Since 2004, Design Build Bluff has created the opportunity for graduate architecture students at the University of Utah to design and build an innovative work of architecture, while at the same time providing needed housing for deserving clients in the Navajo community. This past fall, fourteen students spent their semester gaining the cultural awareness and tangible construction skills necessary to turn a carefully-considered design into a beautiful and sustainable work of innovative architecture. It’s a a landmark opportunity — for students, clients, consultants, and donors, alike — for applied research in a reality-based context with the opportunity for building social equity through meaningful exchange. The DBB effort has seen some remarkable homes come to be for a lucky few, a couple worthy examples of which can be seen in the photos below. This coming spring, they intend to do more good.
completed with implementation of creative and sustainable techniques throughout
The current design planned for spring consists of an 800 sq. ft., energy-efficient home that will be completed with implementation of creative and sustainable techniques throughout. The home will be provided for a recently wheelchair-bound resident of the Navajo Nation, and her young son. Paralyzed from the waist down after an accident, university students have met with the future resident and will address her needs through the design and construction of an ADA wheelchair-accessible home which will vastly improve her ability to gain access to her home and the outdoors. As part of the effort, one important aspect of the project is the outdoor covering that will afford a beautiful, 360-degree panoramic view that includes the Monument Valley.
this incredible effort will require a touch of community help
Construction of the home and the outdoor structure for this incredible effort will require a touch of community help. On January 10th, cityhomeCOLLECTIVE will host a Design Build Bluff Exhibition, where we will review the current project, honor past donors, and raise funds for upcoming projects. Please join for the open house, or click here to donate/contribute to this incredible project.
Design Build Bluff Exhibition | January 10th, 5:00pm to 7:00pm | cityhomeCOLLECTIVE, 645 E South Temple
*Content provided by José Galarza, Director, DesignBuildBLUFF
