R3M Studio - SALAMAUA, PAPUA NEW GUINEA

PAPUA NEW GUINEA

Competition | Community Art Studio

Salamaua Rural, Papua New Guinea| 2018

BRIEF

This proposal presents a compact, low-cost timber building serving as a community art studio and administrative hub for Salamaua, a remote village in Morobe Province, Papua New Guinea. Covering just 15 m², the design is resilient, sustainable, and culturally sensitive, suited to flood-prone, sandy terrain and a tropical monsoon climate. By combining local construction methods with modern energy solutions, the building provides a flexible, multi-functional space for creativity, social gatherings, and administration, offering a high-impact, replicable model for remote rural communities.

Project Type: Community Art Studio & Administrative Support Centre
Location: Salamaua, Morobe Province, Papua New Guinea
Footprint: 15 m²
Budget: Low-cost, locally sourced

Site & Context

Positioned on a small isthmus, with coastline on one side and mountains inland, bordered by a headland.
Terrain: flat, sandy ground prone to seasonal inundation due to monsoon rains.
Access: Only by boat from Lae, requiring locally manageable construction and materials.

Design Concept

Compact & Flexible: 15 m² footprint accommodates art workshops, meetings, and admin functions.
Elevated Timber Structure: Protects against flooding while maintaining traditional aesthetic.
Passive Design: Maximises ventilation, daylight, and shading for comfort without energy dependence.
Cultural Integration: Combines local building techniques with modern sustainable innovations.

Sustainability & Innovation

Energy: Off-grid solar panels and LED lighting.
Water Management: Rainwater harvesting with low-tech filtration.
Construction Simplicity: Prefabricated timber panels and modular joinery, enabling easy assembly by local workforce.
Resilience: Monsoon-adapted roofing, raised floor, and durable timber for long-lasting performance.