In the rolling hills of Nepal, far from the cities and modern comforts of the West, seven young German architecture graduates have embarked on a life-changing journey.
Dhoksan, a quiet village filled with Tamang community is 10 kilometers uphill from Sankhu, these architects are not just drawing blueprints and drafting designs-they are living their vision, contributing to a sustainable, community-driven project that will shape the lives of the village's children for years to come. The team, working under the banner of Supertecture, a non-profit organization based in southern Germany, is engaged in the construction of a kindergarten made from mostly reused materials.
Their mission is to design a space that blends architecture with social responsibility, building not just with bricks and mortar, but with care, respect, and a deep sense of collaboration with the local community. From the moment they wake up each morning in the confines of a goat barn, the young architects immerse themselves in the rhythms of rural life. "Our day starts and ends in the barn," they explain with a smile, their faces a mix of exhaustion and contentment. This, however, is no ordinary barn. It is their home, their sanctuary, and their launchpad for a project that embodies the values of sustainability, resourcefulness, and community engagement.
A Day in the Life: From Plans to Reality
The life of these young architects is not one of abstract design or theoretical contemplation. Instead, they are getting their hands dirty in the most literal sense. From early morning until evening, they work alongside local workers, translating their computer-generated designs into physical structures.
"We are not just designing; we are building," says Anna, one of the architects. "Standing side by side with the local workers and seeing our ideas take shape with our own hands is something incredibly fulfilling."
The team often finds themselves mixing cement, digging the site, and moving construction materials by hand, many of which are salvaged from the local environment. It's not just about using recycled materials; it's about understanding the local context, respecting the cultural fabric of the community, and creating spaces that will be both functional and meaningful for the people who will use them.
Building Relationship.
"We value the time spent with the villagers," says Markus, another member of the team. The architects' bond with the Tamang people is palpable. They eat Dal Bhat, the traditional Nepali meal, almost every day, and though they speak only a few words of Tamang language, the team feels a deep sense of connection. This bond is further solidified during local celebrations, where the architects are frequently invited to local events.
"It's a privilege to be invited to these ceremonies," says Laura, another team member. "It's a sign of how much the community values our presence. Everything is focused on the work, on the community, and on what we can do for the future." This sustainable lifestyle has become a source of inspiration for the young architects. It has reinforced their commitment to addressing the global environmental challenges they face back home in Europe and elsewhere. It's a reminder that sustainability is not limited to a design principle-it's a way of life, one that prioritizes resourcefulness, mindfulness, and respect for the planet. "We're contributing to a better future, not just through our architecture but through the way we live," says Maximilian, the team leader.
Crowdfunding for a Cause
While the architects work tirelessly on the construction site, their efforts are not solely confined to the physical realm. The team has also launched a crowdfunding campaign to help fund the kindergarten project. The campaign, which seeks to raise funds for materials, labor, and other necessary resources, has garnered support from around the world. "It's incredible to see people come together to support this project," says Anna.
"The response has been overwhelmingly positive, and it gives us hope that more people will see the value in community-driven initiatives like this one." The team's efforts have not only benefited the children of Dhoksan, but also the broader community, by providing jobs, improving infrastructure, and fostering a sense of pride in the village's collective achievements.
The foundation for the kindergarten is steadily taking shape, and though the road ahead is long, they are filled with a deep sense of accomplishment. They team feels a sense of contentment as they believe that they are working to create a space that will nurture the next generation, and in doing so, weave themselves into the fabric of a community.
