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'Fields Of Knowledge’ Ramat Effal sustainable education campus competition

Awarded second prize in a recent Ramat Effal Education Campus Competition (2012), the ‘Fields of Knowledge’ proposal by Ori Rittenberg + Auerbach Halevy Architects + Shaga Studio set out to integrate a series of varied learning experiences into layered ‘clusters of knowledge’. Evoking memories of agriculture fields in this once rural township and exploring the symbolic meaning of a small village center, the design questions an existing plan that splits the campus into three individual plots. Suggesting instead a central  ‘Campus Village’  and a destination to the public pathway.

Rooted in an in-depth analysis of the academic program the design creates a division between the restricted learning environments located on higher levels and public functions (media centre, theatre, sport facilities etc) accessible along a lower ‘park’ pathway. While 'knowledge clusters' are defined through program and organization, an interconnected fabric of gardens, patios, terraces and informal learning spaces propagates cross fertilization and interdisciplinary learning experiences across fields of expertise.

The Knowledge Clusters introduce departmental identities within the overall ‘Mat Organization’. Each cluster creates intimate spaces that encourage small group collaborations and individual work. The Cluster is organized according to sustainable principles (solar strategies, water management, natural ventilation) and around a unique patio space. Independent in their nature, the knowledge clusters are combined into an overall open ended assembly that suggests future growth and flexibility while retaining a strong sense of place, specificity and character.



Competition 2012/ Rmat Effal, Israel ​

Ori Rittenberg (Rotem) + Aurbach Halevy Architechts + Shaga Studio