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INSIGHT THE HIVE

INSIGHT THE HIVE


LOcation: Ethiopia
surface:320 m2
program: primary school
year:2021

ETHIOPIAN SATELLITE PRESCHOOL

INSIGHT THE HIVE is a project that was born from an international competition organized by the ONG Abay Ethiopia, aimed at designing the schools of the future. This innovative project’s primary purpose is to create a space for growth, learning, and community strengthening.One of the key conditions for the school’s design was its ability to adapt to changing needs over time. To meet this requirement, the hexagon was chosen as the central design figure.


One of the key conditions was that the school could adapt to the changing needs that arise over time. This is why the hexagon was chosen: a modular shape that suggests flexibility and expansive horizontal growth.

INSIGHT THE HIVE project proposes various options to adapt to the number of users, which could increase in the future. Additionally, a third phase of construction could be considered, with the potential for unlimited expansion.


The hexagon is a modular shape that suggests flexibility and allows for expansive horizontal growth, facilitating the modification and expansion of the space as the educational community's needs evolve. The modular and expansive approach of the hexagonal design enables the school to transform and adapt efficiently, promoting a dynamic and sustainable environment that can evolve along with its users.


Another important factor is the correct orientation of the hive to maximize the capture of cool breezes and minimize the impact of direct sunlight, as well as incorporating a rainwater collection system. Thus, climate played a decisive role in the design of the school, and sustainable and bioclimatic techniques were applied to enhance the thermal comfort of the spaces and, consequently, the well-being of the children. The hive aims to be a place of integration and shelter for the children, where the hexagonal modules are organized around a central courtyard, serving as the heart of the hive.

The structure in this project is mixed, featuring both point and linear structural elements. One of the objectives was to use local materials to facilitate the construction of the school and reduce environmental and economic impact. Therefore, materials from the area such as bamboo and ceramic brick were chosen.

CONSTRUCTION PROCESS

From the beginning, we wanted to integrate the community members to be part of the project's construction. Therefore, we have considered low-tech construction techniques that enable active community participation and the incorporation of local methods. The hive aims to become part of their culture, integrating their traditions and forms of artistic expression.

Bamboo is used for the roof and pillars, while brick is used for the walls. The foundation is proposed to be made of cyclopean concrete, and the connections between bamboo canes are made using metal plates, as are the junctions between bars and walls.