Project Description
The indigenous Tareno community has a unique cultural heritage that dates back 7,000+ years. Their traditional building style represents the most authentic form of Surinamese “vernacular”* architecture. Historically, the Tareno community has practiced a valuable approach to nature-inclusive building. This knowledge is not widely recognized within Suriname, and even the Western world can learn much from this way of thinking and working, especially at a time when we must be more conscious of how we treat the planet.
This project focuses on research and documentation of the use of local materials for construction, particularly the potential of bamboo as a source of income for the Tareno community. Kwamalasamutu, where the project is based, translates to “bamboo (kwama) and sand (samu),” reflecting the community’s deep connection to bamboo.
The aim is to combine both local and technical knowledge. The first step involves conducting preliminary research on bamboo, which will be documented for educational purposes. This will include workshops and consultations with bamboo specialists, leading to the creation of a plan for a “construction workshop” in South Suriname.
An important aspect of this initiative is cultural participation, as it offers an opportunity for the Tareno community to further develop their cultural practices. Both indigenous people and external stakeholders will actively engage in sharing, preserving, and promoting the rich traditions, arts, and practices of the Tareno community. The entire process will be preserved and documented in a comprehensive book publication. Additionally, a documentary series has already begun, following the initial sessions with the Tareno community and Forest93 architect Lindsey van de Wetering.
*”vernacular” refers to the traditional, locally developed architecture of the Trio community, shaped by their culture, environment, and available materials.
Why
- Preservation of Culture, Heritage, and Nature
- Research and Documentation of Traditional Knowledge
- Cultural Exchange and Understanding
What
- Design, Technical, and Analytical Research
- Fieldwork Research
- Reporting
- Presentation and publication
Project Implementation
Lindsey van de Wetering will cooperate with the Tareno community in Kwamalasamutu.
Beneficiaries
The project is primarily focused on the Tareno community, one of the most disadvantaged groups in Suriname in terms of income, employment, education, and healthcare.
It will impact culture and nature enthusiasts, as well as architects in Suriname, the Netherlands, and internationally, by promoting knowledge exchange on building with sustainable materials (bamboo) and circularity in Trio indigenous architecture.
Surinamese contractors, designers, and self-builders will be reached and inspired to design and build in a nature-inclusive and sustainable way.
Goal
Support the Tareno community in documenting their knowledge, and combining Western and traditional influences by utilizing local knowledge and natural materials.
Promote the preservation, increased awareness, and integration of Tareno culture in both Surinamese and Dutch societies.
Provide information to the Surinamese society about the use of alternative, natural, and biobased building materials.
Encourage a movement in Suriname where nature-inclusive and sustainable design becomes an integral part of local architecture, starting with the indigenous Trio community. As Suriname faces the threat of climate change, implementing nature-inclusive construction methods offers a positive approach to address this. The use of sustainable and local materials plays a crucial role throughout Suriname.
Why Lindsey van de Wetering initiated this project:
“From the beginning of my career as an architect, I have been deeply inspired by nature-inclusive building, particularly the traditional, pure methods of construction in a tropical environment. I believe we can learn incredibly valuable lessons from those who live closest to nature. With a personal connection to Suriname, I am eager to continue learning, growing, and sharing these insights with the world.”
Investment Need
€107,244.00 (30% travel cost)
Timeline
Global timeline ca. 1,5 – 2 years
Start date: March 1, 2025
End date: December 31, 2026