Re-Discovering The Soul of Swahili Tradition: Conservation of a Swahili-Style Stone House

  Kenya

Lamu

Duration of Program: 1-2 weeks
Typical Duration of Program: 1-2 weeks
Dates: February 8-21, 2009

Description: Conservationists in Lamu have long been concerned that much traditional knowledge is no longer being handed down from one generation to the next. As a result, traditional methods of both building construction and hand tooled crafts are being lost. The goal of this workshop is to stimulate interest in a variety of traditional trades, from construction to building dhows, creating calligraphy, sewing traditional hats and more. Workshop organizers hope to spark a renewed appreciation for such arts in both the local community and the East African region as a whole.

Traditional building technique will be the primary focus of the workshop. There are many historic homes throughout the old town built in the Swahili traditional style - an inward looking, self-contained complex in which a central courtyard is surrounded by narrow rooms. These rooms have ceilings made of boriti mangrove poles and a flat open roof sometimes shaded by thatched makuti shelters. Patterned niches are found in the interiors, and most houses have ornately stylized carved doors. Other traditional materials used in their construction include:

- Coral stones of various size used for foundation
- Hardwood timbers used for structural members such as lintels, beams, suspended floor joists, etc.
- Coral rag and lime mortar used in the massive monolithic walls, and
- Lime plaster and white wash used as wall finishes.

Workshop participants will be helping preserve one of the few remaining historic residences within the old town that is still owned and inhabited by a local family. The buildings ground floor, built in the traditional style, is in poor condition. The floor above was built recently using modern cement sand mortar and coral blocks. In this demonstration project, workshop leaders will highlight how poorly executed upward expansions may cause damage to the original coral rag structures.

This conflict of old and new and loss of tradition is also being experienced in Zanzibar, Mombasa Old Town and Ilha de Mozambique. Therefore, trainees from Lamu, Mombasa, Zanzibar, Mozambique Island, Kilwa, Bagamoyo and the Comoros islands will be joining the workshop and working alongside HCN participants coming from other regions of the world.

Highlights:
- Opportunity to help conservationists in Lamu preserve part of the culture that's disappearing - traditional building skills and traditional crafts.
- Explore the World Heritage City of Lamu and is blend of African and Arab culture.

Qualifications: An interest in culture, cultural heritage conservation, architecture, art history, art and architectural conservation, along with a willingness to learn new things are all you need to join one of HCN's hands-on workshops. No previous experience is necessary.

Cost in US$: $1,115 - 1,480

A special rate is available for residents of African countries, who must register directly with the Lamu World Heritage Site and Conservation Office. Transportation to the workshop is not included and is the responsibility of the participant.

Experience Required: no

Typical Volunteer: A typical workshop participant has a strong interest in cultural heritage or historic buildings, either as a profession or hobby. Otherwise, our workshops draw participants from a broad range of backgrounds, particularly those looking to volunteer with a non-profit organization for a good cause; that mix contributes significantly to the workshops' success.

Age Range: 18-65

This Program is open to Worldwide Participants. This Program is also open to Couples and Individuals

Participants Travel to Kenya Independently

Typically Participants Work in Groups of 8-10

Scholarships are Available. - A special rate is available for residents of African countries, who must register directly with the Lamu World Heritage Site and Conservation Office. The fee for professionals is US$815 for 1 week; US$1080 for 2 weeks plus transportation. The fee for undergraduate students from African countries is US$615 for 1 week; US$780 for 2 weeks plus transportation. Contact us for more information and details.

Application Process Involves:

• Written Application

Heritage Conservation Network's Mission Statement: Heritage Conservation Network supports community-based heritage conservation efforts around the world. HCN's hands-on building conservation workshops provide hands-on training in building conservation skills, assist in the completion of preservation projects, and increase awareness of the significance of architectural heritage and the economic benefits of historic preservation.

Year Founded: 2001