Introduction

In the heart of Formoso do Araguaia, Brazil, Rosenbaum and Terra e Tuma Arquitetos Associados have envisioned a transformative housing complex within the Canuanã Farm School. Situated along the banks of the Javaés River, this project redefines rural living, offering a blend of traditional heritage and contemporary sustainability.

Context and Vision

Canuanã Farm School, founded in 1973, serves as a beacon of education for rural communities in Tocantins. With approximately 800 students and 270 employees, the school sought to create a new residential village for its staff, integrating modern amenities with the rural landscape.

Design and Layout

The housing complex comprises 32 units of varying typologies, strategically designed to foster community living while respecting individual privacy. From single-bedroom units to larger family homes, each residence reflects careful consideration of local climatic conditions and thermal comfort.

Sustainable Features

Embracing sustainable construction practices, the housing units utilize soil-cement bricks molded on-site, offering enhanced thermal performance and durability. Innovative bioclimatic strategies, such as ventilated windowsills and cross ventilation, ensure natural airflow and energy efficiency.

Community Integration

The village layout prioritizes pedestrian and bicycle traffic, fostering a sense of community while minimizing vehicular congestion. Common spaces, shaded by carefully curated landscaping, serve as gathering points for residents, promoting social interaction and well-being.

Legacy of Earth Projects

The construction process itself becomes a learning opportunity, as students and teachers engage in the production of soil-cement bricks, fostering a deep connection to their homes and the surrounding environment. Through this hands-on approach, the project embodies a vision of sustainable development rooted in ancestral wisdom.

Conclusion

Fazenda Canuanã School Staff Village stands as a testament to the power of architecture to transform lives and communities. By blending traditional knowledge with contemporary design principles, this innovative housing complex sets a new standard for rural living, creating a sustainable haven where education, heritage, and environmental stewardship converge.