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2024 OPAL SPECIAL AWARD SOCIAL IMPACT

ARTICLE 25

“Article 25 is a pioneering architectural NGO focused on sustainable, community-driven design, delivering impactful projects that address urgent social needs in vulnerable regions across the Global South.”

Article 25 has been chosen byt the OPAL commitee for their outstanding commitment to delivering innovative, sustainable architecture, transforming vulnerable communities in the Global South through impactful, life-changing projects.

Article 25 stands out as a visionary architectural NGO dedicated to using design for social good, addressing pressing challenges in the Global South. Over the past 20 years, they have completed more than 100 projects across 34 countries, delivering critical infrastructure like schools, hospitals, and housing to communities facing poverty, conflict, and climate crises. Their work encompasses a diverse range of projects, from healthcare facilities in remote regions to disaster-resilient buildings in areas vulnerable to natural disasters.

What distinguishes Article 25 from others is their deeply collaborative and context-sensitive approach. Rather than imposing standardized designs, they engage local communities, listening to their needs and incorporating local knowledge and cultural insights. This ensures that their solutions are sustainable, appropriate, and have a lasting positive impact. Their team’s technical expertise, combined with a humanitarian focus, enables them to work in challenging environments where traditional architecture firms often cannot.

Article 25’s commitment goes beyond construction; they invest in capacity building and skills training for local workers, fostering economic empowerment and community resilience. Their projects do more than provide physical structures; they deliver dignity, opportunity, and a foundation for improved well-being. By prioritizing social impact over profit, Article 25 sets a powerful example of how architecture can be a force for transformative change.

Notable Achievements

PURULIA LEPROSY HOSPITAL, INDIA 2013

Article 25’s Purulia Leprosy Hospital project in India addressed a critical healthcare gap by designing a new outpatient department tailored to the needs of leprosy patients. The facility, built using locally sourced materials, incorporated climate-responsive features to enhance comfort in extreme weather conditions. Article 25 worked closely with the community and local healthcare providers to ensure the design was both culturally sensitive and functional. The outpatient department now serves 50,000 patients annually, providing a dignified space for treatment and reducing the stigma around leprosy. By prioritizing local capacity building and sustainable practices, Article 25 created a lasting, positive impact for the region.

BOISROND TONNERRE SCHOOL, HAITI 2015

The Boisrond Tonnerre School project in Haiti was a transformative response to the urgent need for safe, resilient educational facilities in a region vulnerable to earthquakes. The design incorporated earthquake-resistant construction techniques, ensuring that the school could withstand future seismic events, prioritizing the safety of students and staff. Article 25 collaborated closely with local builders and stakeholders, integrating local materials and construction methods, while also providing training to boost community skills and employability. The result was a culturally appropriate, sustainable building that not only serves as a center for education but also as a safe haven for the community during emergencies.

ANANDABAN HOSPITAL, NEPAL 2017

Article 25’s redevelopment of Anandaban Hospital in Nepal was a critical project following the devastating 2015 earthquake. The hospital, a key treatment center for leprosy and general healthcare, was rebuilt using earthquake-resistant design, significantly enhancing its resilience. Article 25 engaged closely with local stakeholders to ensure the new facilities addressed the specific needs of the community, prioritizing accessibility and patient comfort. The design included improved outpatient services and specialized treatment areas, significantly increasing the hospital’s capacity. By incorporating sustainable building practices and training local workers, Article 25 not only rebuilt the hospital but also empowered the community with enhanced healthcare infrastructure and skills.

DOMINICA HOUSING RECOVERY PROJECT 2005

The Dominica Housing Recovery Project was a vital response to the devastation caused by Hurricane Maria in 2017. Partnering with the World Bank, Article 25 led the construction of 450 resilient homes designed to withstand future hurricanes. By integrating hurricane-resistant features and using locally sourced materials, the project enhanced durability while minimizing environmental impact. Article 25 worked closely with the affected Kalinago community, involving them in the design process and providing construction training, which fostered local employment and skills development. The project not only provided safe, sustainable housing but also empowered residents, building long-term resilience and restoring a sense of security.

COLLÈGE AMADOU HAMPATÉ BÂ, NIGER 2022

The Collège Amadou Hampaté Bâ project expanded educational access by creating climate-resilient classrooms for over 1,200 students. The school’s design addressed extreme heat and limited resources through innovative passive cooling techniques, including shaded courtyards and natural ventilation, ensuring a comfortable learning environment year-round. Article 25 collaborated with local educators and community members to ensure the design met educational needs and reflected cultural values. By using local materials and training community workers, the project minimized environmental impact and boosted local skills. The new facilities provide a safe, inspiring space for learning, supporting students’ academic growth and community development.