As architects, we are challenged to understand the changing meaning of architecture in this world in transition. We have to be aware that ‘the act of building’ is a part of an infinite process of construction, where the extraction of resources is as much part of the design as its physical outcome.

Our main vision when designing this school in Kafountine, Senegal, was to create a structure that could be realistically built with a very low budget and with the involvement of the entire community. The participation of the inhabitants of the town was very important to the concept. For this reason, we designed a modular structure which can be expanded when needed, and when the funds allow it.
It is an earth brick construction, and all building elements can be made locally with only a hand mold needed. We also aimed for a structure that requires very low amounts of cement, to reduce the environmental impact. Two different types of earth bricks are needed, both use a mixture of loam, sand and clay.
For brick type A, we add cement to the mixture to create a more humidity-resistant brick. This brick-type will be used for the load bearing pillars and for the first four layers of the walls, to stop any capillary effect. Brick type B, without cement, will be used for the walls. A small gap can be left between these bricks, to provide natural ventilation. The walls can be finished with a lime based plaster, to stop any degradation caused by humidity. The roof trusses can be made on site by connecting wood beams into the desired form. Corrugated metal sheets are placed on top.

The structure can be built in different phases. The main idea was to create a workspace that provides shade and space during the upcoming phases.
When needed, classrooms can be added in a second block, as visible on the plan. The excavated area can be used as an orchard, as water will naturally collect there. The rainwater collected from the roofs are stored in two seperate water tanks. One connected to the sanitary blocks, and one to the orchard. The inbetween space of the two building volumes create a natural courtyard in which the children can play. The first volume houses the first two classrooms, the principal’s office, a sanitary block, the teacher’s room and a large multipurpose space. A covered courtyard opens up the school towards the empty plot located on the western edge.
The end goal of our design project was thus to create a realistic structure that connects the inhabitants of Kafountine, where children can live and learn.