The Nepal School Project embodies the principles of modularity, adaptability, and resilience, designed to grow alongside its community while maintaining a deep connection to both cultural and environmental contexts. At the heart of the design lies an L-shaped modular system, which allows for incremental expansion by adding units lengthwise or enclosing courtyards. This flexibility ensures the school can evolve as the community’s needs grow. The structure’s simplicity and repeatability enable local builders to construct it efficiently, making the school not only accessible but a potential model for future developments in the region.
A critical focus of the design is earthquake resilience, reflected in the structural integrity of the building. The use of moment-resisting bamboo trusses and timber band construction, inspired by Nepalese vernacular architecture, ensures stability while absorbing seismic forces. These methods are both functional and educational, as they expose the structural elements to view, offering a tangible lesson in the art of construction. The exposed joinery and material expression invite a deeper understanding of the building’s adaptability and resilience, reinforcing the concept of growth and learning as parallel processes.
The layout is based on a courtyard design, which creates microclimates that promote comfort and social interaction. Raised courtyards mitigate the risk of flooding during the monsoon season, while also providing an elevated platform for seating and interaction, further enhancing the school’s community-oriented environment. The courtyards, inspired by traditional Nepalese bahal and bahi, offer a space that fosters collaboration and engagement, providing an environment conducive to both formal learning and informal gathering.
Materiality plays a key role in both the aesthetic and functional aspects of the project. Stabilized mud blocks, interlocked for added strength, combined with bamboo framing and timber bands, evoke the region’s traditional construction techniques while ensuring seismic resistance. The school’s roof, inspired by Nepalese pagoda forms, combines lightweight timber trusses with clay tile covering, referencing local architectural heritage while being cost-effective.
Incorporating both modern innovations and vernacular practices, the Nepal School Project stands as a model of resilience and sustainable growth, grounded in the community it serves.