Last year in May a magnitude 6.3 earthquake hit the northern Thailand province of Chiang Rai. Devestation followed, including the destruction of 73 schools and the displacement of over 2000 students.
Following the disaster, charity group Design for Disasters began rebuilding efforts in the area.
Thai architects Vin Varavarn Architects jumped on board for the project and began design work on the Baan Huay Sarn Yaw School.
The shockproof school was designed using bamboo and steal, both light and strong, allowing for earthquake resistant building techniques to take centre stage.
The use of light-weight building materials helps to reduce horizontal momentum caused by earthquake activity and provide a safe haven for students.
Bamboo shelving along both sides of the building provides a welcoming atmosphere and a helpful learning environment.
“The flower pots represent our message to remind the children that in spite of the harsh and cruel realities of caused by natural disasters, nature can also bring them beauty and joy to every day of their lives,” say the architects. The shelving also doubles as safety measures to prevent children from falling in the event of an earthquake.
Built with local materials and at a cost-effective price, the initiative is hoping to rebuild schools across Thailand and extend their model to other at-risk areas around the world.
