Architecture for Humanity is a charitable organization that seeks architectural solutions to humanitarian crises and brings professional design services to communities in need. They believe that where resources and expertise are scarce, innovative, sustainable and collaborative design can make a difference.

 

Area of focus

Disaster reconstruction - we are a leader in creating responses to disaster reconstruction that go beyond the “one and done” projects that leave communities vulnerable to future crises. Instead, we focus on creating long-term solutions in partnership with the affected communities.

 

Active Spaces - we create engaging community-centered active spaces to support overall well-being by combining community programs and services with the natural human love for sport. Our projects in developed countries address the growing obesity crises, while our projects in undeveloped countries work to address other health concerns.

 

Community Resilience  - too many communities are vulnerable to the effects of disasters due to inadequate safety measures in the built environment and a lack of technical understanding. We've learned through our work that many tragedies are preventable. We’re providing the training, technical expertise, and the networks necessary for local architects to provide the leadership necessary to strengthen their communities.

We also advocate for humanitarian design through speaking engagements and events, to continue to lead the conversation in humanitarian architecture and sustainable development.

 

Education Spaces - working with the local community, we design and build innovative educational spaces that encourage learning and fosters pride in the community. Each project creates a safe place for students to learn, giving them a better future that will continue to impact the economic and social viability of the region.

 

Approach

We begin with a need.  These can include: a community request, a response to a disaster, or a desire to address an existing global issue. From there, we explore the challenge through a collaborative process. 

 

Our long-term projects always include community involvement, beginning in the design and planning stages and continuing to completion.  We recognize that vulnerable communities rarely benefit from top-down solutions brought in by outsiders.  The best solutions are local solutions.