The Dembéni Middle School project in Mayotte is set within an atypical urban and geographical context. Designed to accommodate 900 students, the school embodies an ambitious architectural and landscape response tailored to its environment. Built on a hillside, it ensures a transition between the historic village and a future planned development zone (ZAC), symbolizing the link between tradition and modernity.

The school adopts a morphology inspired by a “citadel,” combining protection, openness, and radiance. Its fragmented and rhythmic structure incorporates R+3 “comb-like” built forms that limit exposure to noise pollution while maximizing natural ventilation. These volumes are connected by generously shaded walkways, promoting fluid circulation and façades protected from climatic hazards.

The project’s flagship material is locally sourced compressed earth brick, both bio-based and geo-sourced, which clads the urban base. This material embodies Mahoran identity while ensuring exemplary environmental performance.

The design enhances the landscape by preserving natural gullies, existing vegetation, and creating green corridors that improve the quality of outdoor spaces. Particular attention is given to climatic management and seismic risks, with architecture adapted to the island’s hot and humid climate.

Passive strategies, such as capturing the trade winds and providing natural shading, ensure optimal thermal comfort. The sustainable approach is further reflected in the flexibility of the spaces, allowing for future extensions without disrupting the school’s initial operation.