This project proposes the design of a rural educational campus rooted in the social and spatial traditions of Zambian communities. Drawing inspiration from indigenous settlement patterns and communal living practices, the architectural concept reimagines the school not merely as a space for academic instruction, but as a social and cultural hub that fosters belonging, identity, and shared growth.

This school design takes direct inspiration from traditional Zambian village planning, where communal life revolves around shared spaces and social unity. At the heart of the campus lies a large, open circular hall; a symbolic tree-like gathering space, emphasizing the cultural practice of storytelling, learning, and decision-making under a tree. This spatial anchor reflects the deep-rooted value of community gathering in Zambian culture.

Surrounding this central hub, the campus includes classrooms, dormitories, staff facilities, and recreational spaces, arranged to support interaction, accessibility, and a strong sense of belonging. The layout mirrors a radial configuration, reinforcing inclusiveness and visibility.

Blending vernacular architecture with modern function, the buildings integrate local materials such as laterite stone, stabilized earth blocks, bamboo for shading, and lightweight metal roofs. These choices not only support sustainability and passive climate control but also celebrate regional craftsmanship and environmental consciousness.

The architectural design of this educational campus integrates local building traditions with environmentally responsive techniques to create a sustainable, inclusive, and culturally rooted learning environment. The materials used in construction are primarily natural and locally sourced, including stabilized compressed earth blocks (SCEBs) and laterite bricks for walls. These materials are chosen for their low environmental impact, thermal efficiency, and ability to be manufactured on-site, promoting local employment and skill development. Roofing is designed using two approaches: lightweight metal sheets supported by steel trusses for dormitories and classrooms, and traditional thatch roofing supported by bamboo or timber frames for the central circular structures.
Shading and ventilation play a critical role in the project’s passive environmental design. A double bamboo façade wraps certain buildings to reduce heat gain while allowing natural ventilation. Bamboo curtain systems are also used in transitional spaces, such as dormitory verandas, to filter sunlight and enhance comfort. Buildings are oriented to optimize natural light and wind movement, enabling cross ventilation in all learning and sleeping areas. In classrooms, the roof design incorporates a raised ridge opening that uses the stack effect to expel hot air and maintain a comfortable indoor temperature throughout the day.
The project prioritizes sustainable and low-cost construction methods that are adaptable and expandable. The modular layout allows the school to grow in phases without compromising its spatial logic. The entire construction process is envisioned to be community-driven, using low-tech solutions that can be built and maintained by local labor. This not only reduces construction costs but also strengthens the relationship between the school and its surrounding community.