ARX

Redbridge is a new international school in the heart of Campo de Ourique, Lisbon, conceived as a human-centred and innovative educational environment where creativity, multilingual exchange and the arts play a central role.

The site occupies two opposite fronts of a city block, connected by a narrow strip around an existing house. These constraints led to two distinct building typologies, unified by a common structural and material language: the North Building belongs to the city, while the South Pavilion emerges within the garden.

The low-rise South Pavilion accommodates the kindergarten classrooms and a small teachers’ area. Its organic, concave façades respond to the existing and newly planted trees, creating a symbiotic relationship between architecture and nature. Its accessible roof extends the garden vertically, significantly expanding the limited playground.

The four-storey North Building defines the street and houses the main school programme, including primary education, middle school and shared facilities. Its top floor is conceived as a large open space combining an events hall, gymnasium and covered playground.

Wood was chosen from the outset as the main structural and finishing material, reflecting the school’s environmental and educational values while providing a warm atmosphere and enabling a rapid construction process.