The Arcadia Preparatory School Makes The Most Of Restricted Space To Deliver Educational Excellence.
Architects tasked with creating a school on a small plot in a residential area of Dubai hit upon an innovative way to make the most of the floor space available – they turned the building upside-down. So, at The Arcadia Preparatory School designed by God win Austen Johnson (GAJ), the MEP is housed in the basement, while a football pitch and swimming pool are atop the structure. The school building currently accommodates around 100 pupils, but will eventually house up to 750 in the age range of three years until 11 years.
Architect Jason Burnside said, recalling the genesis of the project: “We had just a small plot to work with – around 6,000sq-m. But we wanted to make the most of it.
“First, there was the entrance – we made it open and light with vibrant colours to greet students, teachers and parents. There are stairs leading up to the first floor, and these can also be used as a communal space – especially if there is an event taking place in the open space on the ground level.”
Graham Beale, principal of the school, was clear in what he required from the design team.
“What we wanted to emphasise were three aspects that reflect the school and its philosophy. These are light, transparency and openness. In this regard, GAJ has succeeded at designing on a remarkably complex site. The team achieved what we originally envisaged.”
Architect Raina Viegas said the GAJ team was fully aware of the challenges they were undertaking. “What we wanted to do, was ensure that our design matched the vision of the client,” she said.
Denne historien er fra April 2017-utgaven av Architect and Interiors India .
Start din 7-dagers gratis prøveperiode på Magzter GOLD for å få tilgang til tusenvis av utvalgte premiumhistorier og 9000+ magasiner og aviser.
Allerede abonnent ? Logg på
Denne historien er fra April 2017-utgaven av Architect and Interiors India .
Start din 7-dagers gratis prøveperiode på Magzter GOLD for å få tilgang til tusenvis av utvalgte premiumhistorier og 9000+ magasiner og aviser.
Allerede abonnent? Logg på
THE RIGHT 'FIT'
Bathroom fittings elevate the bath experience and new-age innovative launches are making all the right noises in the space.
WOW WOOD
The durability, aesthetic appeal, and eco-friendliness of wooden flooring have made it a preferred flooring option. And, how!
BREAKING BOUNDARIES
Monkey Wrench's office design goes beyond traditional walls, embodying a spirit of endless possibilities and collaborative energy.
REIMAGINING READING
In the time and age when everyone is turning to digital, Studio Hinge breathes new life into the library at the Cricket Club of India in Mumbai.
A HARMONIOUS BLEND
DF Architects lend the 2Box House a mindful design that fosters interaction yet offers privacy while keeping one close to the roots.
THE SUBTLE CHARM OF SHIBUI
This home, designed by The Auburn Studio, embodies the Japanese aesthetic of 'shibui.'
CREATING WAVES IN SPORTS ARCHITECTURE
Through MOFA Studios, Manish Gulati is creating sports infrastructures that are both iconic and sustainable, setting the stage for India's athletic future.
Digitally designed
Futuristic yet soaked in a local flavour, this thin shell pavilion in China sets the design benchmark very high.
WELLNESS-INSPIRED BATH SPACES
In recent years, several new trends have emerged in the wellness bath industry, reflecting a broader focus on holistic well-being and personalised experiences.
THE FRENCH CONNECTION
A French cafe whose design is inspired by a croissant. That sounds just perfect! Doesn't it?