S P A C E - 3 - Creative Outline

What are the needs of children in the 21st century? What environment best supports learning and self-determination? What is the role of a science centre in India? These are just some of the questions this document hopes to address and explore. This document should be seen as a ‘creative outline’ to help inform the design process, define the character and atmosphere of key spaces. These explorations can steer design decisions and help frame spatial objectives to promote a particular learning experience.

As an architect I have always had a deep rooted interest in designing socially engaged spaces. Spaces that lift the human spirit and help frame our place within the world and universe. The children of today need to be cherished and be gifted the freedom to imagine a sustainable future. We live in a period characterised by fear and to counter this hope needs to be actively encouraged and sought. 

The children of today are growing up in an environment previously not seen, highly consumerist and commercialised, with a narcissistic focus on individual gain and greed, our understanding of our collective connectedness and interdependency on each other can be strengthened by the centres welcoming inclusive design. How can we provide a space that lifts the spirit of all who visit so to provide them with a learning environment that builds knowledge, confidence and hope? I believe the centre is an opportunity to help stimulate discussion and support the creation of a new story for our species on this planet.

I have always felt that surrounding oneself with the wonders of the natural world inspiration can be reaped and the imagination can be set free. It is unquestionable that the benefits of nature connection improves peoples mental well-being. Life continuously creates conditions conducive to life and the centre needs to be a power house of curiosity and creation, as Sir Patrick Geddes explained ‘by creating we think, by living we learn’. 

The ambition for the this project is outlined clearly in the clients brief. Inclusivity, diversity, with hands-on approaches to learning key ambitions. The project will provide experiences that help nurture a deep understanding of ones place in the world.

The following posts will explore key themes and theories that could inform the design and curation of the landscape, building and experience for the visitors.

The following themes discussed are listed below:

Curiosity 

Wonder

Imagination

Story-telling

Sense of place

Inclusiveness

Free play

Consciousness of being

After each theme is discussed I have noted some architectural responses that could be explored during the design of the spaces and details. 

The building should from the outset aim to be a facilitator, a backdrop or stage set to support the actions and interactions of the visitors. The structure, facades and finishes should be engaging, interact and create dialogue with the inhabitants. The centre is not solely a visual statement like a church presenting itself, but it should provide tactile, playful and often curious interactions. Water, sound, movement are elements to be explored to create unique sensually stimulating spaces for all to enjoy.