Over the past month, we’ve been actively working on the design for the communal house, La
Casa de Superación Campesina. Since this will ultimately be the community’s building, it
was essential to gather their input. To ensure we captured everyone’s vision and desires for
the space, we visited every home in Noruega Baja, engaging residents in conversations
about the project. We also reached out to the children at the local school, inviting them to
share their ideas and involve them in shaping the design.
After gathering the community’s insights, we moved into the design phase, collaborating
closely with Daniel Carvajal and his partner, Maria Luisa Barrero. They played a key role in
developing the blueprint and providing architectural guidance, such as how to design the
foundation. Their expertise offered valuable direction throughout this phase. Gustavo, the
local Maestro of construction in Noruega Baja, joined these discussions as well, contributing
practical knowledge about building techniques specific to the area. His insights, rooted in
local traditions and practices, have been incredibly helpful.
In addition to our local collaborators, we visited the mayor’s office to share our progress and
align on the project’s broader goals. The mayor expressed strong support, offering structural
assistance and ensuring permits for the land and construction would be secured. This aligns
with the local government’s focus on similar initiatives to develop communal spaces with
shared purposes. He gave us the official permits, which allows us to start excavating the
land this week. He is providing the machines to flatten the land which is the first phase
before building.
To build excitement and encourage active community participation, we organized several
workshops and took part in local activities and festivities. These workshops focused on
topics such as the purpose of the house, biodiversity, and storytelling. Attendance varied,
but with each session, new participants joined, contributing fresh perspectives. We promoted
these events through flyers and word-of-mouth, striving to engage as many residents as
possible.
Our primary goals throughout this process were to establish a clear vision for the project and
foster strong community engagement. Important to us is that the community works together
on this project, and that it is not just our project. With the final design now approved and
permits granted, we’re one step closer to bringing this project to life.
For now, we’ll take a short break to enjoy the holidays, but we’ll return in January to continue
our work. Until then, adiós!
UPDATE I: Co creation of a community building
