Modern High School International, located in Kolkata, India, represents a transformative approach to education, reimagining the existing basketball courts of ‘Modern High School for Girls’ into a dynamic co-ed international institution. Positioned at a bustling traffic intersection, the school’s architectural design prioritizes functionality, connectivity, and sustainability.
Architectural Concept
The building’s architectural layout adopts a rectangular massing, oriented north-south to optimize natural daylight in classrooms and provide panoramic views of Kolkata’s skyline. With a focus on the International Baccalaureate curriculum, the school redefines spatial arrangements to foster dynamic student-teacher interactions and promote both formal and informal learning environments.
Spatial Organization
Distinct floor plates accommodate various educational programs and communal spaces, encouraging student movement and engagement. From maker’s workshops to discussion areas and state-of-the-art libraries, each space is meticulously designed to facilitate learning and collaboration.
Daylighting Strategies
Innovative “Light Canyons” carve through the building mass, flooding the interior with natural light. These architectural features not only enhance visual aesthetics but also create conducive learning environments across multiple levels.
Structural Innovation
The structural design prioritizes flexibility and innovation, utilizing post-tensioned beams to create column-free spaces and cantilevered platforms to optimize natural daylight exposure. This strategic approach enhances the overall learning experience while mitigating urban challenges such as traffic noise and air pollution.
Façade Design
The façade’s inclined ceramic panels and double-glazed windows maximize daylight penetration while minimizing direct glare and solar radiation. This thoughtful articulation ensures a comfortable indoor environment conducive to learning.
Sustainability Initiatives
Driven by a commitment to sustainability, the school integrates green building practices from design to implementation. Achieving the prestigious Platinum Mark from the Indian Green Building Council reflects its dedication to water conservation, indoor air quality, renewable energy, and environmental education.
In essence, Modern High School International embodies a visionary approach to education, blending architectural innovation with sustainable practices to create a dynamic learning environment for the next generation of global citizens.
