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Kula Vocational Training & Community Center

Honorable Mention in Architectural design

The Kula Vocational Training and Community Center, located in the rural northern province of Rwanda, supports female entrepreneurs and farmers. Sited strategically adjacent to an existing health center, the facility serves as a vital hub for education, resources, and community gatherings. Situated atop a steep hill in the Virunga volcano range, the center is constructed from locally sourced volcanic stone, and built into the hillside. Inside the center, the main space hosts tailoring classes and farming seminars for women in the community. The design draws inspiration from traditional female Rwandan art characterized by zig-zag and triangular pattern making, with a tapering facade of glass offering views and light for the workspace administrative space and privacy for a counseling room dedicated to the health needs of young women in the program. Collaborating with Rwanda Village Enterprises (RVE) in a design and build partnership, the project was built in 6 months for approximately $20/ sqft . We utilized a local workforce with 40% female representation, offering on-site skilled labor training, good income, savings accounts, and marketable construction skills. Community involvement was integral to the project's success, with their contributions spanning from the initial concept to the completion of the center.

Participant category: Small company (< 10 employees)

Company name: BE_Design

Location: Northern Province, Rwanda

Client: KULA

Team: Bruce Engel Yves Twizeyimana Emmanuel Havugimana

Edition: 2026

Project status: Realised

Website: https://bruceengeldesign.com/

Photo credits: Bruce Engel
Photo credits: Bruce Engel
Photo credits: Bruce Engel
Photo credits: Bruce Engel
Photo credits: Bruce Engel
Photo credits: Bruce Engel