From Knowledge Exchange to Community Empowerment: The Duling Educational and Cultural Centre’s Success

• Cascading Roofs: These roofs collect and recycle rainwater, providing an average of 1,500 litres of clean water daily. 
• Natural Ventilation: The Centre’s staggered design enhances airflow, which is crucial for the humid climate of Guangxi. "The shape maximises airflow, because it's very humid there, so we wanted to prevent moulding," explained Prof Yeung.
• Locally Sourced Materials: Using red brick, pine timber, and concrete, the building blends seamlessly with its surroundings and reduces the carbon footprint.  Said Elisabeth, "Faced with disrupted supply chains, we decided to primarily rely on local resources, supporting our commitment to sustainability and the local community."
• Multifunctional Spaces: The Centre serves as classrooms during the day and community spaces in the evening, maximising resource use.

Overcoming Challenges

The project faced several challenges, including:

• Water Scarcity: Despite heavy rainfall, the need for more infrastructure for water collection posed significant hygiene issues. 
• Climate Conditions: The humid and rainy climate required innovative ventilation and water management solutions.
• Resource Limitations: Limited access to materials and skilled labour in the rural area added logistical complexities.
• Community Engagement: Extensive consultation was required to ensure that the design met the cultural and practical needs of the Hakka community.

The Hakka Community and Cultural Sensitivity

The Hakka people, known for their resilience and rich cultural heritage, played a crucial role in the project's success. The design respected Hakka architectural principles, such as communal living spaces and cultural symbols, fostering a sense of ownership and pride among the residents. "It is a Hakka village, so the design derived from Hakka culture, emphasising community living and being close to nature," highlighted Elisabeth.

Positive Community Feedback

The local community has expressed overwhelming appreciation for the project:

• Improved Facilities: Enhanced educational and community facilities have significantly improved the quality of life.
• Cultural Respect: The design's cultural sensitivity has strengthened community bonds.
• Sustainability: The innovative water recycling system and use of local materials have addressed critical local needs.

Influence on Future Designs

The success of the Duling Educational and Cultural Centre has set a precedent for future projects:

• Sustainable Design: The project's emphasis on sustainability has inspired similar initiatives in rural areas.
• Community-Centric Approach: The collaborative design process has become a model for engaging local communities.
• Educational Integration: Integrating educational and community spaces has highlighted the importance of multifunctional buildings.

In conclusion, the Duling Educational and Cultural Centre in Guangxi demonstrates the profound benefits of combining knowledge exchange, sustainable design, and community engagement. This project addresses immediate needs and paves the way for future innovations in architecture and community development. As Prof Yeung eloquently said, "The true value of our work lies beyond the physicality of the project but in how it connects and unites people from different backgrounds, showing engineering and architecture's ability to foster a sense of belonging."