L’atelier at Greenwood High School: Fostering Creativity
Introduction
Located in Bengaluru, India, Greenwood High School embodies a philosophy centered on creativity and independent thinking, fostering a concept-based and student-centric learning environment. To invigorate the existing campus and cater to the needs of art, music, and drama students, the school envisioned a space dedicated to nurturing creative minds.
Design Concept
L’atelier – Art and Music School at Greenwood High School embodies the spirit of independence and creativity. Situated between the Main Building and a Football field, the design integrates seamlessly into its surroundings. Extensive site analysis informed a layered design approach, emphasizing student identity, collaboration, and curiosity. The building’s orientation maximizes natural ventilation, with a central amphitheater allowing free airflow.
Spatial Organization
Structured around the amphitheater, the building features a hierarchy of volumes leading to a rooftop platform. With a total area of 15,000 sqft accommodating 200 students, the space is divided into three levels for art, drama, and music, facilitating ease of function. Fluid transitions between spaces encourage interaction, while spill-over areas empower students to personalize their environment, fostering collaboration and creativity.
Architectural Elements
The auditorium and music studios lead to a double-height entry, accentuating the open amphitheater. A minimalist material palette, including exposed cement finishes and corrugated ribbed walls, reflects the building’s original form. The facade showcases craftsmanship, while the interiors incorporate artistic elements through color and graphics, promoting freedom of expression.
Integration with Nature
Surrounded by greenery, the amphitheater blurs the lines between indoor and outdoor spaces, providing an ideal venue for performances. A column-less design, facilitated by a waffle ceiling, creates a vast, vibrant open space conducive to social interaction and artistic expression. Embracing the institution’s vision of being “Rooted in Knowledge,” the building serves as an active hub for creative exploration and learning.
Conclusion
L’atelier at Greenwood High School exemplifies a harmonious blend of architectural innovation and educational philosophy. Designed to inspire creativity and collaboration, the space not only enriches the school’s campus but also nurtures the artistic talents of its students, fostering a vibrant culture of learning and expression.