality

In Ghana, utilizing native building materials aligns with sustainable, vernacular, and locally accessible construction practices. This is also crucial due to the warm-humid and hot-dry climate that makes up most of Ghana. Mud bricks, crafted from locally sourced clay and soil, offer an environmental friendly and cost-effective option for wall construction. Rammed earth, a technique involving compacting natural earth, is used for its thermal mass and insulation properties, contributing to energy efficiency. Laterite, a type of clay-rich soil abundant in the region, serves as an excellent material for construction, providing durability and thermal properties. Bamboo, a fast-growing and versatile resource is typically used for its strength and flexibility, often in framing and as a renewable alternative. However in Northern Ghana, bamboo is also seen as a common material for building walls. Aluminum roofs, known for their lightweight nature and resistance to corrosion, are commonly used to withstand Ghana’s tropical climate and rainfall while requiring low maintenance. Utilizing these materials not only embraces sustainable building practices but also ensures the use of readily available resources and local techniques, promoting environmental consciousness and community resilience.

MUD BRICKS

MUD BRICK WALL

RAMMED EARTH WALL

RAMMED EARTH CONSTRUCTION ALUMINUM ROOF

BAMBOO STRUCTURE

Clients & Users

Locals

COMMUNITY Families

Children

The anticipated users of the community center are primarily the local residents; particularly families from the village, and surrounding areas who seek to engage in a sense of community and access available resources. The design of the space will prioritize inclusivity, incorporating architectural elements that encourage social interaction and communal activities. Cultural influences will play a significant role in the design, with an emphasis on traditional aesthetics, local materials, and layouts conducive to community events, meetings, and cultural activities. By aligning the community center with the cultural identity of the residents, it aims to foster a strong sense of belonging and connection, making it a vibrant and meaningful space for the entire community.

Culture

Ghana, situated on the West African coast, is a vibrant tapestry of cultural traditions that shape daily life. Beyond mere artistry, traditional dances in Ghana serve as dynamic storytellers, preserving collective memories and linking communities to ancestral heritage. Alongside dance, traditional storytelling weaves a communal thread, strengthening social bonds during gatherings and fostering unity. The traditional dress in Ghana goes beyond style, becoming a visual language that reflects the cultural diversity of various ethnic groups during dances, gatherings, and daily life. This fusion of dance, storytelling, and traditional dress creates a multi-sensory experience that not only entertains but also plays a vital role in religious ceremonies, festivals, and rites of passage, symbolizing spiritual connections and providing a connection to Ghana’s rich cultural heritage. In essence, Ghana’s relationship with these cultural elements is a harmonious celebration of tradition, community, and artistic expression, contributing to the aesthetics of daily life while providing a shared sense of identity.

Program Outline

Borehole Mechanical System

Communal Kitchen

Crop/ Vegetable Space

Greeting Space

Music/Dance Space

Bathrooms/ showers

Community Connections

Rainwater Harvesting

Borehole Water Filtration

Courtyard Area

Greeting Space

Multipurpose Room

Bathrooms

Activity Area

Wash Room

The programmatic spaces that I intend to include in the community center are greeting spaces represented as courtyards, a music and dance space which would be centralized, a crop/vegetable space, a communal kitchen, a multipurpose room, a wash room, an activity area, the borehole mechanical room, and bathrooms, some including showers. The courtyards would be used as large space connected to the main entrance as well as all of the other main spaces that would act as a place of gathering where the water purification method can be admired. The crop/vegetable space, activity area, borehole mechanical system and the multipurpose room would be the some of the larger programs connecting adjacently to the courtyard/ greeting spaces. Similarly, the communal kitchen would be connected to both the crop/ vegetable space, courtyard, and a rainwater harvesting system making it easy to access the crops being used for ingredients. The rainwater harvesting system would also be used for the wash room as well as the two bathrooms, one next to the multipurpose room, and one connected solely to the courtyard space where there would also be showers located.

Areas

A Day in the Life of the Building

Upon entering into the lobby I am met with a large open space where around me I am intrigued by the movement and collection of water being dispersed. I am greeted by some of the elderly people of the community sitting under a tree, laughing as they share stories with some of the youth that have gathered to listen. As I look to the right I can see a room filled with some people eating some snacks who are conversing and laughing while to my left, I see flourishing crops and greenery as well as some people tending to them and the water system that makes their growth possible. These people are my neighbors, my community, and we all work to tend to these resources, and celebrate their use. Every so often, we cook a meal as a community and enjoy it in the multipurpose room as we feel privileged to have the opportunity to use and maintain these resources. We also celebrate through song and dance in the central space surrounded by water on rainy days with water above around and below us.

Framed Escape, Maude Cannat and Rachel Méau, Ghana, 2016.

Precedent Analysis

Initial Precedents

These initial precedents were beneficial for understanding native building materials and techniques used as a result of climate in each area. Choosing materials strategically makes it possible to create a comfortable environment within the architecture which is seen through all four projects. In addition, each of these also helped with the understanding of scale as they define public buildings.

Gando Primary School / Kéré Architecture

Location- Gando, Burkina Faso, Africa

Gando Primary School, designed by Kéré Architecture and situated in Burkina Faso, Africa, exemplifies sustainable and community-oriented architecture. Constructed with locally available materials like mud bricks and clay, the school addresses the region’s hot and arid climate through climateresponsive design, incorporating features like natural ventilation and shading elements. The building’s innovative roof design, community engagement in the construction process, and adaptability for future needs reflect Kéré Architecture’s commitment to sustainability. Balancing functionality with aesthetics, the school not only provides a conducive learning environment with well-lit and well-ventilated spaces but also serves as a culturally resonant hub for the local community, showcasing the positive impact of thoughtful architecture in challenging economic and environmental contexts.

Anna Heringer Handmade School

Location- Dinajpur, Bangladesh

The Anna Heringer Handmade School, located in Dinajpur, Bangladesh, is a remarkable example of sustainable architecture specific to its location. Designed by architect Anna Heringer, the school is characterized by its innovative use of locally sourced materials and traditional building techniques. Constructed primarily with earth and bamboo, the building reflects a commitment to environmentally friendly practices and a deep connection to the local culture. The use of handmade mud bricks and bamboo not only makes the construction cost-effective but also provides a harmonious blend with the surrounding landscape. The school’s design prioritizes natural ventilation and lighting, creating a comfortable and conducive environment for learning in the context of Bangladesh’s tropical climate. With a strong emphasis on community involvement, the Handmade School exemplifies a collaborative approach to architecture, engaging local residents in the construction process and fostering a sense of ownership and pride within the community.

Framed Escape, Library Location- Abetenim, Ghana

Designed by Maude Cannat and Rachel Méau, winners of the 2016 Earth Architecture Competition, a new school library was constructed at the entrance of Abetenim’s village in Ghana’s Ashanti Region in 2017. With a modest budget and no on-site electricity, the library showcases innovative and sustainable design, utilizing local materials such as earth and wood. The architects prioritized resource conservation, re-purposing materials for bookshelves, seating, and finishes. The library features two interconnected spaces around a landscaped patio—one for studying and research and another with terraced steps for reading sessions. Ventilation is ensured through detached roofing and vertical windows, while the earthen walls provide natural cooling. The construction, led by the architects and the organization eskaapi, engaged thirty international volunteers and local workers providing jobs over a four-month period.

Jubilant Tree, Primary School Location- Moshi, Tanzania

The Jubilant Tree project, designed by Fabrizio Primavera and Chiara Schina, winners of the 2020 Earth Architecture Competition, is dedicated to establishing a new primary school for the children of the Jubilant orphanage. Located in the Uru Kusini Moshi district of the Kilimanjaro Region in Tanzania, approximately 6 km from Moshi’s city center, the initiative aims to provide a holistic educational experience. The proposed school model is designed to foster skill development and confidence in children within a sustainable environment. The vision is to create a protected and secure space that feels like home, promoting a sense of community and belonging. By emphasizing social integration and sharing life values, the project aims to build a community where vulnerable children can thrive and succeed, viewing education as a catalyst for a new and positive human experience.

Youth Center, Community Centre

Eastern Cape, South Africa

Youth Center, Community Centre

The Langbos Children’s Centre, constructed in the rural Eastern Cape of South Africa in 2018 and designed by Jason Erklank Architects, stands as a remarkable landmark of community empowerment, sustainability, and innovative architecture. Located in the undeveloped informal settlement of Langbos, characterized by a lack of formal housing, infrastructure, and basic amenities, the Centre emerged from extensive community engagement. The Centre was designed to provide support for vulnerable children and families in Langbos. Notably, it was constructed using superadobe, a laborintensive, environmentally conscious building method that combines local soil with a small amount of cement. This approach not only involved the local Langbos community in the construction process but also maximized the utilization of limited on-site material resources.

Vertical Circulation

Entry Circulation

The superadobe method resulted in elegant and sturdy dome structures, integrating traditional earth architecture with contemporary design principles. The unique gutter system around the base of the domes harvests rainwater, while greywater from the Centre nourishes an adjacent community garden managed by Langbos residents. The dense superadobe walls provide high thermal mass, contributing to natural heating and cooling, ensuring comfort in both winter and summer.

Beyond its architectural significance, the Langbos Children’s Centre is deeply connected to the community. Through the superadobe construction process, the project employed and trained 30 Langbos residents for over 35,000 hours, addressing issues of poverty and unemployment prevalent in the area. This approach not only provided basic necessities to the local community but also focused on addressing social problems stemming from seasonal work tied to the citrus industry.

The project’s success is exemplified not only by the functional and sustainable architecture it created but also by the intergenerational collaboration with the community witnessed during construction. Three generations of a single family, including young school kids, worked together to construct a building despite lacking prior construction experience. The Centre now stands as a monument to the Langbos community’s achievement, showcasing the potential for creativity and collaboration to empower vulnerable communities and address social challenges.

DIAGRAM

VS. PRIVATE- FLOOR PLAN

Mamkkeot House Community Center

Jeonju, South Korea

Mamkkeot House Community Center

This community center was a collaborative project by Jeonju City and UNICEF, and is a unique playground located in Deokjin Park, Jeonju, South Korea. Built in 2021 and designed by Ilsang Architects, the 178 m² structure prioritizes open-air spaces for children to freely run and play while seamlessly integrating with the expansive outdoor environment. Originally where an outdoor swimming pool was within the site, the Mamkkeot House community center focuses on creating a dynamic play environment rather than a traditional building.

As for scale, the area of the site is approximately twenty two times the area of the building. By minimizing the indoor footprint and emphasizing open-air spaces, the project maximizes its impact on the larger park context. This deliberate approach enhances the overall sense of openness, transforming Mamkkeot House into not just a structure but an immersive play experience seamlessly integrated with the natural surroundings. The thoughtful incorporation of gaps and frames in the design has a profound impact on the perceived scale of the site. These architectural elements serve as visual and auditory connectors, fostering a sense of continuity between the indoor and outdoor spaces.

SITE PLAN

SITE PLAN OF DIARI, GHANA WITH MAMKKEOT HOUSE OVERLAY

OPEN AIR ROOF STRUCTURE DIAGRAM- ROOF PLAN

The design features gaps and frames, minimizing indoor space and blurring the distinction between indoor and outdoor areas. This allows for ventilation within a space as well as connection to the environment and outside community. The changing gabled timber frame defines the structure while also serving other purposes. It acts as a shading device, a safety handrail, and a structural support for various play activities.

Mamkkeot House community center stands as a landmark to the commitment to fostering a child-friendly environment for the community and skillfully transforms the site into a playful and inclusive space, emphasizing the symbiotic relationship between architecture and the surrounding natural landscape.

Vertical Circulation

Circulation

Entry

CIRCULATION DIAGRAM- FIRST FLOOR

Vertical Circulation

Circulation

Entry

CIRCULATION DIAGRAM- SECOND FLOOR

INSIDE/ OUTSIDE DESIGN DIAGRAM - SECTION

Site Identification & Rationale

The site chosen to propose this project was Diari, Ghana. Due to the size of its community, its location in Ghana, its available underground water table availability, as well as the precipitation rate in this location, it proves to benefit from the proposition of this project. Diari is located in the Northern Region of Ghana within the Salvelugu Municipal District. The capital of the Northern Region of Ghana is a city called Tamale which is approximately 52km from the village of Diari, Ghana. As a result of there being a lack of clean water available to this community, it makes an opportune location to implement an architecture that works to purify water and engage the community.

GROUND WATER AVAILABILITY

PRECIPITATION IN GHANA, AFRICA

Location- Diari, Ghana

SITE FIGURE GROUND

DIARI, GHANA

Context

The images to the left illustrate some of the views from the main road that divides the Diari community. This road is one of the only roads that is more developed in the village due to the amount of use it receives. With this, it is also important to notice the existing structures in order to create an architecture that can relate to the community. From view three it is clear to see the typical building construction used in the hot-dry climate such as the series of circular houses made of heavy materials like mud, for its large thermal capacity, and thatched roofs arranged in compounds. In the first view there is more of an emphasis on rectangular buildings as well as metallic roofing sheets. It also illustrates the development of the roads and how it moves over another system similar to view two. The last view also shows the importance and use of shade currently in the location as a result of the climate zone.

Indigenous Crops

Indigenous Ghanaian Leafy Vegetables:

(a) Solanum Macrocarpon (Gboma);

(b) Amaranthus Spp. (Atormaa);

(c) Corchorus Olitorius (Yevogboma);

(d) Talinum Fruticosum (Ademe).

The Northern Region of Ghana, characterized by a hot-dry climate, supports the growth of staple crops like millets, sorghum, maize, groundnuts, yams, and cassava. These indigenous crops are vital to the local diet and agricultural practices. Similarly, local vegetables that have adapted to growing in this climate include, various leafy greens which are used to prepare soups and stews, tubers and roots which are a reliable source of carbohydrates, and orange-fleshed sweet potatoes which contain a surplus of vitamin A. In addressing the region’s clean water scarcity, hydroponic irrigation systems present an innovative solution for plant irrigation, utilizing harvested rainwater.

By growing plants without soil, hydroponics conserves water, allows year-round production, and maximizes space efficiency. Successful implementation would involve community engagement, education, and the development of infrastructure to empower local farmers in embracing these innovative agricultural practices.

Diari Junior High School

Diari Health Center

Primary School

Place of Worship

Taxi Service

Place of Worship

Main Road; Bolgatanga-Tamale Rd

Roads

Nasona Gas Station

Public Bathroom

Diyeli Central Market

C.O.P Diari Central

Pharmacy

Community Demographics

Typically characterized by close-knit social structures, villages in Ghana are often home to multi-generational families living in traditional dwellings. The population tends to be engaged in agriculture, with farming practices shaping daily life along with gender roles where women play the key roles in household and care giving activities. These villages include a mix of age groups, with elders playing pivotal roles in decision-making and preserving cultural traditions. Access to education is a notable aspect, with efforts to improve schooling opportunities for children. Healthcare accessibility varies, and the presence of community leaders and local authorities influences governance. While two villages can differ, a common thread is the strong sense of community cohesion, reflecting shared values and a collective approach to daily life challenges. Efforts to understand and support these ways are essential for tailored development initiatives in these close-knit Ghanaian villages.

In small villages, access to clean water can be a challenge, with many relying on communal wells or rivers. Women and children often bear the responsibility of fetching water, a time-consuming task that can impact their participation in other activities, such as education or incomegenerating work. Urban areas, on the other hand, generally benefit from more developed water infrastructure, including piped water systems and improved sanitation facilities.

Transportation

Transportation in small Ghanaian villages blends traditional and modern methods. Predominantly, locals rely on walking and bicycles for short distances, fostering community interaction and cost-effective mobility. Motorbikes, known as “Okadas,” serve as common taxis for longer journeys, offering a quicker alternative to bicycles, though their usage can be hindered by road conditions and fuel availability. Animaldrawn carts remain prevalent in agricultural settings, facilitating the transport of heavy loads. Shared taxis and mini-buses cater to villages with improved infrastructure, linking them to nearby towns and urban centers. Despite the prevalence of traditional means, ongoing initiatives seek to enhance rural transportation, with a focus on road upgrades and improved connectivity for the overall development of these communities.

Site Plan

Precedent on Diari Site

Climate Data

Diari, Ghana is located in the Northern Region of Ghana which places it within the hot-dry climatic zone, as seen on the map to the right, which Is shaped by the movement of the Inter-Tropical Convergence Zone. The wet season occurs from May to October with peak rainfall from June to September, bringing cooler temperatures ranging from 22 to 32 degrees Celsius (72 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit). The dry season from November to April sees higher temperatures, often reaching above 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit), and is characterized by the influence of the harmattan wind, which carries dry and dusty conditions from the Sahara Desert. This climatic variability significantly impacts agrarian activities, influencing crop cultivation and shaping the region’s landscape. Adaptation to these climatic patterns is crucial for both agricultural practices and daily life in the Northern Region of Ghana.

Regulatory Environment

Applicable Code

PART II: DESIGN

Design Process

First Iteration

Scheme one from the first iteration, took inspiration from the motions of water. Something that came to mind was the spiraling motion water creates as it drains to one location. Inspired by an inverted pitched roof this large roof that would work to collect rain water evolved. Emphasis and importance were placed on the site and climate as well as cultural aspects when designing the placement of the programs. With two main entries, views of the water system are highlighted along with a central space of celebration.

Circulation through the space would be open and free as it would be an open air space with a permeable wall dividing the outside but ensuring ventilation.

Scheme 1

CIRCULATION DIAGRAM

DIAGRAM OF ROOF SLANTS

SKETCH

The second scheme was inspired by similar ideas to the first; it responds to the site as well as the climate while using a different system for clean water collection. This would be the borehole system, filtering the available underground water which would then be stored above the community center until use. This design has a similar flow and circulation as scheme one, although it alters the layout of program to be more orthogonal, maintaining the central cultural celebration space. This space would be sunken into the ground to connect back to the earth and the source of clean water. Perforations in the roof would allow light to enter, creating courtyard like spaces as well as contributing to ventilation. ROOF

Scheme 2

CIRCULATION DIAGRAM

PLAN FLOOR PLAN

PROGRAM DIAGRAM

ROOF DIAGRAM

CONCEPT SKETCH 3D MASSING

Second Iteration

The final iteration developed from the first two schemes and focuses on utilizing both of these water harvesting systems while also continuing to respond to site and climate. It would have five rainwater harvesting systems, each for various programs that require non-potable water, as well as a central space where this water can be returned to the ground water table. In this design, the detached roof reaches a height of 17 feet at its highest point. Around the edges of the roof, there is a semi-permeable wall that allows for ventilation throughout the community center as a result of the two aspects working together. Many of the program spaces have their own walls that would not extend all the way to the roof to allow that ventilation further. The borehole system would have a mechanical room where the filtration would take place and the water would move through several tanks in order to provide potable drinking water.

When laying out the program, a grid system was used as the rooms began to take a more orthogonal geometry. Noting the locations of surrounding building, this also played a factor in order to ensure light and partial views from the circulation paths within the community center. The flow of circulation is open as nearly the whole building could be seen as a place of gathering and celebrating with water above below and all around the community in this architecture. Due to the hot climate, solar shading is another important aspect that was taken into consideration during the design. The crop space was located at the southern most part of the site so that it would be able to receive ample light for satisfactory growth while still providing the majority of the community center with shade and thermal comfort through local materials.

Final Design

AERIAL VIEW OF CASCADING COMMUNITY CENTER

Centralized Celebration Space

Cascading Community Center

Diari Community

Views Between Context

Centralized Space Entry Paths

When thinking about the building, there is a sense of hierarchy in place as see in the diagram to the far left. Within the community of Diari, Ghana there would be the Cascading Community Center towards the center, with the sunken celebration space located within the center of the building. The hierarchy stems from the importance of these gathering spaces. With this, the site approach diagram illustrates how accessible would be for the entirety of the community, with four entrances one located at each corner of the building.

HIERARCHY DIAGRAM Diagrams

COMMUNITY AND WATER DIAGRAM

Multipurpose Room

Communal Kitchen

Crop/ Vegetable Space

Water Faucet Station Rainwater Harvesting

MUD BRICK PERFORATED WALL

Borehole Water System

Rammed Earth Walls

Layered Bamboo Structure

Metal Decking Roof

Metal Screen

Rainwater Collection & Reuse System

Mud brick Perforated Wall

Rainwater Harvesting

The rainwater harvesting system is a simple system that uses the detached roofing and slants to direct water into the into the storage system. There are five rainwater collection tanks located throughout the community center of various sizes for various programs. After the rainwater is directed by the rooftop, it falls down and rectangular geometry which is constructed with a perforated metal sheet which allows for the water to be seen and experienced by the community. This aspect also allows for cross ventilation to occur throughout the building, cooling hot breezes as they pass though the falling water.

Borehole Water System

Rainwater Collection

Rainwater Collection Path

Rainwater Collection Storage Tank Cross Ventilation

DIAGRAM OF ROOF SLANTS

RAINWATER COLLECTION DIAGRAM

VIEW OF NORTH COURTYARD

Programs Using Rainwater

The rainwater harvesting tanks are located underground beneath the five locations of rainwater collection in the community center. Each system works with a series of pipes the work to distribute the water to each program located adjacently, illustrated in the plan diagram to the left.

Pipes Transferring Rainwater

Rainwater Harvesting

Rainwater Storage Tanks Bathrooms

Wash Room

Communal Kitchen

Crop/ Vegetable Space

Hydroponic Irrigation System

Hydroponic systems offer an innovative approach to agriculture that can be particularly beneficial in arid or semi-arid regions like Northern Ghana. Hydroponics involves growing plants without soil, using nutrient-rich water solutions. This method is beneficial for preserving water and enhancing crop productivity. In the context of Northern Ghana, where clean water resources may be limited, hydroponic systems can be designed to be efficient and sustainable using harvested rainwater.

Bathroom System

Biolitter toilet systems present an eco-friendly and sustainable approach to sanitation challenges, especially in rural areas where conventional infrastructure may be lacking, like Diari. Utilizing organic materials like sawdust or wood shavings, these systems promote aerobic decomposition of human waste, producing nutrient-rich compost that enhances soil fertility. This costeffective and water-conserving alternative not only addresses sanitation needs but also aligns with sustainable development goals, offering a practical solution to waste management in regions with limited access to centralized sewage systems. The adoption of biolitter toilets underscores a forwardthinking approach, emphasizing the ecological benefits of decentralized sanitation solutions in Ghana. Community education is pivotal for widespread acceptance and successful implementation across diverse regions.

Bathrooms

Bathroom Ventilation

Open Aeration Tank

Borehole System

The borehole water system is used to extract ground water and purify it so that it can be used for consumption by the community of Diari. Using a pump, the water would be extracted from the ground, and brought to an open aeration tank located on the roof of the architecture which would oxidize iron and manganese from the water. From there, gravity would move the water into the next tank where it would be purified moving through layers including sand, activated carbon, and gravel, which work to remove impurities from the water as it passes through. After this, the treated water can be stored in another tank and then be readily available for use. The water would be accessed from a borehole pump, pictured below.

Community Connections

The Cascading Community Center is designed to be a place where there is ample room to gather with other community members. Some programs that were specifically intended for this aspect include: two courtyard spaces that are considered to be greeting spaces for gathering and conversing, a multipurpose room which is envisioned to be used for many people to enjoy meals or gather, a sunken central music/dance space for cultural celebrations, and an activity area which is a very tall and open space that would be enjoyed by the youth playing local games. These local games are not only sources of entertainment but also serve as platforms for social interaction and community bonding. One popular game is “Damii,” a strategic board game played with seeds or stones on a carved wooden board. Another traditional game is “Lakon,” a form of wrestling where participants showcase strength and agility, often accompanied by lively drumming and cheering from spectators. “Ntumpan” involves skilled drumming and dancing, creating a rhythmic and energetic atmosphere during festive occasions. Additionally, children in Northern Ghana enjoy games like “Ampe,” a rhythmic jumping and clapping game, and “Soli,” a handclapping game that enhances coordination. These local games not only provide entertainment but also play a vital role in passing down cultural values and fostering a sense of community among the people of Northern Ghana.

VIEW INTO SOUTH COURTYARD TOWARDS MULTIPURPOSE ROOM

VIEW INTO NORTH COURTYARD WITH RAIN

Conclusion

Overall, the Cascading Community Center addresses the clean water crisis within the village of Diari in Ghana. The architecture places importance on integrating local culture seamlessly into the community center, making it a natural extension of their identity while providing necessary resources. Beyond its utilitarian purpose, the project fosters community cohesion, with local aesthetics reflected and responding to the specific site and climate of Diari. Celebratory events would mark the achievement of clean water access, turning the center into a symbol of unity and empowerment. By combining practical solutions with cultural sensitivity, the Cascading Community Center not only would provide vital resources but strengthen and celebrate the resilience of the community of Diari, Ghana.

Annotated Bibliography

Agyekum, Kofi, et al. “Professionals’ Views of Vernacular Building Materials and Techniques for Green Building Delivery in Ghana.” Scientific African, Elsevier, 31 May2020, doi.org/10.1016/j.sciaf.2020.e00424

This article helps to clarify the understanding of vernacular architecture and describes the specific use of building materials and techniques in Ghana, Africa. Studies support that less energy is consumed when using vernacular architecture which creates less of an impact on the environment while still achieving good indoor thermal comfort. With this, the key aspect of a majority of studies showed that local materials and techniques were able to create sustainable building construction. Some of the vernacular building materials highlighted for Ghana are bamboo, and earth which includes laterite, grass, and rammed earth. Bamboo is described as environmentally friendly and easily available due to its fast growing rate. In the Northern Region of Ghana specifically, bamboo is a common material used to build wall structures. Earth, which refers to soils which form from organic matter and through weathering can be categorized as laterite. This is defined as reddish soils and laterite rock mixture and is seen to be a very vernacular material due to its low cost, and low impact on the environment. Grass is another common vernacular material that is commonly used as roof construction, more so in the Northern Region of Ghana. From the grass, thatch is made which is a locally available material that holds a large insulation value. Finally, rammed earth, a mixture of materials like soil, gravel, and sand, holds properties of being thermally massive as well as durable. Locally, the technique can be referred to as ‘Atakpame’ linking back to an Ewe ethnic group in Ghana.

Barnes, David Allen. Assessment of Rainwater Harvesting in Northern Ghana, June 2009, web.mit.edu/watsan/Docs/Student%20Theses/ Ghana/2009/Thesis%20BarnesD.pdf

The thesis project by David Barnes provides statistics on the current hardships faced by the population due to shortages of clean water as well as the impacts of climate on the reliability of rain harvesting systems particularly in the Northern Region of Ghana. David describes how accessibility to clean drinking water can have a direct connection to good health of a community. Specifically in the Northern Region of Ghana, 56 percent of the population do not have access to clean water and use contaminated water sources for drinking water supply. In addition, there is also a lack of sanitation where 92 percent of the people do not have access to improved sanitation. As a result these water sources can cause diseases like hepatitis A, typhoid, guinea worm, and diarrhea leading to dehydration which can be fatal to children under the age of five. Another factor that is a

determinant in rainwater harvesting is the climate and precipitation records. Within Northern Ghana, there are two climate seasons, the dry season, which occurs from October through April, and the rainy season which occurs from May through September with a mean annual precipitation of approximately 1m. With this information, David then researched rainwater harvesting and local building methods for the systems in order to assess the state of rainwater harvesting in Northern Ghana. The system is made up of five components, a catchment area, a connecting method, prefilter, storage area, and delivery method. There are three variations of the catchment area which include ground, rock, and rooftop, where rooftop harvesting is the only method that allows for water to be stored above ground in storage tanks made from specific materials including, ferrocement, galvanized steel, plastic, brick, or stone masonry. Following this research, it was applied in the study of several villages in the Northern Region of Ghana, including a community site in Savelugu. Within this region, rainwater harvesting is supported mainly by three non- profit organizations, World Vision, the Presbyterian Church and New Energy. World Vision is an organization that focuses on community development and borehole drilling with its headquarters located in Savelugu, Ghana. At this location, which was one of many studied, there was a rainwater harvesting system implemented to provide water for cleaning, washing, and toilet flushing only, when borehole drilling had proven unsuccessful. At this location, rainwater was able to last for about three months following the last rains.

“Garden for Ghana - California Native Garden Foundation.” California Native Garden Foundation -, 21 Mar. 2023, cngf.org/garden-for-ghana/. The project, Garden for Ghana, was implemented to create a garden that provides fresh crops to a specific small community. The garden is located in a village named Yamoransa in Ghana where there is no running water and no permanent medical facilities. The crops are useful for various purposes from health to food. Some of the crops grown that serve as medicinal are the orange-fleshed sweet potato, which contains a lot of vitamin A which many are deficient of in this area. This vitamin is beneficial for encouraging growth in young children and increases their resistance to disease, and overall health.

Ghana Water Resources Profile Series, USAID Sustainable Water Partnership, winrock.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/Ghana_Country_Profile_ Final.pdf

This profile from the USAID and Sustainable Water Partnership provides information on available water resources, water quality, and how these can be affected by various climate variables specific to Ghana, Africa. The two main sources of water collection are surface water, which includes three main basins connected to the Gulf of Guinea, and groundwater which is utilized mainly in the Western, South Central and Northern regions of Ghana. It is recorded in the water resource data table that in the year 2017, Ghana’s long term average precipitation was 1,187 mm/year while the total renewable groundwater recorded was 26,300 MCM/year that same year. With this, the map of water resources illustrates the locations of cities in proximity to dams as well as the annual precipitation across all of Ghana. In the Northern Region of Ghana, there is low seasonal

availability of surface water making groundwater a more dependable water source for drinking water, used by about 41 percent of the population. However some factors that can affect groundwater are significant fluctuations of the water table as a result of drought and seasonal recharge. Other climate variables that impose a risk on water collection depending on the area are declining rainfall and higher evaporation, increase of drought, and flood risk which has increased due to climate change. These factors are illustrated on maps of Ghana showing which areas have the largest risk factors for droughts, mainly in Central and the Eastern edge of Ghana, and flooding which has the largest risk around Lake Volta and the coast line.

“Natural-Resource Use and Environmental Impacts.” One Planet Network, www.oneplanetnetwork.org/SDG-12/natural-resource-use-environmentalimpacts.

This source goes deeper into the effects of the lack of resources as well as the lack of clean resources on a community and the environment which is useful to begin to understand the impact of this from an architectural standpoint. The loss of availability of natural resources can threaten lives causing issues with food sources, the economy, and nutritional issues. With this, loss of access to clean water can also be detrimental as contaminated water can lead to major health issues.

Oppong, RA, and E Badu. “Building Material Preferences in Warm-Humid and Hot-Dry Climates in Ghana.” Journal of Science and Technology (Ghana), 15 Mar. 2013, dx.doi.org/10.4314/just.v32i3.4

This research paper defines the recommended architectural practices for the warm-humid as well as hot-dry climate zones that make up a large part of Ghana, Africa. A map of Ghana illustrates the location of these zones showing that the hot-dry climatic zone is located in the Northern Region of Ghana while the warm-humid climatic zone is located in Central and partially Southern Regions of Ghana. In an overview of both, hotdry climates tend to have hot, dry air and dry ground with continuously moderate humidity while the warm-humid climate is very different with a continual presence of moisture. The typical building construction used in the hot-dry climate are a series of circular houses made of heavy materials like mud, for its large thermal capacity, and thatched roofs arranged in compounds while the construction method typically used in the warm-humid climate are rectangular houses made of stones, or earth based bricks with metallic-roofs arranged in a grid pattern. However, there have been advancements to construction in hot-dry climates as it has become more common to find rectangular buildings as well as metallic roofing sheets, like zinc and aluminum, due to their low maintenance. The paper describes the three major types of dwellings in Ghana as separate/ detached, semi detached, and rooms in compound houses which is the most common. According to the tables, Main wall and roof construction materials by region/ climatic zones in Ghana (2000), the main building materials for walls in the Northern Region of Ghana was mud/ earth bricks while the main building material for roofs in this same region was thatched roofs and corrugated metal sheets. Overall, the preference for building materials used are driven by cost and availability where most materials that are chosen are locally sourced.

Yousuo Digieneni, Orlando Ketebu, Farrow Timipere Salome. Design and Fabrication of a Portable Tubular Filter Pipe for Borehole Water Purification Systems. American Journal of Chemical Engineering. Vol. 7, No. 5, 2019, pp. 120-129. doi: 10.11648/j.ajche.20190705.11

The Article breaks down a typical borehole water purification system as it would be used to collect and purify groundwater. Through a simple diagram of the system, the flow of water can be depicted going through three different stages. The untreated water from the ground is extracted using a water pump and directed to the first tank which is an open aeration tank to oxidize iron and manganese. From there, with the help of gravity the water is transported to the next tank which is the treatment tank. This tank is composed of layers including sand, activated carbon, and gravel, which work to remove impurities from the water as it passes through. After this, the treated water can be stored in another tank and then be readily available for use.

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