Waldorf School in Nairobi
Urko Sánchez Architects- Type Education School and High-School
- Material Polycarbonate
- Date 2023
- City Nairobi
- Country Kenya
- Photographer Javier Callejas
The Waldorf School in the Kenyan capital, Nairobi, was thought out as a small village for children nestled within the woods. With organic shapes to fit in with the natural environment, the buildings had to be constructed quickly and cost-efficiently as they would be temporary, the lease on the land expiring in ten years. The classrooms are dispersed in the clearings between trees, with a spiral configuration inspired by the maasal manyatas and other vernacular architectures of Kenya.
By recycling and reusing materials like wood and tiles, the project sought to foster a deep connection between students and nature. To enhance this bond, 'living walls' were built, filling the space between two polycarbonate sheets with soil left over from excavations and a second layer of forest leaves. This technique met the need to raise a school fast and economically. The building system was designed to be adaptable and collaborative, involving children, parents, and teachers. This approach combined creativity, sustainability, and community engagement in creating a unique learning space.