11/25/13

Bioclimatic School at Vadodara, Gujarat - FuturArc

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Bioclimatic School at Vadodara, Gujarat The architecture of the Bioclimatic Primary School at Vadodara focuses on increasing the efficiency of resource use while reducing the impact of the building on human health and the environment. Construction practices employed in the school break away from the conventional system of RCC platforms and support and optimise the use of waste materials in the building. Design Evolution The architect ditched the rectangular layout of the classroom and decided to use triangular shape as he feels that conventional classrooms are mere boxes that are designed for the convenient fitting of furniture, irrespective of the needs of the people and the functions involved. A triangular classroom unit serves students better as it allows a fan-shaped seating arrangement. These units are connected on a triangular grid to achieve a layout that has a series of interactive spaces, avoiding any kind of passages. This modular subdivision and interlinking of spaces make for easy flowing spaces where pupils can just sit and relax and exchange ideas. Climate-Responsive Design Vadodara has a tropical climate where the temperature goes up to 45 degrees Celsius during summer and can be as low as -1 degree Celsius during winter. The building envelope is designed to respond to these climatic variations. The central courtyard acts as an effective ventilation mechanism during both summer and winter. Deciduous trees on the site have been used strategically in the design to provide shade during summer and allow the sunlight to passively heat the building during winter when they shed their leaves.

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Funicular Shell Roof The funicular shell roof is a compression structure which ensures conservation of natural resources by utilising waste materials effectively and optimising the use of expensive steel and cement. Furthermore, the arch distributes the point load in all directions equally, and thus, is able to withstand impact loading at any point. This roof also allows the utilisation of a wide array of patterns and finishes, providing the learning space with its own distinctive character. Hollow-core Interlocking Blocks The hollow-core interlocking blocks have been used as the prime walling material. The cross stitching of the wall with diagonal bonds using the interlocking blocks in a triangulated form, along with the triangulated grid of funicular shells, make for an integrated earthquake-resistant system. These interlocking blocks have an impermeable, non-erosive diaphragm with various colours and textures and are made of papercrete, a lean recycled material. Papercrete increases thermal insulation and makes the blocks lightweight. Later, polythene is stuffed inside these hollow cores to provide added thermal insulation. Arches The school has arched windows with high ventilators that let in glare-free light into the classrooms and large open-plan spaces. Good daytime lighting results in a considerable reduction in the dependence on artificial lighting throughout the building. Twin-leach Pit System The system separates waste water from sewage on location, which dispenses the need for centralised sewage treatment plants. This system is also water efficient, as it requires less water for utilisation, and byproducts can later be used as manure. Leach pits are designed to accommodate a persons average daily use. An individual is estimated to require
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11/25/13 Bioclimatic School at Vadodara, Gujarat - FuturArc Leach pits are designed to accommodate a persons average daily use. An individual is estimated to require 10 litres when using the facilities twice a day. The pits have an absorption capacity of 20 litres per square metre.

Twin leach pits are alternated every 18 months resulting in clean, dry, and odourless manure that can be used as fertiliser. The process is made more efficient by using a carbon and limestone lining. Edited by Bhawna Jaimini
Project Data Project Name Bioclimatic Primary School Location Vadodara, Gujarat, India Construction Period February 2011 to January 2012 Client/Owner Maharani Gaikwar of Baroda Principal Architect Anil Laul, Anangpur Building Centre Images/Photos (Credit to) Anangpur Building Centre

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