School of Nursing at the Balearic Islands University. Competition 1st PRIZE

Arising from the conflicting requirements of minimum occupation – and therefore maximum compactness – and the need for optimised natural ventilation and light, a compact rectangle with courtyards provides a solution that concurs with the intended use of the physical nature of the site and its microclimate; a rectangle near the boundary of the site which allows topographic harmony with the single access road to the building. From there a linear transparent hallway gives access to the park and the University, either by open corridors towards the classrooms, or by stairs to the offices upstairs.

The building’s energy demand and the consequent emission of CO2 into the atmosphere will be minimised. The architecture, therefore, is of prime importance. The building typology, linear blocks and intermediate courtyards surrounded on three sides, provide all the classrooms with good orientation and adequate ventilation, facilitating the entry of sunlight while protecting them from any excessive direct glare.