Veloso: A Unique Residential Compound in Nacala, Mozambique

Creating Innovative Housing Solutions in Africa

The Veloso residential compound is a remarkable project consisting of 33 units, each designed to cater to different market needs. The compound offers three variations of house designs, ensuring a diverse range of options for potential residents. What sets Veloso apart is its ability to provide unique living spaces in a remote city like Nacala.

The project's success lies in its realization through light steel frame construction, which proved to be the fastest and most feasible prefabricated solution for a location where construction materials and skilled labor are scarce. This innovative approach allowed for the efficient and timely completion of the project.

The houses within the Veloso compound range in size from 100 to 120 square meters, providing comfortable living spaces for residents. The layout of the houses was meticulously planned to maximize the undisturbed sea views from each unit while ensuring complete privacy for tenants. This thoughtful design consideration creates a harmonious interplay between the houses, resulting in a non-repetitive distribution of units throughout the masterplan.

The Veloso project was a result of four months of intensive work in design and engineering, culminating in a 12-month construction period. This efficient timeline showcases the dedication and expertise of the design team, led by architect Samer Chamoun. The project also benefited from the contributions of consultant Oliver Tittmann from Xcube Engineering.

Veloso represents more than just a residential compound; it is a testament to the potential of innovative housing solutions in remote areas. The project's success has paved the way for further research and development in unconventional construction methods to address the growing housing needs in markets like Africa.

The Veloso project faced its fair share of challenges, particularly in designing a prefabricated modular housing system that could be easily transported and assembled on-site by unskilled labor from the adjacent community. However, through careful planning and collaboration, these challenges were overcome, resulting in a successful and sustainable housing solution.

The Veloso residential compound in Nacala, Mozambique, stands as a shining example of innovative design and construction. Its unique features, efficient realization, and commitment to addressing housing needs in remote areas make it a truly remarkable project.

Photo credits: Nuno Pirez

Award: Iron A' Design Award in 2019