Edu-Village

EDU-VILLAGE: All-Girls Primary School in Senegal

The project seeks to create an environment that fosters learning, empowerment, and a sense of belonging based on 6 main points which were thought are important: Sustainable Design, Outdoor Learning Spaces, Community Involvement, Creating a Safe and Secure Environment, Flexible Spaces and Cultural Exchange. Heavily inspired by the vibrant local culture, the design concept centres around incorporating the round geometric patterns found in the local fabrics and replicating the welcoming atmosphere of the surrounding village. The layout encourages activities beyond traditional classrooms, fostering community engagement, creativity, and personal growth.The school's layout comprises of several individual round volumes, reminiscent of the traditional huts found in the surrounding village to give the students a “home away from home” and not feel overwhelmed in a conventional school setting. This is achieved not only by the layout but also by the materials chosen to build the school such as earth bricks for the walls, straw for the roof, etc. Each round volume serves a specific purpose, such as classrooms, administrative offices, a library, and other educational spaces. This design approach not only pays homage to the local architecture but also creates a sense of intimacy and familiarity for the students.