Dandaji is a Hausa village in arid western Niger with a very young population of 3000, low literacy rates, and high economic vulnerability. As a mosque, women never used the current building, preferring to pray at home. The library and its proximity to the new mosque was aimed to engage them and the youth positively with these religious spaces as productive members of the community.

To renovate the old building to its previous glory, Mariam Issoufou Architects (Formerly Atelier Masomi) collaborated with Studio Chahar. In the process, they get knowledge of erosion control methods and adobe-enhancing additives in the process. Instead of the region’s traditional but scarce wood, the interior renovation uses metal for study spaces, partitions, stairs and a mezzanine level, as a contemporary touch to a traditional space. The new building in turn re-interprets traditional Hausa mosque organization with contemporary structural support and detailing. Its two blocs and outdoor prayer space are suited to daily prayers, Friday assemblies, or large Eid celebrations. The dialogue between the formal structures of the old and new leads to further collaboration between the traditional masons and the construction crew.

The project introduces Compressed Earth Bricks (CEB) made with laterite soil found on site; a new material in the area with the advantage of being lower maintenance than adobe, with similar thermal benefits. Most of the project materials are sourced from less than a 5km radius distance to the site, while the use of concrete is limited to structural elements such as columns and lintels. The thermal mass of the CEBs and natural ventilation keep indoor temperatures comfortable and remove the need for mechanical cooling. The effect is amplified with extensive planting throughout the site, using a drip irrigation system to help the vegetation thrive. The system dramatically lowers water consumption and will use an underground water reservoir that captures the rainy season downpours.

The cultural complex serves as the area’s central gathering place. A 1000-person mosque with two main worship areas, two ablution areas, and a minaret is part of the complex’s planned amenities. There are also two bedrooms for the mosque’s imam, a library, classrooms, reading and study areas, a practical workshop area, a children’ play area, and a garden. The project offers areas for reading, studying, workshops, play, and worship. The outdoor areas are designed to be adaptable enough to host community gatherings or simply encourage contemplation.