The school is located on an off-road south of the Patiala-Nabha highway, in Punjab. The zoning was attempted in a manner that pushed the academic block to the far end of the site to minimise noise intrusion from the adjoining highway.
The design philosophy was conceptualised based on positioning the sports activities along the boundary next to the road, with the semi-olympic sized swimming pool zoned next to the reception plaza. This allowed for a more open welcome into the site, which is devoid of building mass, upon entry. The administrative block and academic building are accessible by a wide lane on the North that runs alongside the sports area.
The administration block was conceived to be a unique face of the institution brand with respect to its bold response to form exploration and material creativity. The north face gave way to the glazed facade to allow maximum light into the block, with angular elements accentuating the planar face. The angular roof profile complements the angular elements of the elevation. The sheer mass of these elements was designed so that they would be visible from afar. The entrance portico is an intersection of a cuboidal volume into the building envelope. The perception of the form is altered as the viewing distance changes. From a great distance, what seems to be a thoughtful arrangement of bold elements and volumes that evokes interest, appears to sublimely flow into a feeling of awe upon noticing the intricate jaali design as one moves closer. The splash of orange adds cheer to the strict lines and composition of the facade.
The function of the administration block has been duly fulfilled by planning different office spaces, staff rooms and their ancillary activities. But what gives the reception its unique identity is the double-heighted volume that houses an informal amphitheatre, the steps of which lead to the upper levels. This element enlivens the spaces by bringing light in and providing an opportunity for interaction propelled by curiosity and joy. Children love to play and just spend time on the steps reading or talking during breaks. The amphitheatre is also formally used for short assemblies and student meetings.
The reception leads to the academic block through a connecting corridor. The doubly loaded corridor of classes is linearly arranged and opens up to a narrow bridge that leads to the second academic block. Due to the packed perception of the corridor, the openness of the connecting bridge is appreciated even more, owing to the contrast between the two.
A courtyard formed by the academic buildings and an outdoor theatre in its midst extends into the surrounding open space. To maintain a stimulating learning environment inside, the classrooms open out into greenery and interactive areas. Every classroom is characterised by an ample gush of natural light and bright colours for furniture to keep the visual senses blissful. The facade of the academic block, although, reflects the discipline of spaces inside, also achieves verticality through the perception of the tall windows that crenellate the envelope.
The blend of contemporary features like sharp edges and a muted colour palette of white and grey is balanced through the act of introducing traditional elements like jaali and a hint of electric orange so that the building resonates the importance of being both resilient and high-spirited.
