The learning center is conceived as an inclusive space which is self-sufficient and supports the larger community around.
Learn –
The site is divided into two zones – a zone for learning and play (school) for students is located towards the rear in a secure area. The entry toward the extreme right of the site serves as the student entry. And a Zone for community activities towards the front of the site. This zone includes the multi-purpose hall and offices. The courtyard in front of the multipurpose hall acts as the entrance for the community zone. Functions such as the library, childcare as well as kitchens fall in the overlap of the two zones, that serves both sides at different times of the day.
Grow –
We are proposing an area for farming where crops such as Cassava, Potatoes, Corn or Cow Peas can be grown. This along with the existing fruit trees at site can produce food for students and can be sold to the extended community. A temporary marketplace is proposed, where the produce can be sold. The center can also benefit from income that can be generated through the lease of stalls in the temporary market.
Conserve –
We referred diagrams drawn by Aldo Van Eyck to structure the various spaces. Trees act as anchors around which we are creating circular courtyards. A series of parallel walls then contain the required functions. We are considering locally produced bricks as the construction material for walls and roofs which may be vaulted or corbelled. We believe we can employ basic local skill to construct these structures. The circular courtyard enclosures have thatched roofs over timber frames that slope down towards the courtyard. The rainwater run-off can then be collected in underground cisterns within the courtyard. Furthermore, a light timber frame spans over the interstitial spaces that carry solar collectors that can generate power for the school and to some extent for the larger community. Such installations may also be eligible for international aid that may help with the construction of the center.