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Haven Senegal Elementary School
Haven Senegal Elementary School
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Other Projects by Khaled M. Abou Taam - KMA Atelier
Haven Senegal Elementary School
Type
STATUS
Concept
SIZE
5000 sqft - 10,000 sqft
Haven Senegal Elementary School
Location: Marsassoum, Senegal
Firm: KMA Atelier
Lead Architect: Dr. Khaled M. Abou Taam
Design Team:
Catherine Zalzali – Architect
Ekaterina Abou Taam – Architect
Competition: International Architecture Competition – Archstorming
Status: Finalist
Design Year: 2020
Footprint Area: 720 sqm
Floors: 1
Project Concept
The Haven Senegal Elementary School project aims to create an accurate, sustainable, and joyful learning environment for children. The design balances functional school spaces with environmental responsiveness, community engagement, and educational inspiration.
The school is organized into two wings that embrace a central courtyard, shaded by a mature Moraceae tree. This central space houses a light, transparent library and an integrated dining area, seamlessly connecting indoor and outdoor activities.
Key design principles include:
• Cross-ventilation & thermal control to improve comfort naturally.
• Shading & water collection strategies to maximize sustainability.
• Dynamic outdoor spaces for play, exercise, and outdoor classes.
• Community engagement through self-construction techniques and locally sourced materials.
The classroom wings are regular, disciplined, and adjacent to the south and east sides of the site, containing seven classrooms and an administrative zone. The courtyard is intentionally freeform to encourage movement, learning, and play.
Sustainability & Community Integration
The project focuses on environmentally responsible design and community involvement:
• Local Materials: Recycled, low-cost, and easily sourced materials to minimize cost and environmental impact.
• Self-construction Techniques: Construction methods that do not require prior technical knowledge, allowing the community to replicate and expand the project in the future.
• Courtyard Gardens: Includes kitchen gardens, chicken coops, and keyhole gardens that integrate composting and greywater recycling. This allows children and staff to participate in growing food sustainably.
• Passive Environmental Design: The central courtyard, shaded tree, and orientation optimize natural light, airflow, and thermal comfort throughout the school.
Spatial Organization
• Classroom Wings: Seven classrooms + administration, south/east aligned.
• Courtyard: Open, protected, and flexible space with library and dining area.
• Outdoor Facilities: Kitchen, corral for raising chickens, orchard, and keyhole gardens.
The courtyard extends indoor spaces into outdoor classrooms, encouraging active learning and engagement with nature.
Architectural Impact
The design merges simplicity with functionality, promoting safety, happiness, and learning. It responds to local climate, cultural context, and community needs while remaining cost-effective and sustainable.
Project Outcome: A replicable, adaptable, and environmentally conscious elementary school that integrates architecture, community, and ecology.
Location: Marsassoum, Senegal
Firm: KMA Atelier
Lead Architect: Dr. Khaled M. Abou Taam
Design Team:
Catherine Zalzali – Architect
Ekaterina Abou Taam – Architect
Competition: International Architecture Competition – Archstorming
Status: Finalist
Design Year: 2020
Footprint Area: 720 sqm
Floors: 1
Project Concept
The Haven Senegal Elementary School project aims to create an accurate, sustainable, and joyful learning environment for children. The design balances functional school spaces with environmental responsiveness, community engagement, and educational inspiration.
The school is organized into two wings that embrace a central courtyard, shaded by a mature Moraceae tree. This central space houses a light, transparent library and an integrated dining area, seamlessly connecting indoor and outdoor activities.
Key design principles include:
• Cross-ventilation & thermal control to improve comfort naturally.
• Shading & water collection strategies to maximize sustainability.
• Dynamic outdoor spaces for play, exercise, and outdoor classes.
• Community engagement through self-construction techniques and locally sourced materials.
The classroom wings are regular, disciplined, and adjacent to the south and east sides of the site, containing seven classrooms and an administrative zone. The courtyard is intentionally freeform to encourage movement, learning, and play.
Sustainability & Community Integration
The project focuses on environmentally responsible design and community involvement:
• Local Materials: Recycled, low-cost, and easily sourced materials to minimize cost and environmental impact.
• Self-construction Techniques: Construction methods that do not require prior technical knowledge, allowing the community to replicate and expand the project in the future.
• Courtyard Gardens: Includes kitchen gardens, chicken coops, and keyhole gardens that integrate composting and greywater recycling. This allows children and staff to participate in growing food sustainably.
• Passive Environmental Design: The central courtyard, shaded tree, and orientation optimize natural light, airflow, and thermal comfort throughout the school.
Spatial Organization
• Classroom Wings: Seven classrooms + administration, south/east aligned.
• Courtyard: Open, protected, and flexible space with library and dining area.
• Outdoor Facilities: Kitchen, corral for raising chickens, orchard, and keyhole gardens.
The courtyard extends indoor spaces into outdoor classrooms, encouraging active learning and engagement with nature.
Architectural Impact
The design merges simplicity with functionality, promoting safety, happiness, and learning. It responds to local climate, cultural context, and community needs while remaining cost-effective and sustainable.
Project Outcome: A replicable, adaptable, and environmentally conscious elementary school that integrates architecture, community, and ecology.
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