A SPIRITED LEARNING AMBIENCE

Redefining the institutional design stereotype, the renovation of this school incorporates elements that work towards making learning a holistic experience for every child

Project: SMR Jaipuria School, Lucknow; Architects: Team3, New Delhi

Envisioned as an attempt to integrate public art and architecture with the city, the project at SMR Jaipuria School involved the expansion and refurbishment of the original structure that was built in 1992. Through a tactical renovation of the existing structure, the school transforms itself into an integral part of the learning process, crafting connections and dialogues with every student.

The design brief called for the accommodation of additional programs such as classrooms, activity rooms, large dance halls, a research lab, library and breakout spaces along with the refurbishment of the school's interiors. While the expansion was earmarked for the open space adjoining the school, a detailed study of the existing structure and circulation pattern revealed that the additional functions could be effectively accommodated into the existing building. This approach could help utilise existing circulation cores, and mitigate the need for resource-intensive additions while leaving the proposed site for expansion as open playgrounds for the students.

With this premise, a series of strategic interventions were designed to accommodate the additional programs, add efficiency and vibrancy to disused parts of the building, and remodel the interiors to create engaging spaces for the students. To fulfil the requirement of additional spaces, a scheme was developed that fits the newly built mass fitting into the old along the road-facing south facade. Additional classrooms were provided for the terrace floor. The new extensions also provided the opportunity to create four large blank walls that were envisioned as canvases to highlight the key tenets that define the school's philosophy.