kumar la noce builds learning complex for performing arts in kalkeri, india
the composition and orientation of the architecture ultimately create a hierarchy of impressions using simple volumes and earthy color tones.
set within a secluded stretch of land in dharwad, india, the kalkeri sangeet vidyalaya learning complex by architecture studio kumar la noce is a free school with a strong emphasis on the performing arts. the project offers a library, art studio and labs for a music school that becomes the first ‘formal’ built structure on the campus. all throughout, the design intent was to create a layered and adaptable set of spaces for children — within the constraints of a tight budget, logistics and available resources.
‘the aim of our project was to design a library and learning center, which could be a dialogue between formal/informal, existing/new and low-cost/high-tech. the technique of brickwork, plaster, structural design became strategic in providing spatial and architectural quality within strict constraints,’ states the team.
the academic blocks within the existing campus
kumar la noce has distributed the program amongst a cluster of three blocks, arranged around an open court and corridor. this approach scatters the ‘weight’ of the building both visually and physically. the composition and orientation of the blocks ultimately create a hierarchy of masses using simple volumes — where views and perceptions of spaces also differ. the in-between zones become versatile ‘life-spaces’ adaptable to various events, gatherings and outdoor classes. in addition, a long veranda/corridor along the length of the south façade provides a shaded open area, covered by a bamboo slat roof.
the piazza inhabited by local children
for this project, it was crucial to keep the structure as light as possible but still robust. the two main blocks have a double roof, one vaulted and the other inclined. the vaulted one has ‘eyelets’ cuts that help create a passive ventilation cycle, while the structure holding up the roof emerges out of these cuts to support the inclined top. brick jail patterns travel along the walls, keeping the rooms continuously aerated and adding interesting shadows and textures to the spaces.
social connectors, in-between zones, the piazza and existing main hall
materials used for the construction of the learning complex are locally sourced brick and cuddappah stones. a layer of mud paint gives the buildings their ochre color, similar to all the other huts around. on the other hand, a mossy blue-green cement oxide dado complements the ochre while protecting the bases of the blocks from dirt and grime.
the ventilated double-skin roof capping the two blocks
internal view from one of the classrooms
view of the ventilated roof and the brick jali
lightweight roof structure
site plan
ground floor plan
south-west elevation
detail of the ventilated double-layer roof
project info:
client: KSV school, kalkeri, dharwad, india
area: 210 sq.m
year: 2015
construction and fundraising team: PRÉCI 2014 team from ÉTS montreal
contractors: anil kari, prakash kusugal
architects: kumar la noce
structural design: BL manjunath
designboom has received this project from our ‘DIY submissions‘ feature, where we welcome our readers to submit their own work for publication. see more project submissions from our readers here.
edited by: lea zeitoun | designboom
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