Learning environments play a pivotal role in a child’s life by creating a conducive character for overall growth and development. Spaces can create memories and enhance the learning experience greatly. The innovative approach to design for the Amity International School in Mohali, Punjab, attempts to go beyond the rigid morphology of educational spaces and planning. Drawing inferences from efficient models of tackling urban density, the complex seeks to embody a progressive spirit through an elevated level of spatial vibrancy by rethinking the design of conventional school complexes.
The site posed several challenges in terms of size, orientation and surroundings, which were ingeniously navigated while developing a distinctive design scheme. To balance built and open area requirement with site constraints, multiple layers of open spaces and play areas have been created across the vertical axis for different age groups. Similarly, by providing activity areas at each level of the five-storey structure, the school complex enables spaces for engagement and exploration at several junctures.
While formal environments can help focus better, informal areas are just as important and contribute significantly to the learning process. Based on this principle, the Amity International School encapsulates ample playgrounds, shaded walkways, play areas, and open and semi-open spaces across floors, forging engaging and exploratory spaces at several junctures.
A playful mix of punctures and louvres lightens the visual load of the imposing five-storey structure. These facade elements are planned to allow natural light in all spaces throughout the campus. One of the most prominent details of the project are the colourful panels that wrap around the built form on the southern side. Made out of laser-cut aluminum panels and strategically placed to protect the building from the harsh southern and west sun, this fluid envelope of blue and yellow asserts a distinct visual identity to the complex. The North and South facades are a perfect example of functionality and aesthetics, as they allow the building to be climate-responsive while establishing a distinct visual identity. The free flowing organic facade acts as a counterpoint to the linearity of the site, creating an interesting visual vocabulary in the surrounding context.
The interior spaces are designed with rich tactile material palette, with minimal but vibrant colours bringing in an elevated sense of dynamism, highlighting the innovative approach harbouring a conducive environment for learning. A combination of Glass and Wooden partition walls shaped in playful patterns create add playfulness and tactality, and also enable visual connectivity within spaces at all times. Strategically placed break out spaces create fun spaces for children to interact and collaborate.
The comprehensive design scheme lays the blueprint for a holistic education – one where physical activity, social interaction, and creative exploration are just as crucial as curricular education.
PROJECT DETAILS
Project Name: Amity International School
Project Location: Mohali, Punjab, India
Client: Ritnand Balved Education Foundation
Architect: Vijay Gupta Architects
Site Area: 2.7 acres
Built-Up Area: 3,00,000 square feet
Start Date: August 2019
Completion Date: December 2021
Photographer: Avesh Gaur
