CDA's design revealed for eco-friendly primary school in India

The design for Educliff Global School was inspired by the locally built architecture and focused on creating spaces that foster learning, well-being, and productivity for the children. This attempt has been furthered by harnessing solar passive techniques using the local materials to create high performing architecture that scores low on operational and embodied energy, and keeps operational costs minimal. A lifecycle approach has been incorporated to use low-energy materials and perform operations vis-a-vis the factors of safety, longevity, durability and functionality. 

The building is U-shaped and wraps around a recessed community space, which serves as an amphitheatre and assembly area. The spatial planning of the Educliff school comprises three zones, namely the kindergarten, primary students block and the administration. 

The building envelope explores modulating fenestrations, such as large windows along the north to welcome daylight and double skin jali along the south to reduce heat gain. The brick jali of the facade is vital to augment better indoor air quality through enhanced and consistent airflow in the spaces. 

Solar panels on the terrace garden for energy generation further the project towards self-sufficiency and sustainable performance. To achieve a steady decrease in operational costs, finishes such as exposed concrete and brickwork were used to help reduce recurring maintenance efforts and expenses

Native plants have been used for the landscape using xeriscaping, which minimises water consumption. Furthermore, in pursuit of sustainable practices, zero discharge ETP and STP was installed to manage waste.