In its volumetric formulation, the project thematizes the contrast of a positive and negative space – the open and interior space (outside vs. inside). It plays with pairs of spatial and design contrasts and thus creates a spatial field of tension. From the interplay and interaction of fundamental spatial formative elements, a generous, exciting and open schoolyard is created – which serves as a space for communication, contemplation and interaction. The fluid spatial floor plan concept allows a flexible adaptation of space needs and the changing demands of an ever-changing school day. While the building impresses with a rigid and symmetrical structure concept, the open floor plan concept is understood as a pole to the stringent structure of the building; the theme of contradiction, contrast and tension – as already in the building volume – continues in the spatial and design concept.

The simple construction, the reduced formulation in cast-in-place concrete and the unrendered brick walls create a robust, sustainable, cost-effective and at the same time timeless building. The individual interior organic rotundas are superimposed floor-by-floor – with the outline above each. This simple but effective concept not only creates a lively inner courtyard, but also results in areas for planting and seating (height <= 50cm).

The building was developed completely parametrically with a three-dimensional model and can be adapted to changing requirements (e.g. classroom depth, aisle depth or width, skylight height, grid spacing, floor height, site dimensions, etc.) without any major planning effort. It thus meets the requirement that it should be a flexible or repeatable building concept; without adopting an otherwise common and often generic-looking modular design or construction method. In addition, parametric design allows the costs and materials required to construct the building to be accurately estimated and determined.

The self-shading inner courtyard is protected from direct sunlight by additional planting – which has a positive effect on the building's microclimate – while the individual rotundas are protected from direct sunlight by air-permeable textile curtains. The elevation of the interior parapet on the roof creates a chimney effect that spans the building, catalyzing a cross-ventilation of the already open floor levels. The skylights located on the exterior facade are protected from direct midday heat by a perimeter projection, while they protect against water penetration (or driving rain) during the few rainy days.

The building, with its unique organic and landscaped courtyard, rigid and clear exterior facade, textile elements, the robustness and the sustainability, is becoming an iconic prototype of a modern and contemporary school building on the African continent …