A Tree, a School, and a Whole New Way to Learn
Nestled in the heart of India is a pioneering international school that redefines traditional architectural norms by placing a 105-year-old banyan tree at its core. This unique institution, conceptualised and brought to life by Chiraag Kapoor Architects, seamlessly blends education, sustainability, and heritage, making the banyan tree both the physical and philosophical heart of the design.
The banyan tree stands as the centerpiece of this educational institution.
The project posed a challenge as ambitious as it was inspiring: to harmonise modern education with the natural world, creating a space where sustainability and learning coexist. The banyan tree, steeped in cultural and historical significance, became the focal point.
“Our vision was to create a space where education and nature intertwine seamlessly,” explains Chiraag Kapoor, lead architect. “We wanted the students to learn not just from books, but from the living, breathing example of resilience and interconnectedness that the blending of architecture and nature represents.”
The Banyan Tree: A Symbol of Wisdom and Resilience
The cosmic tree of life.
In Indian culture, the banyan tree is more than just a tree—it symbolises the cosmic tree of life and has long served as a place for gathering, learning, and reflection. Inspired by this cultural legacy, the architects sought to create a school that bridges the wisdom of tradition with the needs of modern education.
The design team faced the complex task of building a contemporary structure without compromising the health of this majestic tree. Collaborating with an arborist from the UK, the architects devised innovative solutions to safeguard the tree’s extensive root system. Every aspect of the foundation and structural design was carefully planned, proving that conservation and development can coexist harmoniously.
A Design That Grows with Nature
The school’s architecture flows organically around the banyan tree.
The school’s architecture flows organically around the banyan tree, with its corridors and spaces designed to foster interaction between students and their natural surroundings. These pathways are not merely transit routes; they are multi-functional spaces that transform into open-air libraries, canteens, labs, and auditoriums.
Children are in touch with nature in this educational institution.
Students can closely observe the tree’s growth, study its ecosystem, and gain hands-on experience with sustainability and biodiversity. This immersive connection to nature offers invaluable lessons beyond textbooks, nurturing an appreciation for the environment and its intricate balance.
Rethinking Children’s Spaces
Large windows frame the classrooms.
Moving away from conventional child-centric designs that rely on bright colours and cartoonish elements, the architects took a thoughtful and mature approach. The interiors are crafted using natural materials and neutral tones, creating an adaptable environment that grows alongside the students.
Modular furniture and flexible spaces enhance functionality, accommodating a wide range of activities and age groups. Large windows and strategically placed skylights flood the interiors with natural light, maintaining a seamless connection to the outdoors even within the classrooms.
Inclusivity is fundamental in the design process.
Designing spaces for children presents both challenges and opportunities. “Children are dynamic, curious, and constantly evolving,” Chiraag notes. “Our design needed to reflect and nurture these qualities.”
The design encourages physical activity and exploration while fostering intellectual curiosity. Quiet corners for introspection provide emotional balance, creating a holistic environment that supports students’ mental and emotional well-being.
Inclusivity was a fundamental aspect of the design process. The school incorporates features to support children with special needs, such as tactile guidance systems and accessible pathways. Wide, unobstructed corridors ensure smooth navigation for all, promoting a sense of equality and belonging among students.
Playful Learning Spaces
Artistic features compliment the corridors.
Playfulness is intricately woven into the school’s design, striking a balance between fun and functionality. Sculptures, murals, and wall installations serve dual purposes as artistic features and educational tools. These elements subtly teach concepts like mathematics, science, and geography, encouraging hands-on learning.
The Dream Catcher Installation.
A standout feature is the “Dream Catcher” art installation by artist Parvathi Nayar, positioned under a skylight. This imaginative piece invites students to engage with its whimsical design, inspiring creativity and introspection.
One of the most groundbreaking aspects of the school is its approach to sustainability. Systems for rainwater harvesting, solar energy, and composting are not hidden behind closed doors; instead, they are integrated into the school’s design and made visible to students.
The art installation by artist Parvathi Nayar.
These sustainable features function as interactive tools, allowing students to observe and engage with eco-friendly practices. This hands-on exposure instills an early understanding of environmental stewardship, turning the school itself into a living, breathing classroom.
“Quality spaces profoundly affect a child’s development,” Chiraag emphasises. “Our design aims to support physical growth through spaces that encourage movement and exploration. It nurtures mental development by providing stimulating environments for learning and discovery. And it fosters emotional well-being by creating safe, comfortable spaces that allow for both social interaction and quiet reflection.”
Challenges and Innovations in Design
The library at the instituition.
Designing around a living tree required a level of precision and creativity that set this project apart. Protecting the banyan tree’s health involved innovative architectural solutions, such as customized foundations and carefully planned structural layouts.
The architects worked closely with experts to monitor the tree’s health throughout construction, ensuring it would not only survive but thrive as part of its new environment. This meticulous attention to detail underscores the possibility of blending modern development with environmental conservation.
The library space.
As India’s education system evolves, integrating global standards with local traditions, this school serves as a shining example of how architecture can elevate the learning experience. By preserving a piece of natural heritage and placing it at the heart of the design, Chiraag Kapoor Architects have created more than just a school—they’ve crafted a symbol of coexistence, resilience, and growth.
Under the vast canopy of the banyan tree, students are set to learn lessons that extend far beyond academic subjects. They will cultivate an appreciation for nature, embrace sustainable practices, and understand the interconnectedness of life itself. These are lessons essential for navigating an increasingly complex and rapidly changing world.
The living, breathing banyan tree.
The school doesn’t merely prepare students for exams; it prepares them for life. With spaces that inspire thought and creativity, it provides an environment where children can explore their potential while remaining connected to their roots—literally and figuratively.
Wide circulation areas, tactile pathways, and sensory-rich materials ensure that every child feels supported and included. The integration of natural elements encourages students to engage with their surroundings actively, fostering a lifelong respect for the environment.
The corridors of play.
“Our goal was to create a space where education and nature intertwine seamlessly,” says Chiraag. This school is not just an architectural achievement but a vision for what the future of education could look like—one where sustainability, inclusivity, and innovation come together to create truly transformative spaces.
The banyan tree stands as a testament to resilience, growth, and interconnectedness, values that resonate deeply within the school’s design and philosophy. Through its thoughtful architecture and commitment to sustainability, this international school redefines the relationship between education and the natural world, setting a new benchmark for learning environments worldwide.
Details:
Lead Architect and Interior Designer: Chiraag Kapoor
Design team: Pranjal Bafna (London Studio), Hari Priya
Site Team: Manu, Tamil, Janani
Photography: Kunal Daswani
