Institutions in India and Dubai promoting education via design and architecture in a global context
Article Title: Celebrating Architectural Innovation Across India's Educational Institutions
In the vibrant landscape of India, educational institutions are embracing architectural ingenuity to create learning environments that inspire and nurture. Let's take a tour of some of these architectural marvels.
In Ahmedabad, Toy Blocks kindergarten stands out, crafted from locally sourced materials and adorned with simple lime plaster facades. The interiors are a spectacle, featuring skylights and designs inspired by chromotherapy and color psychology.
Moving to West Bengal, we find Biswa Bangla Biswavidyalaya (BBB), a liberal arts university on the outskirts of Shantiniketan. This institution, born from the artistic, literary, and educational vision of Nobel Laureate Rabindranath Tagore, seamlessly incorporates architectural elements like the do-chala roof and terracotta jali. These features showcase local skills, offering employment to villagers, and pay homage to the region's heritage.
The library at BBB is a nod to the old town clock towers of the region, while the auditorium symbolizes the conch shell, a significant emblem of Bengal's culture. The design of BBB takes inspiration from the principles of Gurukul, an ancient Indian system of learning.
Hyderabad plays host to the Woxsen Library, part of the Woxsen university. Designed by Rajeev Kumar, principal architect of Designhaaus, this steel and concrete structure spread across 70,000 sq ft is a testament to modern design. It boasts coffee shops, new-age technology, reading nooks, and a design that encourages natural light and ventilation, making the building more sustainable.
In Aurangabad, the Library Pod, a small structure built under a peepal tree, serves as a classroom and water-tight bookshelf. Initiated by Rajshri Deshpande of Nabhangan Foundation, it utilizes 17.16 sq m of space and offers protection against weather conditions using a metal roof and rubber gaskets.
The South View School in Dubai, designed by R + D Studio, is a harmonious blend of modern materials and traditional elements, preserving the local environment. This school, which houses kindergarten and older children, balances contemporary and traditional architecture.
Ansal School, nestled within the bustling urban development of Panipat, revolves around a stretch of planted trees and green courts. Its design integrates solar panels and rainwater harvesting systems, making it an eco-friendly learning space.
Lastly, we have Sparkrill International School, a testament to nature and the built environment as educators. Its design facilitates informal and exploratory learning, providing a unique learning experience for its students.
Each of these institutions stands as a beacon of architectural innovation, demonstrating that education and design can harmoniously coexist to create inspiring learning environments.
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