Our Lady of Lourdes School

“A Space for Learning” is a design ideas competition initiated by the Irish Architecture Foundation to challenge current thinking on school design and architecture.

The starting point for this project was a discussion of basic Architectural concepts with the students of Our Lady of Lourdes School in New Ross, Wexford.

Sustainability was an integral part of the design. A number of passive solar design concepts were approached and the proposal aims to get the most from direct, indirect and isolated solar gains, as well as natural lighting and natural ventilation.

Natural lighting is reflected into the classrooms by the use of light shelves, thus reducing the need for electricity.

The green roof provides increased insulation and works as a thermal mass.

The greenhouses, below the South facing classrooms, capture solar radiation that is converted into heat. This heat is directed into the classrooms through vents that can be closed during Summer time.

Rain water is captured, stored and re-used for toilet flushing and watering within the gardens and greenhouses.

The proposal aims to contribute to a reduced carbon footprint.

Space For Learning - Isabel Barros RIAI Architects Wexford
Space For Learning - Isabel Barros RIAI Architects Wexford
Space For Learning - Isabel Barros RIAI Architects Wexford
Space For Learning - Isabel Barros RIAI Architects Wexford
Space For Learning - Isabel Barros RIAI Architects Wexford
Space For Learning - Isabel Barros RIAI Architects Wexford