ELE Arkitektura, under the guidance of lead architects Eduardo Landia Ormaetxea and Eloi Landia Ormaetxea, presents the second intervention at San Antonio School, Spain. Recognizing the pivotal role of architecture in shaping experiences through spatial, material, and emotional connections, this project extends the concepts developed for younger students in the initial intervention to those aged 7 to 12. Central to the design philosophy is the acknowledgment that the desire for free play and learning propels the pedagogy of the future. The endeavor focuses on transforming a conventional courtyard into a hub of creativity.

Fostering Creativity in a Transformed Courtyard

Preserving the wild and natural essence of the environment, the architects have introduced sinuous hills, approximately 2.5m high. These hills serve a dual purpose by allowing visibility through the wall and effectively dividing the space into distinct enclosures within a continuous expanse.

Diverse Zones with Unique Characteristics

The transformed space comprises three zones, each endowed with a distinct character. The first zone accommodates an amphitheater, a productive and cultivation area, fostering a connection with nature. The second zone caters to play and sports activities, promoting physical engagement. Positioned at the hill’s summit, the third zone is designated as the expansive meeting dome, providing a panoramic view of the surroundings.

Integrated Auxiliary Volumes Enhance Functionality

To complement each zone, auxiliary programmatic volumes constructed with reinforced concrete and wood seamlessly integrate into the sloping landscape. The first pavilion incorporates a storage area for gardens, a viewpoint framing Mount Mugarra, and a covered meeting space. The second pavilion consists of three open-sided cubes, facilitating diverse interactions between users and the environment.

Blurring Boundaries and Creating Perspectives

Strategic openings in the perimeter walls of the plot not only provide a visual connection with Mount Mugarra but also offer new perspectives to passersby. This design choice blurs the boundaries between the historic center of Durango’s dense urban fabric and the green areas associated with the school and the San Francisco convent.

ELE Arkitektura’s intervention at San Antonio School stands as a testament to the transformative power of architectural design in education, creating dynamic and inspiring spaces for students to play, learn, and connect with their surroundings.