Archives have consistently demonstrated their potential as catalysts for alternative perspectives on architecture and urban landscapes, offering diverse and extensive forms of knowledge and comprehension. Notably, the Water Knowledge Action Program of the Municipality of Amsterdam, as illustrated by Kremer et al. in 2023, harnessed historical data to reshape the spatial dynamics of Amsterdam's Nieuwmarkt Area. In a parallel endeavour, "NZLZ" is committed to creating an archive that transcends mere documentation, instead serving as a bridge between the heritage of Nzulezo and contemporary architectural needs. This initiative represents the first comprehensive documentation of the village's construction methods, and architectural styles, its socio-cultural and material practices and traditions rooted in the harmonious coexistence with nature. It is an outcome of collaborative efforts between local and international communities and experts, embodying a design philosophy rooted in sociological research and community mapping. Recognizing that conventional archives often lack standardisation, digitisation, and compatibility with modern design software such as BIM, we aspire to make our archive not only informative but also accessible in a user-friendly format. Our approach emphasises efficiency in terms of time, cost, and resource utilisation, aligning with the ultimate goal of contributing to cities that are forward-looking and resilient in the face of future challenges. Our Goals Documentation of Traditional Knowledge: Our primary objective is to document the rich traditional knowledge associated with living and building in harmony with water. This entails the creation of an open and easily accessible archive encompassing building materials, construction techniques, resilient practices, and daily routines deeply intertwined with the natural environment. Addressing Environmental Challenges: "NZLZ" aspires to confront climate- and water-related challenges.