IMAGE, SPACES, STRUCTURES

The building's character is inextricably intertwined with its structural design: the rectangular space frame of concrete columns and beams creates the foundations of the system of interconnected inclined roofs with skylights. The main structural framework made of concrete columns bears intersecting beams, while the corner columns hold the edges of the roof and draw the building's dimensions and silhouette on the ground.

Rather than contradicting each other, the self-bearing walls made of local brick and the rhythmical modular roofing system work in sync and create a memorable and welcoming image of the preschool building. Flowing brick walls will not be seen as physical barriers for little pupils but will create a motional and tactile surface, harmonious to the statuary of the organic world. Extended parts of the thatched roofs will produce various spaces protected from the rain and burning sun – galleries along the classrooms and public areas, and a covered courtyard at the preschool entrance.

Responding to the given technical assignment for the two land lots, the preschool building uses a modular approach and forms a small patio 12 х 12 square meters with a round pool. Our design presupposes that depending on the future construction lots' shapes, the roofing blocks and spaces underneath can be rearranged accordingly. The buildings can also be expanded variously arrange roof blocks and spaces beneath.

The shape of all rooms is curvilinear, and a spiral lies at the core of its geometry. Such a design move allowed us to create a vibrant exterior composition and inviting, seamless entrances to all the rooms in the building. In the covered courtyard the brick partitions act as message and information boards and also introduce small spots of greenery.

SUSTAINABILITY AND ENERGY EFFICIENCY

Skylights don't only produce additional light and a memorable silhouette but also contribute to the energy efficiency of the building as the air is going to circulate through the openings. The upper layer of the walls made of local wood has small trenches, which also helps to cool the building. The water pool, on top of its visual and tactile appeal, boasts an advanced rain water harvesting system with filters. Solar panels can be installed on the roofing, with their battery placed in the storage area. All these features are going to respond to the energy demands of the building and promote sustainability in the area.

Project team: Valentine Kogan, Daria Bril, Evgenia Ermoshko, Ilia Ermolayev