The construction of the ECLA wool dyeing and spinning workshop was carried out by the collective of women from El Camino de los Altos A.C., who develop contemporary textile products using traditional techniques. This was in collaboration with volunteers and the teaching team of the VACA Program led by architect Juan Carlos Loyo
ECLA Wool Dyeing and Spinning Workshop to strengthen community bonds through beauty and work
Using the participatory methodology of the VACA A.C. Program, female artisans become part of the design process of the spaces and equipment needed for the new ECLA wool dyeing and spinning workshop in Bautista Chico, Chamula, Mexico
In the VACA program, beauty is seen as an essential part of spaces that are self-constructed by communities. This demonstrates that even through participatory design, aesthetic and functional results can be achieved at a low cost. In this project, a cost per square meter of $1,667.00 Mexican pesos ($83 USD) was achieved, which includes the living expenses of the participating families and the team
The construction technique used is the enhanced Bahareque: a construction method based on a mixture of earth with natural fibers and wooden weaves with a supporting structure of wooden poles. While Bahareque is common in the region, it has fallen out of use due to industrialized construction. With minimal modifications to the construction aspects of the technique and the inclusion of traditional stucco and sheep's hair in the mix, the aim was to provide the walls with better protection from rain and reduced maintenance needs
The building is organized around open spaces that surround the existing plants and trees, creating courtyards and openings for proper lighting and ventilation. The workshop becomes a well-lit space that ensures the privacy of the women working within. Moreover, its design seeks to direct one's gaze towards contemplation, with the intention of fostering the creative process
The building is divided based on the specific activities for the traditional wool spinning and dyeing work: wet and dry washing spaces, storage, sorting, and dyeing areas. Furthermore, it was decided to equip the building with terraces, a dry bathroom, gardens, and a rainwater harvesting cistern, serving as examples of easily replicable sustainable technologies in domestic settings
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