Nubian Vault Research

with Joshua Yebo Ndace, Nigeria

This research explores innovative approaches to promote adobe construction using traditional Nubian vaulting techniques, focusing on enhancing the perceived attractiveness and viability of these sustainable building methods. The collaboration with Joshua Yebo Ndace from Nigeria brings valuable regional expertise to examine how these ancient techniques can be adapted and marketed for contemporary construction needs in West Africa and beyond.

The Nubian Vault technique, which creates load-bearing arched structures without requiring timber or steel reinforcement, offers significant environmental and economic advantages in regions where conventional building materials are scarce or expensive. By investigating ways to increase the appeal of adobe construction through improved design approaches, cultural integration, and technical refinement, this research addresses both sustainability goals and practical housing needs in developing regions.

The partnership combines international perspectives on sustainable architecture with local knowledge of traditional building practices, potentially creating scalable solutions that respect cultural heritage while meeting modern housing demands. This work contributes to the growing field of vernacular architecture revival and climate-appropriate construction methods.

Note: A key innovation in this study involves leveraging artificial intelligence to generate compelling visual representations and rapidly produce inspiring design materials for potential stakeholders. This AI-assisted approach enables the team to quickly create diverse architectural visualizations that demonstrate the aesthetic potential of Nubian vault construction, helping to overcome preconceptions about traditional building techniques and showcase their contemporary relevance.