Thanh Tan Primary School: A Beacon of Education in Thanh Hoa Province
Architects presents the Thanh Tan Primary School, situated in Thach Thanh District, Thanh Hoa Province, facing challenging weather conditions and economic hardship. The existing school infrastructure, comprising only four classrooms, falls short of accommodating the growing number of students. To address this need, the architects designed a new building block featuring three spacious classrooms, each capable of accommodating up to 30 students.
Innovative Design Solutions
The new building block is strategically oriented in the main north-south direction, with a south-oriented corridor to mitigate sunlight exposure while harnessing the cool breeze from the southeast. To seamlessly integrate the old and new structures, the architects connected them internally, creating a unified whole that embraces the schoolyard adorned with a row of large, perennial trees. Externally, the elevated roof offers panoramic views of the surrounding hillside, including an expansive pineapple field. This shaded space not only serves as a playground for children but also facilitates natural ventilation, enhancing comfort for students and teachers alike.
Sustainable Materials and Cost-Effective Construction
The architects employed a combination of compressed earth bricks and painted adobe brick blocks to construct the walls, achieving an interwoven effect that symbolizes the harmony between old and new classrooms. This design not only maximizes natural lighting and ventilation but also ensures thermal insulation through a dual-layer roof structure comprising cool corrugated metal sheets and bamboo ceilings. The result is a cost-effective yet high-quality built environment that addresses the educational needs of remote areas like Thanh Tan.
Collaborative Efforts for Educational Development
The construction and renovation of Thanh Tan Primary School were made possible through the support of “VNHELP,” an NGO Fund dedicated to educational development. By carefully selecting frame structures, foundations, landscapes, and finishing materials suited to a limited budget, the project demonstrates a commitment to providing affordable classrooms without compromising on quality. This initiative aims to uplift remote communities by providing children with access to proper educational facilities, thereby fostering a brighter future for generations to come.
