Windward (Miami): A Climate-Responsive School

Windward (Miami) envisions a sustainable school that harmonizes with the local Miami ecosystem while addressing the challenges of sea level rise and climate change. The design incorporates natural ventilation, passive solar strategies, rainwater harvesting, and native landscaping to create a comfortable, healthy, and resilient learning environment.

Made with RhinoLands, the project relied on the software from the initial site analysis phase—generating topography, importing elevation data into Rhino, and managing over 110 plant species. RhinoLands enabled key simulations, including plant growth projections, shadow studies, and view analysis, all of which informed and refined the design.

A major advantage was the live connection between 2D drawings and 3D renders, which streamlined the workflow. The comprehensive plant library, featuring native and adaptive Miami species, eliminated the need for external 3D models and ensured accurate data and smooth rendering integration.

Designed by: Yuto Morishita, MSc. in Environmental Building Design
Institution: Weitzman School of Design, University of Pennsylvania