The Learning Center at Quest, designed by KSM Architecture, is located in the vibrant neighborhood of Besant Nagar, Chennai. Situated on a 540 sq.m plot, this state-of-the-art facility is a haven for children aged 8 to 16 who pursue home-schooling or the ‘unschooling’ educational pattern, prioritizing interest-based learning over a rigid curriculum.
Learning Center at Quest Technical Information
- Architects1-4: KSM Architecture
- Location: Besant Nagar, Chennai, India
- Area: 760 m2
- Completion Year: 2021
- Photographs: © Sreenag BRS
The Learning Center has been designed as a collection of free-flowing volumes that provide a feeling of space and visual connectivity.
– KSM Architects
Learning Center at Quest Photographs
Open Spaces and Creative Learning: Inside the Quest Center
Designed by KSM Architecture and completed in 2021, the 760 sq.m Learning Center is a harmonious blend of form and function, offering a dynamic environment that fosters creativity and interaction. The center entry is inviting and grand, featuring a tree-lined court with a set of steps and a ramp that guides visitors into the building.
Upon entering, one is greeted by an expansive atrium that serves as the heart of the building. This atrium, which extends to the structure’s full height, is flanked by an amphitheater on the right and a gallery space on the left. This central space is visually striking and functional, promoting a sense of community and openness.
The building’s design is meticulously aligned with the local climate, optimizing natural ventilation and light. The southern side, which benefits from the ambient winds of Chennai, is elevated into a garden, creating a natural wind channel that enhances airflow throughout the building. This garden, accessible via a slide from the library, adds an element of playfulness and connectivity to the space.
Classrooms are strategically stacked on either side of the atrium, with a winding metal staircase connecting all levels. This staircase culminates at the fourth level, leading out to a rooftop cafeteria and a landscaped terrace, both of which offer panoramic views and a serene atmosphere for students and staff alike.
From a sustainability perspective, the Learning Center excels. The eastern and western walls are designed as insulated cavity walls with minimal openings, reducing heat gain. These composite walls comprise a 300mm wide cavity filled with 50mm thick XPS insulation and a bamboo shuttered GFRC facade panel. This combination effectively mitigates heat, ensuring a comfortable indoor environment. The southern and northern walls feature full-length operable windows shaded by vertical aluminum aerofoil louvers, allowing for controlled ventilation and natural light.
The interior spaces of the Learning Center are characterized by their seamless integration with the outdoor environment. There are no rigid demarcations, allowing for fluid movement between different areas and the gardens beyond. The use of color and glare-free natural light creates a cheerful and inviting ambiance, while the continuous flow of natural breeze adds to the comfort and well-being of the occupants.
Learning Center at Quest Plans
Learning Center at Quest Image Gallery
About KSM Architecture
Founded in 1990, KSM Architecture is a pioneering architectural firm committed to simplicity in design and environmental integration. The firm prioritizes ongoing research and innovative experimentation with materials and techniques that promote environmental sustainability. Each project is meticulously crafted to enhance energy efficiency and respond effectively to climatic conditions. This dedication to environmentally conscious and minimalist architecture has garnered KSM Architecture both national and international recognition, making it a leader in sustainable design.
Notes & Additional Credits
- Client: Srikanth Chandrashekar
- Design Team: Sriram Ganapathi, Siddarth Money, Akshaya J, Sathish V, Seran S, Mohanraj K, Ragini P
- Building Cost: 5.5 crores
- Graphic Credits: Karthik Venkatesh
