Set within the historic Forbach Sugar Estate in Mauritius, HEI Schools Mauritius transforms a former residential labourers’ camp into a contemporary early childhood education centre. Rather than erasing the site’s past, the project carefully reactivates its existing stone structures, courtyards and longère typology, allowing heritage to become an active part of a new educational environment.
Designed for 120 children aged from birth to five, the campus is organised around a protected central garden that forms the heart of everyday life. Classrooms, verandahs, shaded courtyards and landscaped play areas are closely connected, encouraging children to move naturally between indoor and outdoor learning. This fluid relationship with nature supports a play-based educational approach while creating a strong sense of community and belonging.
The architectural intervention establishes a deliberate dialogue between old and new. Existing stone walls and openings were conserved wherever possible, while lightweight timber and steel-framed additions introduce generous glazing, shaded circulation and contemporary teaching spaces. Stone, timber, metal roofing and restrained natural finishes create a warm, tactile atmosphere rooted in the material character of Mauritius. Interior elements reinterpret the proportions, arches and textures of the historic buildings at a scale suited to young children.
Climate-responsive principles are embedded throughout the project. Cross-ventilation, deep roof overhangs, shaded openings and high-level ventilation reduce reliance on mechanical cooling, while the adaptive reuse of the existing structures limits unnecessary demolition and preserves the site’s embodied history. A mature tree was integrated into the entrance architecture, reinforcing the project’s respect for the existing landscape.
Completed in 2025, HEI Schools Mauritius demonstrates how adaptive reuse can reconcile memory, environmental responsibility and progressive education. The project received the 2026 Architizer A+Awards Popular Choice Award in the Kindergarten category.
