Database

Water heritage
Photographs

The Nzulezo stilt settlement embodies both natural and cultural heritage, showcasing human adaptation to the environment. Based on a history of over 400 years old, the built environment and lifestyles within the community have been shaped by the water and wetland environment. The area is also internationally recognised as an Important Bird Area.

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Community reflections
Sketches

In January 2024, the .NZLZ team conducted a community workshop with the local people about their perceptions on living in Nzuelzo. This session among other things produced a series of sketches from the younger participants.

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Site analysis
Site diagrams

Nzulezo, which sits on the Amanzule River, Ghana, is situated amidst dense mangrove forests. Accessible solely by canoe or boat, the community relies on farming, fishing and tourism. Its remote location fostered and maintains their distinct way of life till date.

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Structural details
Sketches

A zoom into the structural elements of a stilt building reveal an impressive self-understanding of woodwork, joinery and the symbiotic combination of natural materials.

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Architecture
Axonometric diagrams

An architectural survey of Nzulezo documents wooden edifices raised on stilts, displaying centuries-old architectural craftsmanship.

A typical Nzulezo structure features wooden boards and walls of raffia palm sticks intricately assembled to withstand water and weather. Its elevated design incorporates a roof of woven raffia palm fronds, providing insulation and ventilation. More recently, aluminium roofing sheets have replaced the traditional materials extensively, to avoid pest intrusion into living spaces. The stilts which are gathered directly from the forests without machinery are firmly anchored into the riverbed manually to a depth of about half the length of the log. This is to ensure stability in the water and also to make up for soil settlement.

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