At the heart of the Middle East lies a land rich in history, culture, and resilience—a land that has long been a battleground not only for territory but for cultural identity and survival. In this context, construction itself becomes an act of resistance and a means of preserving heritage.
Project Name: The Red line school
Studio Name: olay studio
This project is rooted in the cultural symbols and architectural traditions of Palestine. Inspired by the indigenous Palestinian Arab architecture, it embraces the values of “rootedness” and “unmediated connection” to the land. A structure built by local hands fosters a profound sense of belonging, identity, and emotional attachment.The school is located in the Khan al-Ahmar School Community, a village with deep historical significance and a vibrant Bedouin Arab heritage. The village’s name, Khan al-Ahmar—which translates to “Red Caravanserai”—informs the architectural language. “Khan”, a Persian term meaning caravanserai, and “Ahmar”, referencing the iron-oxide red limestone of the Jerusalem-Jericho hills, serve as the foundation of the design concept.
The school is based on a modular 2-meter grid, inspired by the rectangular layout of traditional caravanserais with a central courtyard. This courtyard serves multiple purposes: a gathering place for traditional music and dance performances, a social hub, and a refuge from the region’s harsh climate. The building itself is partially dug into the terrain, offering a protective bastion against potential attacks.To address environmental challenges, the school features a double-skinned roof. The outer layer consists of tents or tarpaulins, reminiscent of traditional Bedouin shelters.
These are colored red, symbolizing al-Ahmar and the red of the Palestinian flag, representing blood and sacrifice. The green schoolyard, placed on the east-facing slope, echoes the flag’s green for fertile Arab lands.The main entrance, located to the north, is accessible by a ramp suitable for emergency and disabled use. A small farm on the western edge of the site supplies fresh produce. Above the northern roof, a space for rest and communal activities has been designed. At the entrance, a solitary olive tree stands as a symbol of peace.A buried water tank is placed near the entrance for easy access, and the school is powered by solar panels mounted on the roof. Wastewater from the lavatories is managed via an underground septic tank.
Structure and Materials
The building’s structure relies on mobile metal scaffolding set on a foundation of reused tires. The double roof consists of a base layer of wooden pallets coated with mud, topped by the Bedouin-style tarpaulin covering. Walls are made of wooden pallets filled and plastered with red mud from the site, combined with traditional mud walls.Due to the school’s location in a conflict zone and the risk of falling debris, glass is deliberately avoided. Instead, openings in the pallet walls are left unsealed to allow natural light and ventilation while maintaining safety.
