Community centre in India
Kodidoddi, India
The main concept was inspired by a strong element that shapes the site chosen in Kodidoddi: the neem tree. We saw it as a central point, a reference to our buildings' location.
Following the required area distinction between core and additional elements, we organised the space on the site, taking the tree as main axis. By following a rectangular grid, the modular elements can be easily arranged, enabling an easy construction assembly and replication. The sanitation element is located at the north of the terrain, allowing its use to be public, during community meetings outside, close to the tree. Open towards the playground is the Anganwadi class and next to it the feeding room and kitchen. Together with the office they form the building block of additional elements, separated by a corridor to the core building.
The core space contains the multipurpose room for classes and community reunions, with an additional private room, giving access to individual assistance, for example, children with disabilities that can have an appointment with a teacher.
The centre lies on an elevated base, surrounded by green spaces and the playground for the children. A generous unpaved area remains around the tree, surrounded by benches and greenery. Supplementary fruit trees create shadow in front of the multipurpose room, and, beside the playground there is the kitchen garden, to cultivate greens and vegetables for the community centre.
The design is based on the weather conditions of the area. The main corridor in the centre provides views from the playground to the tree and enhances the natural ventilation making use of the wind flow, predominantly coming from the west. The roof is sloping towards the south, allowing use of solar panels. The bore well is placed beside the water tank, a focal water area that remains public for all community. Another important aspect is the replicability. The core elements are grouped and can be deployed as a single structure. The additional elements form their own cluster, facilitating building and arrangement on site.
The materials are sourced locally: benches around the tree are made of Kadapa stone, building's base is made of concrete aggregated with local rocks and earth is used for the walls. The construction rests on concrete pillars and beams, while the infill consists of compressed earth blocks with sand plaster finishing. The windows have an aluminium and marble frame and doors are made of Matti wood.
