A Contemporary & Vernacular Response
This series was completed for a competition in which our response was to help derive and architectural approach to be employed in the design of new Saudi Arabian Schools.
Our response was to draw upon he rich vernacular architecture found in the region of Riyadh allowing for an effective response to the climate in which it is situated to generate architecture of contrasts. Using heavy rammed earth courtyards found within traditional Najd architecture with lightweight canopies drawing from the strong character of scared geometry found both in Riyadh and throughout the Arab world. This is and attribute also reflected in the curriculum incorporating traditional teaching with advanced stem learning. Creating and architecture that is both vernacular and contrasting.
This project was undertaken with Ayre Chamberlain Gaunt in 2020
A Vernacular Approach
Courtyards
Courtyards are popular architectural forms in an arid climate as the reduction in the building’s density allows you to both heat and cool the building naturally and at a reasonable speed.
Routes
Drawing from the Riyadh’s urban architecture has allowed of both highlighting approaches, creating intrigue and a dynamic form.
Teaching
Defining the different teaching areas of the school derives the school’s layout, and here you can see how well the courtyard form is suited to its use as a school.
An Architecture of Contrasts
