A participatory process as catalyst for positive impact in the lives of the communities

The design was tailored around an interdisciplinary approach between the different stakeholders, having the community at the core of the process. CatalyticAction (CA) engaged with the children, teachers and family members in the ideation, design and construction of the project. Conceptual planning started with children participating in envisioning exercises that directly informed the design; they had the opportunity to be decision makers. By creating a community project through an inclusive approach, CA aims at improving social cohesion within the settlement and the neighboring Lebanese communities. The inclusive approach adopted succeeded in generating livelihood opportunities, capacity building, empowering women and children, boosting local economies and enhancing community resilience.

A sustainable and innovative building cycle for prosperity and transferability

The reuse strategy of a temporary pavilion structure to serve a humanitarian cause represents a positive example of a global sustainable strategy that aims at redistributing resources to tackle long-term global sustainability goals. The open space structure pavilion designed to take part of an International Expo was re-adapted to become a school space. The choice of materials adapted to the low budget and focused on empowering the local community. The materials were sourced locally including sheep wool, timber, corrugated metal sheeting, etc. Throughout the building process, workers from the settlement were employed; most were construction workers in Syria. The community members learned new building skills working alongside our team and transferred this knowledge to the youth.

Environmentally conscious, cultural and context specific design solutions

The school is located in the Bekaa valley, an agricultural area hosting thousands of refugees who endure harsh climate conditions. The design of the school adapted to the local context, facilitating the use of suitable technologies, materials and labor. The design also adhered to the cultural specificity and responded to the natural environment. The Lebanese sheep farms, 72 % of which are located in Bekaa, usually treat the sheep wool as waste. We chose to make use of this material for the school insulation. Sheep wool is a completely natural and sustainable material, its use empowered farmers and women in the process. The school design allows for bright, naturally lit and ventilated classrooms. The materials and techniques used inspired the families of the ITS to employ them in their shelters.