School completed using upgraded local architecture
The Earthen School Tipu Sultan Merkez that continues local building traditions has been completed and acts as an example of modern, earthen architecture in Pakistan. The building designed by Ziegert | Roswag | Seiler Architekten Ingenieure uses an affordable, high quality and durable alternative: a heavy earth cube ground floor and light bamboo top floor. The construction period ran from March 2011 until March 2013 (with interruptions in between), and an extension of the kindergarten is under planning. Besides ecological and economic considerations, social aspects, like the creation of a local identity, also played an important role in the design process.
Last updated: April 07, 2014 Jar Maulwi, Pakistan
The Earthen School Tipu Sultan Merkez that continues local building traditions has been completed and acts as an example of modern, earthen architecture in Pakistan. The building uses an affordable, high quality and durable alternative: a heavy earth cube ground floor and light bamboo top floor. The construction period ran from March 2011 until March 2013 (with interruptions in between), and an extension of the kindergarten is under planning. Besides ecological and economic considerations, social aspects, like the creation of a local identity, also played an important role in the design process.
Construction
In order to execute the two-level building complex in a manner able to withstand earthquakes, separate axis-symmetrical structures were produced in two building phases. The ground floor has a heavy earthen body and the upper floor is a light bamboo structure. The baked brick foundation projecting 600mm from the ground forms the base of the structure and protects from water degradation or water ingress.
Classrooms on the first floor were built using the half-timber technique; the light bamboo structure is filled with brick earth and covered with bamboo weave, providing protection from sun and rain. The classrooms are connected via a two-level bamboo veranda, which also serves as an extended classroom. This also provides protection from monsoon rains. The ceiling and classic flat-roof structure consists of a triple-layer bamboo structure that is covered with a layer of earth.
Design concept
The new school building consists of the required eight classrooms and service areas, located in two earthen structures. A bamboo load-bearing structure which supports the staircase, service areas, and a free-study room is located between the earthen structures. The classrooms in the ground floor feature large window niches directed towards the south. The balcony on the first floor features benches made of mambo and earth to provide additional seating.