Open Architecture Network

PROJECT DESCRIPTION:
The Courtyard Configuration was chosen to wrap the site and thus creating a sense of enclosure and a community within a community. The football/tennis/basketball pitch is the center of the courtyard that can also be used to host audience for performances in the outdoor theater that is the main entrance to the building.

The buildings’ circulation is on the inner ring where always having a view of the courtyard and the games or performances also helps increase the level of security through a communal watch.

The building hosts all stated in the design brief, but I have also added the local health care center that was previously located on the site, increasing the awareness and knowledge of IT as well as Health issues. The main entrance lobby also doubles up as a small space for an exhibition area where local artists can display their works.

Materials, the height, form and use of color add prominence to the building. The outer skin is of corrugated metal sheets works with the surrounding buildings and used to reduce heat gain and glare in the building. The main constructed from CMU blocks reinforced with re-bar to help the structure stand against the tremors of Nairobi.