The project was designed for dancer Mrinalini Sarabhai, conceived with an objective to teach the arts and to propagate Indian art through performance.

Darpana Academy of Performing Arts
Darpana Academy of Performing Arts © Kanvinde Rai & Chowdhury

The two-storey structure includes classrooms, offices, and support spaces on the ground floor with the director’s residence on the upper level. The building takes advantage of its setting next to the Sabarmati river by orienting a linear, semi-covered terrace toward it, with the classrooms clustered around it.

Section, Elevation and Plans
Section, Elevation and Plans: (1). Entrance; (2) Classroom; (3) Store; (4) Service Quarters, (5) Washroom; (6) Courtyard; (7) Existing Building; (8) Office; (9) Bedroom; (10) Dining Hall; (11) Kitchen; (12) Living Room and (13) Terrace © Kanvinde Rai & Chowdhury
Darpana Academy of Performing Arts
Darpana Academy of Performing Arts © Kanvinde Rai & Chowdhury

This central space also serves as an extension of the teaching area. The shape of the residential unit on the first floor is dictated by the linear form generated on the lower level, partially spanning over the extended terrace below. The overall layout of the complex is oriented diagonally with respect to the plot, offering vistas towards the river. The building has an exposed concrete frame structure with exposed brick infill walls. The floors are finished in Kota stone interspersed by marble strips.