Itīs A Breeze

Hillier Architecture
www.hillier.com
609.452.8888
Princeton, NJ 08543

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Sustainable design isn’t always about just bricks and mortar solutions. The American International School at Chennai is designed around a series of landscaped courtyards and fountains to provide the school with natural cooling options in a geographic region known for its hot temperatures, grueling sun exposure and frequent power outages. The water features provide evaporative cooling, while the courtyards and gardens – encircled by covered walkways – open eastward to facilitate afternoon breezes. An enjoyable as well as functional space, the central courtyards help keep students cool and offer a relaxing reprieve from the day’s academic challenges.


Materials:
Local plant life Brick Granite Sandstone poured in place concrete
Comments:
While this school is a more extreme case of what can be done to promote sustainability in design, it offers many practical ideas as well. Water is a great source for cooling, and by keeping the water in a courtyard, a school can benefit greatly from this natural air conditioner. Neil@schooldesigner.com
Other: American International School of Chennai | Chennai, India
Photos:

Nicholas Garrison