In designing a training facility for a co-operative cinnamon company promoting environmental and social sustainability, the architects devised a light, wooden roof structure supported by Y-beams anchored in concrete footings. Brick-and-concrete walls partition the floor area into a classroom, showroom, laboratory, kitchen and offices. Built of recycled cinnamon trees and locally crafted brick, existing durian trees are featured in a central courtyard. Ventilation was a major issue, addressed by thermal mass, sunray reduction and extensive eaves and overhangs: 600 square metres of roof over a built area of 484 square metres. The building is setting a standard in region in the provision of a socially sustainable facility for local farmers and workers.
Source: Aga Khan Trust for Culture