Classroom of the Future by LAVA

Relocatables are the decades old, utilitarian solution to changing demographics, remote community needs and natural disasters such as fires, floods and cyclones. Unsightly, they are perceived as cheap and unpleasant spaces.

But a new plan by the Laboratory For Visionary Architecture (LAVA) turns relocatable into smart buildings which combine design and education, allied to sustainability, social interaction, nature and adaptive technology. Chris Bosse, Asia Pacific director of LAVA says: "we wanted to turn this idea upside down and create spaces that are sustainable, practical, cost effective, fun and exciting to be in".

The sustainable design includes a modular façade system that is manually operable, flexible for light and shade, enclosed space or open space, bringing the outside in or the inside out. Composed of lightweight, easily transportable modular elements, the construction is low cost, low carbon, with off-site prefabrication allowing responsive assembly.

This cellular 'space for learning' strengthens the connection between mankind, nature and technology. 'Three-axis' geometry allows the interlocking of each module to form large groups with smaller learning clusters. This results in the building itself learning how to adapt to future methods of learning and future modes of operation.

The future classroom adapts to multiple sites, unusual configurations and different climates and topographies through a simple telescopic system of posts integrating the classroom into the landscape.

The concept received a commendation in the Australian Future Proofing School competition to future proof relocatable learning spaces. The aim of the ideas competition was to produce effective spaces for 21st century learning that are sustainable, integrate with the landscape and connect with the school environment, suitable for prefabrication and mass customisation.

Date: 2011
Client: Future Proofing School
Status: Competition entry - commendation
Area: 60-180 sqm each