The concept of this project is to create an affordable, sustainable, and community-centered learning environment in areas where access to conventional building materials and construction techniques may be limited. Inspired by vernacular architecture and local resources, the design replaces reinforced concrete with bamboo and uses thatched roofing to reduce cost and environmental impact. The project aims to improve the quality of educational spaces by addressing practical issues such as noise during rain, poor ventilation, and lack of natural light. The spatial configuration—with curved earthen walls, a central gathering pillar, and radiating functional spaces—encourages community engagement and fosters a strong sense of unity and identity.
The project consists of several interconnected structures designed for education and collaboration, including classrooms, laboratories, and workshops. All buildings share a unified architectural form based on curved earthen walls and bamboo structures, with variations in size depending on function. The site is organized around a central open space featuring a gathering area with a symbolic pillar that naturally draws people together. Architectural elements such as upward-opening laboratory doors and downward-opening classroom doors create versatile outdoor learning spaces, while simple and locally sourced construction methods ensure accessibility, ease of repair, and community participation. The project integrates passive design strategies for ventilation, lighting, and noise reduction, aiming to provide a comfortable and resilient environment for both students and educators.
The construction of the building utilizes Interlocking Cement Earth Blocks (ICEBs) as the primary material for walls. These blocks are made from compressed soil and a small amount of cement, offering excellent thermal insulation, durability, and ease of construction without the need for mortar. The interlocking system ensures stability while reducing material waste and labor costs. The main structural framework is made of locally sourced bamboo, chosen for its flexibility, sustainability, and cost-effectiveness. The roof is covered with thatched leaves, which help absorb the sound of rain and contribute to passive cooling. A deliberate gap between the roof and walls allows for cross-ventilation and indirect natural lighting. Doors use simple pivot mechanisms made from recycled materials such as iron pipes or bicycle axles, with panels crafted from wood, woven bamboo, or straw. The upward-opening laboratory doors and downward-opening classroom doors extend the functionality of the interior into the outdoor space. The entire construction system is designed to be affordable, easy to assemble, and repairable using locally available tools and resources.