Paraguay-based architecture firm, OCA, has designed a community center for the local Toba Qom community in Paraguay. The House of Culture was created to provide a space for this Indigenous community to reconnect and come together over a shared origin, culture, and identity.
The structure is to be built by the Toba people using local materials. Karanday trunks are local to the community, hence why they were chosen as the structuring material. The roof is completed with straw to insolate the space, while a metal sheet provides added durability.
This new community space is intended to be used by all Toba people - old and young - and features a minimalist interior in order to allow for multiple uses. The structure speaks to the local landscape and to the people who intend to use it.
Community-Supporting Cultural Centers
A Community Center in Paraguay Was Built for the Toba People
Trend Themes
1. Community-centered Architecture - Architects can explore designing cultural centers with a focus on community inclusivity and involvement.
2. Indigenous Design - Designers can take inspiration from indigenous cultures, their histories, and traditional techniques when creating modern structures.
3. Minimalist Interiors - Minimalist designs can create multi-functional spaces that can better serve community needs.
Industry Implications
1. Architecture - Architects and developers can explore designing and building community centers that reflect and celebrate the local culture.
2. Construction - Construction companies can specialize in using locally-sourced materials and traditional techniques to build structures that minimize environmental impact and support local communities.
3. Cultural Preservation - Organizations can focus on preserving cultural heritage and providing spaces for cultural expression and connection in underrepresented communities.