In Burkina Faso, Architects are revolutionizing school buildings to be cooler and eco-friendly despite the country’s extreme heat, which can reach up to 40 degrees Celsius (or 104 Fahrenheit). Using local materials such as clay and laterite stone combined with modern construction techniques, they ensure thermal comfort in buildings without relying on air conditioning.
These structures benefit from natural cooling strategies, including the use of raised and extended metal roofs that allow hot air to escape, significantly reducing interior temperatures. Designed with the community in mind, the buildings incorporate elements that ensure privacy and security for students while promoting a better learning atmosphere.
Additionally, the use of solar panels supports sustainable energy use, allowing students to charge devices and study after sunset. This architectural approach improves education in Burkina Faso and offers an example of how to build sustainably in hot climates.
