Founded in 2010, the ithuba school mzamba in an underpriveleged rural area of eastern cape is an ongoing design/build project whereby several european universities work with munich-based NPO bauen fur orange farm to complete the educational facilities. the construction is executed entirely from volunteers, locals, and students in line with their motto: 'build together – learn together', implementing local craftsmanship and construction methods.
Having limited access to resources, the schools must function efficiently without the use of grid energy. basic principles have been put into practice while maintaining a high degree of designed aesthetic; the corrugated metal roofs control water shed and overhang from the walls shading the various windows and exterior verandas. concrete masonry units supported on a single slab foundation were used to erect the walls, providing the thermal mass necessary to help keep the interior cool.
The walls are then coated in a locally-made earth plaster that seals the envelope and further insulates the structure. slender steel columns and wooden frame system constitute the roof structure - an economic construction strategy that prevents the structure from becoming too imposing. both schools utilize shared exterior courtyards that can be used as multi-functional assembly areas.