Multi-Family Vizazi Homes, Tansania | East Africa
At 6,820 m² total area, Vizazi Homes in Fumba Town, Tansania, is a modern residential project built from timber for intergenerational living. Its focus is on flexibility, sustainability and the use of prefabricated solid wood elements. Working closely with Volks.House and knippershelbig binderholz took care of the entire timber superstructure, from planning to delivery to assembly on site.
The project marks binderholz' first large residential undertaking on the African continent. It not only designed and produced the CLT BBS elements, but also installed them on site, accompanied by experienced binderholz construction managers who guaranteed trouble-free implementation.
FACTS
Project Vizazi Homes residential complex
Location Fumba Town, Zanzibar, Tansania
Completion 2025
Client CPS Live Ltd.
Architecture studio OMT architects
Superstructure planning binderholz & knippershelbig GmbH
Execution Volks.House
Material use 270 m³ of binderholz CLT BBS, 12 m³ of binderholz glulam, 3 m³ binderholz solid wood panels
Flexible, family-friendly homes with ocean view
'Vizazi Homes' architectural concept was based on modular timber construction offering four and three bedroom townhouses as well as one to three bedroom duplex flats. Although four units always make up one building, every residential unit has its own access, roof terrace, front- and backyard as well as a high level of privacy.
The residential spaces were designed in such a way that they either offer ocean or yard view without the neighbours being able to peek in. Windows deeply recessed in the facade provide natural protection from the sun while cross-ventilation allows for a pleasant indoor climate in all units without the need for technical systems.
Timber construction innovation for a growing community
Assembling the timber structure on site only took 2-3 months which goes to show how precisely prefabricated CLT BBS elements make for quick and high-quality construction progress even in tropical conditions.
Modular design with central installation shafts and few supporting interior walls allowed for individual floor plans, even after completion. Thus, the Vizazi houses will grow with their inhabitant's needs: From children moving out to parents moving in: the quality of living remains.
'Vizazi' is Swahili for "generation", and that's exactly what these houses stand for: Room to live and grow (old).
Photos: © CPS Zanzibar Ltd. © OMT architects
