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01/2023 - 07/2023
SCHOOL EXTENSION IN MARRATXÍ
Arimunani School Extension in Marratxí
Bachelor Final Thesis
Prof. Arch. David Viaplana
01/23 - 07/23
Nestled in the rustic landscapes of Marratxí, within Mallorca’s
rural expanse, Arimunani school finds itself amidst olive
treefields. Embracing this setting, the project integrates the
rural grid into its design, leveraging agricultural techniques
to seamlessly meld with the terrain’s natural topography. This
approach not only organizes the layout but also restructures the
land to support future plantations.
The entire project is crafted from locally sourced pine wood, employing
geometric joints. Anticipating the need for around 100 trees for
its contruction, the commitment of the proposal is to ensure its
sustainability by replanting every tree within the project site.
A research of Mallorca’s wood is the basis of the approach, exploring
the opportunities and obstacles of the region’s timber resources.
Site analysis of Marratxí, strategies for the integration of the project
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Analysis of the different wood types, processes and cuts
Once the grid is expanded, the volumes are strategically positioned to establish a fresh focal point between them. Encircling the structure, a newly cultivated forest enhances and solidifies this central space. A deliberate topographical shift carves a gentle depression at the core, accompanied by subtle undulations at the plot’s edges, shielding the playground from street views and fostering a secluded, private area.
Diagram of grid extension (agriculture-> architecture) and of relation to surrounding elements
Floorplan of the proposal (existing school on the left)
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Vegetation change during the year, an emeblematic tree is used to highlight the seasons
General section of the proposal
Axonometric drawing of the proposal
The project comprises four volumes: two classrooms directly connected to nature, an open covered space adaptable for various purposes like an auditorium or sports hall. This porch, utilized by the school, doubles as a community hub after school hours, benefitting the village. To enable independent usage, an annex (the fourth volume) with essential exterior services is constructed, ensuring autonomy from the school.
The entirety of the project utilizes Mallorca pine wood.
Specifically, in the outdoor area, the primary structure of the
expansive porch consists of a triarticulated trussed arch.
Illustrated in the diagrams below, the different components of the
truss are interconnected through clamping and subsequently fastened
to metal plates that allow for the articulation, optimizing the wood
usage. The roof layers are fitted by geometry to the porticos below.
Axonometry with the covered space highlighted
Different trusses adapting to topography
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Structural truss composition and longitudinal section
The classroom design incorporates varying levels of privacy to
facilitate both collective and individual learning experiences. The
rear boxes serve as secluded areas where students can engage in
focused individual work.
The movable enclosures offer versatility,
enabling the classrooms to seamlessly integrate with the
surrounding natural environment or transform into a unified covered
space as necessary. This reimagines the school’s relationship with
nature, fostering a dynamic 15 and adaptable learning environment
that harmonizes with its surroundings.
The classrooms feature a
structure primarily composed of a balloon frame for the main
enclosure, complemented by a portico structure to promote an open
learning environment.
Different boxes in façade and interaction with students
Floorplan of the classroom
Section of the classroom
Detailed constructive section of the classroom
In terms of landscaping, the objective is to craft an engaging and dynamic playground that encourages children to actively explore and connect with nature while offering shaded areas that shelter from the intense heat. Additionally, the design aims to cultivate a thriving habitat for local fauna by employing indigenous flora, ensuring their optimal adaptation to the environment.
Collage of the tree species
Lanscape detailed sections, water collection systems, children interaction with nature
Render view from inside the covered space
Render view of landscape and the covered space
