From Tradition to Innovation: Application of Terracotta Modular Wall Panels in Orphanage Interior Design

Abstract

This study explores how terracotta modular wall tiles can improve the design of orphanages in Bhopal. Orphanages need spaces that are safe, child-friendly, and supportive of sensory growth. Terracotta is a natural, sustainable material that keeps interiors cool, reduces noise, and allows fresh air and light to flow through. Its warm texture and modular patterns create playful and engaging walls that children can touch, see, and experience, supporting sensory development. Using terracotta also promotes cultural identity, sustainability, and support for local craftsmen. By analyzing comfort, affordability, and child-friendly design, this study shows how terracotta tiles can make orphanages healthier, more comfortable, and emotionally supportive

Introduction

This study explores how terracotta modular wall tiles can improve the design of orphanages in Bhopal, focusing on children’s comfort, sensory development, and sustainability. Orphanage design greatly influences children’s emotional, cognitive, and physical well-being, making material selection crucial.

Terracotta, a traditional and natural Indian material, provides several benefits — it keeps interiors cool, reduces noise, allows ventilation, and creates a warm, comforting environment. Its modular and perforated (Jali) patterns enable natural light and air flow while supporting sensory stimulation through touch, light, and texture.

The literature review confirms terracotta’s performance in multiple areas:

• Thermal comfort: Terracotta naturally lowers indoor temperatures (Kushtagi et al., Singh et al., Chel & Tiwari).

• Acoustic comfort: It absorbs sound and reduces echoes (Kaushik et al.).

• Sensory development: Jali patterns and textures enhance tactile and visual experiences (Sto.M P Architects, Verma, Helles, ArchDaily).

• Sustainability and affordability: It is eco-friendly, cost-effective, and supports local craftsmanship (Verma, Chel & Tiwari).

The research purpose is to create child-friendly, sensory-rich, and sustainable orphanage interiors. By engaging children’s senses through varied textures, light patterns, and natural airflow, terracotta fosters emotional comfort, creativity, and focus.

Methodology: The study uses secondary data to analyze thermal, acoustic, sensory, and sustainable aspects of terracotta, forming evidence-based design guidelines.

Findings show that terracotta tiles:

• Improve thermal and acoustic comfort naturally.

• Enhance sensory and emotional well-being through tactile and visual features.

• Offer eco-friendly and cost-effective solutions suitable for orphanages in hot climates like Bhopal.

In conclusion, terracotta modular wall tiles can transform orphanage interiors into safe, nurturing, and stimulating environments that support the holistic development of children while promoting sustainability and cultural relevance.

Conclusion

This suggests that terracotta modular wall tiles can significantly enhance orphanage interiors in Bhopal with the aid of using them cooler, quieter, and extra attractive for children. The tiles’ thermal, acoustic, and tactile qualities support comfort, sensory development, and cognitive growth.Their eco-friendly, affordable, and culturally significant nature makes them appropriate for budget-aware and sustainable design. Using terracotta in partitions and partitions, orphanages can create safe, playful, and nurturing areas that sell children’s physical, emotional, and intellectual well-being. Overall, terracotta modular tiles offer a practical and holistic solution for designing child-friendly, sustainable, and stimulating interiors in Indian orphanages.

References

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Copyright

Copyright © 2025 Aarti Kujur, Sucheta Nigam . This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.