UN ORTO DI NOME EVA

The green revolution is not only made up of large sustainable architectures and energy challenges, but also of small and large cultural battles that design can help win, for example in strategic places for the future such as schools.

“UN ORTO DI NOME EVA” (the name is a tribute to Eva Mameli Calvino) is a place of discovery and stimulation of creativity, as well as connection with the local community, which offers multiple learning opportunities with an "hands on" approach. 

A multidisciplinary and interdisciplinary learning tool, which does not teach how to cultivate, but rather how to develop a sensitivity and practical knowledge of the things of nature.

Designed by NINE associati and OFL architecture,  in accordance with the "PON Edugreen" program, the project is consisting of a systematic set of seven “learning by doing” areas which, in turn, are made up of a set of independent modules that can be reassembled to transform the long-abandoned courtyard within the Istituto Comprensivo 2 of Sora (FR), into an always reconfigurable open-air laboratory.

Among the areas - which deliberately provide a totally analogue experience  which potentially could be integrated  with digital interactive devices and sensors  - some were designed  to experience the production of natural macerates; others to experience how to grow plants without using soil;  how to reuse organic waste and produce compost; how plants reproduce and which role insects such as worms, ants, bees and butterflies have in the life cycle of plants (some modules are provided with an educational ant farm, a sugar solution dispenser to attract and nourish pollinating insects, and a tank to accommodate the chrysalises); still other areas to experience how to reproduce plants besides sowing in the ground, etc.

The choice of proposing seven experiences is referring to the sequential agriculture process: Sowing; Soil preparation, plant germination and transplanting; Irrigation; Protection from weeds and pests; Composting and fertilizing; Pollination and reproduction; Monitoring and collection.