Eco Moyo Staff and Admin

Eco Moyo Staff & Admin is a modern facility replacing outdated structures, providing functional spaces for staff and administration, ensuring efficient operations and service delivery.

place Africa, Kenya, Kilifi KEN 09
Surface 150 mts.2 Date Finished:
September 1, 2024.
Phase Delivered. Type Education.
Target Group Children. Partner .
Client . Donor .
Tecnology Passive, Solar

1. Observe.

Why, context, challenge.

Interviews with staff and administrators highlighted the growing need for a dedicated, well-organized facility to support daily operations and collaborative work. Existing spaces were fragmented and poorly adapted to the evolving functions of the school. Observations revealed that a unified space with clear circulation, accessible meeting areas, and proper facilities could significantly enhance work efficiency and foster a stronger sense of community among educators and support personnel. 

Image

3. Approach.

How, strategy, interact

The initial vision for the Staff and Admin Building evolved through a long process of adapting to changing program needs. Originally intended as a multifunctional hub with dedicated zones for teacher work, meetings, and community areas, the design was reworked to align with the same location as the existing Eco Moyo structures. The approach sought to create a space that was both efficient and flexible. The final concept integrates clear, unified circulation and strategically placed entrances that foster a sense of community. Throughout the process, the focus remained on balancing cost, functionality, and adaptability to support Eco Moyo’s evolving operational needs. 

Design

4. Design.

Programmering, development, co-create.

The envisioned Staff and Admin Building was conceived as a dynamic hub to support Eco Moyo’s educational and administrative functions. Initially, the design featured distinct zones: a ground floor for a reading room, library, teacher meeting area, computer and battery storage, and an open outdoor space designed to accommodate eight teachers in a more relaxed, communal layout. The upper floor was planned to house a TV room for up to 30 people, along with flexible hangout areas to foster informal staff interactions.

As the project evolved, functional requirements shifted. The need for dedicated spaces such as a kitchen or uniquely shaped hangout zones was re-evaluated, leading to a simplification of the overall footprint to match the existing building on the site. Key design refinements included the integration of a makuti roof throughout to evoke local character and improve rain protection, and the strategic positioning of entrances to unify circulation and create a cohesive environment.

Interior spatial arrangements were adapted to provide versatility—stepped-out wall sections create nooks for group activities and a comfortable library setting, while the removal of certain structural elements enhanced the open-plan layout for meetings and teacher workspaces. Material selections, including stone walls and a protective brick base, were made to ensure durability and resistance to weather. Ultimately, the design reflects a balance between visionary planning and practical adaptation, ensuring that the Staff and Admin Building is both responsive to Eco Moyo’s current needs and adaptable for future programmatic evolution.

Who participate

Jan Godzimirski

Jan Godzimirski

Architect - Project Achitect - jan@augnorge.org
Jan Kazimierz Godzimirski, a 2018 graduate from the Oslo School of Architecture and Design, is an architect focused on sustainable and simple design. His experience spans interdisciplinary research, collaborations with indigenous communities, museum conservation, and various architectural projects. From 2017 to 2019, he taught at the Scarcity and Creativity Studio, exploring design, craftsmanship and materials. Jan has also been involved with the Eco Moyo Education Centre in Kenya, supporting educational infrastructure, and with Wielozmysly in Poland, advancing accessible art for the visually impaired. His recent work with Architects Without Borders in Africa and Ukraine reflects his commitment to using architecture for positive change.

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