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A Sustainable Thai Orphanage Designed by Norwegian Students

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Here’s a sustainable orphanage built by a Norwegian non-profit group; TYIN that works to develop humanitarian architectural projects around the world. This orphanage in Thailand; the Soe Ker Tie House is one of four projects they have designed and built near the Burmese border.

The orphanage uses local materials and a local labor force to create a very naturally sustainable project using a traditional Thai building technique. The bamboo needed to build the huts was harvested very close to the building site. Each hut collects rainwater, incorporates natural ventilation, and safely handles sewage.

The natural and traditional styles here must be comforting to an uprooted population of children. These little buildings create a warm and welcoming presence that doesn’t leave anyone behind. They are a good reminder that a home can be simple and utilitarian, and doesn’t necessarily need to be complex or expensive to be valued.

Little touches of whimsical design like this window ventilation wall are a testament to the tenderness and kindness the Norwegian students must have felt towards the orphaned Thai children. This kind of personal and touching design and craftsmanship can add a whole lot to the quality of life.

Via Tiny House Design
Image from TYIN.