Santham Dance School by DD Architects

Irinjalakkuda is a culturally rich town in Thrissur that boasts centuries of history. At an easily accessible distance, the town grew closer to their studio with a handful of projects they did over the years. A small practice space they did for Natanakairali an important institution for Koodiyattam, the oldest Sanskrit theatre has been one of their earliest projects.

When they received an enquiry from the same town to design a space for dance in 2017, it offered them an opportunity to create a new cultural space in the vibrant locality. Their clients Mrs Sangeetha Rajesh and Mr Rajesh Thamban wanted to turn it into a place for performances and as a practice and teaching centre for dance. Mrs Sangeetha also intended the project to be a space which would revive her passion towards dance. Their belief towards the concept of connection between the human body, movement and architectural space, fuelled thier interest towards the project.

The 15-cent plot was close to the town with residences nearby. Hence the design concept was to create an introverted space. This was achieved by positioning the fenestrations accordingly towards the vertical wall edges. Four small courts near these fenestrations served as the main provider of light towards the interior. Passive cooling was achieved by the provided ventilation techniques and varying moods were provided by the changing light and seasons bringing drama to the interiors. Materials like laterite, oxide flooring, terracotta ceiling tiles, Mangalore tiles, treated bamboo etc. contributed to the earthy palette. Their experience working on large-scale conservation projects provided us with the expertise to work with oxide, wood, copper, etc. in craftsmanship.