CLIENT: American School of Marrakech
LOCATION: Marrakech, Morocco
AGE GROUP: 0-12 years
DATE COMPLETED: 2022
In May of 2022, Jeff Lindstrom and Kirsten Haugen traveled to Marrakech, Morocco to collaborate with the American School of Marrakech (ASM) to transform their dated traditional playgrounds into lush outdoor classrooms that serve children of every ability and interest. The scope of work included designing two full-scale outdoor classrooms (one for their Upper School and one for their Lower School), as well as a series of hands-on professional development sessions with their educators who serve children ages 2-12.
After extensive site evaluation and brainstorming sessions for the future project, the design team toured around Marrakech to better understand local materials, construction practices, and skillsets available. The proposed designs incorporated took all of these variables into consideration so that the project manager appointed by the school could source all labour and materials locally. Over the course of the next 6 months, their team worked around the clock with two different general contractors to meet the November construction deadline. The Nature Explore design team reviewed as-built drawings, created planting plans, aided in material selection, and were involved in regular site meetings virtually until completion in October.
In November 2022, Lindstrom and Haugen returned for a final inspection and ribbon cutting ceremony and dedication. We continue to support their educators through monthly virtual workshops and trainings.
