Ace of Space

Located at the south end of the CEPT campus, the building housing the School of Interior Design is divided into three parts: the plaza, the studios and the double height, which provide spaces for an open gathering, workstations and recreational area respectively. Thus, the building provides a holistic living environment for the students.

Fig. 1 The single height behind the School of Interior Design. Source: Author’s Collection

Pictured above is the single height behind the SID building, adjacent to the double volume. Constructed primarily of brick and concrete, it stands 3.51m tall and 7.8m wide. Due to its open planning, abundance of plants and honest, exposed architecture it fits snugly with CEPT’s design language. Receiving light from the south, the space is well lit throughout the day, with trees and greenery alleviating some of its harshness. The landscaping of this area accounts for a great deal of its allure. It is well ventilated as air circulates through the opening leading to the double height; given the blazing summers of Ahmedabad the four ceiling fans are essential. It provides respite from the heat during the summer while during the monsoon, it provides shelter and becomes a theatre for those who love to experience the rain.

Figure 2. When the noon sun is beating down, the space says “Come to me, o weary one, and I will give thee rest!” Source: Author’s Collection

Due to its open plan, the FD double height (to the right) is easily accessible, and is used as an exhibition floor during winter and hosts activities and discussions throughout the semester. To the left are partition walls which create divisions for the FD offices (the dean sits here) and bays to host classes or events. The design of these partitions and their black frames references neoplastic painter Piet Mondrian’s oeuvre, pouring creative energy and inspiration into the space. The sights and sounds of the single height greet the weary inhabitants of the studio as they walk out of the building, offering respite from their torturous schedule by inviting them to participate in a game of table tennis, or stand by to watch and cheer for their mates.

Figure 2. Students sharing a light-hearted moment after a refreshing match of table tennis Source: Author’s Collection

During the afternoon, the peon who mops the office and inner bays likes to take a small nap in the cool of the shade, waiting for the floor to dry. He sits a little away from the fan so as to catch the relaxing draft of air from above, leaning against the cement fins—a personalized, adapted use of the space! During the evenings, the female support staff gather beside the garden, and sit down on the ledge with a cup of chai for a chat. This reflects how hospitable and comforting it is, since not only students and faculty, but even staff, female staff members find it a safe place to gather. The garden, the adjoining trees and lawns create a calm, relaxing atmosphere.

Figure. 2 The partition wall (beside the coloured door) and the fins make it possible to sit down for a nap Source: Author’s Collection

During the day, the long wooden table placed along the brick partition wall, is a popular spot among students and faculty alike. Shaded by the tree outside the building, it offers a cool, semi-private discussion/work area, for a group of 4-5 people. Interestingly, it is also the stomping ground of the legendary Mr. Kireet Patel, or KP Sir, as he is fondly called who loves to sit at the table with a cup of tea.

Fig. 3 Enables engaging discussions, by offering privacy (due to the wall) and shade. Source: Author’s Collection

The advantage of being a frequented area is well-utilised since there are two tack boards on either side, providing information to passers-by about campus events. By establishing contrast, the presence of the airy, open and inviting double volume defines this area, making it a place for more private interactions. In conclusion, the single height does serves as an auxiliary space with respect to the double height, but the interactions in the single height have a refreshing quality, making it a great place to unwind.

And to think one unassuming little area could do it all; it truly is an ace of space.