Sub-Saharan School
This research exercise emerged from a broader exploration of how architecture can address the educational needs of countries that face significant challenges in providing quality schooling, particularly in regions with extreme environmental conditions. Instead of focusing on a specific site, we chose sub-Saharan tropical Africa as a context, given the severe climatic difficulties such as high temperatures and humidity. The aim was to design a school building that could improve both the learning environment and the quality of education without relying on expensive, energy-consuming systems.
The design is centered on creating an environment that self-regulates its internal temperature using thermal dynamics and convection, which effectively combat the external heat and humidity. This approach not only eliminates the need for energy-intensive cooling systems but also reduces ongoing maintenance costs. The building is modular, allowing it to expand over time as the community grows, ensuring long-term adaptability.
A key focus of the design is to demonstrate that this kind of energy-efficient, thermally regulated building can be both cost-effective and aesthetically pleasing. The ultimate goal is to create a space that is comfortable for both teaching and learning, helping to attract teachers to rural areas where educational resources are often scarce. The next phase of the project will involve community engagement, where locals will be introduced to basic architectural principles, allowing them to actively participate in the final design and ongoing use of the school, further embedding the project within the community it aims to serve.








