Integrated architecture and design practice SpaceMatters has delivered the 16th Sandipani Vidyalaya School for the Government of Madhya Pradesh, capping its two‑decade journey with 500 completed projects across India. The achievement underscores both the state’s ambitious school transformation program and the studio’s interdisciplinary growth across education, healthcare, industrial townships, heritage, and adaptive reuse.
Part of the CM Rise pilot, the 16 schools designed by SpaceMatters span over 2 million sq.ft. . across Bhopal, Ashok Nagar, and Dhar. Each campus is contextual, climate‑responsive, and child‑centric, built within tight budgets and timelines. Features include shaded outdoor learning areas, breakout pockets, courtyards, and inclusive spaces for children with diverse needs — creating environments where learning extends beyond classrooms.
Founding Partner Ar. Moulshri Joshi noted: “Every site presented unique challenges and opportunities. We preserved trees, maximized play and sports areas, and ensured privacy, all within cost and time constraints. We believe learning happens everywhere, not only in the classroom.”
The Madhya Pradesh Government’s rebranded Sandipani Vidyalaya initiative aims to upgrade 9,000 schools with improved infrastructure, digital learning, teacher training, and community engagement. SpaceMatters’ design approach prioritised daylight, ventilation, and thermal comfort, while shaping corridors, courtyards, and breakout zones as vibrant, safe spaces.
Ar. Amritha Ballal, Founding Partner, added: “Evidence shows that well‑designed educational spaces impact learning outcomes, engagement, and well‑being. Partnering with the government to transform public schools is a privilege, and we aim to create equitable, uplifting spaces for every child.”
Beyond education, SpaceMatters has expanded expertise across architecture, interiors, urban design, habitat research, sports infrastructure, and CSR‑led social impact projects. “We approach every project with a balance of creativity, technical rigour, and experiential sensitivity,” said Joshi. “From masterplans and public institutions to hospitality and bespoke residences, our team delivers environmentally responsible, experientially rich, and innovative solutions.”
This milestone positions SpaceMatters as a benchmark practice in India’s design ecosystem, blending creativity with delivery excellence across varied scales and contexts.
