IRIS UNIVERSITY

Typology Master planning/ Institution/ Community development
Location Mozambique
Year 2017 - Current
Status Phase completion
Size 25 ha

Iris University will become Africa’s first oceanfront and full-fledged university, located along the shores of Pemba beach.

The geometry and patters of the capulana (Mozambican traditional fabric) informs the layout of the buildings. This staggered layout is rationalized to incorporate effective passive climatic responses, and maximizes inter-building distances and opens up to courtyards and landscapes.

A central landscape and pedestrian spine is inserted along the main axis, reinforcing the site’s adjacency to, and relationship with, the Pacific Ocean.

African flora is re-introduced and curated to create a spectacular green spine for the enjoyment of staff, students and general public.

The master-planning of this university achieves connectivity and porosity among faculties and buildings, and a connection between the city of Pemba and the rest of the world.