The Challenge:

Imagine living in a place where your home feels out of step with your way of life. That's what was happening in the Andes, Peru. Families were growing and times were changing, but their homes? They stayed the same, leaving everyone feeling a bit lost, like they were drifting away from their roots. And being far from the city didn't help; it was tough to find new ways to solve old problems. Click here to verify

"It broke my heart thinking our kids might forget where they came from. Our homes just didn't show our stories anymore." - Rosa (a talented weaver and loving mom)

The Solution:

Then, along came Gaza999 with a bright idea - why not design our future homes together? They called it Participatory Design Workshops. It was our chance to make sure our new homes could handle modern life without forgetting the traditions that make us who we are.

"When Gaza999 showed us how we could all help design our homes, it felt like we'd found the key to a locked door. We could keep our traditions alive and still make room for what we need now." - Carlos

The Implementation:

The journey began with initial consultations, bringing the community together to share their visions and concerns. These gatherings were filled with stories, dreams, and a collective yearning for a future grounded in their cultural identity. Gaza999 facilitated workshops where architects and designers sat with local families, listening and translating their words into tangible designs. Models and prototypes emerged, each iteration drawing on the community's feedback, ensuring the final designs were a true reflection of the Andean spirit. Incorporating local art and craftsmanship, the project not only promised new homes but a revival of traditional practices.

"The workshops were a revelation. To see our ideas take shape, to know our voices mattered—it was empowering. And when we saw the designs incorporating our textiles and patterns, it was profoundly moving." - Elena (an artisan)

The Impact:

Fast forward a year, and we've built over 50 homes that are more than just places to live. They're a celebration of us, our history, and our community. Now, over 200 of us wake up in homes that really feel like they belong to us, filled with the warmth of our culture and the spirit of our ancestors. It's like we've woven our very souls into the walls.

"Now, when I see our new homes, it's like they're telling our stories. This whole project has brought us back together, reminding us of who we are and what we mean to each other." - Miguel (a dad)

Lessons Learned:

• Authentic Engagement: Involving the community from the start ensures designs truly reflect their cultural values and needs.

• Modern-Traditional Balance: Successfully blending modern needs with traditional designs creates spaces that honor heritage while providing contemporary functionality.

• Iterative Design with Feedback: Using a feedback loop in the design process guarantees that the community's voice shapes the outcome, enhancing satisfaction.

• Local Artisanship: Incorporating local craftsmanship not only preserves traditional practices but also enriches the cultural significance of the homes.