Ecuadorian Community Builds Sustainable 'Chaki Wasi' Handicrafts Center Along Quilotoa Volcanic Crater

In the middle of Ecuador's volcanic crater, in the heart of Quilotoa Lagoon, the indigenous town of Shalalá is creating the first sustainable tourism project in the country that combines the transmission of ancestral culture and respect for their natural environment. La Cabina De La Curiosidad's Chaki Wasi handicrafts center embodies this vision with a building that expresses the residents' desire to uphold their culture and find a way to coexist with the natural world.

A Symbol of Andean Culture

Chaki Wasi, which translates to "house made of straw from floor to roof" in Kichwa, encapsulates the center's core principles. This architectural endeavor seeks to represent Andean culture through traditional building techniques. La Cabina De La Curiosidad has utilized vernacular methods to create a structure that resonates with the past while addressing the present needs of the Shalalá community.

The foundation of Chaki Wasi is built on river stones, chosen for their symbolic representation of the land's resilience. The main structure is constructed from eucalyptus wood, bound with cabuya, a natural fiber derived from the penco plant. This approach underscores a commitment to sustainability and traditional craftsmanship, using locally sourced and environmentally friendly materials.

Ancestral Construction Methods

The construction of Chaki Wasi adhered strictly to ancestral methods. The architects at La Cabina De La Curiosidad emphasized the importance of using traditional tools and techniques. Wooden mallets replaced modern nails, and large chakra dowels, crafted from young eucalyptus, provided additional support. The expansive thatched roof, a design hallmark, offers protection and a textured, natural aesthetic.

This approach preserves traditional building methods and promotes a regenerative design philosophy. Construction waste is returned to the land, fostering a closed-loop system that minimizes environmental impact. This practice ensures that Chaki Wasi has a positive carbon footprint, setting an example for sustainable construction and living.

Community-Driven Construction

The making of Chaki Wasi is a tale that is impossible to tell without emphasizing the community's role. It was realized that this was a joint venture between La Cabina De La Curiosidad and the people of Shalalá. Team roles in the project were reassigned weekly to help all members feel that they were all part of the same project. This method was important because it meant that every community member had a reason to see the project succeed.

Another key area was using traditional mingas, or communal work parties. Such meetings involved women, men, and young people who would assist in completing this project. The wood and straw used in the construction were obtained from neighboring communities through goodwill created in the local society.

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It was constructed entirely through manual labor, with every part of the building assembled by the villagers themselves. It was simple, with tools and collective efforts enabling the structures to be raised with the modules. Putting the thatch roof took cultural meaning, with every bit of construction having customs and traditions that defined ancient Andean life.

A Celebration of Heritage and Sustainability

Chaki Wasi is more than just a building; it is a celebration of the Andean way of life and a beacon of sustainable practice. The center serves as a venue for local artisans to showcase and sell their handicrafts, promoting economic sustainability within the community. It also provides an educational resource, offering visitors insight into traditional Andean culture and sustainable living practices.

The building's design and construction methods directly reflect the community's commitment to sustainability. The project minimizes its environmental impact by using local materials and traditional techniques while preserving cultural heritage. The thatched roof, eucalyptus frame, and river stone foundation testify to the community's resourcefulness and respect for nature.

Educational and Environmental Impact

The integration of nature into the design of Chaki Wasi extends beyond its construction materials. The center is surrounded by an aquaponic system,  which ensures the feeding of the outdoor and indoor plants and vegetables in the center's activities. The aquaponic system not only beautifies but also plays an educative function by enlightening them about sustainable agriculture and ecologically sustainable practices.

The other role played by the aquaponic system is controlling the temperature in the center, which causes it to cool. This natural cooling method also helps to lower the buildings and the community's carbon footprint and adds to the atmosphere of commitment to sustainable living.

Legacy for Future Generations

Chaki Wasi takes its rightful place among other projects and demonstrates the potential of architecture to meet utilitarian demands and express cultural and environmental values. The project could be identified as the implementer of the Shalalá community's traditions and desire to continue to live in accordance with nature.

While touring the Chaki Wasi handicrafts center, tourists not only admire the unique architecture of the ancient Andean building but also take part in the broader context of indigenous culture and ecological restoration efforts. La Cabina De La Curiosidad and the Shalalá community's project is an example of how sustainable tourism and community development should be done - the work they've done will be remembered and inspire others to continue in the same manner.

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