Sao Paulo in the picturesque landscape of Mogi Das Cruzes and in the urban rural school, which is our dear wife of the conception, has undergone a remarkable transformation. With the “A Sustainable School” program by NGO Tagma and the creative vision without walls integrated architecture, this modest public primary school is a model for sustainable, community -oriented design in Latin America.
In a building from the 1950s, the school was originally only two classrooms, provisional administrative rooms and basic bathrooms that flow directly into a nearby stream. Despite its restrictions, the school was surrounded by open grass fields and beautiful landscapes, an environment that is ripe for renewal. After an open call and several visits on site, the school was selected according to Tagma's program, which integrated sustainable educational buildings in public schools throughout Latin America.
Designer: No walls integrated architecture
An outstanding feature of the renovation was the participatory approach. Instead of making isolated decisions, the architects invited students, employees and families to workshops and asked: “What do you imagine for this school?” Their collective input has shaped the project, which was led by three core principles: low environmental impact, practical construction and a fast 45-day time bar. The renovation expanded the covered area of the school and added a wooden frame for first graders and more terrace space to protect against sun and rain. The cramped administrative area was converted into two new bathrooms that are accessible and one accessible to the staff, while a clever system led Graywater in order to water a banana tree and a black water at an ecological treatment station. In addition to the bathing rooms, new offices for teachers and administrators were built with wooden frames and crowned with a green roof to mix insulation and seamlessly with the landscape.
One of the most innovative additions is the multi-purpose room, a dodaeder-shaped space for music, dance, computer and reading courses. The structural walls of the Rammed Earth (compacted soil) are not only sustainable, but also remarkably beautiful and robust. The wooden binder roof made from small, manageable sections converges on a central skylight that bathes the room in natural light. The room is open, flexible and loved by the students because of its playful character.
The project prioritized with available materials and creative solutions. Furniture was made from the remaining wood, while dry straws were used by a neighboring farm to fill the wooden frames of the walls. The design blurred the border between indoor and outdoor area, since Windows are twice exposed to both the interior and the surrounding landscape, like doors and benches. What really distinguishes this project is the collaborative spirit. Builders, architects, school staff, families, children and authorities all played a role and ensured that the end result really reflects the needs and dreams of the community. This sustainable school is proof of what is possible when thoughtful design and community participation come together.
