Jepa Model Houses

The spartan nature of the houses often offered by governmental and non-governmental organizations does not allow for desirable features having practical and aesthetic value, and not always translates into a substantial upgrading of the quality of life.

The Foundation has elaborated a model house aiming to provide low cost (~ 6000 USD x 70 m²) and decorous living in rural and in urban areas, in Guatemala as well as in other developing Countries, lessening the dependence upon energy providers, and including ecological features such as pollution and waste control. No direct involvement of the beneficiary in the actual construction is required, and the obtainment of a mortgage is greatly simplified by cooperation with a local bank. Only one house was built in Alotenango sharing the cost between the beneficiary, the Municipality and the Foundation. A social enterprise willing to be involved in the project has not yet been found. The basic architectural and ecological features of the Jepa Model house are described in detail in the literature (Document 2, reference 2009).