[McCullough Mulvin Architects - Thapar University Learning Centre - COVER IMG] Photographer Christian Richters

Thapar University Learning Centre

Firm LocationDublin, Ireland
Project locationPatiala, Punjab, India
CompanyMcCullough Mulvin Architects
Lead ArchitectValerie Mulvin, Niall McCullough, Ruth O'Herlihy
Design TeamCorán O'Connor, Kate Cregan (McCullough Mulvin Architects), Sohrab Dalal, Sonali Nandi (DesignPlus Associates, Delhi)
ClientThapar Univeristy

The Learning Laboratory creates a geography for education, combining social and sustainable strategies in a communal, expansive setting. Comprising a library, lecture theatres and science faculty, in tall red Agra stone volumes with white marble detail, the facades use louvred stone screens like traditional Jaali screens. A podium structure runs between, giant ramps at either end, a natural extension of the pedestrian route. Below, students congregate around fountains in the cool shade. A contemporary concept founded on a sense of place, sensible to the traditions of Indian architecture.