The Engineering News-Record's (ENR) pilot Global Best Projects competition awarded the first prize to an early childhood development centre and teacher training facility based in Johannesburg in the 'best small project category.'
The 6,000-sq-ft center was planned, designed and built by a student-led organisation, the Cornell University Sustainable Design (CSUD), in partnership with Johannesburg-based non-profit organisation Education Africa.
The competition judged by an independent jury of industry leaders in design and construction chose the 'Schoolhouse South Africa' project, and London's 'The Shard' project (best large project) as exemplary models of global design and construction.
The schoolhouse project opened in 2011, serves up to 80 students.
"It was very important to formulate a common vision, because everyone had a stake in it," said project director Barry Beagen. "That common vision was the same with the suppliers, contractors and our partners as well, because we knew this project wasn't just about the volunteers coming and going."
The project team was also supported by Johannesburg-based engineers, contractors, PD Solutions, the City of Johannesburg and South African early childhood development organisation, Play-With-A-Purpose. It was funded by suppliers, sponsor organizations and student volunteers from over 22 countries.
The team's main goal was to build a center that focused on passive energy and low maintenance.
The building's structure features earth-filled polypropylene bags, which have been placed inside EcoBeam frames to increase the building's thermal mass while preventing the need for active heating or cooling systems.
"By filling the bags with soil excavated during the foundation-laying process, we reduced waste and transportation while transforming residual matter into a high-performing and resilient wall system," said Cornell team member Daniel Lu.
Plus, an unbreakable concrete ring beam has been positioned atop columns integrated into the wall system to boost interior spans and to extend the building's shelf life. Clerestory windows and child-height portal windows have been used to avoid the need for electric lighting.
"This project shows us all that beauty doesn't need to be expensive, and challenges aren't always led by very experienced professionals," said one judge. "I am proud of our industry when I see the next generation leading the way."
