Architect and Founder at Abin Design Studio in Kolkata, Abin Chaudhuri believes that architecture is an artistic expression as far as it transcends its purely utilitarian, technical, and rational realm, and turns into a metaphoric expression of the lived world, human condition, and context. “Our aim is to provide soul in the shell,” says Architect Abin Chaudhuri. “At ADS, we believe that architecture is not merely about creation; it is a search. With the ever-evolving human existence, there arises a spatial demand, and the purpose of architectural design is to embark on a search to fulfil such a demand. At the same time, the human experience of ‘life’ starts with an emotional investment into the land we inhabit—we don’t just exist on it but rather, co-exist in our communities, and it is for this reason that the architecture we use must spill beyond the walls and embrace the neighbourhoods they are in”.
PROJECT IN FOCUS – Swarnim International School
Location: Kolkata
Typology: Institution
Year of Completion: 2022
Design Concept: Modern and minimalistic yet standout design interludes.
What we Heart: The use of bold colours, unique design features, and seamless integration of interior and exterior spaces.
The school’s design aims to create a harmonious and stimulating learning environment that prioritizes student engagement and well-being. While the overall massing sees a “tetris-stacking” of sorts, a harmonious composition of blocks exudes a dominative yet protective sense.
The facade seems proud in its surrounding but on entering, becomes a C-shaped plan, skirting the field and playground. It is designed with a modern and minimalistic approach to create a sleek and cohesive design. The building’s jali facade, highlighted in red, adds a characteristic element to the design. Functionally, it enables cross ventilation and an exciting play of light and shadow that is dynamic with the movement of the sun as the day progresses.