PeaPoD Project

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Selected from over 50 entries, the PeaDod project, by Druid Hills High School in Georgia and Perkins+Will, was the winner of the relocatable category in the 2009 Open Architecture Challenge. The contest was hosted by Architecture for Humanity, the non-profit group established to "build a more sustainable future through the power of professional design." The Modular Building Institute, a sponsor for the competition, has awarded $5,000 through its Educational Foundation to help facilitate the building of the PeaPoD project.


Additional Info:

The PeaPoD portable classroom implements cost-conscious building materials to create a learning environment which can be adapted to any environment. With generous daylighting, operable windows, and natural ventilation, the PeaPoD can operate with significantly lower utility costs while at the same time providing a wonderful and refreshing educational experience to the students and teachers. Numerous design features such as sun shades, integrated rainwater collection, photovoltaic roof panels, and sustainable materials including FSC certified wood, high-reflective roofing and bio-based insulation and flooring, make the PeaPoD an excellent example of passive and active green building strategies. Creative thinking behind classroom standards such as marker boards, group work tables, and computer stations are evident in the PeaPoD's interiors. The interiors are comprised of walls which slide to reveal breakout learning space, storage, glazing, or teaching surfaces. Each side of the PeaPoD serves a different purpose, whether it is a wet wall with bathroom facilities, a glass wall which opens to provide access to an exterior classroom space, or a deep wall that provides ample storage.


It is no secret that every student learns differently; similarly every teacher teaches differently. Classroom environments which are adaptive and can meet all of these needs are proven to be the most successful. The goal of any classroom is to have inspired teachers and engaged students. If these are in place there is no limit to the success of everyone involved. This type of adaptive learning environment can happen, and it can happen anywhere: Portable Educationally Adaptive Product of Design, the PeaPoD.

Relocatable Classroom: PeaPoD |
Photos:

PeaPoD renderings, created by Perkins+Will. Winner of the 2009 Open Architecture Challenge in the Relocatable Classroom Design category.