The Community
Zandspruit is a fast growing informal settlement situated in the northwest of Johannesburg, South Africa. The community consists of approximately 70 000 people of which the majority of people live in informal dwellings. An estimate unemployment figure of about 70% contributes to problems such as alcohol and drug abuse, domestic violence and HIV / Aids. In this extremely dense informal settlement, infrastructural facilities are shared amongst the people. Although there is electricity in some parts of the settlement, many people do not have access to electricity or running water in their homes. Although there is a primary school and government clinic in the area, there is still a great lack of social and educational infrastructure. Church gatherings take place in tents which also serve as community gathering spaces due to a lack of communal areas. However, despite their circumstances, the people of Zandspruit have a great sense of community and willingness to improve their quality of life and their current situation.
Vision
Our vision for the community of Zandspruit is to provide them with a building that will become a beacon of hope and safety in the community. The building is designed to accommodate various groups in the community who seek space for gathering.
The Building structure will consist of a lightweight steel structure clad with a composite panel. The composite skin is assembled from various layers to insulate the building (energy efficient standards). Electrical lighting will be powered by a solar system.
The Site
The new building will be located within the grounds of Emthonjeni community center in Zandspruit
Other successful projects completed by Architecture for a Change: https://www.makearchitecturehappen.com/campaigns/community-church-zandspruit/#comments