After a devastating earthquake affected over 73 schools in Thailand, architects were asked to develop earthquake-resistant school designs. The Baan Nong Bua School is one of nine built to help keep children and educators safe during a natural disaster.
The small school consists of four classroom spaces, as well as an open area for activities. The foundation of the building is made from steel, which gives the school a flexible skeletal frame that can absorb the impact of an earthquake without damage. Walls are made with modular wood and cement boards which were readily available and easy to move around. Apart from the earthquake-resistant qualities, students can benefit from the modularity of the school's design for years to come. Walls and bamboo partitions act as earthquake-friendly materials but can also be used to modify the entire space.
Earthquake-Resistant Schools
This Open-Air School in Thailand Was Built After an Earthquake
Trend Themes
1. Earthquake-resistant School Designs - Architects are developing earthquake-resistant school designs to keep children and educators safe during natural disasters.
2. Modular School Design - Modular school design can benefit students with future modifications while also using earthquake-friendly materials.
3. Flexible Skeletal Frames - Buildings with steel foundations can absorb the impact of an earthquake without damage.
Industry Implications
1. Education - Developing earthquake-resistant school designs will help ensure the safety of students and educators during natural disasters.
2. Construction - Implementing flexible skeletal frames in building designs can improve infrastructure and protect against natural disasters.
3. Architecture - Modular design can not only aid in disaster relief efforts, but also provide long-lasting and functional structures for communities.