Kaira Looro - Primary school in Senegal

Faculty of Architecture and Design STU in Bratislava

Project idea

The concept is based on the Vernacular architecture of traditional huts of Senegal, Africa, and Rajasthan, India. The Vernacular architecture of these two countries resembles each other to a very great extent in terms of shape, materials, techniques, decoration, etc. and the climatic is also very similar because Rajasthan is in the Thar Desert. The circular form is inspired and deeply rooted in the old traditional architecture of Africa and India.
The idea was to create an educational center in a sustainable way existing in harmony with nature. The different functions are arranged so as to create an open central courtyard where different kinds of activities can take place. The goal was not only to build a school but to transform the construction process into a training program for the Senegalese youth by bringing awareness to the potential of traditional architecture and natural building materials.
The building is designed to generate two distinct spatial dimensions while aiming for simplicity and prioritizing the secular education system in the rural areas of Africa.
The exterior is conceived like a circular, tectonic, and monolithic red volume with the intention of becoming an actual landmark. On the other hand, the interior is envisioned as a safe nest in contrast to the exterior façade. From the statement “form follows function” I can strongly affirm “form follows need”.
The six classrooms and different functional spaces are arranged so as to create an open central courtyard where different kinds of activities will take place such as sports, community events, open markets, festivals, etc. Every classroom and other functional space is oriented towards the central courtyard to have a more effective and pleasant view. The tree in the open central courtyard is the focal point of the project. The circular form allows for excellent circulation between classrooms, allowing the school’s teachers and students to move quickly between classes. The variation of the walls in terms of height and proximity to one another creates a wide variety of sections and experiences throughout the school.
The orchard is positioned in front of six classrooms and allows students to cultivate vegetables and fruits on-site. Because agriculture is the main occupation of the villagers, it could be a learning experience in horticulture and gardening. To save the building cost, the project is planned on a single-floor level. Bringing awareness to the potential of traditional building materials and the architectural methods of the Cultural Heritage.
In my proposal, I have tried to include the library and reading area/agora by minimizing the area of all the other facilities because the library is the source of learning and education, and it can shape and enhance the quality of the community. The inner courtyard enhances the exchange between students, teachers, and the community by designing an inclusive space and creating a peaceful habitat. The library has direct access from the street because it should be easily accessible by the community and it’s also linked to the reading area/agora. The library is a knowledgeable platform that would not only educate children but the whole community.
“Sustainable school is one which takes minimum energy and resources to build, run and maintain.”

Project description

The project was part of the Kaira Looro International Competition, 2023 Edition.

Technical information

The CSEB manufactured on-site by Auram Press 3000 proposes 18 types of moulds for producing about 70 different blocks. The typology of the roof structure brings value to the project by facilitating the collection of rainwater on-site by bamboo gutter and Water is collected and stored in water tanks located within the school. The orchard where vegetables and fruits can be grown on-site inside the school. Typha reed which is available in Senegal in abundance. This vegetable fiber produces environmentally friendly building materials and provides excellent thermal insulation. Instead of traditional straw Typha reed will be used in thatch roof. It can also be used in mud flooring. For the toilets a Bio digester – Anaerobic bacteria (without oxygen).