What is this presentation about?
Nina Huasi is a women’s refuge in Ecuador, run by the Fundación Maria Amor. It is located at 2,700 meters above sea level in the Andean highlands near Cuenca, the country’s third-largest city.
The refuge offers safe, temporary housing for women and children affected by domestic violence.
Its construction was supported by Caritas Vorarlberg.
Social sustainability was a key focus of the project. From the very start, both the project team and the women and children living at the refuge were actively involved. Nina Huasi functions as an information hub on the topic of violence against women, as well as other topics like eco-friendly construction and environmental awareness. The construction process benefitted the surrounding neighborhood, expanded networks, and strengthened both local and international solidarity through volunteer efforts.
Natural building materials such as earth, bamboo, and wood were used; water consumption was reduced by installing dry toilets and biofiltration systems; alternative energy sources were introduced, and a permaculture garden was created. This respectful approach to the environment is also meant to positively influence the healing processes of the women.
Financial sustainability is a major challenge for any social project — and Nina Huasi is no exception.
Throughout the project, care was taken to reduce both construction and long-term maintenance costs. Ecological, economic, and social sustainability are interdependent and closely interconnected.
The complex includes a total of 1,500 m² of built or renovated space serving various functions — dormitories, toilets, a kitchen with a small dining area, offices, spaces for children, several multifunctional rooms, and a number of outdoor areas such as a playground, garden, and more. The Nina Huasi women’s refuge has been operating since 2014.
Presented by Miriam Prikryl / Caritas Vorarlberg
Duration 27 minutes
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