Project Name: Zimisele Home Based Care Center

Project Type:
6) architecture

Project Mission/Goal:
1) improve the human spirit
2) respond to our growing need for clean water, power, shelter, healthcare, education
4) address humanitarian crises

Project Description:
Zimisele Health Organization is a registered non-profit dedicated to providing care, support and information to people infected and affected by HIV and AIDS in Umlazi. Umlazi is part of the eThekwini Municipality which has the highest incidence of HIV infection in South Africa. Zimisele provides home based care as a core service but has branched out into other programs aimed at alleviating the suffering caused by the disease which impacts on the lives of countless people, adults and children, in far-reaching ways.

Zimisele has received a land donation from the government to build their first community center and administrative building in Umlazi. The site is located on a commercial corridor in the Umlazi Township. Currently Zimisele is using the site for a temporary kitchen but have the hope of raising enough funds to build their center. The center will allow Zimisele to establish itself as a legitimate organization in Umlazi and also serve as a community resource.

The design of the building will incorporate spaces for counseling, educational development, community meetings, gardening and nutritional development. Sustainable design methods are used to provide opportunities for natural lighting and ventilation. Construction methods will be adapted from local building methods and materials will be indigenous to the region. The building will be an incubator for economic empowerment providing jobs and skills in construction to Umlazi residents.

Project Details:
Location: Umlazi Township, Kwa Zulu Natal, South Africa
Concept/Lead Architect(s)/Designer(s): Ifeoma N. Ebo;
Project Architect(s): Mpho Selepe
Year (s): 2009 to Present
Client: Zimisele Health Club
User Client: Umlazi Township Community
Number of beneficiaries/users:
Project Phase: Schematic Design
Major Funding:
Cost/Cost per unit:
Area (if applicable): 4,600sf
Structural Engineers:
Electrical/Mechanical Engineers:
Contractor/Manufacturer:
Additional Consultants:
Other:

Nominated by Ifeoma

Location