LUKE BENJAMIN RALSTON
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Project Zongo has a vision to begin replacing existing "ramshackle" single story dwellings with well-designed three story developments, each unit having two bedrooms, and interior kitchen, sitting room, and bathroom. Through the building of these modern living units, local residents will learn construction skills and be provided an income, improved environmental conditions, and hope for the future.
The development itself would be constructed out of lightweight concrete CMU blocks. Vegetation in the central courtyard creates a cool environment that along with vents and tall windows facilitate the circulation of cool air throughout the development. The courtyard and scale of the design also preserve and foster the tight living community that is so important in the Zongo neighborhood.
I worked on this project at Shive-Hattery in Chicago in collaboration with coworkers and Community Development Organization Inc.