The client came to us with a requirement to design a pre-primary school for about 80-100 students on a site, which was part of a commercial building abutting a large residential colony. The client already having two operational schools, gave us a very clear brief for this new addition. She wanted a school that will stand out from the other preprimary schools in the vicinity, so that number of admissions increase. Maximum utilization of the space available across 3 floors and having a child friendly premises was her prime requirement.

One of the first challenges was to deal with a total area of 3000 sq. ft. spread across 3 levels. Secondly, out of this total area, covered space was just 50%. During our initial discussions with the client, we made an attempt to understand their new ways of teaching and conducting classes. We also visited other similar schools in the vicinity. To our surprise, a very radicle system of conducting classes has evolved over the years. It is not only about lessons taught in the class, but also about activity based learning.

Also Read | Karisma Kapoor’s little tepee inspires us to make the same in our home to have some cosy time

We also noticed that most schools catering to this age group between 2-5 years were very similar in terms of look and feel and space aesthetics. Another important aspect that we explored was to understand behavioral pattern of kids around us. At the age group that we were looking at, we realized that confining them in four walls of a class room for a long time is not an idealistic scenario. Their energies have to be left free, so that learning happens as a part of their natural growing process.

This was our cue for design development. We decided to create a space that offers opportunities to learn and grow, not only in confined classes but also outside. Idea was to create an environment for a kid to absorb, explore and learn right from the point he / she enters the school premises. Thus evolved 'The Open Classroom'.

Also Read | Karan Johar’s 30 crores luxurious penthouse in Mumbai with plush interiors and expansive terrace

Material palette & overall design vocabulary was derived to be more earthen so that a human connect is achieved. Bamboo, ‘kavdi’ flooring, cement boards and agro wood helped us in defining aesthetics. Customized graphics, minute detailing & child centric approach formed the back bone of our designs. Splashes of colour were strategically used to highlight certain aspects of design. Play of shadows cast by various pergolas, helped in creating interesting visuals which keep changing as the day progresses. Our designs revolved around natural ventilation, multi-functional furniture and visual connection between spaces.

• Project name : The Outdoor Classroom
• Typology : Pre-Primary School
• Company name : Studio Infinity
• Website :  www.studioinfinity.in
• Instagram Handle : https://www.instagram.com/studio_infinity_pune
• Facebook Page : https://www.facebook.com/Studio-Infinity
• Project Location :  Pune (MH), India
• Completion Year :  2018
• Building area (m2) : Approx. 3000 sq.ft. Across 3 Floors
• Other participants :  Principal Designers:    Tushar Kothawade & Chiranjivi Lunkad
• Design Team : Ranjana Nachare, Gorvee Karnany & Sameer Ghare
• Client : GG International School
• Project Head : Mahesh Talekar
• Contractors : Arun Developers.
• Photo credits :  Atul Kanetkar  

Also Read | Kareena Kapoor Khan’s new home in Bandra with European styled decor & wooden detailing