A LEARNING CENTRE in Mozambique

The main focus is to create a ‘safe’ space for the girls where they can explore and learn and succeed.

The site has some pretty big trees. The trees also seem to have created an axis as shown in the
diagram. The trees defined the main open spaces/ interaction areas where the girls could spend
their time, playing, reading etc. The proposed learning centre grew around this open space.

Creating a safe, comfortable space

The proposed learning centre has a central open space surrounded by the learning areas. Its an
introverted design which will make them feel safe. The interaction of the built spaces with the
unbuilt helps in creating a holistic learning environment.

As this is a centre that will continue to grow, its future needs may change. As flexibility is very
important in such a case, the basic framework in this project is an arched unit that repeats itself to
form the whole school. The treatment of openings change the nature of these spaces. In some cases
sliding folding doors have been added between the corridor and the space if there is a need for
privacy or security.

The materials used

The Arches and in some places brick vaults have helped considerably reduce the concrete used in
the structure. The primary roofing is thatch as it s readily available there. It will also help deal with
the heat. The walls which have excessive heat on them have also been cladded with thatch,
especially the west and south facing walls. And they also have minimal openings. Wood has been
used for the roof structure and the windows/doors. This was used as it was said to be more readily
available there according to the project brief. On the roof facing north west, metal roofing has been
done over the thatch to place the solar panels. The rain water that falls on this will also be harvested
which can supplement the water needs of the campus.