In selecting materials and systems, HOK followed principals of biomimicry. Wood from the culturally significant kapok tree will be used for the expressed diagrid supports of the balconies and for the building's second skin. A bamboo layer shields exterior walkways and vertical surfaces from direct sunlight while allowing for daylighting and natural ventilation.

The water supply will be a closed-loop system that collects, treats and stores water on site in an underground cistern. Gray and black water will be fed into a bioreactor, which will filter and clean it for reuse in landscaping. A roof garden will support a solar energy system.

The design—based around a structure of reinforced concrete masonry units—is for a rugged building, with multiple levels of redundancy, which is important in a place where things that break are not easily repaired, says Knittel. "Things we are doing here might make sense elsewhere," he adds.

Geotechnical testing should begin in two to four weeks, he adds, after FEJ, which is buying the land, receives court approval for one more land transaction.  Official records were lost in the earthquake, and surveying and other necessary steps "take time," he adds.

As the project moves into construction, USGBC and HOK will begin a collaboration with Architecture for Humanity. "Their experience working in Haiti will be a positive," says Knittel.

Construction will include training for local workers. "We think our biggest challenge ahead is getting [the center] built," says Knittel. In Haiti, there are quality control issues and more.