THIRD SPACE: A COMMUNITY

LEARNING HUB IN UDAIPUR

Third Space is a visionary project that embodies the spirit of community learning and cultural exchange. This innovative center, located
in the vibrant city of Udaipur, India, serves as a vibrant hub for diverse activities, fostering a sense of inclusivity and accessibility for
people of all ages and backgrounds. Designed by Studio Saar in collaboration with the not-for-profit organization Dharohar, Third Space
stands as a testament to the power of architecture to create meaningful spaces for learning, connection, and cultural expression.
PROJECT OVERVIEW
1 FIRST OF ITS KIND
Third Space marks a groundbreaking initiative in Udaipur, establishing the city's first
dedicated learning and cultural center. The center, inaugurated in 2023, aims to
cater to a wide range of interests, fostering a sense of community engagement and
lifelong learning.
2 EXTENSIVE SPACE
The center boasts a considerable footprint, spanning over 20,100 square meters.
This expansive area provides ample room for diverse activities and programs,
ensuring a dynamic and engaging environment for visitors.

3 COLLABORATING ORGANIZATIONS
Third Space is a testament to the power of collaborative efforts. Studio Saar, the
architectural firm responsible for the design, partnered with Dharohar, a non-profit
organization dedicated to promoting cultural development. This collaborative
approach brings together expertise and resources, ensuring a holistic approach to
the project's success.
The biggest challenge was to bring
multiple activities into a single coherent
space. To overcome this, we decided to
place the main community activities in
the central courtyard. In-between spaces,
such as the entrance, corridors, and
courtyards, often forgotten in building
design, were designed to serve as
flexible spaces for performances and
community gatherings, bringing all
activities together under one roof.
ARCHITECTURAL CHALLENGES
1 DIVERSE PROGRAM
A KEY CHALLENGE WAS ACCOMMODATING A WIDE RANGE OF ACTIVITIES WITHIN A SINGLE
STRUCTURE. THE DESIGN HAD TO SEAMLESSLY INTEGRATE A MUSEUM, MAKERSPACE,
CINEMA, PERFORMANCE VENUE, AND VARIOUS OTHER SPACES, CREATING A UNIFIED
EXPERIENCE FOR VISITORS.

2 CENTRAL COURTYARD
TO ENHANCE THE COHERENCE OF THE CENTER, THE DESIGNERS STRATEGICALLY PLACED
THE MAJOR COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES AROUND A CENTRAL COURTYARD. THIS
ARCHITECTURAL FEATURE SERVED AS A FOCAL POINT FOR CIRCULATION, CREATING A
NATURAL FLOW BETWEEN DIFFERENT SPACES AND FOSTERING A SENSE OF UNITY.

3 INTEGRATION OF SPACES
THE DESIGN AIMED TO CREATE A SENSE OF INTERCONNECTEDNESS BETWEEN DIFFERENT
SPACES, BLURRING THE BOUNDARIES BETWEEN FORMAL AND INFORMAL SETTINGS.
ENTRANCE AREAS AND CORRIDORS WERE TRANSFORMED INTO FLEXIBLE SPACES,
SUITABLE FOR PERFORMANCES, GATHERINGS, AND INFORMAL INTERACTIONS. THIS
APPROACH ENCOURAGED SPONTANEOUS ENCOUNTERS AND FOSTERED A SENSE OF
COMMUNITY.
 DESIGN OBJECTIVES
Accessibility and Inclusivity Lifelong Learning Community Connection

Third Space was designed to break The center serves as a destination Central to the design is the concept
free from the confines of traditional for lifelong learners, providing a of fostering community
spaces like homes and schools. It stimulating environment for connections. Third Space
aims to be a welcoming and individuals of all ages to explore encourages interaction and
accessible hub for all community their passions, enhance their skills, collaboration, providing a platform
members, regardless of their and connect with others who share for individuals to share ideas,
background or interests. The center their interests. Third Space develop relationships, and
emphasizes inclusivity, fostering a embraces the idea that learning is contribute to the collective well-
sense of belonging and an ongoing process, offering a being of the community. The center
encouraging participation in variety of programs and resources aims to be a vibrant space where
various activities. to support personal and people can come together, learn
intellectual growth. from one another, and create
lasting bonds.
SPATIAL DESIGN FEATURES
Central Courtyard
Inspired by traditional havelis (mansions), the central courtyard serves as the heart of the center,
connecting all learning spaces. Its open design promotes natural ventilation and provides a tranquil
space for relaxation and reflection. The courtyard features a beautiful water fountain, adding a
soothing element to the overall design.

Flexible Spaces
Third Space prioritizes versatility and adaptability. Entrance areas, corridors, and other in-between
spaces are designed to serve multiple purposes, accommodating impromptu performances,
informal gatherings, and community events. These flexible spaces foster a dynamic and engaging
environment, encouraging interaction and spontaneous activities.

Visual Connections
The design emphasizes visual connections between different spaces. Strategic placement of
windows and openings allows natural light to flood the interior, creating a bright and welcoming
atmosphere. These openings also provide glimpses into other areas of the center, fostering a sense
of interconnectedness and inviting visitors to explore different spaces.
Construction Materials and Sustainability
1 Local Materials
The center prioritizes the use of locally sourced materials, minimizing transportation
emissions and supporting local industries. This approach not only reduces the
environmental impact but also showcases the unique qualities of regional materials,
enhancing the building's character.

2 Recycled Materials
Waste marble rubble and lime mortar from nearby mines were ingeniously incorporated
into the masonry walls. This sustainable approach minimized waste and repurposed
materials that would otherwise be discarded.

3 Creative Reuse
Reused marble cut-offs and metal offcuts were creatively repurposed for various building
elements, demonstrating the importance of resourcefulness and ingenuity in design. This
approach not only reduces waste but also adds a unique charm to the center.

4 Solar Shading
A bamboo canopy provides solar shading, reducing energy consumption and minimizing
the center's carbon footprint. Bamboo, a fast-growing and sustainable material, further
contributes to the center's environmentally conscious design.
CULTURAL INSPIRATION

Rajasthan's Architectural Heritage

The design draws inspiration from Rajasthan's rich architectural heritage,
incorporating traditional elements with modern interpretations. This
approach blends a sense of familiarity with contemporary aesthetics,
creating a unique and harmonious design.

Traditional Step Wells

The entrance features a "Baori," a traditional step well found in
Rajasthan. This architectural feature not only enhances the regional
character of the center but also provides a visually striking entrance,
welcoming visitors into the heart of the center.

Community Engagement
The open-air public space surrounding the center features varied shapes
and features, encouraging interaction and playful activities. Visitors can
relax, run, jump, and engage in a variety of activities, promoting a sense
of community and creating a vibrant atmosphere.
COLLABORATION AND
LEARNING PROCESS
Experts Contribution

Engineers Structural design, sustainable solutions

Material Producers Sourcing of local and recycled materials

Community Members Input on program needs, cultural

elements

The project highlights the importance of collaboration and knowledge sharing. The
design team engaged with a diverse group of experts, including engineers, material
producers, and community members, to ensure a comprehensive approach. This
collaborative spirit resulted in innovative design solutions, incorporating local expertise
and community input, which ultimately contributed to the center's success.