Project Ninho – An Educational Design that Fosters Community Engagement
Learning at the Heart of Nature
In the Cerrado biome of Minas Gerais, Brazil, a unique educational initiative has emerged—blending education, sustainable architecture, and community participation. The architectural unit “João de Barro,” designed by Biri and MACH Architects, is part of Vila Ninho School, a non-profit institution that began its activities in 2017.
The Four Dimensions of the Initiative
The school’s philosophy is built upon four core pillars:
- Educating children through a flexible learning environment.
- Empowering families to engage in the educational process.
- Transforming communities by fostering environmental and social awareness.
- Supporting other organizations by sharing knowledge and effective models.
A Design That Reflects the Educational Philosophy
Since 2018, the school has been developing its physical infrastructure on a 14,000 m² site in the Lagoa Santa area. The first facility, “Galpão João de Barro,” is a multifunctional building that houses classrooms, administrative spaces, and support areas.
The design incorporates modular grids and natural materials to create an open and flexible learning environment. These spaces have helped to:
- Facilitate interaction between students and teachers.
- Support hands-on, observation-based learning.
- Connect the educational process with the surrounding environment.
Expansion and the Next Phase
Starting in 2024, the school entered a new phase of expansion, involving the construction of additional units accommodating up to 20 students each. The materials and techniques used include:
- Wood as a primary construction element.
- Glass and polycarbonate for improved natural lighting.
- Industrial systems and drywalls to speed up assembly.
Family Involvement in Construction
A standout feature of this project is the involvement of parents in the construction process itself, reinforcing their sense of ownership and contribution to their children’s educational environment. This approach is a key part of the project’s philosophy, which views the physical environment not merely as a backdrop for learning, but as an active educational tool.
Modular Design at Vila Ninho School: The Environment as an Active Learning Element
A Call for Community Participation
Vila Ninho School adopts an educational approach that integrates the environment, community, and pedagogical innovation into a unified vision. This approach encourages local community involvement in shaping and renewing the educational environment—not only in its physical structure but also as an active element in the learning process.
Design Principles: Flexibility and Sustainability
The architectural design, carried out by Biri and MACH Architects, is based on a modular 2×2 meter grid system, forming 36-square-meter units. This system offers:
- Flexible space arrangements according to needs.
- Scalability and adaptability over time.
- Better integration between learning spaces and the surrounding natural environment.
An Environment That Supports Comfort and Sensory Experience
The interior design was developed with a focus on student comfort and sensory engagement. Notable features include:
• Enhanced natural lighting through skylights and roof openings.
• Soft color palettes and natural materials that promote calmness and concentration.
• Effective thermal insulation in walls and ceilings to improve indoor air quality.
Smart Environmental Solutions
As part of the school’s commitment to sustainability, various technologies are employed, including:
- High-efficiency LED lighting.
- Rainwater harvesting to reduce reliance on traditional water sources.
- Greywater recycling for irrigation and utility use.
- Energy-efficient systems that support the environment and provide a stable learning setting.
Engaging with the Ecosystem: Learning at the Heart of Nature
Restoring the Local Environment as an Educational Practice
In designing the João de Barro unit at Vila Ninho School, Biri and MACH Architects aim to integrate educational infrastructure with the surrounding ecosystem. This integration is not merely a design choice, but part of a broader vision to promote hands-on environmental education.
One of the main objectives is to rehabilitate the native vegetation of the land, particularly in the area designated as a Permanent Preservation Zone adjacent to the Capão da Onça stream. Environmental buffer zones are fully respected, reflecting the project’s commitment to local ecological regulations.
Community Involvement in Reforestation and Agriculture
The plan includes the creation of plant nurseries capable of hosting over 1,000 seedlings of native species. Students, parents, and teachers will take part in planting approximately 0.67 hectares of land. This initiative goes beyond environmental restoration, also fostering:
- A sense of belonging and shared responsibility.
- Experiential learning grounded in the natural world.
- Practical education on the value of ecosystems.
Planned School Expansion: Thoughtful and Diverse Distribution
The upcoming facility expansion is organized into several sectors, each serving an educational, cultural, or service-oriented purpose, including:
- João de Barro Warehouse Sector: To be renovated with improved thermal insulation and accessibility for individuals with disabilities.
- Forest and Applications Sector: Features single-story buildings near the vegetable garden, including:
- A library
- A technology lab
- Rooms for music, dance, and theater
- Walkways and paths ensuring easy mobility
Integrated and Safe Infrastructure
The new buildings prioritize safety, ventilation, and accessibility, using:
• Steel trusses to ensure structural strength
• Ribbed panels and skylights for enhanced natural lighting
• Elevated walkways and slide-ramps to connect the various sectors
The plan also includes:
- A sports court
- Changing rooms
- A cafeteria
- Residential units for visiting researchers
All these facilities are carefully distributed among the natural vegetation to preserve ecological balance.
Architecture as an Educational Tool: Learning That Breathes with Nature
Respecting the Terrain and Minimizing Environmental Impact
The design philosophy of the Vila Ninho School project centers on minimizing environmental impact while honoring the natural contours and features of the land. The school was not built against nature, but within it—where the existing environment served as a foundational reference for every design decision, from the placement of buildings to the selection of materials.
From School as a Building… to School as a Learning Environment
The school space is not seen as a rigid framework for housing classrooms, but as a vital educational tool in itself. Every physical element—from light to materials to the relationship with the outdoors—is treated as a learning opportunity, turning the environment into an active partner in the educational process.
Integration of Architecture, Community, and Education
This project succeeds in integrating four core components:
- Context-aware, environmentally conscious architecture.
- Sustainable practices that promote resource conservation.
- Quality education centered on interaction and experience.
- Community involvement as a key player in building the educational environment.
Toward Holistic Education That Instills Citizenship Values
Through this integration, Vila Ninho School embodies a contemporary model of education rooted in environmental awareness and social responsibility. Its role goes beyond delivering academic knowledge to include:
- Fostering active citizenship
- Instilling environmental stewardship
- Encouraging social awareness
