The zoning has been done to situate the Primary school in the linear part of the site. The labs have been integrated with the Middle/High school structure and residential at the southernmost end of the site, undisturbed by the school activities. All the spaces have been designed to be flexible to adapt to the future requirements like smart class rooms with connectivity, and expansions at a later stage when additional classes & facilities are added.
Zoning
Future Expansion
As a matter of fact, the future expansion of the school will be an integral part of the school’s design, to ensure that zoning is done for modular expansion and ease of construction, especially during the academic year.
Elevations
The elevations on the on the western side have been treated based on the Analysis of the Sun Path. Given the linear nature of the site, the blocks have been situated to ensure maximum day-lighting. The daily winds from the South East have been maximised by placing open courtyards and buildings responding to the eastern edge. The buildings have been placed in along the western edge to create shaded areas for outdoor activities for the children. Open Play areas, which are usually private due to security and safety of the children, have been situated at the back, and inaccessible by Visitors or Traffic.
Materiality
The materials, inspired by the local architecture of the Pallava period, have been sourced from Mahabalipuram and form the basis of the design of the Entry and Landscaped areas of the school. Local building techniques such as the Filler slab and Country Brick Jaali have been planned to encourage and showcase vernacular workmanship. This makes all the classrooms cool, open and airy, with a strong connection to nature and the surrounding environment.
Playfulness
Small cheese holes are playful introductions to the walls that encourage children to play peek-a boo along their way to class. Playful ‘doors within doors’ bring the scale down to primary school children and allow them to have a special access into classes.
