PROTOTYPE OF A LOW-COST MODULAR SCHOOL FOR AFRICA

PROJECT DESCRIPTION
The proposed design provides a low cost and modular prototype for an educational building in African regions, made with local materials and construction techniques.
All the required spaces for the educational building are fitted into a 1 storey-height volume made by modules or 42m2 each. Each module corresponds to an ideal classroom of 20/25 students connected by a central corridor.
The adopted typology is a court building where all the classrooms and main spaces are distributed around an internal outdoor courtyard.
The building is surrounded by modular elements with a triangular geometry.
They have structural function and provide support for the roof. Each element contains a planter-box where vegetation can grow and, through wires trellis, spread out on top of the roof providing a sustainable sunshade and reducing the building internal heating. Photovoltaic and solar panels can be installed on top of each triangular module and produce electric energy.
The perimetral triangular elements work also as rain-water collectors.
Under each planter-box there is a water tank (traditional local tanks can be used).
Each module can collect a total of 1m3 of rain-water, which can be re-used for the vegetation irrigation and for the pre-schol needs (toilets and kitchen).
The triangular shape is the best to provide these functions and sunshade protection still allowing daylight to come into the classrooms. It also draws inspiration from the local art patterns and vernacular architectures, made by hay triangular roofs.
The modular nature of the proposal allows the possibility for future school extensions by adding one or more modules.
The aim is also to provide a prototype of modular, sustainable and self-energy efficient component which can be adopted also for different functions, such as medical center units, workshop spaces, temporary accommodations for doctors and teachers.

CREDITS:
Design: Valentino Gareri
Website: https://valentinogareri.com/
Instagram: v.a.l.e.n.ti.n.o