London-based New Makers Bureau has designed Uganda's 32° East Arts Centre, featuring rammed-earth walls and earth bricks.

A collaboration with Ugandan firm Localworks, the community arts space is situated in Kabalagala, Kampala. The centre houses artist studios, a versatile cafe doubling as an interim gallery, and Uganda's only specialist arts library.

With a low-carbon, budget-conscious approach, the building employs materials sourced from the site.

The centre's L-shaped structure encircles a courtyard garden and utilises passive design strategies such as polycarbonate roof lights. Projecting steel-framed windows for natural lighting, ventilation, and temperature control.

This project has been shortlisted in the cultural project category of Dezeen Awards 2023.

Studio: New Makers Bureau
Project: 32° East Arts Centre
Credits: Localworks and 32° East | Ugandan Arts Trust