Baobab House

The African Baobab Tree can live for thousands of years and grow up to 25 meters in height. The height of the tree allows it to rise above the surrounding grasslands and smaller trees providing an inspiring datum and place of refuge in the harsh landscape. It provides shelter from the elements and valuable resources for many different people and animals. This iconic tree is often a central place of gathering in African culture. The Baobab conserves water saved during the rainy season by remaining leafless for most of the year. Yet it dynamically adapts to different seasons by growing leaves, sprouting flowers and producing energy rich fruit. The thick, fire-resistant walls of the trunk protect a hollow core that often been inhabited by both humans and animals. This project reinterprets the concepts of the Baobab tree into architecture.

Awards: 2009 AIA Colorado West Merit Award-unbuilt