In January 2007, a group of children living in central Ghana were suddenly left homeless when the property they had been living in was reclaimed by its owner. With just one month to vacate and no suitable alternative available, the Dutch charity Let Kids Smile asked Article 25 to step in and help design and deliver a new home. Located in the poorest neighbourhood of Nkoranza, the project aimed to provide a safe, permanent, and child-friendly space for up to 15-20 children and their four live-in carers.

Article 25 developed a thoughtful, sustainable design tailored to the needs of the children and the local context. The new home is arranged in a protective horseshoe shape around a cluster of trees, creating a shaded courtyard where the children can safely play. The layout includes sleeping areas, carers’ rooms, and study spaces, all linked by a covered cloister. A kitchen sits at one end of the building, with a sitting area at the other, creating a welcoming and functional living space.

The surrounding land - about the size of a football pitch - is used to grow crops and keep animals such as goats and chickens, providing both food and a source of income. This agricultural space also gives the children the opportunity to learn essential skills while enjoying room for sports and play. In just 4½ months, construction was complete, and the children moved into their new high-quality home - one built to offer stability, comfort and opportunity for years to come.