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Three South African companies, namely Woolworths, Safmarine, and AfriSam, sponsored the Vissershok Container Classroom project which is a boon for the children of farm workers living in the impoverished Du Noon township. The project was initially conceived by 15 year old Marshaam Brink, who responded to Woolworths’ “Making the Difference Through Design” competition with a jungle gym concept. This was then passed over to Tsai Design, who grew her idea into this bright and inspiring learning space.

Since it can be quite hot in recycled shipping containers, Tsai created an expansive roof that mitigates excess sunlight, and created a gap that provides natural ventilation. Cross ventilation is provided with a series of bright cut outs. The steps outside double as a rendezvous spot and informal amphitheater, and a nearby vegetable patch will provide agricultural education as well as food for the new students. Finally, a vertical garden that juts off the container classroom will shelter kids in the play area from fierce winds once it’s fully grown. This award-winning project demonstrates that design really does have the power to change lives!

+ Tsai Design Studio

Via Arch Daily