Neros Foundation Report

Health Post Flores, Indonesia

A Neros Foundation Project Working towards an Alternative Approach Sophie Greene with Designscape Architects

2012

Background

3

Consider

4

Develop

5

Construct

6

Future

Initial Ideas

Initial Ideas

Consider

2

Develop

Background

Construct

1

Future

Contents

The Neros Foundation

www.nerosfoundation.org.uk

Ethos The Neros Foundation is a charity working to relieve poverty affecting the inhabitants of the island of Flores, Indonesia, by providing basic yet vital infrastructure.

Progress so far Development supported by the charity so far includes: • The first piped water supply to Neros village • A toilet and sanitation block for Bebot village school • A similar sanitation block for Neros village school • An upgrade to the Neros water system

Designscape Architects Designscape is proud to support the Neros Foundation through its links to one of the trustees, Cara Sykes. To date the practice has given financial assistance enabling the charity to build toilet facilities for two schools. More recently we have donated our time in assisting the charity with its latest and most ambitious project yet to build a community medical centre which will serve a local population numbering in the thousands.

The project will provide a GP style service, health education and basic nursing care. It will reduce local villagers’ journey time to the nearest medical facility to under 12 hours. A plot of land was purchased by the Neros Foundation early in 2009 at a key crossroads location.

The purpose of this report is to assist the Neros Foundation in completing this and future projects on Flores.

Toilet and Sanitation Block

First Water Supply to Neros Village

Background Initial Ideas

The Neros Foundation - Then and Now

MARCELL AND ANGIE MEET WHILST ANGIE IS TRAVELLING IN MARCELL’S NATIVE INDONESIA

Develop

LOTS

FUNDRAISING

2007 TOILETS FOR SCHOOLS IN NEROS & BEBOT + PIPED WATER FOR BEBOT VILLAGE

Construct

2012 BUILD A MEDICAL OUTREACH CENTRE TO SERVE A POPULATION NUMBERING IN THE THOUSANDS

2009 UPGRADE TO WATER STATIONS REDUCING THE RISK OF SICKNESS ASSOCIATED WITH STANDING WATER

Future

OF

2005 THE FIRST PIPED WATER SUPPLY TO NEROS VILLAGE

Consider

MARCELL AND ANGIE GET TOGETHER WITH FRIENDS IN THE U.K TO FORM THE NEROS FOUNDATION

Flores, Indonesia Population Of Indonesia’s large and growing population of 245 million, just 1.6 million live on Flores, an island east of Bali, and the gateway to see Komodo dragons. Dominated by a string of volcanoes the long impenetrable terrain has divided the island into many distinct ethnic groups, each with their own traditions and languages. Most inhabitants live in small villages set amongst the mountainous topography, the largest town on the island, Ende, having a population of several thousand.

Flores owes it name to the Portuguese who discovered the island in the 16th century and called its easternmost cape Cabo da Flores meaning ‘Cape of Flowers’. The island was subsequently colonised by the British, Dutch and Japanese.

Flores is now part of the Republic of Indonesia and is split into eight regencies or local government districts. Neros is located in West Flores in the Central Manggarai Regency (district capital Ruteng).

During the months between October and March heavy rain falls for aound 2 hours a day.

Built Environment Despite recent unrest and separatist conflict in other parts of Indonesia Flores remains a peaceful backwater.

Natural Environment The island’s turbulent volcanic past has left a complicated relief of V-shaped valleys, knife-edged ridges, and a collection of (14) active and extinct volcanoes. The central mountains slope gently to the north, but along the south coast spurs plunge steeply into the sea.

The tropical climate keeps average temperatures at a constant 25-26 degrees Celsius all year round. Humidity levels are also consistently high. The rainy season lasts from November to March. West Flores has a tendency to experience a long and severe dry season (April to September) which can cause water shortages, particularly in West Manggarai where the climate is semi-arid.

As you move higher in altitude, away from the beaches and into the high mountain ranges, the climate will become cooler and more humid.

Historically the Florinese lived communally in large homes elevated off the ground on stilts. Houses had a thatched saddle-backed roof with an extended ridge-line; these roofs often featured highly exaggerated points to the eaves, soaring up like buffalo horns. This way of life was discouraged under Dutch rule on the grounds of being unhygienic and most of these impressive traditional buildings are now long gone.

In modern times, as in many developing countries, a default technology has emerged of concrete block walls and sheet metal roofing. Unfortunately these materials are expensive and use non-sustainable methods of production, despite a local perception that they represent a significant leap forward in terms of modernisation.

Timber, bamboo frames and matting are still used, as is the tradition of an elevated ground floor and a veranda.

A large traditional house known as a ‘rumah adat’.

Background Initial Ideas

Location

...Indonesia encompasses more than 17,000 islands...

Develop

Consider

Rippling across the equator for nearly 5000km...

...Flores sits east of Bali as one of the islands which make up Indonesia’s vast archipelago.

Future

Construct

CENTRAL MANGGARAI

Flores, Indonesia Religion Flores is almost entirely Catholic and represents one of the “religious borders” created by the Catholic expansion in the Pacific and the spread of Islam from the west across Indonesia. There are some interesting cultures here, with layers of traditional beliefs beneath the prevalent Christianity, especially in rural areas. Age old beliefs and practices are preserved and animist rituals are still important for births, marriages and deaths, and to mark important points in the agricultural cycle.

Culture The island’s diverse cultures have enough similarities to suggest that they developed from a common ancestry, differentiated by geographical isolation and the varying influence of outsiders. Difficulties in communication have contributed to the diversity of Flores’ cultures. In more remote areas some older people don’t speak a word of

Features of a traditional village include a ‘compang’, an ancestor altar composed of raised stone burial platform, and houses known as ‘rumah adat’.

Leisure Bahasa Indonesia and their parents grew up in purely animist societies. The island’s population is divided into five main linguistic and cultural groups. From west to east these are the Manggarai (Ruteng), the Nagada (Bajawa), the closely related Ende and Lio peoples (Ende), the SIkkanese (Maumere), and the Lamaholot (Larantuka).

Soccer and badminton are national sporting obsessions in Indonesia, and volleyball is played in villages everywhere.

Sepak Raga, a combination of volleyball and soccer played with a rattan ball is also popular. Caci is an important ceremonial martial art; a trial of strength and courage in which participants duel with whips and shields.

Making a Living

Celebrations

The Manggarai still rely on a subsistence living traditionally practising a slash-and-burn agriculture. Rice cultivation was introduced by the Dutch around 1920. Maize (sweet corn) is the other main crop, though other crops (such as coffee and onions) are grown for export. Fishing is a major industry along the coast. Handicrafts are playing an important role too. In eastern Flores the production of ikat is very prominent. These textiles are still worn as everyday dress in many places and also have ritual functions.

During times of celebration such as harvest community spirit is strongest. A communal meal is prepared and, following speeches and the recital of ancestral songs and stories, it is eaten together; sometimes from a single large banana leaf piled with dishes. Village life on Flores is very basic, simple and tough. Despite hardship the inhabitants are amazing people living as a solid community where everyone looks out for each other and they really pull together at times of harvest, festivals, disease and scarcity.

Caci, a ritual whip fight, is a major element of Manggarai cultural identity.

Cotton weaving known as ‘Ikat’ and bamboo weaving are among traditional crafts practiced on Flores.

Background In order that we as designers can work towards a solution we must first look at the health risks that the people of Flores are currently facing.

•

Mosquito-borne illnesses (malaria, dengue fever and Japanese encephalitis) • Water / food-borne and parasitic diseases (cholera, hepatitis, measles, typhoid and tuberculosis ); currently the second highest cause of death in Indonesia • Polio and leprosy; close to elimination

Initial Ideas

Degenerative diseases (cancer, circulatory diseases, tobacco dependence, mental health) • Rabies • HIV / AIDS • Avian influenza (bird flu) • Pregnancy; 1 in 250 women die during pregnancy.

Equipment needed to assist with treatment

• • •

Cold store for immunisations and medicines Electric lighting Hot water

Medical staff The Neros Foundation has secured the support of the local governor (Regent) who has committed to providing a doctor and nurse to staff the centre. The Foundation will retain ownership of the buildings and site; to be leased to the government for a peppercorn rent.

The medical centre with facilitate the introduction of childhood vaccination programmes and sessions for pregnant women.

The majority of villagers rely on farming and fishing to feed their families and make a living, the time and expense of travel to and staying in hospital can be unaffordable.

The nearest hospital in Ruteng requires a typical 8-10 hour journey by foot and truck

Future

Construct

Although government funded nurses should visit the larger villages on Flores, in practice this does not happen regularly and access to health care is extremely limited.

Medical assistance is available in hospitals located in the island’s main towns such as Ruteng, but there are many factors which deter people from travelling to these facilities. The first deterrent is the distance. Patients often have to undertake an arduous journey on foot and by truck lasting between eight to ten hours. Hospitals in Indonesia do not provide food so unless patients have relatives living in town they must purchase food while at hospital. This

•

Consider

The Neros Foundation has identified a need for basic medical care for those living outside the main towns on Flores. It believes that lives can be saved through simple and inexpensive schemes like GP clinics, childhood vaccination programmes, education for women and new mothers, etc.

represents a considerable cost for people used to living off the produce of their own land. Finally, many villagers are reluctant to travel to the town. They are rural people with a limited education and can be intimidated by situations of which they have little experience. As a consequence of all these factors, many villagers only travel to the hospital when their medical needs are serious and often too late for treatment to be fully effective. There is almost no access to basic preventative medicine or health education.

Develop

Health care

Neros Village E SIT

SNIET REO S

Background Rural buildings on Flores have simple needs. Electricity for lights, etc, is typically provided by a diesel generator.

We are keen to make better use of available resources by making this a secondary supply, with most energy provided by roof mounted photovoltaic panels. This is a technology that is already in use in the surrounding area.

The project has been greatly welcomed by the Regent and local villagers alike, and the Neros Foundation has earned much respect through previous projects.

A nearby spring will be purchased so that a water supply can be piped onto site. One of the first jobs will be to construct a storage tank; noting that stagnant water must be covered to prevent the spread of disease.

There is no foul drainage on site so the provision and siting of a cesspit will be identified in the early stages of construction. Toilets and washing facilities will be positioned close by. The design of sanitary facilities is an area which deserves further investigation as we aim to minimise the risk of contamination and spread of disease.

Security is not considered to be such an issue that the site be segregated from the community. Rather the layout and siting of buildings has been considered to provide a series of thresholds between the crossroads and the wards that prefer privacy and reduced disturbance. Secure storage areas are provided for medicines, etc.

The design of the buildings responds to guidance on construction within an earthquake zone and is an enhancement to the standard methods of construction.

Looking towards the site from the crossroads (the site extends from behind the timber shack down the slope to the right).

Future

Construct

It is one of its key principles that the Neros Foundation actively encourages local participation in all its projects.

This both encourages community ownership and enhances the local economy by employing local labour for construction. Building on these aims this project will also encourage the use of local resources and new construction techniques in order to introduce more sustainable and hopefully cost effective methods of construction to the people of Flores.

Security and Safety

Consider

Local Community

Building Services

Develop

A site has been purchased on a crossroads linking Ruteng to the villages of Neros, Bebot, Wano and Pejek. The site is valued as a significant transport interchange and gathering place for surrounding rural communities. The site covers roughly 6 hectares, splaying out from its narrowest point at the crossroads, 9m wide, to 100m wide at the farthest end, 120m away. The site is uneven, covered in undergrowth and slopes in two directions.

Initial Ideas

Site Factors 1

Clinic Site

Background

Site Factors 2 EXISTING TREES

Existing mature trees provide important shade and focal points. Thought should be given to see how they might be incorporated into the design.

Initial Ideas

The site lies directly adjacent to existing houses.

A ‘bus stop’ on the crossroads at the southern edge of the site provides transport links for local people using the health post. Roads and paths within the site will be built as part of the works.

...EXPANSION

SLOPE

There are plans to build a market place of shops including a motorbike repair shop close to the clinic.

It is hoped that income from the rent of the shops could support the upkeep/further development of the project.

SL

OP Develop

E

VIEWS

The site slopes on two sides towards the east and the north. There is an area of flat land at the top of the slope towards the rear of the site. This has been identified as the most favourable location to build upon.

Consider

ACCESS

ENVIRONMENTAL

VIEWS

Construct

The site is located on a hillside affording views to and from the site in several directions. This gives the health post a presence as well as an opportunity to design around the available views.

10

Future

Despite its upland location there is no prevailing wind to speak of on site.

Flores is subject to large quantities of rain in the wet season so the design will need to incorporate storm drains and channels. Rainwater harvesting will also be considered as a potential enhancement.

Planning - Strategy

Centred

Clustered

Cornered

Courtyard

Placing a building in the middle of a space minimises the amount of usable space around it.

11

Placing a building towards a corner or side of a space increases the amount of useful space elsewhere.

Clustering buildings created narrow dark alleyways and restricts the amount of natural light & ventilation in each space.

Buildings can be arranged to create useful and attractive communal spaces such as central courtyards. Buildings can be linked with covered walkways for shelter purposes.

‘Uganda Schools Design Guide’ compiled by Matt Clay and Ben Slee, on behalf of the Fielden Foundation, discusses the importance of situating buildings to create the best use of space available. Some guiding principles are laid out. Although the report is focused on school design many of the same principles can be applied when planning the health post. Following their advice leads to a layout that provides a good beginning from which the project can grow as required.

Corridors

The organisation of buildings on the site can create main ‘corridors’ and views through the complex. It is important to try and arrange buildings to take advantage of existing trees and other natural features which help give it a sense of place.

Background

Planning - Relating Functions and Zones

WARDS MALE TOILETS SHOWERS

NURSES STATION

CONSULTATION

CENTRAL COURTYARD Consider

RECEPTION

ENTRANCE

Initial Ideas

FEMALE

MORTUARY

MEDICINE & APPARATUS & OFFICE

MORTUARY

WAITING

TOILETS

Develop

TRAINING/ COMMUNITY

Construct

KITCHEN

Future

TOILETS

WARDS

COMMUNITY +

COURTYARD

CONSULTATION

RECEPTION

ENTRANCE

12

Brief - Spatial Strategy W AR D

Site Arrangement Arranging buildings according to their function and the people who will use them allows straight forward navigation of the site. Spacing buildings correctly will enable future expansion as well as improving the quality of the spaces in between.

- Access to nurse’s station and toilets via covered link between both wards.

D R A W RE C

D AR W

- Orientate the Clinic so that the reception block sits between the wards and the crossroads and public approach.

CIL AN RY LA

EP

TIO

N

- Locate houses close to existing hamlet to join community.

HO

ES S U

- Serve houses and mortuary with their own access.

13

- Wards have space for 6-8 patient with male and female areas segregated.

Provide room for future expansion.

LIC PUB

- Food preparation & toilets for family members separated by orientation.

Background

Brief - Accommodation Requirements Required Spaces

Staff Accommodation • House for Doctor • House for Nurse • Bunk-house for trainee nurses

Support Facilities (Public) • Cooking / food preparation • Toilets and washing facilities

Initial Ideas

Wards (Private) • The wards provide overnight accommodation for patients and key family members Wards Support Facilties • Nurses’ station / office • Toilets and washing facilities • Mortuary

Consider

Reception (Semi Public) • Waiting area • Consulting rooms • Doctor’s office • Secure storage for medicines, etc

Develop

Public / Private Separation

Extended family members may also attend visits and hence part of the brief is to provide community space for them (separate from the wards to prevent disturbing the patients) including somewhere to prepare food and associated sanitary facilities. This space is labelled ‘public’ .

14

Future

Construct

It is normal practice for Indonesian families to accompany their sick relatives to hospital and to stay with them for the duration of time that they are being treated. Family members provide support for the patient, feeding and looking after them during their stay. Typically one of them will sleep on the floor beside the patient.

An Architect’s Response

15

Future

16 Construct

Develop

Consider

Initial Ideas

Background

Layout

17

Background

Ideas of Form Creating a Modular Approach

Module with door opening

Consider

A modular approach will allow the health post to be built in stages and enable additions and future projects to be put together using an established ‘kit of parts’. By using simple forms and construction techniques that are similar to those currently practised we hope for a gradual improvement of local construction techniques and expertise. Enhancing existing understanding with both modern and traditional methods and materials can help creating a more sustainable higher quality result.

Initial Ideas

The proposed technology must be transferrable and presented in a way in which local villagers understand and embrace. Our approach is one of simplicity and repetition.

Develop

The design revolves around three buildings of similar construction housing the wards and reception block.

Construct

Module with window opening

18

Future

Standard module

Brief - Material Objectives

Steel rod used as reinforcement is expensive and may be used sparingly leading to structural weakness

To move away from the default material...

The communities of Flores have largely abandoned their traditional building methods and at present the local vernacular has evolved into using imported cement to make home made concrete blocks, topped with roofs clad in metal sheets or expensive imported tiles.

...and work towards a more sustainable future It is the duty of every designer to work to provide suitable alternative technologies that make best use of limited resources and do not rely on expensive imported products.

The challenge is to provide solutions that the people of developing countries, particularly those in rural areas, can aspire to using when considering their built environment.

In order for these technologies to be adopted, in place of say the concrete default, the alternatives must provide a like for like robustness and proven longevity. To be truly sustainable it has to have the ability to be replicated without the need for further subsidies or charity.

Large reinforced concrete columns are required to support the walls

Structural supports use more steel and poured concrete requires timber formwork

Hand formed bricks, often made on site, are mostly uneven in size, requiring use of excess mortar (up to 3 cm thick). Since the walls are not aesthetically pleasing they are often rendered / plastered which further increases the cost of construction

‘Batuku’ construction - the adopted local building vernacular in Flores and much of rural Indonesia.

Locally available materials

19

Block making using timber forms and concrete mixed on site. Forms are reused by villagers for each building project.

We are keen to adopt traditional building methods alongside modern techniques which create a hybrid technology combining old and new. By doing so we hope to reintroduce locally available materials, promoting their use on this project and in future construction in the region. Incorrect use of these materials can degrade their reputation. Research, testing and careful planning help ensure that introduced methods are correct, successful and sustainable.

Bamboo is fast growing and in abundance in Indonesia.

Its strength can be comparable to steel.

Soil excavated for building works can be used to build with.

The 2.8 billion metric tons of cement produced worldwide annually contributes more than 5% of all mankind’s carbon dioxide emissions.

• Based on current growth cement plants around the world are projected to churn out almost 5 billion tonnes of CO2 annually by 2050 - 20 times as much as the government has pledged the entire UK will produce by that time over all its CO2 distribution channels.

• Concrete is the second most used product on the planet after water.

• The manufacturing process of cement depends on burning vast amounts of coal or natural gas in kilns.

• Production is reliant on the decomposition of limestone, a chemical change which releases carbon dioxide as a by product.

• Quarrying causes scarring on the landscape.

• Cement plants require large amounts of land and long distances are often travelled to distribute the product.

Background

climate change is likely to become catastrophic and irreversible.

The main components of Cement are quarried by drilling and blasting...

heat in rotary kilns oxidises the calcium carbonate

Initial Ideas

•

rise of 2°C by 2050 that scientists have estimated is the limit of safety; beyond which

...materials are crushed and dried...

Consider

Cement: Facts and Figures

Global carbon emissions from burning fossil fuels are up 48% on 1992. Increase in fossil fuel use of this magnitude is likely to carry the world far beyond the temperature

...More heat is required for the during sintering temperatures of 1450 degrees C to make ‘clinker’.

High capacity fans are used to cool the clinker

Develop

Embodied Energy & CO 2

Gypsum is added.

The mix is fed into the grinding mill to produce cement.

17.7%. From the factory in East Java cement travels around 1000 km by truck and boat before arriving on Flores.

Cement: Production & Distribution Process

distance travelled to site: 1000 km

20

Future

There are 3 cement manufacturing plants in Indonesia owned by IndoCement (two of these plants are on Java, one is on Kalimantan). Indonesia is the largest Asian market for cement, in 2011 the demand here grew by

Construct

IndoCement in Indonesia

Interlocking Compressed Earth Block (ICEB) Compressed earth blocks (CEB) are a development of traditional adobe construction and consist of a mix of soil and sand compressed with a hydraulic machine to form a building block. The blocks are made economically from local materials and do not need to be fired or require a high cement content. The technology is widely considered to be affordable, environmentally sound, user friendly, performs well, versatile in use, among others.

However, like with any other construction technology, care must be taken to ensure quality. The quality of CEBs depends on good and locally available soil selection, a stabiliser to compliment the type of soil, and good practices during production and implementation.

Innovations Interlocking Compressed Earth Blocks (ICEBs) are moulded to include and interlocking feature which means they can be dry stacked like Lego simplifying construction and eliminating the need for a mortar bed. This increases the sustainability of construction by further reducing the need for cement mortar.

Hollow blocks allow for the installation of both vertical and horizontal reinforcement. This helps the technology to cope with higher / larger buildings and provides earthquake resistant structures without the need for a separate structural frame.

21

Advantages

•

Locally accessible - the soil used to produce the block can come directly from the site saving transportation costs.

• Energy-efficient and durable construction.

• Very little moisture is required to produce a ICEB reducing the risk of shrinkage and cracks.

• The precision of shaping earth in a steel mould results in a standardised product. Its clean edges and smooth surfaces allow the blocks to be left exposed as a the final finish. Standardisation leads to more accurate cost estimating.

• A range of block sizes can be produced from a single machine by using different moulds.

• Blocks can be reinforced with steel or bamboo.

This method also creates a structure that is earthquake resistant.

• Due to the interlocking nature of the blocks wall construction is easier and quicker.

Stage 1: The mix is prepared and put in the machine press

Stage 2: The press is operated by one person

Disadvantages

•

Traditional masonry requires skilled labour and although skilled masons are not needed for constructing the walls a certain amount of training is required to ensure that block sizes are consistent, walls are properly aligned and no gaps are left which might weaken to wall.

• The soil type must have some clay content and the appropriate soil - sand - cement ratios must be determined and tested prior to production.

• ICEB technology is relatively new and untested.

Stage 3: The pressed block is ready for curing

Background Gando, Burkina Faso

FCB Studios used the innovation of a lime stabilized earth compacted brick and modular soft wood frame for this project; constructed without the need for cranes or scaffolding.

The structure by Francis Kere Architects comprises traditional load-bearing walls made from stabilized and compressed earth blocks. Concrete beams run across the width of the ceiling and steel bars lying across these support a ceiling also of compressed earth blocks.

West Sumatra, Indonesia

A residential project completed using blocks manufactured with the ICEB press.

22

Construct Future

Finalise Construct

Medical Centre, Malawi

Develop

Consider

Initial Ideas

Construction Examples

Bamboo Bamboo is considered an especially sustainable building material. Its rapid rate of growth makes it attractive as a renewable resource. Bamboo has been found to be strong enough to compete with steel in some applications. This accessible, low cost material has recently fallen out of favour on Flores. It is seen as a ‘poor man’s timber’ and is commonly used as scaffolding and for building temporary shelters. Traditional bamboo buildings are typically replaced with masonry or concrete when their owners can afford to do so.

There is a growing interest in the use of bamboo and when used with care and consideration, durable and attractive constructions can be achieved. We hope that introducing new techniques for the use of bamboo will make it more socially acceptable and re-invigorate an otherwise under used and potentially valuable local resource.

The cost of bamboo is almost half that of timber on Flores, and although timber appears to be a plentiful resource on the island it is difficult to ensure that the procurement of timber is carried out in a sustainable manner.

“During the storm, the bamboo folds but does not break.

Its sheets shake in the wind but do not fall. The bamboo bends, and thus it survives and is essential.”

theskyisbeautiful (Bamboo school, Nha Trang) 23

Preservation technique #1 : Immersion

Advantages

• •

Locally accessible.

Bamboo is the fastest growing plant on Earth; full strength is achieved in 2 or 3 years. Cultivating Bamboo can give very high yields if managed properly.

• Used as a timber substitute, bamboo forms a very durable material when treated that is harder and lighter than other timber.

• Recyclable.

• In comparison to rigid steel and concrete, bamboo is flexible and is well suited for use in earthquake zones.

In Indonesia bamboo has been proven to sustain storm and earthquake damage.

Immerse in fresh water for 3-4 weeks so that nourishment for insects is removed. Can use a stream or a pond for this; stagnant and running water are both appropriate.

Preservation technique #2 : Impregnation Treat with naturally occurring chemical insecticide (typically a weak borax / boric acid solution). Drill to create a hollow interior through which the solution can be absorbed. Immerse for 5-6 days then dry.

Disadvantages

•

Highly attractive to mould and fungi, termites and powder-post beetles. Its strength can be compromised with contact with wet soil and pests. Without any protective treatment bamboo durability is less than two years with most species.

• Its low cost / low status can cause people to be reluctant to apply it. Hence the technology must be carefully introduced to builders and local people.

• Fixing and joining can be problematic. Nails split bamboo and local creepers or thin strips of bamboo traditionally used to bind joints are in danger from termites. These methods require a high skill level.

• Must be harvested in the dry season.

Preservation technique #3 : Heat Heat bamboo in a kiln for a short period, or immerse in hot water for 25 minutes.

Background Chennai, India

Woven bamboo is used for the shutters on this project by emergencyarchitects.org.au.

This allowed women to become involved in the construction therefore increasing the community’s sense of ownership and the passing on traditional skills.

A stage engineered out of bamboo features in a design for an orphanage by FCB Studios.

The wide canopy provides shelter from the weather as well as enabling rainwater harvesting. The space is used for performances, praying, playing and as a meeting place.

A school near Nha Trang, Vietnam uses bamboo, concrete, brick and corrugated metal sheets. Bamboo’s structural qualities are used in the framework and its decorative qualities for the façade and ceilings. Patios aerate the rooms and the roof form allows for the evacuation of hot air which rises through the bamboo false ceilings.

24

Future

Construct

Ghizo, Solomon Islands

Develop

Consider

Initial Ideas

Construction Examples

Roof - Materials Sheet Materials Corrugated sheet metal is the most common roofing material in Flores. Corrugated sheet plastic is also available and may be used for letting diffused natural light into a space whilst keeping the rain out.

Corrugated bamboo roofing sheets (CBRS) are becoming increasingly available in Asia. CBRS are produced by firmly pressing together woven bamboo mats that have been impregnated with an adhesive resin. We will be monitoring the availability of this technology as an enhancement to sheet metal; being more durable, less noisy and having the potential to create a local industry.

Tiles Clay tiles are currently imported into Flores. They are rarely used since they are very expensive. For this reason they have been disregarded for this project.

Bamboo Bamboo grows in abundance on the island and it is relatively inexpensive to procure. Locals are experienced in using it as a building material although there is scope to enhance its use and longevity.

Bamboo mat ceilings and walls can be created with flattened or crushed bamboo (in Spanish the process is called “esterilla”). To produce a mat freshly cut bamboo is cut over its entire length and spread open. After flattening the mat is cured by soaking it in a special mixture of water and borax to immunize them against insect attack. Mats are inexpensive to purchase and relatively easy to make.

25

Advantages

•

A commonly used and relatively cost effective material; local workmen are familiar with its use.

• Lightweight and easily transported and installed.

• CBRS has better thermal insulating qualities than metal reducing the heat transfer from the sun • CBRS has better sound insulating qualities than metal and reduces rainfall noise disrupting activities.

Disadvantages

•

Using metal without a false ceiling or external over cladding can cause interiors to become hot and noisy.

• CBRS is a fairly recent innovation although it is becoming more common. We need to investigate its availability on Flores.

Advantages

• •

Locally available and less expensive than timber.

Opportunity to showcase bamboo in its natural state; demonstrating its strength and durability when appropriately treated.

Disadvantages

•

Fixing roofing to bamboo can be problematic. Nails will split the culm wall and alternatives are needed.

• Careful investigation of fixing and joining the bamboo to make trusses is important. Traditional methods using natural fibre are less robust and can fail.

Background Construct

Develop

Consider

Initial Ideas

Roof - Form

Gable Roof - double pitch

Shed Roof - single pitch

26

Future

Hipped Roof - multi pitch

Sanitation and Toilets A custom built water system must be devised for the site.

Things to consider with regard to the design of this system and its related components are as follows:

•

Where traditional pit latrines are used sanitation blocks should be built away from other accommodation and functional spaces to minimise smells and insect nuisance.

• Rainwater tanks can be used to provide water to wash and flush toilets with.

• Cess pits and holding tanks should be positioned away from buildings and away from areas liable to flood.

The Neros Foundation have specified easy access to toilets for patients who may have limited mobility and may require assistance. Family and other visitors will have access to a more traditional external toilet block.

Pour-flush latrines which use a pit located directly underneath the toilet are inappropriate for toilets close to or within indoor spaces and these require a remote pit away from the buildings.

Offset pour-flush latrines An extension of the idea of the pour flush pan with a water seal is for the pit to be located away from the latrine. The contents of the pan are discharged through a short length of small diameter pipe or covered channel with a minimum gradient of 1 in 30. PVC, concrete or clay pipes, 100 mm in diameter, are often used, but the diameter may be the same as the water seal (usually 65-85 mm). Masonry or brickwork channels with smooth 27

circular concrete inverts have been adopted in some Asian countries. The channel is covered by precast concrete slabs or by bricks laid transversely across the top. Pipes or channels should project at least 100 mm into the pit.

Generally speaking an offset pour-flush latrine requires a larger volume of flushing water than a simple pour-flush latrine. The amount of water required depends on the pan design, pipe slope and its roughness. As little as 1.5 litres has been recorded as necessary for each flush but usually considerably more than this is required.

Offset pour flush latrines are favoured by many because the superstructure can be permanent. When the pit is full another pit can be dug alongside and the connecting pipe excavated and re-laid to the new pit without damaging the superstructure. Another benefit is that the toilet can be located inside a building and the pit outside. If this layout is used care must be taken to allow for movement of the pipe where it passes through the house wall. This can be achieved either by cutting a slot in the wall so that it does not bear directly on the pipe, or by installing two short lengths of pipe joining in the centre of the wall. Both systems allow movement of the wall without breaking the pipe. The distance of the pit from the house wall should be not less than its depth, to prevent the load from the wall causing the pit to collapse. If this is not possible the pit may be located not less than one metre from the wall, provided that the pit is fully lined and the unsupported plan length parallel to the wall does not exceed one metre. http://helid.digicollection.org/en/d/Jh0210e/3.2.5.html

Simple pour-flush latrine

Two options for a “p-trap” water seal

Offset pour-flush latrine

•

For use in brown and grey water disposal systems; a common solution where mains drainage is not available.

• Space required for the soakaway must be properly designed to avoid the system becoming clogged after only a few years.

Background

Ground Level Cover Scum Inlet Pipe

Outlet Pipe to soakaway area

Initial Ideas

Septic tank with soakaway

Clear Water Sludge

Potential health risks

•

Septic tank

Consider

Septic tank and drainage must be located away from any water sources to avoid risk of contamination.

Future enhancements

Construct

Develop

Employing rainwater harvesting techniques.

Rainwater treatment for use as potable water.

Toilets are located at the bottom of the site with the slope utilised to assist drainage.

28

Future

• •

ICEB - The Block Press Interlocking compressed earth blocks are made from a mix of soil and sand compressed with a hydraulic machine to form a building block. For an initial outlay cost of the block making machine, four trained workmen can make around 300 blocks a day using a hand operated machine, whilst a diesel powered machine can produce up to 1500 blocks each day. The blocks are air dried before being stacked, covered with tarpaulin and dried in the sun.

Recommended curing time is between 7-14 days before they are ready to use. It is estimated that this project will require around 20,000 blocks of varying shapes and sizes.

Construction

Following research into a variety of block presses we have identified a hand operated press manufactured by the Centre for Vocational Building Technology in Northern Thailand, and used extensively in Asia, as being most appropriate for the project. The press has been

The interlocking feature on the top, bottom and both ends of the blocks means they can be dry stacked; simplifying construction and reducing the amount of mortar required.

When compared with traditional masonry this technology has been demonstrated in some cases to be up to 30% cheaper. Cost savings are made on production, cement content, timber formwork and labour. Simple construction means that the workforce can be trained quickly and

Soeng Thai Block Press produces a range of blocks (credit: CVBT)

Block production at CVBT, Udon Thani, Northern Thailand (credit: CVBT)

Soeng Thai Interlocking Compressed Earth Block Press Model BP6

29

used on a number of projects in Indonesia largely in reconstruction after the 2004 tsunami. Providing a press and demonstrating its capabilities on this project will leave a long term legacy for the community. The press will be handed over to the local community for continued use long after completion of this project. It is intended that this generates a small income for the Neros Foundation in addition to creating a new industry for the local villagers.

The income will help pay for maintenance of the project.

build time can be significantly reduced. It is important however that an experienced project manager establishes an appropriate mix, carries out training and oversees production and construction to enforce quality and make best use of this technology.

Production One of the greatest advantages when using ICEBs is the availability of the building materials. The soil or earth used can come directly from the site saving on transport costs. Initial tests from site suggest a good clay content - the all important ingredient when working with earth construction.

The figures...

Recommended stabiliser content of the block can range between by volume dependent on soil type.

Construction costs can be reduced by up to by reducing the need for mortar and eliminating plaster or external render finishes.

6-14%

30%

A residential project completed using blocks manufactured with the press (credit: CVBT)

Background

ICEB - Production and Testing Equipment

Soil pulveriser; removes lumps in clay and soil mix

BP6 manual block press; maintainable design Fine threads ensure accurate adjustment of block height.

Penetrometer; used to check green block density (credit: CVBT)

Callipers; used to measure blocks for consistency (credit: CVBT)

Compression tester; used to check block strength (credit: CVBT)

ICEB blocks; standard block size of 30 x 15 x 10 cm The press is supplied with moulds to produce 9 block variations.

Building with ICEB blocks on site

30

Future

Construct

Sieve soil; to remove lumps and organic material (credit: CVBT)

Develop

Consider

Initial Ideas

The processes described in the following pages are an introduction to the techniques and quality control required for ICEB block manufacture. The Neros Foundation has also been supplied with a separate block making and soil mix guides, describing these processes and the reasoning behind them in depth. In addition the CVBT block press is supplied with its own design, production and construction manuals. CVBT website link: www.cvbt-web.org

ICEB - Block Construction

31

1.

Construct

Develop

Consider

7.

6.

Initial Ideas

Background

9.

32 Future

10.

8.

5.

4.

3.

2.

ICEB - Block Yard Layout

Stage 1 (5 x 5 m bay) Pulverizing Sieving Measuring

Stage 2 (5 x 5 m bay) Dry Mix (3 times) Wet Mix (3 times) Moulding in block press

Water Pulveriser

Sieved Soil 3

2

2

1

3

Drying Soil Pulverised Soil

Sand

Cement 33

1

Stage 3 (5 x 10 m bay) Final Stacking and Curing Process

Background

ICEB - Soil Selection (Field Tests) Fill a straight sided flat bottomed jar 1/3 with soil and 2/3 with water.

• Shake well for 1 minute.

• Leave to stand for 24 hours.

• Measuring the thickness of the layers of clay and sand informs of rough proportions of soil constituents.

•

Fill a box (60 cm long x 4 cm deep x 4 cm wide) with moist, lightly compacted soil.

• Scrape it level and leave to dry in the sun for 5 days.

• After 5 days in the sun measure the shrinkage.

• If shrinkage is no more than 10 mm then the soil is very sandy and it might be difficult to handle the block.

• If shrinkage is more than 60 mm then the soil has too much clay; sand must be added or find another soil.

• An ideal soil should shrink between 20 to 40 mm.

• Repeat test until mix corrected.

Clay & Silt - upper level

4c m

Construct

Sand & Gravel - lower level

Develop

60 cm

Note: there must be between 10% and 50% clay and silt to make a block; ideally 15 to 35% silt and clay.

Shrinkage Test

Initial Ideas

•

Consider

Jar or Sedimentation Test

m

Dig a hole 1 m deep and look at the different layers.

Does the soil look sandy or does it have lumps?

If it is has lumps and cracks in the soil then there is clay present.

• If it is very sandy then dig deeper to find a more clayey soil.

• Do not use topsoil.

4c

• • •

2-

Visual Test

Sedimentation tests show roughly how the soil is divided into clay, silt, sand and gravels.

Shrinkage, ‘cookie’ and cigar tests look at the quantities of a clay present

34

Future

The initial visual test is a good indication of whether a quarry site may be suitable.

ICEB - Production Process 1 Extraction

Drying

• •

Remove the topsoil and use for agriculture.

Soil contains gravel, sand and binders (which are silt and clay). Silt and clay are the cement of the earth but they are not stable under water.

• Although clay must be present the best soil composition contains more sand than clay or silt.

•

An area must be cleared and a tarpaulin laid for soil to be dried in the sun.

• Removal of excess moisture aids pulverizing and sieving processes.

Pulverizing

•

Lumps of soil (especially clay) must be broken up to obtain a homogeneous mix of the components.

Do not use top soil Use the soil in between Do not use the parent rock

Extraction

35

Soil is dried in the sun

Soil is pulverised

Background

• •

Mesh size up to 1 cm x 1 cm.

Soil is screened to eliminate undesirable elements after general preparation. Discard caught material.

• This process also aerates the soil.

• Sandy soils can be screened straightaway and do not need a pulverizer.

Dry Mixing

Measuring

•

After weighing the contents of one volume of soil / sand mix, components can be volume measured directly in the containers.

• Take care to fill containers with accuracy and as per the proscribed specification.

• Cement should be weighed using spring scales measuring relative weight to amount of sand / soil mix.

• •

Pour in order of soil, sand and stabilizer (cement) First mix dry at least 2-3 times. Thorough mixing maximizes the effectiveness of the stabilizer in powder form and provides a consistent distribution.

Initial Ideas

Screening / Sieving

Consider

cement

Construct

Develop

soil, sand

Materials are measured

Dry mixing

36

Future

Soil is sieved

ICEB - Production Process 2 Wet Mixing

•

Mix gently adding water by spraying after adequate dry mixing. Mix at least 2-3 times.

• Reaction time depends upon the nature of the stabilizer; very short for cement, longer for lime.

• This is the most work of any step in the process.

Measuring Out

Compression

The volume of material required to fill the press box is called the charge. Record the amount and maintain consistency.

• Use a drop test to check the moisture content of the mix by dropping a ball from waist height.

• The charge is measured by weight; the weight may vary between 6.5 to 8.5 kg depending on mix and water content.

• The charge is carefully poured into the press box.

Close the lid and the pull the lever over to compress the soil.

• The lever returns to its original position, the lid is opened and the block is ejected.

• Test block density using penetrometer.

•

Too Dry

Good Moisture Content

Too Wet

Establishing correct consistency of mix with the drop test

37

Materials are mixed with water

The charge is poured into the press box; the mix must be quite dry.

Block is pressed

•

The fresh blocks must be placed separately on a flat surface for the initial cure.

• Makeshift shelves formed from blocks and timber planks can create a good flat surface.

• Water the blocks twice during Day 1.

After one day air curing, stack the blocks and cover with a plastic sheet (maximum stack 5 blocks high).

• A clear plastic tarpaulin will let in more light and heat energy.

• Leave for 7 days to cure prior to use.

• Ensure that the blocks stay moist and do not dry out.

• Test block strength using the compression tester.

•

Background

Second Curing (Day 2-7)

•

Develop

Consider

Care must be taken when carrying a fresh block as it is fragile until cured. The corners of a fresh block must not be touched as it will chip.

• When removing the block, check its texture and quality. If unsatisfied throw it back into the mix.

• Test for consistent block dimensions using callipers.

Initial Curing (Day 1)

Initial Ideas

Removing from the Mould

Construct

Blocks must be carried carefully to a dedicated curing area

Fresh blocks are stacked on timber plates and watered

Humid curing takes place under a clear tarpaulin for 6 days

38

Future

The block is ejected

ICEB - Testing and Quality Control Using a Penetrometer

Testing Compressive Strength

Using Callipers

A penetrometer is used to find the appropriate block density and charge weight.

Weigh a charge and put it in the press box. Once pressed check the block density before ejecting the block out of the press. For ease of ejection the penetrometer should penetrate to the second groove. If it goes in too little reduce the weight of the material or increase the moisture.

If it goes in too far increase the weight of the material used or reduce the moisture.

The compression tester tests standard size interlocking compressed earth blocks up to RAS CEB NF 3R standard.

The CT2 can apply a maximum force of 200 Newtons. The block is placed in the lower section and a downward force is applied. If the block is unsuitable it will crack or crumble.

It is advised that the blocks achieve around 3.4 MPa.

Interlocking blocks are laid dry and no mortar is used between layers. It is therefore very important to check the block height on a regular basis and adjust the block press if needed. The height goal is 100 mm. Good practice is to keep the standard deviation at less than 0.25 mm. If the standard deviation is 0.6 mm or greater look for a problem with the press (for example the cover not being cleaned properly before closing, the press plate rocking, etc).

A gauge attached to the hydraulic jack handle will give us the result.

If the block cannot withstand the pressure it will crack.

Different heights at each end of the block can cause cracks.

Different heights side to side can cause the wall to curve vertically.

Compressive strength is tested using CT2 machine.

Callipers are used to check the block height. Consistency is vital to avoid problems later.

Press penetrometer into block until the handle edge comes to the first groove

The penetrometer should go into the block up to the second groove

39

A simple hand-held penetrometer is used to check the density of the block. This is done once per batch. Density should be tested in 6 spots on the face of the block (as shown).

Background Consider

Initial Ideas

ICEB - Key Points for Construction

Horizontal reinforcement is required in each channel layer.

Vertical reinforcement is required at corners, structural piers, and at window and door openings. The use of reinforcement strengthens the construction and assists in resisting damage from seismic activity.

Paper (or similar) plugs are used to prevent concrete dropping through the reinforcement holes in the blocks where it is not needed.

Nails of varying diameter are used to lift blocks when they are of slightly different sizes.

Horizontal reinforcement is used at corners, piers and at door and window openings.

Paper stoppers are used to prevent concrete in filling where it is not necessary.

40

Future

Construct

Develop

Blocks are made 100 mm tall within 0.25 mm tolerance.

Will no mortar bed, tolerances add up and at every level a few nails will be needed to keep the course level. After the concrete fill (grout) has hardened the nails can be pulled out and reused.

Bamboo - Preservation The preservation of bamboo which is exposed is a must.

Our aim is to reintroduce and elevate bamboo as a robust building material which once treated is perfect for use as structural elements. Therefore we will aim to use both the following measures: a strong preservative treatment together with physical barriers, such as those used in timber design, to guard the bamboo against the rain and UV rays.

Before any treatment the bamboo should be left standing in a dry place for 1 week after being cut (always harvest during the dry season when there is less risk of termite infestation). Next it can be laid down and stored.

A basic preservation technique is currently used in Neros using heat. When used properly this removes termites and eggs already in the bamboo and burns of the starch that makes bamboo desirable to eat. The bamboo shrinks as it is dried by heat. Using this method avoids shrinkage once installed; which can cause splitting and loose joints.

A more robust procedure and widely recommended consists of the immersion or impregnation of bamboo culms in a solution of water (50 lt), boric acid (1 kg) and borax (1 kg). A recent innovation is to use a dyed solution that is pushed through the walls of the bamboo replacing all the starch in the capillaries. Once one sees coloured liquid running out the end of the bamboo one knows that the solution has travelled right through. This technique was successfully used at Chennai by Jack Everett.

41

a. Elevated drum b. Tube, pressure resistant c. Valves d. Pipe, steel or iron e. Connecting tubes with metallic clamps f. Bamboo culms g. Drip-through

Chemical Impregnation using the Boucherie method (after Janssen, 1995)

A process was used at Chennai where tumeric was used to dye the borax solution.

A steel drum, foot pump and old inner tubes are used to create an impregnation device.

Photography and design credit: Jack Everett

Background Initial Ideas

Bamboo - Rebam

Develop

Consider

Split bamboo can be used in place of steel reinforcement. This image shows horizontal reinforcement in channel block and vertical reinforcement at a corner and door opening.

Split bamboo is woven to form a grid in lieu of a layer of steel mesh to reinforce the slab.

This must be weighed down whilst the ground slab is poured to prevent it from floating.

42

Future

Construct

Vertical lengths of split bamboo are combined with the grid in the floor slab to ties both elements together. The ‘rebam’ is used to reinforce corners and openings.

Bamboo - Technical Advice 1 Jack Everett

Jack Everett met with us to discuss his construction techniques using bamboo developed over many years of practical experience. He collaborated with Bath architects FCB Studios on the Moongil Stage project in Chennai. A self styled bamboo expert, the techniques shown on these pages are Jack’s own.

43

Piercing bamboo in the tropics in inadvisable as it weakens the material significantly. To avoid this joins are created using metal packing straps. (credit: Jack Everett)

The strap is tightened with a special tool, buckled and trimmed. (credit: Jack Everett)

Stainless steel packing straps provide a very strong bond. (credit: Jack Everett)

At Chennai the straps were covered with rattan for aesthetic reasons. (credit: Jack Everett)

This shows both techniques in action. The J hook is used with a straight steel bolt to create a strong joint. Both systems can be dismantled with ease. (credit: Jack Everett)

Background

Bamboo - Making Connections 1 J hook + straight bolt connection

1. Bamboo purlin diameter 40 - 50 mm 2. Bamboo mat corrugated sheet (BMCS) or metal (zinc) sheet roofing 3. J bolts of length 100 - 125 mm 4. Bitumen or recycled inner tube washer 5. Nut 4

Nut Initial Ideas

Purlin with J hook fixing

Drilled hole

5 2 J hook

Consider

1

3

Develop

Stainless steel packing strap connection

Construct

Buckle

Nut and straight bolt

Stainless steel packing strap

44

Future

Crossover point

Bamboo - Making Connections 2 The following technique is widely used but it should only be considered as less robust method than the two previous examples. This technique involves cutting away part of the bamboo which will weaken it. Despite this it is a simple and effective method when the bamboo size is known to exceed the required structural performance.

The end section of last internodal cavity is cut away

The resulting void allows another bamboo to sit inside and atop the first. Both culms are drilled and then bolted together.

45

Background Initial Ideas Consider Develop Construct

All three culms can then be bolted together to form the top of a roof truss.

Culms will then fit either side of the vertical king post.

46

Future

End sections of the internodal cavity are cut away.

Bamboo - Technical Advice 2 Jack Everett

Jack Everett met with us to discuss his construction techniques using bamboo developed over many years of practical experience. He collaborated with Bath architects FCB Studios on the Moongil Stage project in Chennai. A self styled bamboo expert, the techniques shown on these pages are Jack’s own.

Resin is poured in a hole filling the internodal void and fixing bamboo to the steel rod. (credit: Jack Everett)

Steel rod is embedded into floor slab when poured. (credit: Jack Everett)

47

Plastic bottles act as mould for resin. (credit: Jack Everett)

Finally plastic piping is used as mould to complete the resin foot. (credit: Jack Everett)

Moongil Stage, Chennai prior to the feet being completed. (credit: Jack Everett)

Background Initial Ideas

Bamboo - Meeting the Ground 1

Drilled hole

Consider

Plastic bottle

Steel rod

Develop

Floor slab

The plastic bottle is removed once the resin has set by cutting.

A piece of smooth plastic piping is slit and wrapped around the steel rod forming a mould.

Resin is poured into mould.

The mould is removed once the resin has set.

Construct

Clay is used to plug the bottle top at the base.

Resin is poured through drilled hole and flows down through the culm.

Pour until the section is filled with resin.

48

Future

Hole is drilled into culm wall.

Plastic bottle is placed on the end of the bamboo; select a bottle of similar size to bamboo.

Bamboo is lowered onto steel rod set into floor slab.

The internodal diaphragm must be removed to enable resin to fill the bottle.

Bamboo - Meeting the Ground 2

A split plastic tube strengthened with a timber frame is inserted before floor slab is poured (to create void).

49

The node is knocked out and a steel bar is inserted into bamboo culm.

Split plastic tube is wrapped around.

Cable ties temporarily connect tubing to bamboo.

Concrete is poured into mould leaving some steel bar exposed.

The plastic tubing is removed once the concrete is firm.

Bamboo is rotated.

Background Initial Ideas Consider Develop Construct Void is packed with concrete around the bamboo.

Concrete is smoothed to create finish.

50

Future

Bamboo is placed in centre of void.

Bamboo - Bahareque Encementado Technique ‘Bahareque Encementado’ literally translated from the Spanish means adobe cement. It is a method that originates from Columbia. It involves the hybridisation of concrete and bamboo materials to create robust construction solutions.

In some applications the method uses concrete as a render for the walls of structures made entirely from bamboo.

However for this project we are interested in the method as a possible way of reinforcing bamboo culms for use as structural members. The concrete fill is poured through a hole into the internode. The concrete keys to the bamboo by always filling up at least two nodes (a hole must be made to in the diaphragm to connect both voids).

mortar infill through drilled hole node at end

rebar buried in foundation

51

Background

Bamboo - Putting theory into practice

Layout out an example primary roof truss

Trialling Jack Everett’s ‘making connections’ by torchlight

Roof connections completed using the strapping method

Planning...

Trialling Jack Everett’s ‘meeting the ground’ technique

Concrete is added

Assessing the finished product

52

Future

Construct

Bamboo used to reinforce the ICEB block walls

Develop

Consider

Initial Ideas

The images below were recorded during Sophie Greene and Keila Espinosa’s visit to Flores in 2012 to aid Marcell with understanding the proposed construction techniques and in further developing these to suit local conditions, expertise and available resources.

On Flores bamboo is a traditional but underemployed resource considered ‘too backward’ for using on new buildings. These techniques attempt to show how bamboo could be used as a cost effective and robust alternative to steel and timber.

Preparing for Construction - Setting Out ‘Uganda Schools Design Guide’ compiled by Matt Clay and Ben Slee offers some good tips on the importance and ease of setting out a building in the developing world by adopting some simple techniques.

“Accurate setting out is very important. Buildings in the wrong place will mean that other buildings may not fit on the site.

Buildings which are too big cost more and are less functional.”

If our buildings are too small we may not be able to house the required number of patients. If they are too big we may exceed the budget.

Tools A tape measure: preferably 50m long, but minimum 30m.

A plumb line: allows you to transfer points vertically and accurately.

A water level: made from a long piece of clear plastic tubing filled with water (10m+). When the ends are held up at each end the water level will be the same - i.e. level.

It can be surprising how much ground falls across a site.

Strings and stakes: these are used to mark out lines and points.

Useful Tricks Diagonals of a Rectangle Two diagonal measurements of any square or rectangle will be the same. Use this to check that the building you have set out is square before you start construction. If the measurements are not the same the building is not square.

Triangulation By measuring the distance to the point you wish to locate from 2 or more known points, such as a significant tree or the corner of the site, it is possible to accurately locate the position of the third point. The more open the triangle you create the more accurate your setting out will be. Flat or thin triangles do not work well.

3 4 : 5 Triangle The most useful of all the techniques and all you need is the tape measure. A triangle with sides which are in the proportion of 3:4:5 will always creates a 90 degree angle between sides 3 and 4.

Use your tape measure to mark out the triangle on the ground. The tape measure can be used as a giant compass to create an arc. When you have finished you have two lines at 90 degrees to each other. The larger the triangle the more accurate it is. The table below gives you some of the proportions which work.

1½ 3 6 9 12

: : : : :

2 4 8 12 16

: : : : :

5

3 Equ

al “ A”

Eq

53

“A” l a u

2½ 5 10 15 20

4

Background

Stage 2 - Creating a Right Angle

Stage 3 - Marking out the buildings

Identify two or three points on the site which are also on your plan (eg. a significant tree and two corners on the boundary).

Point A might be the corner of a building or a court yard.

You can set out a line at right angles (perpendicular) to the first line to mark the second side of the courtyard using the 3:4:5 triangle technique. Remember that the bigger the triangle the more accurate the setting out.

The 3:4:5 triangle technique can also be used to mark out the buildings.

Measure out the positions of the corners of the buildings along the two lines you have set out and then use the 3:4:5 triangle to set out the other walls. You can check your accuracy by measuring the diagonals of your rectangular buildings. Carry on using these systems to mark out all your buildings, their doors, windows and piers.

Consider

From the plan you can scale the distance from these points to the important points you want to locate (A & B). Using your tape measure as an enormous compass measure and mark the distances from your known points to points A and B (eg. the distance from the tree to A and then the distance from the tree to B). Do the same from the corners.

Initial Ideas

Stage 1 - Locating the First Points

Now you know where points A and B are you can set out the line between A and B with stakes and string.

4

5

Develop

3

A

4

3

3

A

5

4

A

54

Future

5

Construct

B

Design of a Typical Module

Colour coding of each block type assists with identification and planning block production. Read with pages 55-56.

55

Background

Ward Block Plan 7500 2400

2400

2400 1200

Consider

2400

Initial Ideas

1200

1350

veranda

2400

B

C

Coursing

2400

2400

56

Future

Construct

2400

Develop

5100

WARD

2400

2400

2400

Coursing

E

D

900

E

D

E

C

B

A

B

700

A

B

C

Ward Elevation 1

2700

C

B

A

B

A

B

1100

A

B

A

B

C

E

D

E

D

900

Course type A

Course type B

Course type C 900 Course type D

Course type E

KEY

Building block

Channel block

High level ventilation (tba)

Half building block

Half channel block

External render (tba)

Corner block

Channel corner block

Vertical reinforcement

Half corner block

Half channel corner block

Pillar block

57

Background

Ward Elevation 2 2400

2400

E

D

E

D

E

C

Initial Ideas

B

A

B

700

A

B

C

Coursing

2700

F

E

D

Consider

E

D

E

D

E

D

E

F

2000

E

D

E

D

900

Course type A

Develop

Course type B

Course type C 900

Construct

Course type D

Course type E

KEY

Building block

Channel block

High level ventilation (tba)

Half building block

Half channel block

External render (tba)

Corner block

Channel corner block

Vertical reinforcement

Half corner block

Half channel corner block

58

Future

Course type F

Help Create a More Sustainable Future The Medical Outreach Centre Project Since completing its last project in 2009, the Neros Foundation has worked hard to raise the funds necessary to build a rural health centre. All the funds and arrangements to build the centre are now in place, including a key commitment by the regional government to provide the medical staff.

Designscape’s involvement To date money donated by Designscape Architects has helped pay for building materials and the wages of local tradesmen to carry out works on site.

As architects we have a responsibility to help provide infrastructure which enables people in developing countries to access clean water, safe toilet facilities and a basic level of medical care. It is also an opportunity to share skills and knowledge that will assist them in developing and improving their way of life, in addition to improving our own learning experience.

Building work has in the past projects has used the region’s vernacular, relying heavily on imported, expensive and less sustainable materials. For this project, the biggest yet for the Neros Foundation, Designscape chose to donate professional expertise consisting of advice on the development of building technologies. These combine modern techniques and local / traditional materials with the aim of introducing a more sustainable method of construction.

59

The Neros Foundation: Then and now

Designscape believes that this project has the potential to be successful both in the provision of medical care and as an example of new building technologies which showcase a more sustainable way of life to the people of this remote region.

Your opportunity to get involved...

You can enhance this project by donating funding, equipment, or expertise which will help the Neros Foundation to provide a truly sustainable future. Basic funding for the Medical Centre is already in place but we are seeking support for further enhancements to provide solar energy systems (water and electricity), refrigeration and generally improve the facilities offered to the community (health education, training, motorcycle outreach, etc).

60 Construct Future

Finalise Construct

Develop

Consider

Initial Ideas

Background

Opportunity to Enhance

Useful Contacts Bamboo

Interlocking Compressed Earth Blocks (ICEBs)

David Trujillo Sophie met David at a Limesnet conference at the Bath Innovation Centre. His expertise is in Columbian structural bamboo known as ‘Bahareque Encementado’.

He lectures at Coventry University. e. aa7170@coventry.ac.uk

Geoffrey Wheeler Founder of Centre for Vocational Building Technology, Geoffrey is an expert on Interlocking Compressed Earth Block Technology and has been very supportive of this project. skype: geoffreywheeler e. geoffrey@cvbt-web.org www.cvbt-web.org

Hector F. Archila S. Hector is completing his PhD at the BRE Centre for Innovative Construction Materials, University of Bath. He and David Trujillo work closely and share many of the same views regarding bamboo and concrete hybridisation. e. H.F.Archila.Santos@bath.ac.uk Jack Everett We were put in touch with Jack via FCB Studios. They collaborated on the design and build of a bamboo stage in Chennai as part of an orphanage. Having worked with bamboo in a similar climate to that of Flores he has been a useful contact. t. 01452 812904, m. 07799 855645 e. bamboojack@hotmail.com www.jackeverett.org

61

Damian Finnie Product Support Adviser at Hanson Building Products. Sophie was put through to Damian when she emailed Hanson with a query about the cement content of a standard concrete block. t. 01530 270 333 e. damian.finnie@hanson.biz

Background

ICEB / ISSB / CEB

Bamboo

Other Innovations...

www.unhabitat.org/pmss/listItemDetails.aspx?publication ID=2736 A UN Habitat guide on the use of Interlocking Stabilised Soil Blocks in Uganda; available to download.

www.inbar.int/publication/pdf/INBAR_Technical_Report_ No20.pdf A report from the Technical University of Eindhoven with sections focusing on structural bamboo (combining concrete and steel reinforcement).

http://hopebuilding.pbworks.com/w/page/19222881/ Waste-burning%20community%20cooker%20solves% 20many%20problems%20in%20Kenyan%20slum The community cooker: a waste burning community cooker solves many problems in a Kenyan slum.

www.earth-auroville.com/ Centre for CEB production in India. www.goodearthtrust.org.uk/ Promotes CEB technology in East Africa.

Consider

www.mcaslan.co.uk/the-initiatives-issue/one-yearhouse/13 Stop frame animation showing simple construction of emergency shelter for refugees on the Thai-Burmese border.

Develop

http://sheltercentre.org/sites/default/files/100201_Island_ Aid_Hybrid_Shelter.pdf Emergency housing built in West Sumatra following the 2004 tsunami.

www.domusweb.it/en/architecture/the-green-school/ Extensive and adventurous use of bamboo for a school in Bali.

http://openarchitecturenetwork.org/projects/4064 http://openarchitecturenetwork.org/files/imagecache/ oanproject_slideshow_larger/active/9/4064_07_ supplementalimage_02.jpg School in Nepal; bamboo used as framework whilst walls were built using rammed earth.

Finalise Construct

http://cvbt-web.org/uploads/Pubs/RPrdChpt/ProdChpt.

PDF Copy of the ICEB Production Manual produced by CVBT.

www.earth-auroville.com/bamboo_house_en.php Some interesting joining techniques; woven bamboo covered with daub is used in this project.

www.scribd.com/doc/35222503/Bamboo-in-Construction Good diagrams of the boucherie preservation technique. www.bamboocentral.org/ Bali based Indonesian foundation promoting the use of bamboo and its treatment via vertical soak diffusion method.

62

Construct Future

https://picasaweb.google.com/106143655087136822361 Picasa Album site for CVBT. Displays useful images of production, construction techniques and completed buildings using the technology.

Initial Ideas

Useful Links