Experimental

The proposal for the renovation of the Santos Simões School follows the guidelines set out in the schematic plan, introducing two new volumes — Classrooms and Sciences — which strengthen the functional and spatial relationship with the existing buildings. One of these volumes has an independent entrance, while the other is directly connected to the current complex, organising the school grounds as a continuous system of learning and social interaction.

The new buildings address contemporary educational needs by creating additional recreational areas (both covered and open-air) and promoting fluid circulation across all spaces, unifying the school as a cohesive whole. The compact structure of the new volumes enables efficient management of movement and clarifies the school’s overall spatial and programmatic organisation.

The landscape strategy aims to create a sustainable and pleasant environment, eliminating physical and visual barriers and introducing organic curves and continuous green zones. Gardened areas along the plot boundaries ensure greater privacy for the school’s central core and strengthen its integration into the surrounding context.

Ground modelling creates shaded resting areas and play zones. Water management is achieved through surface grading towards permeable planting beds, allowing natural infiltration and reducing surface runoff.

The new Santos Simões School is conceived as a functional, sustainable, and unified facility — capable of meeting the demands of contemporary education and the evolving dynamics of the school community.