Sangam Elementary School | SferaBlu Architects
In olden times, students were taught in open environments under the trees. We have been inspired by this concept as it helps children connect with nature. It is a wonderful way to learn various life skills and presents an opportunity for kids to run, jump, slide, make a mess, and explore themselves in an informal way.
Visit: SferaBlu Architects
The school is located in the urban fabric of Bhilwara, Rajasthan, India. The project covers an area of 2612 sq. M. The design is focused on establishing an entity for students, where the built space and environment together become a successful tool for learning.
The form of the building was inspired by a triangular cheese sliver with tiny holes on its sides as seen in cartoons; likewise, the external surface of the building has multiple punctures. The exterior facade has many tiny window panels to maintain visual connectivity with nature and the surroundings.
The size of the windows is small to ensure safety and positioning are driven by the height of the students. The students get a view of the outside while sitting at their desks. Each floor is staggered which creates small planters and generates an organic form of the structure.
From a distance, the building looks like a sloping garden. Near the main entrance is an open amphitheater which is used for activities such as morning prayers, dramas, and performances. The size of the plot and space needed for the project left limited peripheral space for essential outdoor activities. This made us repurposed the roof of the entire building into a sloping garden interconnecting each floor. The flat area of the roof is used as a cycling track.
The first slope has two huge custom-made slides; the second slope, which is the longest slope in the building, has obstacle courses; and the third slope, which has enough sunlight, has planters, one kitchen garden for each class to grow their own vegetables and flowers. This creates a special bond between the children and the nature around them. The topmost part of the roof has a jungle gym where they climb and swing with a view of the entire city beyond.
The building is a three-storied structure. The built form is highly perforated and has two courtyards which permit filtered daylight to seep into the corridors. The courtyards help reduce heat gain and provide efficient air circulation in the entire building, which is essential for the harsh climatic conditions of the region. With the air and diffused light that enter from the top, the inner portion of the building remains cool and well-lit.
The shape and volume of the classrooms are organic, unlike the usual rectangular classrooms. The double-height spaces are converted into multi-purpose mezzanine spaces for the kids to play, relax, and unwind. Built for three to seven-year-old kids, the idea was to create a space such that the thought of going to school would bring a smile on their faces!
FACT FILE:
In the burgeoning area of Vadodara, this house, Namasya, is nestled amongst the upcoming high-rise residential buildings enclosed with the beautifully crafted landscape around it. As the sun rises on the horizon, the day of Nehulji (client) begins with the Munias and parakeets chirping, awaiting their breakfast. During his daily morning routine, he shares the […]
How often are irregularly shaped plots dismissed when buying land? In many towns, the land is subdivided into perfect rectangles for construction, leaving plots with unconventional shapes—sharp angles and awkward dimensions—undesirable and in low demand. However, the architecture studio Tropical Tones, has set an example by tackling this challenge. This Tropical Modern residence house design […]
Given the compact footprint of the residence, designed on a 140 sq. m. plot, the idea behind this simple home interior design was to open each space into an outdoor verandah or balcony to make the space look spacious and have an ample amount of sunlight, but still want to maintain the privacy in each […]
This exquisite villa is located amidst lush greenery in Bangalore. This house design offers a perfect blend of modern architectural design and traditional South Indian aesthetics. Thoughtfully crafted to reflect the cultural heritage of its residents, the villa features sleek contemporary lines complemented by classic South Indian furniture and decor. South Indian House Design Offers […]
House of Heights: How design shapes relationships and well-being? “A house can transform its people. The living room, the tallest space in my home, is where we socialize, express our feelings, and spend the most time—an open arena for life’s conversations. The impact of front elevation design on home and harmony further emphasizes how thoughtful design […]
When you walk into a room, what’s the first thing you notice in the interiors? The furniture, the walls, or the ceiling? Often overlooked, the ceiling plays a significant role in defining the ambiance of a room. If you’re looking to add some flair, sophistication, or a modern touch to your living room, false ceiling […]
SASWATHA, the residential architecture project by GVQ Design Studio, is located in Thrissur, Kerala. This thoughtfully designed home caters to a joint family consisting of two brothers, their families, and their parents. Spanning approximately 2,700 sq. ft on a 15-cent plot, the residential architecture is meticulously crafted to meet the diverse needs of a multi-generational […]
This simple farmhouse design is a humble residence that responds to the climate and site. It is a fun fact that the house is both an inward and outward looking house at the same time. One of the USPs of the simple farmhouse design project would be that it connects well with the most playful […]
Indie Tales, a 2 story house design in Pondicherry stays true to its identity stands apart with its unparalleled charm amidst a narrow conservative neighborhood. This abode embraces a quiet reflection of modern lifestyle and traditional nuances within a limited budget for an intimate family of 5 across 3 generations. The residence evolves as an […]
The integration of screening evergreen trees serves as an artful blend of practicality and natural beauty. These screening evergreen trees, with their lush foliage and diverse benefits, play a crucial role in enhancing privacy. It also blocks unwanted views, and contributes to the overall well-being of homeowners. From the majestic Jamun trees to the versatile […]