Africazine:
HEI Schools Mauritius has redefined early childhood education by blending heritage conservation with innovative design.
Located in the historic Forbach Sugar Estate, this Finnish-inspired preschool has been recognized as the Popular Choice Winner in the Kindergarten category at the 14th Annual Architizer A+Awards. Opened in September 2025, the kindergarten serves 120 children aged 0 to 5, emphasizing play and exploration in its educational approach.
Transforming a Historic Sugar Estate into a Preschool
The preschool occupies a former residential camp for plantation workers, reflecting the rich history of Mauritius’s sugar production. Architects Studio preserved significant elements of the existing structures while introducing new buildings to support the kindergarten’s program. This adaptive reuse showcases how historic sites can serve contemporary functions without losing their architectural integrity.
The design integrates classrooms, verandahs, and gardens, allowing learning to extend beyond traditional settings. A central garden serves as a protected outdoor play area, encouraging children to engage with nature throughout the day.
Mauritius: Key figures on preschool project
- Opened in September 2025
- Serves 120 children aged 0 to 5
- Completed over nine months, from December 2024 to August 2025
Innovative Design Meets Environmental Performance
The architecture employs passive design strategies to enhance environmental performance. Features such as cross-ventilation and deep overhangs help maintain thermal comfort, reducing the need for mechanical cooling. Approximately 50 percent of the site remains green, fostering outdoor learning and supporting biodiversity.
Materials like stone, timber, and glass link the new structures with the preserved historic elements, creating a cohesive educational environment. This thoughtful integration of old and new enriches the children’s learning experience.
Future of Historic Sugar Estates in Mauritius
- Continued exploration of adaptive reuse for historic sites
- Focus on preserving historical memory while meeting contemporary needs
This project exemplifies how heritage can enhance modern education in Mauritius.
