Minimalist School Design by Aires Mateus

A modern and minimalist school design by Portuguese architect Aires Mateus.

Lisbon, Portugal based architect Aires Mateus is well known for his minimalist design concepts and here comes a particularly good example of his work. The award winning architect was commissioned to design a school in Vila Nova da Barquinha, a little town in Portugal. Just look at the pictures and you will see, he did an amazing job! The town of Vila Nova da Barquinha has now a pretty special place where children can learn in a unique and undisturbed environment. The architectural concept is based on the idea of a schoolhouse that provides individual premises in terms of proportion, scale, and identity. The distinctive silhouette of the building is inspired by kids playing with wooden blocks. This characteristic structure of varying ceiling heights allows different classroom concepts based on individual needs. All classrooms are connected to a central courtyard in the middle of the building. This protected courtyard provides the perfect space for kids to play between classes.

Both interior as well as exterior spaces are characterized by white walls and an uncompromising architectural design. In contrast to the white walls, a colorful interior concept has been chosen. Check out the images below. You can find more of Aires Mateus’ architectural work on his website. All photos have been taken by Fernando Guerro (FG+SG).

Minimalist school design by Aires Mateus.
Minimalist school design by Aires Mateus.
The entire architectural concept is based on purism and clear shapes.
The entire architectural concept is based on purism and clear shapes.
The school is located in Vila Nova da Barquinha, Portugal.
The school is located in Vila Nova da Barquinha, Portugal.
The courtyard of the building.
The courtyard in the center of the building. It’s the perfect place where kids can play and relax between lessons.
Spacious, bright classrooms with colorful interior.
Spacious, bright classrooms with colorful interior. The colorful interior concept creates an intended contrast to the minimalist architecture of the school in Vila Nova da Barquinha, Portugal.
Kids in front of the school.
Kids in front of the school.

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