architecture sans frontières indonesia (ASF-ID) have completed a kindergarten made of bamboo, situated between hamlets on a rice field in the hinterland of western java. architects from the non-profit organization have used the traditional material for nur hikmah‘s main structure for economic and environmental reasons, but also due to its flexible nature, which allows the building to sway and bend gently, creating more earthquake-friendly conditions.
bamboo frames allow future expansion
ASF-ID developed the design for the new kindergarten – which used to be situated on a busy road in tasikmalaya, a city in western java – after a series of workshops conducted with school administrators and parents. after securing funding at the end of 2017, the architects have now completed construction of the project, built mainly out of bamboo, which the city is known for. for the main structural components they have used the species dendrocalamus asper, while for tertiary components, such as rafters and wall liners, they chose the species gigantochloa apus. the bamboo has been treated prior in order to last longer, while the floor has been raised on stilts to retain the existing agricultural functions.
stilts retain the existing agricultural functions
the main bamboo frames have been designed separate from the floor system to allow for future expansion. ASF-ID built the nur hikmah kindergarten with a vision of living in harmony with nature, while the the new building represents a novel approach to the native material and ‘has brought a new spirit to teachers, as well as students, motivating them to take care of the environment,’ as the architects note.
south facade
view from back side path walk
stilts for earthquake safety and thermal comfort
airy upper deck use by 6 yo pupils
spacious classroom for 5 yo pupils
main corridor
main column at first floor
floor structure and ventilation gap
main column at second floor
colorful sanitation block and wet area
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edited by: sofia lekka angelopoulou | designboom
