Originally built as a weather station over 60 years ago, this stone-built structure on Rodrigues Island in the Southern Indian Ocean has been transformed into sustainable accommodation for visiting scientists supporting marine research and conservation initiatives.

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Commissioned as part of the Shoals of Rodrigues programme, the refurbishment delivers low-impact, environmentally responsible design that aligns with the project's conservation objectives. The building incorporates passive solar design, renewable energy systems, rainwater harvesting, water recycling and treatment technologies to minimise environmental impact and maximise resource efficiency.

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Designed around locally available skills and materials, the project supports the island's economy while ensuring long-term resilience and maintainability. Water management systems also provide sufficient irrigation for an organic vegetable garden, creating a self-sustaining model of low-carbon development in a remote island environment. Local school children were involved in creating both the grey water treatment system and the organic vegetable garden. For their contribution they won the Volvo Environmental Prize and were flown to Stockholm to receive it. 

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This sustainable retrofit demonstrates how thoughtful architectural design can support scientific research, environmental stewardship, and climate-responsive living in sensitive coastal locations.   

 

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