In a bold departure from traditional school design, the Dakshana Valley Institute in India merges education with the natural landscape, creating a dynamic learning environment. Funded by the Dakshana Foundation, this secondary facility, designed by Morphogenesis, is situated on a sprawling 109-acre site in Khed.
A Harmonious Design Approach
Rather than adhering to conventional classroom layouts, Morphogenesis has crafted a design that embraces the surrounding environment. Manit Rastogi, co-founder and chairman of Morphogenesis, emphasizes that the layout follows the north-to-south slope of the site, ensuring that the landscape is an integral part of the learning experience. “The primary axis, from the highest central point down to the lake, ensures that the landscape remains a constant companion to the act of learning,” he states.
Building for Comfort and Connection
At the heart of the campus lies a distinctive brick building, serving as a hub for gifted students from low-income families preparing for medical and engineering exams. The choice of brick was intentional, not only for its tactile appeal but also for its thermal efficiency, reducing heat gain by nearly 50% in the humid climate. Sonali Rastogi, co-founder and vice-chairperson of Morphogenesis, notes that “brick is instinctively associated with a home-like warmth that fosters a sense of belonging.”
Materials and Pathways that Reflect Heritage
The design incorporates an earthy palette of basalt, wood, terracotta, and Shahabad stone, reflecting the natural surroundings. The journey through the campus mimics the paths of the students’ home villages, with a meandering lane leading to 13 classrooms, a knowledge center, and a dining hall. The arrival pavilion, with its curved profile, frames stunning views of the valley and the amphitheater.
Spaces for Interaction and Learning
Lecture halls are designed with features like light shelves and vertical fins to minimize glare and enhance ventilation. Shaded areas near entrances provide spaces for discussion, while outdoor nooks offer spots for relaxation or reading. Covered verandas serve as overflow spaces, encouraging spontaneous interactions among students.
The Dakshana Valley Institute stands as a testament to how educational spaces can promote both learning and environmental stewardship, preparing the next generation to care for the planet. For more on Morphogenesis and their projects, visit morphogenesis.org.
This article was produced by NeonPulse.today using human and AI-assisted editorial processes, based on publicly available information. Content may be edited for clarity and style.
