In the heart of Benguerir’s Green City, Morocco, the Jacques Majorelle School emerges as a beacon of climate-responsive design, seamlessly blending tradition with contemporary educational needs. Designed by Moroccan studio ZArchitecture, the school was conceived and completed in just one year through a partnership between Mohammed VI Polytechnic University and OSUI, the Moroccan branch of the French Secular Mission. This rapid execution responds to the demands of a growing community, setting a benchmark for future educational developments in the region.
A Contemporary Interpretation of Moroccan Heritage
Drawing inspiration from Morocco’s architectural heritage, the Jacques Majorelle School reimagines traditional educational spaces through a modern perspective. Upon entry, visitors are greeted by the warmth of white and salmon-colored walls, guiding them through a rhythmic sequence of open-air courtyards. Light and shadow interact dynamically across surfaces, leading the way through shaded corridors where glimpses of natural light heighten the sense of discovery.
More than just aesthetic elements, these courtyards function as climate moderators, providing shaded retreats that soften the intensity of the region’s sun. They create natural buffers between age-specific zones, fostering moments of rest and interaction for students and staff alike.
A Thoughtful Campus Layout
The school’s layout is carefully orchestrated into two distinct zones: the educational buildings align along the main road, forming a structured edge, while shared facilities—including sports fields, a cafeteria, and communal spaces—unfold towards the quieter rear. This strategic arrangement ensures both accessibility and a sense of retreat, enhancing the learning experience.
Its “comb-like” configuration is not merely an architectural statement; it directs movement with intention, ensuring fluid transitions between different educational stages. Each age group occupies a well-defined area, yet the design maintains an open, interconnected atmosphere, effortlessly balancing structure with flexibility.
Phase 1 and Future Expansion
Currently, Phase 1 welcomes kindergarten and elementary students, whose classrooms cluster around administrative offices and an Environmental Knowledge and Culture Center. This dedicated space fosters hands-on learning and engagement with sustainability principles. As the school evolves, Phase 2 will introduce secondary education facilities and a gymnasium, expanding the institution’s impact while preserving its core design philosophy.
Sustainable Construction and Cultural Integrity
Constructed with reinforced concrete for durability and rapid assembly, the school also incorporates locally sourced stone and natural finishes, reinforcing its cultural identity. By embedding local materials and passive design strategies, the Jacques Majorelle School stands as a model for climate-sensitive, contextually rooted educational architecture in North Africa.
