[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.

[Compressed Earth Blocks with Laterite Soil_image by united➃design]

New Methods for Building with “Old” Materials

November 13, 2014

For our housing project in Niger, we are using Compressed Earth Blocks (CEB), a material that has only recently started being used in Niamey, Niger's capital. The blocks are produced from mostly basic dry soil with a small amount of clay and aggregate with typically 7-10% of cement added.

[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.