SKF-RTL Children Learning Centre
Completed
2016-2020
Nyang’oma Kogelo, Kenya
550 sqm
Sauti Kuu Foundation
Pichler Ingenieure GmbH, Berlin; Limo Kipkemoi (Local Architect)
The SKF-RTL Children Learning Centre is an education facility that welcomes children between the ages of four and 14 from Nyang’oma Kolego and the surrounding district in Kenya. It was commissioned by the Sauti Kuu Foundation with the aim of promoting personal development through skill-building activities such as sports and agriculture.
The facility consists of two classrooms, a kitchen, an office and bathrooms, each function contained within a circular structure. These are arranged organically in relation to each other, drawing inspiration from the region’s traditional compounds. Curving walls tie together the circular units to define a number of interstitial spaces. Each space takes on specific characteristics, lending itself to different activities, as well as inviting children to informally gather and play. One space in particular, directly adjacent to the kitchen, features a lowered oval in the floor slab where children can sit in clusters during meal times.
The walls are made out of compressed earth bricks produced directly on site, carefully laid to follow the building’s smooth curves. The bricks are interrupted by openings fitted with bamboo log panels that allow filtered light and a cool breeze to enter the space.
The flowing forms of the plan are contrasted by the bold lines of the elevated butterfly roof. The steel canopy provides ample shade while allowing air to circulate throughout the structure, resulting in a remarkably pleasant inner climate. The roof also reaches beyond the building’s footprint, surrounding the outer walls with a generous shaded area.
The SKF-RTL Children Learning Centre is an education facility that welcomes children between the ages of four and 14 from Nyang’oma Kolego and the surrounding district in Kenya. It was commissioned by the Sauti Kuu Foundation with the aim of promoting personal development through skill-building activities such as sports and agriculture.
The facility consists of two classrooms, a kitchen, an office and bathrooms, each function contained within a circular structure. These are arranged organically in relation to each other, drawing inspiration from the region’s traditional compounds. Curving walls tie together the circular units to define a number of interstitial spaces. Each space takes on specific characteristics, lending itself to different activities, as well as inviting children to informally gather and play. One space in particular, directly adjacent to the kitchen, features a lowered oval in the floor slab where children can sit in clusters during meal times.
The walls are made out of compressed earth bricks produced directly on site, carefully laid to follow the building’s smooth curves. The bricks are interrupted by openings fitted with bamboo log panels that allow filtered light and a cool breeze to enter the space.
The flowing forms of the plan are contrasted by the bold lines of the elevated butterfly roof. The steel canopy provides ample shade while allowing air to circulate throughout the structure, resulting in a remarkably pleasant inner climate. The roof also reaches beyond the building’s footprint, surrounding the outer walls with a generous shaded area.
