Future → Built Creatively
“STRATA LEARN – School for Developmental Learning” is a project by Dimple Rajesh Ashodiya, BSc Interior Design 2023 at JD School of Design, Goa. Inspired by the layered structure and stability of rammed earth, the project explores the theme of inclusive learning, sensory engagement, and child-centred design. It aims to create a safe, calming, and supportive educational environment for children with intellectual disabilities, while responding to the need for spaces that encourage emotional regulation, independence, cognitive development, and carer interaction.
The project is designed for children with intellectual disabilities aged 3–7 years, along with their carers and educators, keeping their sensory, emotional, and developmental needs at the core of the design process.The design approach focuses on accessibility, sensory responsiveness, safety, and functionality, ensuring that the environment is both meaningful and supportive. Through research into the behavioural, sensory, and emotional responses of children with intellectual disabilities, the project identifies the need for carefully balanced environments that encourage learning and exploration without causing overstimulation.
Materials such as rammed earth, mud plaster, lime plaster, linoleum flooring, pine wood, Kota stone, and natural textiles and techniques including sensory zoning, tactile wall integration, child-scaled design, nature-based wayfinding, and interactive spatial elements were chosen to enhance comfort, navigation, engagement, and well-being. Visually, the project is defined by soft textures, muted earth tones, natural materials, controlled lighting, and tactile surfaces, reflecting growth, stability, emotional comfort, and connection to nature. The final outcome, a sensory-responsive educational interior, embodies the idea that thoughtfully designed spaces can positively influence learning, behaviour, and well-being while creating a nurturing environment for both children and caregivers.Through this project, the designer aims to highlight the importance of inclusive and human-centred design, positioning interior design as a tool for empathy, accessibility, and positive developmental support. Ultimately, “STRATA LEARN” stands as a reflection of growth through layered experiences, demonstrating how sensitive and innovative design can empower children to learn, explore, and thrive with confidence.
