MATMATA ECOLODGE

Simplicity, quality reduced to sensual experiences, an oriental atmosphere, the proximity of the desert, the peace of the landscape: these were the leitmotives for the Ecolodge located in Matmata, southern Tunisia, a village famous for its cave dwellings carved into the rock. By interpreting local construction methods it is possible to adapt to the arid climate; the image of the troglodyte way of life is once again improved.

The initial idea when creating the concept was the task of harmonising socio-economic considerations with booming mass-tourism, establishing contact with the local population, using and strengthening the existing infrastructure and letting the local community benefit from income generated by tourism to the region.

A single point of contact is to be created in the centre of Matmata, comprising a reception, administration services, a hammam and a traditional restaurant. At the same time, the small-scale infrastructure of the village should be preserved; the building blending into the local surroundings. Small dwellings are to be built in the hills surrounding the centre of the village, each run by one family and offering space for up to ten visitors.

The whitewashed cubes are dotted casually across the landscape, giving the impression of wafting past on the wind like sand and clay, with only parts of the subterranean structure visible here and there. Above ground, the jutting and orthogonal shapes contrast starkly with the soft curves of the cave-like structures built into the earth. This interaction between inside and outside, between underground and overground is consciously presented to the visitor, who discovers the architecture of the caves through intense spatial experiences.

The extreme temperatures in the region were a decisive factor when creating the architectural concept. Climatic conditions within the dwellings are controlled by natural processes: the large heat-saving mass below ground and the humidity-regulating properties of clay create a cool climate similar to that in the subterranean caves of Matmata. Vents in the ceilings and underground ducts guarantee a constant flow of air, while north-facing terraces, shaded areas and courtyards make it possible to use the outside space. Through cisterns, wadi and the treatment of grey-water to irrigate shade-giving plants, it is possible to counteract the shortage of water and utilise the very brief but intense periods of precipitation. Electricity is provided by a central PV facility; de-centralised warm-water collectors supply the hammam and the washing areas in the individual dwellings.