Kaira Looro

Nursery School

Situated in the rural area of southern Senegal, this child-centered design envisions a nursery school as a nurturing ecosystem where learning unfolds through play, freedom, and connection. The design revolves around a central courtyard, an open heart that brings together classrooms, play areas, and shared spaces in a safe, visually connected layout. It encourages children to explore without feeling confined, fostering curiosity and confidence. Thoughtfully layered outdoor and indoor zones support rest, learning, and social interaction. Inspired by nature and community life, the school grows beyond its function, doubling as a space for gatherings, gardens, and evening markets—a place that belongs to its people and evolves with them. The main structure consists of a dual wall system: an inner load-bearing wall of rammed earth for structural stability and thermal insulation, paired with an outer breathable skin made from locally woven bamboo mats. This system creates a ventilated buffer zone between the walls, leading to natural cooling and utilizing traditional craftsmanship. Along the inner courtyard walls, the clay pots are embedded at a child’s eye level, which not only allows the cool air to enter and escape through the high-level louvres along the skylight but also stimulates curiosity and interaction in children. The elevated skylight with the louvres at the bottom not only helps in natural ventilation of the space but also allows ambient light in rather than the harsh overhead sunlight. The roof system is constructed from locally sourced bamboo, shaped into a light elliptical skeleton covered with thatch. Below this is a fabric ceiling, which creates an insulating air gap that regulates the heat. A compacted granulated stone base with stabilized mud plaster base, embedded in it are terracotta bricks, which ensures a smooth, cool surface that is both resilient and tactile. The verandas and courtyard include shaded, levelled seating and feature murals by local artists sharing folklore and history in a way that roots children in their culture and heritage.