Dr Ng’eno Faith Chelang’at

I believe that sustainable design must go beyond technical solutions and engage with the social, cultural, and environmental contexts that shape people's lives. Through my research, I explore how architecture can respond to global challenges, such as climate change and urbanization, by staying deeply connected to local dynamics and knowledge systems. My work investigates how design can be more inclusive by reflecting the lived experiences of communities and addressing issues of equity and social justice. By incorporating a decolonial perspective, I aim to reshape the narrative around sustainable architecture, advocating for solutions that are not only environmentally sound but also culturally resonant, socially empowering and economically just. I am interested in collaboration within these five broad areas:

1. Reimagining Sustainable Architecture through a Decolonial Lens:

Research would broadly involve challenging Eurocentric models in Global South contexts. Topics would focus on critically analysing and reinterpreting sustainable architectural practices by incorporating perspectives from local knowledge in the Global South. The research would aim to propose alternative methodologies that are more aligned with local cultures, histories, and socio-economic realities.

2. Sustainable Design Strategies Inspired by Traditional Building Methods (Vernacular Architecture) in Post-Colonial Societies:

Research would explore how vernacular architecture, which often embodies sustainable practices, can inspire contemporary design. Inquiry would focus on identifying and adapting traditional construction techniques and materials in post-colonial societies to address modern sustainability challenges.

3. Architectural Resilience and Cultural Heritage:

By investigating how decolonial approaches to architecture can enhance the resilience of indigenous communities to climate change, research would explore the integration of cultural heritage with climate-responsive design, proposing strategies that empower communities to preserve their traditions while adapting to environmental challenges.

4. The Role of Participatory Design in Decolonising Architecture:

Using cases from the Global South, research would explore the role of participatory design in decolonising architecture, particularly in the Global South. It would investigate how involving local communities in the design process can lead to more sustainable and culturally resonant architectural solutions, promoting social equity and empowerment.

5. Decolonising Architectural Education:

Research would examine how architectural education can be transformed by incorporating non-Western design philosophies. The main aim would be the creation of educational frameworks that includes indigenous and local knowledge systems, aiming to produce architects who are equipped to design in culturally diverse and contextually appropriate ways.