Future Fest 2023: Global Architecture, Local Knowledge With BE_Design

Future Fest 2023: Global Architects, Local Knowledge With BE_Design

On Day 2 of Future Fest, spotlighting the Future of Practice, we are thrilled to welcome multi-A+Award-winning architecture firm BE_Design to talk about the collaborative process behind their work.

BE_Design's presentation will focus on their work in East Africa, in particular on the recently completed Komera Leadership Center. This project coincided with the formalization of BE_Design and its team members, who are among the first graduates of architecture in Rwanda.

The team will explore the project's context within a rapidly developing country rich in its history of art and architecture. They'll also share their experiences and insights gained from collaborating with the rural community which they had the privilege to work with.

About BE_Design

Bruce Engel founded BE_DESIGN in 2016 and is currently working on projects in Tanzania, Rwanda, Kenya and Ghana. His team comprises Alain Yves Twizeyimana, Emmanuel Havugimana, Aziz Farid Shyaka, and Marie Minerve Dukunde. Bruce also collaborates with MB Architecture on projects on the East End of Long Island as well as a new Vision Plan for the Village of East Hampton, NY.

Bruce Engel

Bruce Engel, established BE_Design upon returning to New York after living in Rwanda for several years. His firm focuses on educational and community projects that serve rural and underprivileged areas in Rwanda, Tanzania, Kenya, and Ghana, while also designing energy-efficient homes in New York. Bruce's work has garnered awards and recognition, including the recently completed "Komera Leadership Center" in Rwanda.

Alain Yves Twizeyimana

Alain Yves Twizeyimana is a registered architect in Rwandan institute of architects (RIA) and East African institute of architects (EAIA) with an extensive design and management experience. Since meeting Bruce at the University of Rwanda as his design student, Yves has been working with Bruce on various award winning projects including; The Women’s Opportunity Center, Doctor’s Housing for Partners in Health and the Komera Leadership Center in Eastern Rwanda.

Emmanuel Havugimana

Emmanuel Havugimana, is a registered Rwandan architect that brings his expertise in sustainable design to his role at BE_Design. With his prior experience as the assistant head of the design department at Afriprecast Ltd., he completed various affordable housing projects and schools. Emmanuel’s work with Zero Carbon Designs involved innovative projects utilizing strawboards and light-weight framing systems. He has also managed projects in Ethiopia, Uganda, and Tanzania.

Marie Minerve Dukunde

Marie Minerve Dukunde is a registered architect in Rwanda, currently living in Ontario. In Rwanda, she worked for the urban planning department in the City of Kigali, ensuring the implementation of the Kigali Zoning Master Plan by advising stakeholders from public and private agencies and raising public awareness on planning principles and recommended land use.

Aziz Farid Shyaka

Aziz Farid Shyaka, an architect from Rwanda, draws inspiration from his hometown's evolving landscape. His journey began with the Women Opportunity Center project, leading to a rich architectural path. Passionate about spatial justice, he joined MASS Design Group as a Global Health Corps Design Fellow. Aziz now shapes healing spaces in Toronto, embodying dedication and empowerment.

About Hannah Feniak

Hannah Feniak is Architizer’s Managing Editor. When she’s not leading our talented team of writers and interviewing the industry’s most innovative designers, Hannah is likely to be found exploring the latest exhibition openings. A trained art historian and educator with a focus on architecture and urbanism, Hannah holds degrees from McGill University in Montreal and NYU.