Curro High School Shortlisted For World Architecture Festival

WORDS Michaela Stehr PHOTOS 3Sixty Photography

Local multidisciplinary architecture and interior design firm BPAS Architects, has been shortlisted for this year’s World Architecture Festival in the Completed Buildings – School category with Curro Durbanville High School.

The renowned nomination recognises BPAS Architects’ exceptional work on the Curro Durbanville High School project, which was completed during the pandemic.

A modern 9,800 square metre campus situated in Durbanville, just outside Cape Town is an example of BPAS Architects’ collaborative and hands-on approach. Involving close engagement with learners, teachers, and other consultants, the design process resulted in a high-quality school with a range of cutting-edge cultural and sporting facilities, including a 360-seater dedicated auditorium, music rooms with inter-movable doors and a 400-metre athletics track.

Drawing inspiration from the surrounding landscape, the contemporary building incorporates elements of form, texture, and scale. Built in an unusual U-shape, the building footprint creates a welcoming forecourt for learners and visitors, while the interesting layout promotes constant interaction between areas, challenging the conventional classroom typology and fostering flexibility and adaptability for future needs.

“We are truly honoured to be shortlisted for the World Architecture Festival,” says Landseer Collen, Architect and Director at BPAS Architects. “The Curro Durbanville High School project represents our commitment to creating powerful new spaces that inspire and facilitate positive educational environments. We take pride in the work we produce so this recognition is a huge testament to the hard work and dedication of our talented team.”

The festival will occur at Marina Bay Sands in Singapore from November 29 to December 1st, 2023. BPAS Architects will present their design live to an international jury and delegates, competing for the title in their category.

Winners in each category will have the opportunity to present their projects to a ‘super-jury,’ which will decide the World Building or Future Project of the Year.

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