How visually-impaired students at THIS school in Gandhinagar move with the aid of four senses

Imagine a place where walls and floors have different textures, doors are painted in bright colours, and light, scents, and sounds help guide you. This is the story of a school in Gandhinagar that has redefined design to support visually-challenged students from remote villages and towns across Gujarat. The school enables students to navigate their environment by engaging their senses, creating an accessible learning space.

The 'School for the Blind and the Visually Impaired,' designed by the Ahmedabad-based firm SEALAB, sets a new standard for inclusive design. It’s not just about functionality; it’s about creating a space where these students can connect with their surroundings in meaningful ways.

Previously, the school occupied a dilapidated primary school building, which had been repurposed for the Service Association for the Blind. Recognizing the need for a significant overhaul, the principal enlisted Anand Sonecha, the founder of SEALAB to design a new, inclusive space.

Sonecha’s vision was clear: to craft an environment where visually impaired students could rely on their other senses—touch, sound, smell, and light—to navigate their surroundings. “Every visually impaired child has different needs, and we wanted to create a space that was inclusive of them all,” says Anand Sonecha

The school's design incorporates five distinct wall textures, allowing students to identify different areas by touch. Floors feature a combination of rough and smooth Kota stone, marking entry points and helping with orientation. Each classroom, corridor, and courtyard is labelled in Braille, ensuring that navigation is accessible to those who read Braille.

Sound plays a crucial role in the design, with varying volumes and architectural echoes guiding students through the building. Different colours are used strategically to aid those who can perceive light, while aromatic plants are incorporated to provide additional sensory cues. Shrubs are planted not only to attract butterflies and birds but also to enhance the sensory experience of the courtyards.

Functional since 2021, the school serves over 40 students and stands as a model for how architecture can adapt to the needs of its users. By integrating sensory cues into the design, this Gandhinagar school demonstrates a commitment to creating spaces where students with any need can thrive.