NATIONAL UNIVERSITY OF ARCHITECTURE AND CONSTRUCTION OF ARMENIA

Last time they were in our country last year. At that time, they did not know Armenia. They came here with Suzanne Mono to complete their diploma work. Graduates of the Lyon Architecture University Hugo Daguillo and Thomas Tronwi had other reasons to come to Armenia in October this year. First, the events dedicated to the 2800th anniversary of Yerevan, the Francophone Summit and finally the 30th anniversary of the earthquake. The last circumstance was the most sensible one, because Gyumri is the link between French students and Armenia.

“Today we are in love with Armenia, its historical and architectural heritage, the activity and the vitality of Armenians,” Hugo and Thomas sincerely admit.  Las year they spent warm and unforgettable days in Gyumri for their diploma work and they already have many Armenian acquaintances. They also want to have new friends, which will help them to return Armenia again.

This year, the internationally renowned CRAterre French laboratory has also joined the collaboration between NUACA and Lyon Architecture University. During the Francophone Summit in Armenia, Hugo Daguillo, who was also an entrusted person by CRAterre Laboratory, within the framework of this tripartite cooperation, presented the experiences titled “Land as a Building Material”. According to him the earthen construction is a vital necessity for Gyumri and opened an exhibition on this topic in the disaster zone.

With the intention of living and investing in Armenia, the French have their approach to restoring Gyumri. Construction of buildings following urban development norms is not enough. It is important to cooperate closely with the residents. They are sure that the main hero is the resident in Gyumri, so it is mandatory to listen their demands and wishes.

To the question of “What can you say about Armenian women?” Hugo and Thomas warmly smiled. “The Armenian woman is also like a historical heritage.” Well, the French are very courteous.