Our submission to the international competition for the new École Nationale d’Administration, de Journalisme et de Magistrature in Mauritania focused on creating an architectural composition that responds thoughtfully to the region’s climate, characterized by intense heat, strong sun, and seasonal winds. The design organizes the university into interconnected volumes, linked through a hierarchy of main and secondary patios that serve as naturally ventilated gathering spaces, encouraging social interaction while providing relief from direct sunlight.

These outdoor areas are shaded with claustras inspired by local cultural motifs, creating dynamic patterns of light and shadow and reinforcing a strong sense of place. The overall layout balances functionality and comfort, with academic, administrative, and social spaces carefully oriented to maximize cross-ventilation, daylight, and thermal comfort. By integrating climatic responsiveness with cultural expression, the project aims to create a university campus that is not only efficient and sustainable but also engaging, human-centered, and rooted in Mauritanian identity.