SMR Jaipuria School, Lucknow: A Campus Reimagined
We transformed this 1992 campus by blending modern, climate-responsive architecture with interactive spaces designed to foster growth. From the landmark tensile canopy to revitalized courtyards, see how we reimagined a traditional school into a dynamic environment for learning.
The revitalized facade of SMR Jaipuria School features large-scale murals, transforming the building into a symbol of creativity and pride for the school community. This approach integrates art directly into the architectural identity of the campus.
The new assembly area, sheltered by an expansive canopy, serves as the heart of the school. It is a flexible, multi-use space designed to host everything from daily gatherings to large community events, seamlessly integrating with the existing architecture.
The series of prefabricated steel trusses and arches supports the 30-meter clear span canopy. This structural system is not only efficient but also creates an elegant, rhythmic pattern against the sky, enhancing the architectural character of the courtyard.
Meticulous detailing ensures long-term performance. The canopy's rainwater management system is concealed within the columns, and the self-cleaning PTFE membrane includes an integrated sprinkler system, minimizing maintenance and visual clutter.
We activated a previously underused courtyard with a bold orange staircase and tiered seating areas. This intervention transforms a simple circulation path into a dynamic social space that encourages interaction and extends learning beyond the classroom.
A view from the staircase reveals how the new design elements connect different levels of the school. The central courtyard, now filled with planters and seating, has become a green, vibrant hub for students during breaks.
The auditorium was modernized for better acoustics and safety. We exposed the existing coffered slab to maximize height, added new lighting, and installed flexible seating to create a versatile venue for performances and school functions.
Classrooms were redesigned to be bright and interactive. We incorporated flexible furniture, ample storage, and various surfaces for display and writing. To promote sustainability, we repurposed existing furniture wherever possible.
The computer lab is equipped with modern IT infrastructure in a clean, organized layout. The design ensures a comfortable and functional environment conducive to focused learning, with pin-up boards for displaying student work.
Even functional spaces like changing rooms were designed to be uplifting. We used a playful pattern of blue and grey tiles to create a visually engaging wall, moving away from a purely utilitarian aesthetic.
About SMR Jaipuria School, Lucknow: A Campus Reimagined
Redesigning an operational campus requires more than just aesthetics; it demands minimal disruption and deep respect for existing infrastructure. At SMR Jaipuria, we did not simply renovate, we strategically retrofitted HVAC systems, improved acoustic paneling, and optimized furniture layouts to modernize the student experience while maintaining the building’s original structural integrity.
Our intervention at SMR Jaipuria was guided by our Kidtecture philosophy, which views the entire campus, not just the classroom, as a vital zone for student development. We focused on three core areas: climate responsiveness, community connectivity, and structural modernization.
Climate-Responsive Engineering
Lucknow's climate poses significant challenges for outdoor activities. We installed a 12,000 sq ft tensile canopy with a 30-meter clear span to provide shade and protection from the elements. This structure is not merely aesthetic. We integrated a concealed gutter system within the columns to manage heavy monsoon rains, and the self-cleaning PTFE membrane reduces the maintenance burden on the school management.
Activating 'In-Between' Spaces
Architecture in schools often neglects corridors and stairwells. We identified these dead zones and activated them through bold color, tiered seating, and magnetic display boards. By turning these circulation paths into informal learning hubs, we encourage spontaneous interaction and collaboration among students. The introduction of an orange central staircase serves as both a sculptural element and a gathering point that physically connects different levels of the campus.
Modernizing Institutional Interiors
The auditorium renovation required balancing height constraints with acoustic performance. By exposing the existing coffered slab and integrating new lighting, we achieved a voluminous, versatile space. Similarly, classrooms were redesigned with flexible furniture and IT infrastructure, ensuring that the environment supports modern teaching methodologies rather than restricting them.
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