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Epsilon completed the first phase in 2014, though as the facility expanded and the numbers grew, within years the need for the annexe became imperative. Epsilon returned in 2016 and by 2018 the primary and secondary sections expanded to the new annexe with the additional facilities of an adequate cafeteria, large lunch room, a huge covered multipurpose hall and staff accommodation facilities.
Located on the outskirts of the western fringes of the city, on the national highway connecting Kolkata to Mumbai in India, the site sits parallel to the highway, running from an east to the west direction. Surrounded by open fields, greenery on three sides and the highway towards the north, the site provided all the necessary ingredients for a satisfying architectural venture. A flat site as characterised by the region, the low lying land had to be filled to bring it up to the level of the highway. A clump of palm trees in the central and peripheral areas marked some interesting features of the site.
Two structures on the farthest ends were envisaged to run parallel to the highway running east to west, taking advantage of the large frontage as well as the southeasterly breeze during hot summer months. The central area was designed to form the assembly area coupled with basketball courts, cricket practice pitches, a toddler’s play area and a swimming pool. Special care was taken to retain the clump of palm trees in the central area, with the sport facilities designed around it. A large football field was planned on the eastern side of the plot, with staff quarters on small notches available on the south east. Adequate parking facilities were planned along the west side and the rear end of the plot, differentiating vehicular and pedestrian traffic.
Environmental studies and sun path diagrams done on the area prescribed the east to west axis. The east to west Corridors channel the wind from the south east, moving upward through the “wells” planned alongside staircases and other areas, bringing comfort during hot and humid summers. The facade was designed with larger openings towards the northern side and comparatively smaller openings are found on the southern side to block the harsh south and western sun. The larger window openings towards the north bring in soft natural light all throughout the day. Classrooms placed on both sides of the central corridors have uninterrupted views of the lush green surrounding, open fields and blue skies; ideal ingredients for a healthy and happy younger population to grow up in through years, giving students a sense of freedom. Such expansive open views are also a highlight for the students. The unpretentious facade, wears the“institutional look”, with triple height columns supporting pediments and terraces.
On the north side, the block facing the front road houses the administration offices, kindergarten, science labs, art, music and multipurpose rooms other than spacious classrooms. The east and west wings are separated by a central hall that opens out to the assembly area beyond.
The rear block towards the southern fringe of the site, accommodates a large kitchen and canteen facilities, a 9,393.3 sq ft column free multiple purpose hall for indoor sports, performances and other academic requirements are located on the topmost floor. Some accommodation for teachers were integrated in the rear block in addition to classrooms pertaining to curriculum standards.