Renovation and extension of the Lycee Francais de Pondichery, an old and important institution located in the heritage precinct of this French colonial town. The earliest building dates from mid 19th century, with subsequent additions in the early and mid 20th century. The design negotiates the needs of local conservation guidelines, with a street facade that complies to them, and the need for such an institution to mark a renaissance with a more contemporary architectural expression for the internal facades. It is an architecture for education that essentially looks at how design can enhance cognitive learning by provoking a dialogue with nature, with each other and with oneself.