The History of Rwandan Architecture 1

Rwandan architecture has been influenced by many outside forces since the earliest periods, as there is evidence, just like the majority of other architectural traditions, particularly in Africa. Since the late 15th century, coastal regions have also been influenced by Western architecture, which is now a significant source for many larger structures, particularly in major cities.

The materials and designs

The materials used in Rwandan architecture are diverse, such as hay, sticks or wood, mud, mud brick, rammed earth, and stone. In Rwanda or any other nation in Central Africa, a wall could be constructed from mud and wood. Homes weren't clustered into small villages; instead, they were dispersed across the hills and occupied by people from the same lineage.

Each home was surrounded by fields that were primarily planted with potatoes, bananas, sorghum, and beans. There were several huts among the wealthy: a chief's hut for the chief; a second hut, usually the woman's hut; a third hut set aside for cooking; and a fourth hut reserved for teenage girls or visitors.

The entrance of the enclosure and that of the house were on the same axis. Smaller structures, such as granaries and/or henhouses, were housed within the enclosure.

The structure

Rwanda is distinguished by its original construction by men. Constructions' size is determined by the size of a person lying on the ground with the right arm extended. According to social status and the owner's needs, this dimension is chosen.

Every hut has only one entrance protected by a woven porch, creating a beautiful and well-insulated building that is suitable for the high humidity and temperatures of Rwanda's highlands. The courtyard dwelling type includes areas for cooking, bathrooms, and shops.

Various types of the vernacular hut and house structures

1. Domical (beehive).
2. Mud cylinders and cones on poles
3. Roofing with a gable
4. A rectangle with the roof rounded and sloping at the ends.
5. Square.