Why children’s understanding of themselves and the world always develops in a spatial context

Concept

Learning can come in many shapes and forms, and the route to acquiring knowledge differsfor everyone, which can best be expressed through a building’s form. Taking the concept
that a child should be free to mark its own path in its pursuit of knowledge, along with the impact that socialising has on that path, I aim here to create a form that houses a hub of
experiences, connected by a network of defined but diverse routes.

Intent

I have explored the creation of a new major axis through the existing courtyard,
subsequently causing this to become a key space for circulation throughout the building.

This will allow for a grander entrance and also enable the courtyard to be repurposed in order to serve as a more functional space. Additional spaces such as a dining area, a science space, an art room and a library have also been integrated.

Structure

Precast concrete forms will be used to create most of the additional spaces, except for the bridge located on the first floor that will have a steel frame. Columns located within the courtyard will also be made from steel. The roof system, for the most part, will be a solid concrete slab – except for the section in the courtyard that will be a steel frame roof top.