While minimalist designs can be applied to luxurious commodities, responsible designs are what draw my attention.

Located in Tadjoura, Djibouti, SOS Children’s Village, designed by Urko Sánchez Architects, is a housing complex completed in 2014. Overlooking the whole entity of these houses, their formation and typology might remind one of Santorini, Greece, but in an earthier tone of colour and a more angular geometry. With the purpose of creating a safe environment for children, having public and private space clearly defined, and publishing a network of communal green space, the designers hope to strengthen the inhabitants’ collective value.

Although the minimal result might seem effortless, its detailed attention to placements and arrangements had a complex relationship with sun shading and natural ventilation. These scientific studies had also produced a series of alleyways to further create interstitial spaces for different activities.

Behind this amazing project is a team of people with diverse backgrounds and professions, whose passions for humanitarian aid helped heighten the dwellers’ quality of life. I completely love how projects like SOS Children’s Village have opened a new view to minimalism as a whole.

Photos courtesy of Javier Callejas.