Field trip Al Haouz
trips
Feb 24, 2024
Our two-day journey through the earthquake-affected Al Haouz region was intended to deepen our understanding of the impact of the disaster and the unique geographic and social conditions of this mountainous area. While our main aim was to gather insights on sustainable construction methods and assess how the earthquake has reshaped the region, the trip offered far more than technical lessons. It became an eye-opening experience about resilience and community.
Lessons in architecture and building
One of the clearest takeaways from the trip was the stark contrast in how buildings did or didn’t withstand the earthquake. The devastation showed us that the performance of a structure depends far less on the materials used and far more on how it has been designed and constructed.
Traditional earthen construction, a hallmark of this region, has often been dismissed as fragile. Yet, when properly executed, it can be both sustainable and resilient, even in seismic zones. We saw homes built with care and attention to structural principles that survived the earthquake, standing as a testament to the potential of these natural materials. In contrast, poorly designed or hastily constructed buildings, whether made of conventional materials or traditional ones, were often the first to collapse.
On the first day, we traveled through villages near the epicenter of the earthquake. This area is dominated by rugged stone landscapes, and the architecture reflects this. Buildings here were largely constructed from stone, a material that fits seamlessly with the environment but posed challenges during the earthquake due to its weight and brittleness when improperly joined.
On the second day, we visited villages further from the epicenter, where the surroundings shifted to red stone and earth. The architecture in these areas mirrored the landscape, with many homes constructed from a mix of red stone and earthen materials. These lighter materials, while less durable in some cases, have the potential to perform better in seismic conditions when combined with proper reinforcement techniques.
This geographic diversity taught us that seismic resilience is not about imposing a single building method but about adapting construction practices to local conditions. Whether working with stone, earth, or other materials, thoughtful design and execution are critical. These insights will guide us as we approach the design and construction of the school, emphasizing methods that respect both the environment and the lessons learned from the earthquake, like prioritizing thoughtful construction will be essential.
The strength of the Al Haouz communities
While the lessons in architecture were invaluable, the people of the High Atlas left an even deeper impression on us. Their ability to remain united and grounded in their values despite the challenges they face was nothing short of inspiring. The earthquake has left its mark not only on the buildings but also on the social fabric of these villages. Rebuilding efforts are complicated by the delicate balance of preserving community harmony while addressing the immediate need for reconstruction. Yet, the people we met consistently emphasized their collective well-being over individual gain, expressing an admirable concern for maintaining relationships and supporting each other through this difficult time.
Their generosity and resilience stood out in every interaction. Despite their losses, they extended kindness and openness, welcoming us into their lives and sharing their experiences. It was clear that their strength came from their deep sense of connection to one another and their commitment to preserving their shared values. Their hospitality reminded us of the enduring importance of community, especially in moments of crisis. In listening to their stories, we were struck by their ability to find solidarity and hope even amidst adversity, a perspective that gave us much to reflect upon as we moved forward with our work.
Moving forward with purpose
This trip reinforced that recovery in the High Atlas must go beyond physical rebuilding. The villages here are not just clusters of homes, they are deeply connected communities shaped by their landscapes, traditions, and relationships. Effective reconstruction must address the social and cultural dimensions of these communities while providing safe, sustainable structures.
As we move forward with our school-building project, we are committed to incorporating these lessons. This means designing structures that not only withstand seismic challenges but also align with the materials, geography, and values of the communities they serve. By doing so, we hope to contribute to recovery in a way that respects both the people and the environment.
The earthquake has brought immense challenges, but it has also highlighted the resilience, resourcefulness, and unity of the High Atlas communities. Their example inspires us to approach rebuilding with care, empathy, and a commitment to creating something meaningful and enduring. This journey has reminded us that recovery is as much about listening and understanding as it is about building, a lesson we will carry forward in every step of this project.
