Kdu dos Anjos, a 32-year-old artist, is the proud owner of the recently awarded “house of the year”. Located in the Aglomerado da Serra favela in Belo Horizonte, Brazil, this seemingly modest dwelling of 66 square metres (710 square feet) has been recognised in an international architecture competition. With exposed brick walls and a large terrace, the two-storey structure has beaten entries from India, Mexico, Vietnam and Germany.
Dos Anjos is delighted to have won the prize, as it brings attention to the favelas which are usually associated with violence and destruction. He is also proud of the design of his house, which was created by the Levante architecture collective. The design incorporates features that make it sturdier and more respectful of the environment, such as horizontal casement windows and staggered rows of bricks for improved insulation.
The project took eight months to complete and cost 150,000 Brazilian reais ($29,000). Despite the difficulty of getting materials up the stairs due to the narrow roads in the favela, the investment has paid off in more ways than one. Not only has the house brought international recognition, it has also helped dos Anjos realise a childhood dream. He remembers living in a poorly insulated room as a child and being stung by a scorpion – something he never wanted to experience again. Winning this prize has been a great victory for him.
Today, dos Anjos lives in his house with two dogs, a cat and more than 60 plants. He has even hosted parties with close to 200 people, proving that his house is much more than just 66 square metres. The award-winning house is a symbol of hope for those living in favelas, showing that even modest dwellings can be recognised on an international level.