Photograph of the new extension as you approach the school grounds by Katie Edwards
The Naweni District School is situated on Vanua Levu, Fiji’s second-largest island. It serves over 200 students aged 4 to 17 from nearby villages and settlements, with a dedicated kindergarten and preschool. In 2017, CAUKIN Studio built the first kindergarten building for the school, marking a pivotal moment in its development.
Following a post-occupancy survey, CAUKIN assessed the kindergarten’s successes, identified areas for improvement, and measured its impact. The results revealed a significant increase in enrollment, with student numbers rising from 8 to 30 due to the new facility.
In response to this growth, CAUKIN designed and constructed an adjacent building to expand the kindergarten’s capacity. Guided by insights from teachers and drawing on their prior experience, the design team tailored the project to meet the evolving needs of the school’s children and staff.
The design draws inspiration from the local vernacular, reinterpreting traditional construction techniques, materials, and methods in innovative ways. The resulting building is both well-ventilated and cyclone-resistant, naturally blending into its environment while ensuring durability and comfort for its young users.
Photograph of the new extension (left) next to the old school (right) by Katie Edwards
Connections between the old and the new building
Front Balcony
Entrance
