Design Concept: Growing Under the Shade
Context: Bangladeshi Hill Area
Inspiration: Traditional 'Machang Ghor'
Design Philosophy
- 'Growing Under the Shade' symbolizes nurturing and protection, akin to how a tree
provides shade and shelter for growth.
- Emphasizes the holistic development of children in an environment that offers safety,
comfort, and connection to nature.
- Reflects the cultural and environmental context of Bangladeshi hill areas, where
traditional 'Machang Ghor' structures provide inspiration for form, functionality, and
harmony with nature.
Key Design Features
Cultural Contextuality
- Traditional Machang Ghor: Elevated structures offering ventilation, flood protection, and a
sense of openness, adapted for the school design.
- Material selection prioritizes locally sourced bamboo, wood, and stone to align with
traditional hill architecture.
Child-Friendly Elements
- Safety: Elevated design ensures safety from floods, animals, and extreme weather, with
secure handrails and child-sized furniture.
- Comfort: Passive cooling techniques include large shaded areas, cross-ventilation, and
open layouts to mitigate the humid hill climate.
- Health: Incorporation of natural light and shaded spaces reduces reliance on artificial
lighting and promotes well-being.
Site Planning
Topography Adaptation
- Designed to integrate seamlessly with the hill’s contours, minimizing land disruption and
preserving the natural ecosystem.
- The built forms are tiered, respecting the slope of the site, with terraced outdoor learning
spaces and activity zones.
Climatic Considerations
- Sub-tropical climate strategies include:
- Wide eaves and extended roofs for rain protection.
- Natural ventilation through elevated design and open louvered panels.
- Shaded courtyards to moderate temperature and create play zones.
Spatial Organization
Indoor-Outdoor Synergy
- Classrooms open directly to semi-covered verandas and outdoor activity spaces,
encouraging fluid transitions and experiential learning.
- Outdoor spaces include:
- Shaded play areas under canopies.
- Gardens and sensory zones for hands-on engagement.
Multi-Mass Relationships
- Built forms are clustered in small groups, creating a village-like atmosphere with
pathways connecting different zones.
- Spaces for collaborative learning, solo exploration, and communal interaction are carefully
balanced.
Design Principles
Safety and Security
- Designated entry and exit points with clear visibility and monitoring.
- Child-appropriate heights and soft materials to minimize injury risks.
Comfort and Convenience
- Spaces arranged to support intuitive navigation for children.
- Furniture and fixtures designed ergonomically for various age groups.
Health and Well-being
- Green roofs and shaded areas for thermal comfort and rainwater harvesting.
- Open courtyards for physical activity and natural light penetration.
Learning Outcomes in Design
- Climatic Integration: Passive design elements ensure year-round comfort.
- Cultural Sensitivity: Retains the identity of the hill area through form and materiality.
- Functional Efficiency: Balances academic, recreational, and social spaces.
- Holistic Development: Promotes joyful and exploratory learning experiences.