What happens when you run an architecture studio inside a refugee settlement — and let refugees lead it?

Scott Key (founder/CEO of Every Shelter) is back to break down how a 10-week “design school” in Nakivale turned buzzwords like “co-creation” into actual, working solutions — cow-dung bricks that survive soaking, shelter-wide mosquito netting, and quality water that families can afford.

Why it matters:

Refugees are displaced for 20+ years — which means they need permanent, local, extremely affordable building solutions. This episode shows how design unlocks what’s already on the ground: clay, ag waste, community trust, and good design.

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Our Last Episode with Scott

Youtube*:* https://youtu.be/60d198yrKcY?feature=shared

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/3iVzLi6aF5SV1K7WaVayT4?si=P2-DFU3_QNKP9c_XFxUEFQ

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/designing-dignity-how-scott-key-and-every-shelter-are/id1725756164?i=1000702692254

Chapters

00:00 Running an Architecture Studio in a Refugee Camp02:53 Pitching the Idea to Students and Stakeholders02:53 Introduction to the Program and Partnerships05:13 Setting the Stage: The First Day of Design School07:54 Curriculum and Transformation: Learning by Doing10:20 Innovative Projects: Cow Poop and Mud Bricks12:41 Community Engagement: Addressing Local Needs15:30 Water Quality Solutions: BioSand Filters18:18 Empowerment through Entrepreneurship: Offer Letters and Business Models20:39 Feedback and Iteration: Learning from the Community22:51 The Role of Donors and Future Directions25:08 Looking Ahead: Optimism for Human Connection