Crossways Primary School



crossways | eastern cape | south africa

BRIEF & OBJECTIVES:

The design of a rural primary school situated in the new rural farm village of Crossways — currently under development and being the initiative of Dr. Chris Mulder of CMAI. The development is situated to the west of Gqberha.

The investigation into and the planning and making of space that enables and fosters the excitement of learning.
Investigate and respond to the spatial needs and anthropomorphic of children aged 3-6 (for the after-care and pre-school programs).
The development of an appropriate aesthetic for a building project having technically dedicated function as well as an educational and enrichment function.
The 3-dimentional resolution of a small, but complex, public facility.

THE DESIGN:

This design came about through one main theme: to create spaces where all children experience maximum comfort. A prominent South-Wes and South-East wind is not uncommon on site — therefore the decision was made to create a barrier with the classrooms and play areas on the other side. To the North, a spectacular panoramic view encapsulates serendipity with a valley, leading to a stream and dam, and eventually beyond the valley, a breath-taking pine grove; a green carpet. Creating spaces orientated to the North is not just as a result of a pretty picture; natural sunlight is easily incorporated; solar energy could also be generated through means of North-facing PV panels.

Each classroom is either partially covered with a landscaped (grassed) ﬂatroof — providing substantial insulation for each classroom and doubles up as a sustainable irrigation system. The radial design allows for interaction between various classes — aiding social skills and general interaction. This type of “horse-shoe” style not only shelters from the Southern winds, but also functions as a psychological safe haven.