Relocatables are the decades old, utilitarian solution to changing demographics, remote community needs and natural disasters such as fires, floods and cyclones. Unsightly, they are
perceived as cheap and unpleasant spaces.
But a new plan by the Laboratory For Visionary Architecture (LAVA) turns relocatable into smart buildings which combine design and education, allied to sustainability, social interaction, nature and adaptive technology.
Chris Bosse, Asia Pacific director of LAVA says: "we wanted to turn this
idea upside down and create spaces that are sustainable, practical, cost effective,
fun and exciting to be in".
The sustainable design includes a modular façade system that is manually
operable, flexible for light and shade, enclosed space or open space,
bringing the outside in or the inside out. Composed of lightweight, easily transportable modular elements, the construction is low cost,
low carbon, with off-site prefabrication allowing responsive assembly.
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LAVA, Classroom of the future, relocatable
This cellular 'space for learning' strengthens the connection between
mankind, nature and technology. 'Three-axis' geometry allows the
interlocking of each module to form large groups with smaller learning
clusters. This results in the building itself learning how to adapt to future
methods of learning and future modes of operation.
The future classroom adapts to multiple sites, unusual configurations and
different climates and topographies through a simple telescopic system of
posts integrating the classroom into the landscape.
The concept received a commendation in the Australian Future Proofing
School competition to future proof relocatable learning spaces. The aim of
the ideas competition was to produce effective spaces for 21st century
learning that are sustainable, integrate with the landscape and connect
with the school environment, suitable for prefabrication and mass
customisation.
LAVA, Classroom of the future, relocatable
Date: 2011
Client: Future Proofing School
Status: Competition entry - commendation
Area: 60-180 sqm each
LAVA, Classroom of the future, relocatable
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