“Around the Tree”

The “Around the Tree” proposal uses simple construction methods so that it can be built by unskilled laborers and serve as an example of future building techniques in the Marsassoum area and beyond.

To construct the project, the first step is simple flat concrete foundations. To prep the foundations for the vertical bamboo structure footing later on, voids in the foundation are left open by wood blocking with holes drilled for small bamboo rebar to run through. Constructed on the surface of the concrete, next, are the sheet metal roofs with bamboo rafters of the seven buildings. The skylight details in the main building’s roof are simple enough so they can be built by local works or staff. After the assembly is finished, workers can lift and attach the roof in place with and to bamboo columns. The columns are secured in place by pouring concrete around the base of the columns which sit in the holes left by the wood blocking earlier, and the small bamboo rod rebar making for a rigid frame attached to the foundation.

After the roof structures are secured, students and staff learn to build rammed earth walls around the butterfly roofs with the same wood used for the foundation. At the same time a Mason could come in and build the clay brick walls in the main building, later to be water proofed and finished with a laterite coating. Last, ferro-concrete tanks, wall tops, and window sills are cast, again, with the same wood to reduce cost.

The “Around the Tree” proposal uses only 60% of the budget, leaving the rest to go to furniture, staff, and educational improvements. Simplicity of contraction reduces overall time, and a more cost effective building.

Colors of the earth are angled and compressed around the site. Juxtaposed with butterfly sheet metal roofs and bamboo leave earthy color pallets hyper organized into lines and walls The viewer has a sense of order throughout, even though trees and building lines are scattered throughout the site. Rainwater collection by the butterfly roofs, separate buildings and large openings in the classrooms for and cross ventilation, and a grid of light wells above the school puts sustainability as the front runner for this design. Curving around the existing tree, the main building hugs the children's nostalgic treasure, creating an intimate and permanent relationship.