school4burma BTI88291
Construction The block is built in Concrete Hollow Blocks, a kind of local and current building technology. Each brick is designed to interlock itself with the others, like puzzle pieces, avoiding shifts and breaches. Unlike common CHB, there is no need to use mortar to glue them together, which makes it easier to deconstruct and build again using the same pieces. Interlocking bricks with bamboo canes, another local abundant material, makes each module stable and tough enough to stand by itself and also creates two different spaces in two different levels – the demanded school amenities on the lower level and classrooms on the upper one. Module + Pathway Each module contains, therefore, both a classroom and the subsequent facility. It is easily recognizable as two different spaces within the same constructive logic. Although free standing, the structure obviously lacks access from the outside as it is divided in two levels. The link is then created in the form of a double pathway. This space acts both as a covered playground on the first floor as well as circulation space. On the ground floor, this corridor harbors the canteen and can also be used by the neighboring community as an assembly hall outside school hours. Ends Each end of the pathway serves a different purpose. The staircases on one end mark the entrance and allow pupils and teachers to reach the classroom area. The other end is more of an informal way of going upwards, with nets connecting the first to the ground floor. It acts as an end to the building and the beginning of the playground area, with swings and ropes to enjoy recess time.
View from the upper level - Classrooms
View from the lower level - Services
BTI88291
Gutter The tilted roof drains water to the gutter which collects it to underground tanks. The gutter also protects the upper pathway from rain and wind.
Playground Nets An informal and fun way of climbing up to the classroom. And in recess, the last one to get to the playground stinks.
Shelves Turned over blocks allow natural lighting in the rooms bellow as provide support to long shelves, easing small storage. It also creates rithym in the facade.
Bench The small amphitheatre on the entrance way is as much a staircase as a space use for gardening, shoe storage or an outdoor’s classroom.
BTI88291
BTI88291