[NM2000 Construction site_image by united➃design]

Brick Fright

June 1, 2015

Our NM2000 project ran into unforeseen challenges recently. From the beginning, we were very excited to use compressed earth blocks (CEB) and our biggest challenge has been to make sure we have access to high-quality bricks. But through it all, we didn't really consider the implications of our choice in the context it was meant for, in terms of access to a skilled labor force.

[View of project approach in a modest neighborhood of Niamey_image by united➃design]

Public Space, Islam and Women in Niger

July 2, 2014

At united➃design, we ponder a wide variety of subjects, across a range of scales. Working on different continents requires us to study and propose context-sensitive solutions for diverse conditions. One example is a project we developed to address the lack of access that young women have to the urban public realm in Niger’s capital, Niamey.

[Entry to middle class home planned for Niamey, Niger_image by united➃design]

Housing for the Middle Class in Niamey, Niger

May 29, 2014

Since the founding of united➃design last year, we’ve been busy planning projects in two different parts of the world, Afghanistan and Niger. In Afghanistan, we have been developing educational infrastructure for women and girls, while our project in Niger has challenged us to consider the growing need for housing in West Africa. One million inhabitants live in Niger’s capital, Niamey.