Zona Santiago Outdoor Classroom by Bernat Ivars + Mixuro

Next to the Santiago Apostol del Cabanyal School, there is a vacant lot used for parking. Since the school did not have a yard, the Valencia City Council gave the vacant land to the school temporarily.

the parking lot becomes the public area next to the Santiago Apostol Del Kabanyal School

This yard is designed to be an open space for various student activities, so they can be active and move without class barriers. Interestingly, the work on this project also collaborated with students in the concept and design. The Santiago zone is also their nickname for this building.

an open area that becomes a multipurpose area in student activities 

The purpose of this land is to become an inclusive playground that is open to everyone. The Santiago zone is filled with elements that support motor activity, so it is hoped that it can be used to support various activities.

a public area that is open to all

rounded shape with a scope that has a variety of shapes

On the other hand, the design team's approach to production and construction is very much in line with the wishes of the community, so the results of this project can be maximized. The materials used for construction are radical recycling, maximum vegetation, and materialization with environmentally friendly materials.

structure with environmentally friendly recycled materials

With budget conditions and limited deadlines, it was decided to divide the available space into four areas: outdoor classrooms, a small “ocean” forest, several orchards, and sports fields. The array of elements is designed to offer maximum space variation with a limited surface area.

variety of 4 space functions in a limited area

The structural design of the outdoor classrooms in the Santiago Zone has been created to optimize the delivery of material to the fullest. Wooden classrooms articulate space and are also an artifact for play when not being used as a classroom.

outdoor classrooms serve as teaching and play areas

The students called the circular shape the “UFO” skin, it was made of poplar and cypress trees which can reduce solar radiation, and in the future will be filled with climbing plants.

The Santiago Zone can be a place for discussion

A few months after its operation, this place has been used as a classroom, meeting, theatre, rest area, games, and concerts!

floor with wood material and a sloping surface 

become an interesting place for children to play

limited land still uses vegetation

children can play freely in this area 

floor plan of The Santiago Zone