Magamba road, Mutare(ZIM)

Mutare is the fourth largest city in Zimbabwe, situated between mountains. With explosive population growth the city is expanding uncontrollably towards the mountain ridges. The introduction of new housing typologies with higher density and higher quality provides an answer to this. The new plan is a sequel to the succesful Hobhouse project, where 250 families built their a healthier living environment with a little guidance of the Haarlem Mutare Housing trust.

The urban plan has been completed and includes 80 self-build housing, a series of terraced houses, an apartment building and a community center. The new area is characterized by experimental housing based on Zimbabwean (building) culture. The 'do it yourself' aspect provides strong affinity between people and the built environment.