Binh Duong Junior School

Surrounded by the tropical forests of Binhdoung, Vietnam the design Bing Doung Junior High School contributes to a learning model where the environment acts as learning tool.  The seamless transition from the surrounding environment to the school allows learning to take place in a habitual environment.  Elements of the lush forests are closely mimicked such as the vegetation.  The vine like S-Shape design of the structure appears to be growing out of the ground.  As the students and faculty move upward towards the green roof, the design mimics a growing seedling as it progresses to a fully-grown tree with a canopy reaching a massive height. It appears that the architects, Vo Trong Nghia aim create structures that poses almost a living or self-sustaining quality.  The concrete paneled façade acts as a cooling or ventilation system, which eliminates the need for air conditioning and acts as a protective barrier during the rainy season. 

As seen on the plan, the rooms surrounding the student courtyard (13) on all five levels are classrooms or spaces where traditional learning takes place. The rooms surrounding public courtyard (22) are collaborative spaces.  On each level as students ascend towards the green roof, the common spaces as compared to the classroom spaces become more defined.  The roof is highlighted as the main common space as stairs, beginning on the public courtyard wing of the building, lead to the fifth level.  The fifth level is aligned according the height of the trees in the surrounding forest.  Attention was focused on the notion of not destroying, but replacing or existing seamlessly with the surrounding environment.  With the green roof, courtyards and terraces students are constantly interacting with their environment as they move from one activity to the next. 

Classrooms/Private (RED)

Common/Collaborative (GREEN)

Administrative (PURPLE)