In July 2005, AFH:MN organized a
weekend design workshop open to
architects, designers and students to
brainstorm ideas for the learning center.
Several aspects of Sri Lankan culture,
building styles and materials were
presented by members of MNSLFF.
"Some of [MNSLFF's] core members
were a Montessori teacher, a librarian
[and] a physician. Each of the[m] had an
agenda that they wanted to see brought
to the community," says Swainhart. "We
developed the concept of a [learning]
center that was part library, part school
[and] part gathering space."
In less than 24 hours, a rough set of
sketches and blueprints was drawn
and presented to MNSLFF for final
approval. Taking advantage of the
prevailing climate and geography of
the area, the plans make use of water,
sunlight and wind with the goal of
environmental sustainability. |
Sketches were drawn to detail the building site.
Landscape Architects incorporate functionality and aesthetics in their design. |
Colin Kloecker (center) and Jeffrey Swainhart (right) present their plans for the
learning center to members of MNSLFF. photo | courtesy of Richard Koechlein |
New homes were constructed for families by MNSLFF in 2005. photo | courtesy of Miranda Bryant |
A natural spring discovered on-site runs along the south
side of the learning center. As winds pass over the
water, the building cools. The water then flows into an
adjacent pool which reflects sunlight into the learning
center. The stream is channeled into the village's
irrigation system.
The building was designed to capture the strong
southern breezes. A heat stack was planned to be built in
the center of the building to facilitate the release of hot
air. As wind blows into the building, it forces hot air
through the heat stack to the outside. |
The foundations of 50 homes were poured just six months
after the tsunami. photo | courtesy of Miranda Bryant |
Residents gather at the new learning center. photo | courtesy of Richard Koechlein |
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| Detail shots show design elements of the learning center.
photos | courtesy of Jeffrey Swainhart and Cassie Neu |
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