RLS Pavillion School, Dubai
Client: Office of Presidential Affairs | Location: Dubai | Completed August 2024
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The Pavilion School harmoniously blends the rich heritage of Emirati culture with the flexibility and freshness of contemporary design.
At its core, the school adopts a modular architecture, allowing for an organic expansion that mirrors the growth of its student body and the evolving needs of its community. This architectural approach not only ensures sustainability and adaptability but also pays homage to the traditional Emirati way of life, which values both the individual and the collective.
Each module, or pavilion, is inspired by the aesthetics and principles of Emirati architecture, incorporating elements such as courtyards and intricate lattice work, reinterpreted in a modern context. These design choices facilitate natural ventilation and lighting, creating a series of interconnected spaces that are both environmentally responsive and culturally significant.
Open, flexible learning environments encourage collaboration and innovation, while quiet, secluded areas offer space for reflection and individual growth. Outdoor learning spaces and gardens are interwoven with the pavilions, promoting an engagement with nature and the local environment.
The school's design thus serves as a physical manifestation of its commitment to providing a holistic education that is deeply rooted in Emirati values while also being forward-looking and global in its outlook.
RLS is a dynamic, temporary pop-up school inspired by modern Arabic architecture.
Its entrance serves as a bold architectural gesture, setting the tone for the building, while the façade, influenced by oriental design, creates a sophisticated interplay of light, shadow, and intricate detailing, rooted in local context and cultural heritage.
The thoughtful arrangement of openings fosters a connection between interior and exterior, maintaining privacy while offering glimpses of the surroundings. Inside, the open-plan layout encourages seamless flow, allowing students to engage with the natural environment.
The multi-purpose hall at the heart of the school functions as both a canteen and communal space, bringing the school community together.