AMU hosted an enlightening lecture featuring Architect Rahel Shawl, a pioneering architect and founder of RAAS Architects P.L.C, at AMU on January 27, 2025. Attendees were invited to explore Rahael's innovative design philosophy aptly named “Architecture with Care" through an in-depth examination of her landmark, Halala Kella Project. Click here to see more photos.
Mr. Alemea Girmay, the dean of the faculty, welcoming and expressing his belief, said, the values of such mentorships are so vital for architectural developments and shaping the future generation of architects.
Architect Rahel's presentation captivated an audience of academic staff and students who delved into the intricacies of the Halala Kella Eco-Resort. This project exemplifies a thoughtful integration of the design with the environment emphasizing the significance of materials, cultural relevance, landscape alignment, and overall project cost. “Good architecture is a reflection of our life,” she said.
Continuing a brief on the Halala Kella Lodge, she said, it is named after the fortified stone walls of the historic Dawro Kingdom which is situated at an altitude of 900 to 1000 meters. This site was once a protector of the Dawro people and symbolizes their strength and unity; the two primary objectives for the project were to conserve the historic and cultural resources of the Dawro walls while making them accessible to tourists and to introduce contemporary facilities that enhance the visitor experience, she outlined. To meet the objectives, the design team focused on balancing the preservation of cultural heritage with modern functional requirements; they immersed themselves into the local history, culture, and climate, she explained. Being inspired by traditional 'tukuls', the architects translated the essence of the stone fence into modern villa designs, creating a harmonious blend of past and present, she noted.
Architect Rahel appreciates the community involvement during the construction phase which was fostered with a sense of ownership and pride. The project was completed in 18 months showcasing how traditional Ethiopian architecture can be effectively integrated with contemporary design, she said.
The insights shared during the lecture significantly enriched the learning experience offering a unique perspective on the future of architecture in Ethiopia. The message resonated deeply during the discussion includes design requires passion, effort, and commitment to the community. The Halala Kella Lodge stands as a testament to this philosophy; it is not merely a destination, but it is an experience that connects visitors with Ethiopia's heritage aimed at boosting tourism in the region. The event successfully bridged the wisdom and experience of Architect Rahel with the eager minds of students and professionals emphasizing the importance of environmental and socio-economic sustainability in Ethiopia's architectural developments.
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Public and International Relations Executive