Nairobi Waldorf School
Nairobi, Kenya, Africa
Completed · Education · Ephemeral Forest School Campus · Tropical · 2024
A semi-permanent primary school campus built within an existing forested site, using modular metal frames filled with compacted laterite soil sandwiched between translucent polycarbonate sheets to create so-called living walls that visibly host plant roots, insects, and soil microorganisms over time. Designed for a ten-year land lease at roughly $250 per square metre, the entire structure can be dismantled and relocated without damaging the mature trees.
Innovation highlights
- Living wall system: excavation soil compacted between twin polycarbonate sheets, creating a biological habitat visible to pupils
- Fully demountable modular metal frame designed for end-of-lease dismantling with zero tree removal
- Cost target of $250/m² achieved through participatory self-build with parents, pupils, and local artisans
- Laterite soil sourced directly from on-site excavation, eliminating imported fill material
- Skylights and translucent polycarbonate panels replace artificial lighting during school hours
- Client / Developer
- Nairobi Waldorf School Community
- Architect
- Urko Sánchez Architects
- Engineer
- Not publicly identified
- Type
- Ephemeral Forest School Campus
#ephemeral architecture #living walls #participatory design #low-cost construction #biophilic #demountable #laterite #polycarbonate #forest school
View source