Zone de joie

The process started with taking information about the city, and its climate. We studied the site by

seeing its different views in 3D as well as 2D by using various sites like google earth and maps. Then

concepts and features of Brutalism were studied and understood. Famous Brutalist structures like

the Geisel library and Unité d’Habitation by Le Corbusier 1952 Marseilles, France were studied to

understand how the philosophy of Brutalism is manifested into physical form. Case studies of

kindergarten schools like Vietnam Farming kindergarten and Fuji kindergarten were done to

understand the planning, services required, distribution of spaces, etc. We also visited one of the

kindergartens nearby to understand the atmosphere and to take a first-hand experience of how

children interact with the spaces. We also observed the kind of furniture used and how it is placed to

make the space more efficient for the users. We also talked with a few parents to understand their

needs regarding security and services for their children.

Concept development

Brutalism-

We incorporated Brutalism in our form and façade by showing rough untreated surfaces revealing

the true texture of the concrete used. Also, the structural system is kept transparent as it is not

covered by the solid wall but rather kept exposed which is a typical feature of brutalism.

To make the spaces interesting and interactive we have used unusual shapes and straight lines in

plan and elevation. Modular elements are often used to form mass representing specific function

zones grouped into a uniform whole.

Play of open and semi-open spaces-

Slits are incorporated into the structure to allow the light to enter throughout the day and allow

natural ventilation by making the structure more efficient. Efforts are made to keep the plan more

open rather than closing the spaces. curves in the plan is allowing the space to flow. Two main

courtyards are provided in the structure by puncturing the form which again allows better light and

ventilation.

Open floor plan-

Only the space which should be kept closed have solid walls, whereas other spaces are kept open to

the sky or semi-open

Punctures in the roof - the structure is punctured from top to bottom to allow enough light into the

structure

Play of level-In order to create interesting space the entire structure is kept at the drop of 1300mm

where the entry is marked.

Efficiency-

Multi-purpose spaces- the circulation space is kept wide enough so that it can also be used as a

playroom and reading space for children

The form is evolved as per the form of the site to increase efficiency.

External planning-

eventually, the planning was started by keeping all these key factors in mind.at first, the efficient

entry and exit were decided for the site as shown in the plan which runs throughout the site. The

site has two entries keeping in mind that the site is close to the junction so to prevent traffic

congestion the entry was divided into two vehicular and pedestrian. Vehicular access is kept away

from the junction at the corner keeping in mind the safety of the proper exit. The vehicular

movement was kept one way so that there is no chance of traffic jams and is more secure for

children. The roadway divides the site in two -the main structure plus parking and the assembly

area, and the playground. The landscape comprises of open assembly arena and a playground with

the types of equipment like swings and slides. One of the corners of the site is at the lowermost

level. so keeping the topography in mind artificial small waterbody is created which keeps the space

cool. A parking area is provided on the site which houses two buses, two-wheelers, and four-

wheelers.

Internal planning -

As we enter the structure there's this huge double heightened space covered with slits on one side

illuminated by natural light serve as a waiting area for parents .administration arena is placed at the

entrance later leading to the courtyard. The two courtyards are surrounded by classrooms, toilets, a

pantry, storage, and an amphitheater. The walls of the classrooms are punctured by providing slits

that form bright spaces and create an opportunity for children to observe the changes in the cycles

of nature. The slits are shaded with vertical concrete slabs at an angle with glass in between which

performs a dual function to protect from the sun at the same time give children a sense of privacy

and security. Such elements not only create liveliness in the planning but also add a sense of

dynamism to the façade. For vertical circulation ramps and staircases are provided. On the first floor,

there's a conference room, staff room, classrooms, and an open library.