The Nepal School Project

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Resilient Renewal

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A Prototype for Modular Adaptive and Regenerative Architecture in Nepal

This proposal envisions a building system and an ambience for schools in Nepal that function not only as centres for learning but also as benchmarks of sustainable, adaptable design. Emphasising environmental responsibility, material circularity, and resilience, the project is tailored to Nepal’s varied terrain, vulnerability to floods and seismic activity.The design is based on a modular, flexible system that adapts to diverse landscapes.Prefabricated components facilitate quick, energy-efficient on-site assembly, and parallelconstruction processes enable time efficacy. This modularity ensures that the system performs well across varied topographies, without compromising stability and the quality of space. These qualities make the school a scalable modular model for natural disaster-prone regions that can be built in phases.

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Key features include flood and earthquake resilience, low-impact materials, and low-maintenance. The structural system uses lightweight yet strong components for the superstructure, non-rigid joints, a low centre of gravity with a heavy, relatively flexible base and a foundation designed to withstand seismic events. Environmental strategies, include passive thermal regulation (composite wood wool walls), ample natural lighting, contribute to energy efficiency and comfort for the inhabitants. Usage of recyclable and recycled material (recycled plastic composite boards), considering Nepal's policy to clean up Nepal's urban plastic and urban waste through initiatives. The materials are chosen for their recyclability, low environmental impact and can be sourced within Nepal. The entire system supports a circular lifecycle.
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The architecture fosters simplicity, openness and interaction. The wide circulation paths that interconnect spaces facilitate movement and connect the activities of the school. The ground level under the pilotis accommodates vegetable key-hole gardens, rain shelters and a covered children's play area. The stairs accessing the upper level are located on the external façade of the building to avoid cluttering the quadrangle. The paths at the bottom of the stairs connect the quadrangle seamlessly under the pilotis that elevate the enclosed spaces so that they remain unaffected during the floods. The open area is left for free play, sports and screenings, qualities essential to creating an engaging dynamic atmosphere.

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Ultimately, this project is not just about constructing schools, it’s about rethinking how buildings interact with people and place. By demonstrating a responsive, regenerative system rooted in its environment, the project offers a new paradigm for architecture and a benchmark for adaptable building possibilities in Nepal and beyond.

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