Abstract:
The proposed redevelopment of the National School of Drama (NSD), New Delhi, arises from the current challenges posed by its fragmented site planning and lack of adequate facilities to support modern drama education. As one of India’s premier institutions for performing arts, the existing campus fails to reflect the dynamic, interactive, and collaborative nature of theatre. This thesis reimagines the NSD campus not merely as a functional academic space, but as a living stage—where students are the performers, visitors the audience, and architecture the ever-evolving set.
Situated on an 8-acre urban site with a mandate to preserve the existing Repertory Block, the project contends with limited buildable area, necessitating a vertical approach to spatial organization. The design aims to improve interaction among internal spaces while also opening the campus to the public, encouraging engagement with a broader community and welcoming diverse user groups. The spatial language is rooted in the idea of 'loose' and interconnected spaces—where classrooms open into semi-covered terraces, rehearsal spaces flow into open courtyards, and indoor and outdoor environments merge to promote informal exchange.
By integrating flexible, collaborative environments with formal learning zones, the new campus fosters creativity, inclusivity, and experiential learning. The redevelopment not only addresses infrastructural gaps but also positions the NSD as a cultural landmark that reflects the essence of theatre through its architecture.
Keywords: Campus Redevelopment, Drama Education, Flexible Learning Environments, Public Engagement
