Mawi Design transforms Indian school corridors into extended classrooms
Mawi Design has successfully renovated the Kavundampalayam Government School located in Coimbatore, India, transforming previously underused corridors and circulation areas into essential learning spaces. The initiative turns narrow hallways into 'extended classrooms' that feature enhanced lighting, ventilation, and visual coherence. A linear pathway, likened to a 'street,' connects formerly separate buildings and facilitates daily activities. A combined ramp and staircase create a loop that merges circulation, play, and informal education. Color serves as a navigational aid, while louvred screens offer shade and security. New greenery along pathways reinstates environmental continuity. Enclosed yet visually open spaces for younger children, including an Anganwadi, are provided. Communal areas remain available after school hours, reinforcing the institution's role as a community asset. The design team consists of Malli Saravanan, Vijay Prakash, Akash Raj, and others, with photography by Studio f/8.
Key facts
- Mawi Design renovated Kavundampalayam Government School in Coimbatore, India.
- Corridors are reconfigured as 'extended classrooms' with light, ventilation, and visual continuity.
- A continuous linear spine called a 'street' links disconnected classroom blocks.
- A combined ramp and stair element creates a continuous loop for circulation and play.
- Color is applied as a wayfinding system across the campus.
- Louvred screens provide shading, ventilation, and safety.
- New planting is introduced along circulation routes.
- Communal spaces are accessible outside school hours, serving as civic resource.
Entities
Artists
- Malli Saravanan
- Vijay Prakash
- Akash Raj
- Prabhakaran
- Ajith Kumar
- Ananya M
- Anish
- Aravindhan A
- Kirte K C
- Thamini
- Keerthana
- Anand Khumar
Institutions
- Mawi Design
- Kavundampalayam Government School
- Studio f/8
- designboom
Locations
- Coimbatore
- India