Erentia Association: Sustainable Reconstruction in Cuba in the Aftermath of Cyclones.
Erentia is a project that integrates an architecture studio, a laboratory, and a non-profit association based in Spain. The association has launched a crowdfunding campaign on goteo.org to promote a cooperation program in Cuba focused on rehabilitating rural housing in the Palmarito Valley of Viñales. Given the region’s vulnerability to cyclones and hurricanes, the primary goal is to ensure the structural safety of homes and reduce exposure to future extreme weather events.
In recent years, Cuba has faced a series of structural challenges stemming from the economic crisis, the migration of young people, and an aging population. Additionally, restrictions on access to essential resources have exacerbated difficulties in key sectors such as transportation and energy. In this context, the province of Pinar del Río has been particularly affected by recurring climate events, making the implementation of resilient reconstruction strategies imperative.
Project Methodology and Phases
The project is being developed in Guasasa, a rural neighborhood in Viñales known for its strong agricultural traditions. However, this community is facing issues related to resource scarcity and labor migration to the tourism sector. To address these challenges, Erentia has designed an intervention plan structured in four phases:
1. Research and development of sustainable local materials in collaboration with the Cuban architecture studio MLC.
2. Construction of a Training School aimed at providing the community with skills in resilient building techniques.
3. Housing rehabilitation, including the reconstruction of eight completely collapsed homes and the partial renovation of ten others.
4. Implementation of a comprehensive territorial development plan to improve infrastructure and public services.
Training School: A Knowledge Transfer Approach
The Training School is conceived as an academic and educational space aimed at strengthening local capacities in sustainable construction, ensuring community participation and involvement in the building process. Its modular and resilient design allows for adaptability to various functions, including workshops, classes, and community activities. Technical training will focus on compressed earth blocks (BTC), combining traditional knowledge with technological innovations to foster self-sufficiency and preserve local architectural heritage.
Construction Strategies for Resilient Housing
The intervention follows a dual approach, comprising the partial rehabilitation of moderately damaged homes and the construction of new homes in cases of total collapse. Both strategies prioritize climate adaptability by using BTC to enhance structural resistance and thermal comfort, as well as incorporating strategic openings to improve ventilation and natural lighting. Additionally, efficient water management is promoted through a rainwater harvesting system.
For partially rehabilitated homes, a circular economy strategy is proposed, reusing materials in good condition from collapsed structures. Roofs will also be reinforced with a sandwich panel system integrating recycled zinc, wood fiber, and restored slats, optimizing both strength and thermal efficiency.
Funding and Feasibility
To materialize the first phase of this project, we aim to raise €12,000, which will be allocated to research and the production of sustainable materials. This investment will enable:
- The manufacturing of specialized machinery, including a mill, a mixer, and a BTC press.
- The construction of an experimental pavilion, which will serve as an outdoor reading space for the local educational community.
This prototype will function as an experimental phase to evaluate material performance under real conditions while creating learning and community participation spaces. Furthermore, it represents a holistic intervention that integrates applied research, technology transfer, and community engagement to mitigate housing vulnerability in Viñales. The collaboration of various disciplines and local stakeholders is a key factor in the success of this initiative. Through an active crowdfunding campaign on goteo.org you can receive various rewards as a token of our appreciation for your donations.
