Kafountine Earth School
Secondary School in Senegal, Kakolum NGO

Design Vision:

This design for the Kafountine School evolved out of three primary ideas that encompass the goals and aspirations of this competition.

• The site response is two dynamic elliptical arcs creating a protected courtyard that embrace teacher, student and parent gatherings. These forms optimize orientation to provide sun shade and take advantage of the prevailing winds for cooling in the Sudano-Sahelian climate.

• The two buildings are located on the site to remove the least number of trees and  encircle the large moringa tree taking advantage of its shade with nature as the focal point of the school. The covered play area nestles with these existing trees and the structure emulates tree trunks and branching.

• The material and technical design are contemporary while borrowing from traditions of Senegalese architecture. The arced form, tree trunks and thatched roofs reference vernacular architecture while the in-situ assembled trusses, wickerwork and modular design bring contemporary ideas and sustainable design methods to the construction of this school.

Sustainable Goals:

Three primary ideas incorporating Kakolum’s vision for creating a sustainable environment that will be nurtured by the Kafountine community.

• We propose that the planting of trees, and providing a greater contribution to the “Great Green Wall” in Africa, to be located to reinforce the experience for students. A fruit orchard marks arrival to school. Trees are used at the east and west to block low sun heat and glare while a new collection of trees and garden create a connection to the future playing field.

• Rainwater harvesting, captured from the roof, collects in a canal and cisterns allowing vegetable gardening in the dry season.

• The choice of materials are local, readily available and recycled favoring natural materials in order to reduce environmental impact. Additionally, construction costs are minimized with simple assemblies and technology that unskilled local workers can quickly learn.

Design Team:

Sarah Willmer

Britta Tuschhoff

Khulan Batsaikhan

Yu Hsin Li