“Canadian School is inspired by the volcanic context and memory land of the site. Its design is presented as a building that blends with the natural topography.” - Fernando Sordo Madaleno

The natural topography has a significant impact on the architectural design. The site has a 3-meter difference in elevation from the street level, a condition that drives us to create a building that integrates seamlessly with the landscape. The educational spaces are located on the lower level, while the roof, accessible from the street level, functions as a park, becoming an extension of the playground and encouraging interaction for the children and youth.

“This school is a canvas where learning and nature meet, where architecture becomes an experiential tool that merges with the playground, becoming part of the outdoor environment where activities unfold.” - Fernando Sordo Madaleno

Departing from traditional linear educational layouts, Canadian School adopts a radial design that focuses on central public areas and allows the daily life of the school to unfold inward. This layout maximizes the use of open space, with 62% of the site left unbuilt, creating large outdoor areas that are connected to the building.

“This typology allowed us to challenge traditional design approaches. Despite the defined boundary, we envisioned a central space that integrates with the surrounding environment. The building itself becomes part of the playground, blending into the environment. From this vantage point, the school can be seen in harmony with the nearby volcano.” - Fernando Sordo Madaleno

The school’s program is organized around seven circular structures divided into twenty-four equal segments. This modular approach organizes the classrooms, administrative offices, cafeteria, gardens, courtyards, and sports facilities in a coherent and accessible manner.

The selection of materials aims to establish a dialogue with the surrounding volcanic landscape and pre-Hispanic heritage, ensuring seamless integration with the environment. The building’s visual identity is characterized by exposed concrete blocks that not only provide a distinctive aesthetic but also reduce maintenance costs. These blocks, manufactured specifically for the project, enable a modular and flexible design that adapts to both current and future needs while maintaining structural integrity.

Canadian School is a testament to how architecture can harmonize with the landscape, creating a nurturing and inspiring environment for learning.