'Fields of Knowledge' by ShaGa Studio + Auerbach Halevy Architects + Ori Rittenberg (Rotem)

Amsterdam-based firm SHaGa Studio and Israeli design partners Auerbach Halevy Architects [UPDATE: and Ori Rittenberg (Rotem)] have sent us 'Fields of Knowledge,' a design collaboration for a new sustainable education campus in Ramat Efal, Israel. In the competition for the design and construction of the innovative campus, the proposal was shortlisted from over 50 entries and awarded the second prize.

Project Description from the Architects:

Evoking the memories of old agriculture fields in Ramat Efal; The proposal for a new education campus integrates a series of linear ‘knowledge fields’ into a rich and varied learning experience, weaving together exteriors and interiors, the public and the community.

The proposal criticizes an existing plan that splits the campus into three divided plots and suggests instead an integration of both school & public programmes within an overall ‘field condition’.
Functioning as a focal point for the new neighbourhood, the slightly elevated ‘Campus Village’ is transforming a public pathway from a shortcut to a destination, creating a vertical division between the restricted learning environments on higher levels and the public functions (media centre, theatre, sport facilities etc) accessible to all along a lower ‘park’ pathway.

By situating the learning spaces above the public zones , new intimate learning conditions are being developed, where distinct expertise and knowledge areas (Science and Technology, Humanistic Studies, Arts and Crafts, Sports)are nurtured and explored.
While knowledge clusters are defined through program and organisation, an interconnected fabric of gardens, patios, loggias, terraces and informal learning spaces propagates cross fertilisation and interdisciplinary learning experiences across fields of expertise.

Knowledge Clusters –The Knowledge Clusters introduce local identities within the overall 'Mat Organisation'.
Each cluster creates intimate spaces that encourage small group collaborations and individual work. The Cluster is organised according to sustainable principles (solar strategies, water management, natural ventilation) and around a unique patio space. Independent in their nature, the knowledge clusters are combined into an overall open ended assembly that suggests future growth and flexibility while retaining a strong sense of place, specificity and character.

Project Credits:

ShaGa Studio NL: Gary Freedman, Shany Barath, Alexey Boev
Auerbach Halevy Architects: Ori Halevy, Ori Rotem, Eynav Nahum, Noam Muskal
Visualizations by design team and Doro Dietz.

Find also plans and diagrams of the proposal in the image gallery below.