Keshav Akkitham

By Editorial Staff - 3 March 2025

Situated in Zamin Uthukuli, near Pollachi in Tamil Nadu, this project is a notable example of the ability of architecture to cater to practical and cultural needs through sustainable solutions that prioritize user well-being. Architect Keshav Akkitham designed this toilet block for Nachiar school seeking to overcome taboos surrounding purification-related spaces by transforming them into inclusive areas for all members of the student community.

Made out of recycled Mangalore tiles, the building’s earthy tones derive from materials salvaged from abandoned lots and old factories. The design seamlessly integrates into the surrounding landscape, establishing a genuine connection to the locality and giving the project a familiar appearance rooted in the local context.

The design was conceived with a special focus on natural ventilation and thermal comfort. High, window-free walls ensure privacy. A double roof creates a cavity that fosters air circulation to keep the interiors cool. An internal courtyard bordered by two blocks and enhanced by a bamboo grove serves as a green lung, improving air quality and providing a space for relaxation and reflection.

One distinctive feature is a 7-m panoramic opening that, framing the landscape, hosts a series of faucets, making handwashing a shared daily activity. Throughout the day, tree shadows dance across the façade, creating patterns of light that change the color of the tiles, adding visual interest to the building’s esthetics and inviting students to connect with the rhythms of nature.