Vinod Mehra

The term, Classical Architecture", applies to any mode of architecture that has evolved to a highly refined state. It can also refer to any architecture that employs Classical Aesthetic Philosophy. The client was highly intrigued by this style of architecture. The client had his focus on this signature structure not only to be a landmark in their area, but also to replicate the look, style, colour in his upcoming schools in future. Accordingly, the elevations were worked and explored upon with window glazing, cornice, column capitals, waffle slab etc. the soothing, warm ocher colour was determined as the signature shade for all their structures.
DESIGN STRATEGY
The aim was to make a high performance school that seeks and provides adequate space and opportunities for students and teachers to spread out, reflect, interact, exchange information, examine and test ideas. A school with an inviting appearance, an appearance that provides teacher/student friendly interiors and conditions throughout the building, interiors and surroundings designed, a school that is well lit and ventilated with abundant openness and greenery around it to give a "feel good" factor, a school that can be easily maintained by the management and can be kept clean.
Apt planning, adequate use of space, control on noise, sufficient natural light & artificial if required. Natural ventilation to keep optimum temperature and sanitation. Keeping the above points in mind the school plot was divided in two zones; zone A- the main structure and zone B- the playground. Two entrances were provided from one of the by lanes adjacent to its sides, one for the visitors and the administration and the other for the students.
The structure was planned in the shape of alphabet "U" and aligned along the N-S axis thereby allowing North-West and south west winds all around the year accompanied by sufficient natural light. The "U" shape plan was carefully planned and divided as per the needs of the client i.e. one block served the primary classes, the other secondary and higher secondary with the central core having the administration department of the entire school amalgamating both the blocks.
DESIGN AND PLANNING
First floor onwards the classrooms began which measured a size of 8.67m x 6m with indirect entry so as to not be viewable from the passage directly. Indirect entries from wide and tall doors to the classes were designed to avoid disturbances to the classes by the students walking in corridors and peeping. Luxurious staircase of 1.8mt was designed estimating the rush of the students hustling up and down for their classes or in the recesses. Three such bays of staircases were designed at reachable distances making it easy for the students and teachers exit the structure easily in case of emergencies.
Wide corridors of 1.8mt were planned with at height of 4.5mt creating a lavish volume of space making it a luxurious as required by the client. The banking department, staff room, conference room was planned on the 1st floor in the admin building making it easy for the parents to come in from the staff entry to the banking department or to meet teachers without actually entering into the wing where classes are held. The admin block was started from the first floor creating an impactful entry with a huge height with waffle slab.