Project Description

On the rugged rocky plateau of Tham Luong School (Du Gia commune, Yen Minh district, Ha Giang province), construction was completed in 2022 with the sponsorship of the Midas Foundation. This school is located in the living area of the Hmong ethnic group, which migrated to the land of the Tay people.

Previously, natural disasters and landslides had caused the Hmong people to lose their land and homes, forcing them to move down the mountain in search of a new place to live. This led to the formation of a 'living by' mentality, where everything in the Hmong village, including houses and schools, is temporary. The condition of the school was extremely shabby, damp, and poorly lit.

After conducting a survey, 1+1>2 architects and the local community came up with the idea of building a school that reflects the indigenous culture of the Hmong people. To ensure harmony with the surrounding nature and optimize costs, 1+1>2 Architects chose construction materials from available resources that are environmentally friendly and close to the local way of life. Most notably, the main material used was 900 blocks of stone quarried on site.

The stone walls are 40-50 cm thick and are interwoven with patches of pebbles and bricks, resembling the way Hmong people weave brocade. This construction technique also serves as an effective windbreak, keeping the classrooms warm in the winter and cool in the summer. Two corridors wind around in a zigzag pattern, embracing the small yard and connecting the three buildings.

The schoolyard serves as both a study and play area for students, as well as a gathering place for locals and visitors. Tham Luong School was completed with the happiness and cooperation of the local community. Each element of the roof, wall, and light slot is in harmony with the rhythm of the mountains.

The blue and white colors on the corrugated iron roofs blend with the color of the forest canopy, hidden in the morning mist of the highlands. The project seamlessly integrates into the village, showcasing a simple and humble architecture that honors the voice and soul of the ethnic group.