4.3 GANDO PRIMARY SCHOOL

Construction

The school and the extension consists of a long, single-story structure with a lightweight corrugated metal roof. The over sailing canopy, which is supported by a space frame structure, creates shade around the building. Within the volume of the original building are three classrooms while in the extension building there are four equally sized classrooms and a covered area with a sandpit for play and learning. [1]

Both buildings were constructed using the same concepts and techniques since the original building’s architectural style and material palette came to represent the Gando community as a whole. The low cost of the original school building allowed for extension and further expansion. [2]

The traditional earth brick walls were constructed using local raw materials and basic techniques and the floor is beaten earth. Block work ceilings in classrooms are shallow, vaulted, and perforated for natural ventilation. The lightweight frame was physically assembled in parts without the use of mechanical equipment. [2]

Local metalsmiths were commissioned to make the colourful steel window shutters that let in light and air. Since hardwood is not locally available and is vulnerable to termites it is used only for furniture.

Burkina Faso often has corrugated tin roofs that overhang on buildings because of the country’s frequent rainfall during the rainy season. [1] The metal, however, makes the interiors intolerably hot during the dry season. Kéré was able to prevent this and keep the interior cool by utilizing clay bricks.

[1] https://www.kerearchitecture.com/work/building/gando-primary-school-3

[2] https://www.moma.org/interactives/exhibitions/2010/smallscalebigchange/projects/primary_school.html