G12_SRUSHTI JADHAV

CENTRE OF DEVELOPMENT STUDIES, THIRUVANANTHAPURAM

Centre for Development Studies is a self-governing institution known for its

research Studies (CDS) in applied economics and topics germane to socio-
economic development, pedagogy, and training programs.

• The 10 acre campus is designed and delivered

by renowned architect and builder Padma
Shri Laurie Baker.
• Laurie Baker believed that every structure on a
site need not be similar in its form. As a result,
the building must fit its topographical
requirements, which will naturally improve its
aesthetic composition.
• A curved outer wall encloses a smaller
site area than linear edifices, thus
significantly impacting its cost.
• Sloping roofs come in various shapes and
sizes. Thus, experimenting on them will help
deduce the right form according to its cost
and climatic requirement.
• The campus splits into multiple blocks arranged in
harmony with the contours of the site.
• The brick façade and the organic form resembles
the color tone of the red topography on which it
stands.
• The preservation of the existing vegetation is a
crucial aspect of the design.
• Thus, the building molds and wounds itself
around the trees on site.
• The campus blend with the site so perfectly that
the structure seems to emerge from the soil.
• The curved ramps and the steps enhancing the
walkability on the sloped site contribute to its
organic design.