Malawi Vernacular Architecture
Documentation for Preservation
Bamboo
Wall frames
Roof supports
Bamboo is a material that is available and renewable. Bamboo is mainly used for roof poles.
Granaries
Bamboo is used both as the roof poles and as the horizontal supports. Because the thatched roof is not thick, the weight is a lot less.
Both the support members and the actual fill for the windows are constructed with bamboo.
Windows
Bamboo stalks are set into the ground and provide the vertical support. Horizontal supports are bamboo strips which are tied to the vertical members with string.
This structure under construction will be a new kitchen. The bamboo used is quite large. Vertical supports are set into the ground and the tops are notched to support the horizontal memeber.
Many granaries are constructed using strips of bamboo. Stips are weaved around vertcal members. The vertical bamboo strips are 2 or 3 placed next to each other.
Many granaries are constructed using strips of bamboo. Stips are weaved around vertcal members. The vertical bamboo strips are 2 or 3 placed next to wach other.
