New York-based studio Diana Kellogg Architects recently established an oval-shaped all-girls’ school in India. The studio focused on symbols of femininity while designing the school, which is made from local sandstone.
The Rajkumari Ratnavati Girls’ School was established in Thar Desert in the north of India with the objective of educating and teaching over 400 girls of the age group of 5-16 years.
As per the studio, the symbols of femininity and the nearby sand-dunes inspired it to create a fort-like structure that would mix well and grow out of the landscape.
Diana Kellogg stated that as a female architect, while designing the school, she looked for feminine symbols, especially the symbols of strength, across different cultures. She eventually decided to opt for the oval shape, which represents femininity and also reminded her of the formulation of infinity.
The 836-square-meter fort-like structure is made out of locally-sourced hand-carved sandstone and consists of three circular elements. These elements include a large exterior wall that surrounds the perimeter of the school, an interior wall that encloses the classroom, and an oval courtyard.
The courtyard is at the center of the school and represents the shape of the surrounding walls. Some sections of the stone walls have been pierced with holes so that it cools the space down and protect it from the sun.
Solar panels are fitted to a steel structure on the roof. This panel provides energy for lights and fans. The steel structure also acts as a shaded area and playscape for the children.
A non-profit organization, CITTA commissioned the construction of the school. The organization focuses on supporting different communities around the world.
Diana Kellogg also plans to build two other buildings next to the school. These buildings will be for house performance and exhibition spaces, a museum and a library space, and a women’s cooperative, which will focus on teaching embroidering and weaving techniques.
