African Design Magazine November 2016 | Page 58

building with 90 percent local earth materials . In the region where the Tayebat Workers Village is located , sandstone is often removed in order to construct buildings , however , KarmBuild realised the sandstone could be utilised in the buildings instead of it going to waste . They found this “ wealthy natural resource ” is in fact “ structurally viable ,” according to Kafrawi . The use of the natural , local sandstone allows the buildings to blend in beautifully with the surrounding desert .
According to Kafrawi , KarmBuild ’ s methods reduce waste and can reduce project costs in some instances . “ The high intensity of the sun along with the wide possible uses of viable natural building materials in these areas , open up great possibilities for strong sustainable development solutions in the area . We work on trying to provide solutions that blend these two very different elements in a non-intrusive and attractive manner that works with the local architecture , whether traditional or modern , in the region ,” he told Inhabitat . “ We believe there is great potential to change the architectural landscape in these areas to be more self-sufficient , sustainable , and comfortable for occupants .”

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