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Virunga Mountain Spirits, Be_Design | International Design Awards Winners

Virunga Mountain Spirits

CompanyBe_Design

Lead DesignersBruce Engel

Project LocationMusanze, Rwanda

ClientVirunga Mountain Spirits

CreditsPhotos by: Bruce Engel

Prize(s)Silver in Commercial Architecture / Sustainable Commercial Architecture, Bronze in Commercial Architecture / Other Commercial Architecture

Entry Description

Located in Musanze, Rwanda, Virunga Mountain Spirits is a women-led distillery supporting local farmers and tourism near the Virunga Volcanoes. The 1,100 sqm facility features a central vodka still in a light-filled space, surrounded by hand-shaped volcanic rock housing offices, tasting room, kitchen and more. Inspired by local traditional Imigongo art and built with mostly local materials, the project employed a 35% female workforce, offering skills training, fair wages, and lasting community impact.