The Lali Gurans orphanage and library in Kathmandu addresses the needs of an under-served rural population. In a context lacking basic infrastructure, the new facility utilizes low-technology renewable energy and material resources, thus significantly reducing operating costs. Using local construction techniques and materials, the design invests in indigenous workmanship. Vertical gardens and permaculture provide thermal insulation as well as food for cooking. Aiming to overcome the image of “the orphanage” as institution, the project addresses the needs of the nearby communities by offering a library accessible to the public and a seismically stable refuge area during earthquakes. 

The site for the Lali Gurans Orphanage and Library in Gagalphedi, Kathmandu was selected for its clean air and water, safety in seclusion, and economical land value. The building will vastly improve the orphanage facilities, while cutting operating costs in half, allowing the organization to play a prominent role in the community as they proceed into the future.

The design invests in local artisanship, by following vernacular building techniques and employing simple, sturdy, locally-available materials to minimize embodied energy and maximize lifespan. Its concrete made with fly ash avoids waste, conserves virgin materials, and reduces processing energy. In contrast to local concrete buildings finished in stucco, the orphanage’s exposed concrete expresses the typical construction technique. Window frames, built-in furniture and freestanding elements are made from durable, locally-sourced teak. 

Kathmandu is expecting a major earthquake. The orphanage’s raft foundation, and its double exoskeleton frame of 300mm reinforced concrete is highly engineered as an area of refuge for the entire local community.

Thermal mass mediates Kathmandu’s hot days and cold nights, absorbing radiation throughout the day and releasing it at night. During winter, the low sun penetrates deeper, providing warmth. Operable windows allow inhabitants to control temperature and air quality. Larger spaces have cross-ventilation, and the main stairwell provides stack ventilation. Although the orphanage is well-shaded from direct sunlight by its brise-soleil and planting, its glazing allows for plentiful indirect light reducing electrical use.

Fifteen 175W solar panels provide the building’s entire electricity usage. Two 5m and 6m diameter solid-dome anaerobic digesters provide gas for heating, cooking and lighting. They are common to the area and will run on kitchen, agricultural, and community waste. Drinking water is collected from the ground and rainwater, passes through a UV filtration system, and will be stored in large tanks.

Organic food will be produced by the two rooftop gardens, 80 fixed drip-irrigation planters, and more than 300 vertical hanging planters, fed with bio-slurry and graywater. Fruit trees in the garden will complement vegetables and herbs grown in planters lining the exoskeleton, social spaces, exterior circulation, and roof garden. Together they will provide enough capacity to fulfill the orphanage’s needs.