Sinuous Lines of Fluidity
Spread across 4 storeys, this office for a clothing brand, is located in a tight urban setting in south Bengaluru. While the first three floors serve as a storage godown, the fourth floor accommodates a boutique office for the fashion house. A cafeteria and break out zones are housed on the landscaped terrace above. Programmatically, the building is raised on stilts to enable parking on ground. Liberating this space allowed for a thoughtful landscape on site.
Fact File
Project Typology: Commercial Complex
Built up Area: 25350 sq.ft.
Site Area: 4600 sq. ft.
Project Completion: June 2017
Material Palette
- Malleable materials such as concrete and glass are used in the exterior
- Flexible ply in the interiors add lightness and an ephemeral finish, while solid surfaces create fluidity
- All surfaces are finished in a reflective high gloss paint
- Fluidity is augmented by a seamless reflective skin using polished white Italian marble
- Similar strategies are employed in detailing of the false ceiling and the lighting.
Translation of a sculptural notion into a workable design and construction was a serious challenge, that has been bested by the use of Digital Media and physical models as reference prototypes for execution on site
Inclined at creating an environment where people can live and work, the design is thoughtfully steered at influencing human behaviour. The entire workspace adorns white color, to add calmness and tranquillity. Passive design strategies such as day-lit workspaces, natural ventilation and indoor/outdoor interaction using landscaping have been incorporated to eliminate/avoid the Sick Building Syndrome.
Within the corporate office floor, the design articulates various functions segregating public and private spaces. The individual cabins flaunt bespoke furniture, while the common workstations have modular furniture by Feather Lite, to maximize seating. The custom-made furniture in the cabins is subtly sewn in wood, topped with Italian marble for a sophisticated look and feel.
Unlike most contemporary projects that use neoteric techniques, this commercial workplace uses generic materials like concrete brick and glass, effectively used to create complex fluidic forms on the exterior and interior. Drawing from the qualities of the exterior, the interiors aim to accentuate the fluidity of the space by mapping the surfaces in the ceiling and the walls. Subsequently, the interiors and the exteriors form one cohesive whole.
Ambiance & Order
The design approach of Studio An-V-Thot Architects in the office renovation of Borges India has been to serve the best office ambiance keeping the brand identity in mind
Fact File
Borges Head Office, India
Location: New Delhi
Area: 3000 sq.ft.
Builder: Kunj Developers
Design Team: Gaurav Chauhan, Vivek Kotha, Tavleen Kaur
Completion: April 2017
Photo Credits: Avneesh Kumar
Material Palette
Laminates: Greenlam
Office Furniture: Customised with Hettich Fittings & Leatherite Seats
Lacquered Glass: Saint-Gobain
Laminate Shutters: Greenlam
Lighting: Philips
Flooring: Nitco Tiles
The challenge was to address the irregular floor space and give a sense of uniformity and order to office demands. The overall movement pattern is well defined so as to avoid clashes in the interest of working and also to create a sense of hierarchy for better work results
Pratyoosh Chandan, Director
At the workstations materials have been kept simple and elegant with neutral beige and off-white offset by a bit of red and green
While most of the areas have Italian Diana Flooring or wooden laminate flooring, in the conference room the dark carpet flooring adds drama and gives a sense of transition from the rest of the office area
Incorporating green in designs is a crucial point as it is helpful in creating a positive working environment. Lighting has been incorporated not only in the ceiling but also in the main furniture
Ankita Sweety, Director
Partition jaalis create a sense of individuality in the workstations. Uniformity has been achieved by providing white beech laminates on workstations as well as on wall partitions. Use of nautical red laminates on workstations and green acrylic jaalis on wall partitions bring colour to the space.
An interestingly irregularly shaped Reception table composed with a few trapezoidal surfaces and as its backdrop, the logo of the company in bright red
In the kitchen area, a confluence of red lacquered glass as backsplash, beige laminate shutters on overhead storage, bright red fixed leather upholstered seats in the dining area complement each other
Reflected Topography
BGRT (Bearys Global Research Triangle) at Whitefields, Bengaluru, is a skillful response by the architects to the client’s rather complex brief to design a multi-functional public cum office space with a variety of programs. The waffle slab system, which is the most dominant part of the space, is left exposed to highlight the structural clarity of the space - one of the earliest design decisions that paid dividends.
The lobby is dominated by a central column, which supports the waffle slab system that spans across 32m x 32m space, with a height of 9m. The front facing sides have structural glazing and the sides on the back are stacked with services and toilets.
The central column anchors the spatial disposition in the vast space and became the axis for spatial orientation. The architectural lighting has been conceived as foliage which stems from this anchoring element. The column has been clad with Corian panels, with special details to have access for maintenance and service.
The aspiration of the client, who is a patron of good designs, made the design process challenging, and pushed the boundaries of innovation, that set a benchmark by its out of the box design and sustainability agenda. The project is Platinum LEED Certified
Ar. Lalita Tharani & Ar. Mujib Ahmed, Collaborative Architecture
Fact File
Project: BGRT, Bangalore
Area: 12,000 sq ft
Client: Bearys Group, Bangalore
Architects: Collaborative Architecture (Mumbai, Kerala)
Architectural Lighting Design: Collaborative Architecture
Design team: Lalita Tharani, Mujib Ahmed, Muneeb
Site Team: Iqbal, Sherif, Anand, Nazir
Electrical Consultants: SAN Design Consultants
Structural Consultants: Mahendra Raj
Photography: Lalita Tharani & Manish Gala
Material Palette
Flooring: Quartz Stone
Walls: Exposed Concrete, Stucco on Masonry
Ceiling: Structural Waffle System left untouched for the main area, Gyp board for the mezzanine
Furniture : Plywood and Veneer /Plywood and Corian
Indoor Tree Vase: Flexi-Plywood and Corian
Custom Designed Lights: Ferrari Fabric in MS Frame with LED Tubes
Waffle Lights: 600 x 600 GE Trilux LED Panel Lights
Mezzanine Lights: 600 / 1200 Linear GE LED Panel Lights + 5W LED Spots
BMS System: Dynalite, Philips
Chairs: Herman Miller
Custom Designed Cluster Seating: MS framework, Plywood, Corian and PU Upholstery
The project is unique in that sense, to make the architectural lighting as the raison d’être, and the space definer, not just in stylistic terms, but in terms of tectonic manipulation of the neutral space.
The pattern of the waffle system acted as the spring board for the design of the customised lighting, which resulted in a highly dynamic space - reflecting the geometry of structural system.
The seating cluster, specially designed for the project, triggers social interactions, and creates an undulating topography of contoured volume at the eye level, in a way complementing the undulating pattern on the ceiling. The Strip light, highlights along the bottom of the sofa clusters, creates a dynamic pattern and goes as an integral part of the overall design.
The lobby functions nearly 18 hours a day. The space has 5 private meeting rooms, with 4 located at the mezzanine level as added cantilevered units projecting into the atrium space.
Lighting System & Design
The project is equipped with BMS with Dali ballasts for Daylight Harvesting. The expansive glazing on two sides allow ample daylight during any season, making the system utilize minimal energy during the day.
LED-based light sources include Customized Fabric lights with 1200 long LED tubes; passage spaces have 600 & 1200 LED panel lights and 5W LED Spots. The waffle has 600 x 600 LED Panel Lights to supplement the customized lighting and to create a pattern in the waffle, which complements the configuration of the fabric lights.
Opening Up Spaces
Apartments in the Hanging Gardens high-rise residential complex, designed by Sunil Patil and Associates for Dilip Jadhav Builders, is an attempt to bring all the facilities enjoyed in a bungalow
Because of the building bylaws, balconies have vanished from high-rise apartments, hence, we have designed the bedrooms with three sides open and with glazed doors and a railing to give a feeling of openeness
Ar. Sunil Patil
The residential building has 6 floors with a 3-bedroom apartment on every floor, covering an area of 1800 sq.ft, including a huge terrace with a garden and a plunge pool. The living, dining, and kitchen have been designed as one space without any partition to visually enhance the space. The terrace too is an extension of the living and dining spaces and a bedroom. Thus, all the primary spaces of the apartment get openings to the terrace.
Fact File
Project Name: Hanging Gardens
Category: Residential Apartment
Plot area: 445.80 sqm
Built up area: 623.80 sqm
Client: Dilip Jadhav Builders
Location: Kolhapur
Architect: Sunil Patil and Associates
Landscape Designers: Sunil Patil and Associates
Consulting Structure Engineer: Prashant Hadkar
Photo Credits: Sanjay Chougule
Material Palette
Terrace: Kajariya wood finished vitrified tiles
Parking & Setback: Pavers
Internal Flooring: Kajaria vitrified tiles
Exterior Paints: Apex Exterior Paints
Interior Paints: Synthetic emulsion of Asian Paints
Railings: M.S. railing with glass
Roofing: RCC Slabs
Sanitaryware: Jaquar
Windows: Jindal powder coated aluminium
Exterior Cladding: Shera Cement Fiber Planks and ACP Panel
Swimming Pool: Finished with glass mosaic tiles
Walls are clad with Shahabad and bathroom dado with rough Kota stones. The building façade is a composite of Shera cladding and rough texture plaster. The columns supporting the terraces are clad with aluminum composite panels that continue to the pergolas on the topmost terrace. Intricate detailing was done to provide drainage for the terrace gardens that are filled with soil to ensure leakage-free soffits.
The building is designed as per the tropical climate. The south walls have been blocked and large openings in the north admit sufficient light. Ample cross ventilation in all the rooms reduces use of air conditioners in the harsh summer months. There are LED lights in all the rooms and wood-like vitrified tiles in the rooms and pool deck.
Melange of Materials
Tucked in the busy urban fabric of Rajkot, the salon is a fusion of contemporary design with natural untreated materials. The salon projects a very rustic, raw look, bringing out the original beauty of bricks and concrete at a very fundamental level. The natural variation of colours in bricks creates a remarkable canvas highlighting other elements of decor.
Fact File
Carpet Area: 1000 sqft.
Cost per sqft: `1800
Location: Rajkot, Gujarat
Lead Designers: Viral Patel & Shabana Sadikot Ghoghari
Design Team: Toral Kamani and Viral Patel
Total Project Cost: approx. `18 lakhs
Photography: Dhrupad Shukla
We have extended the theme not only for the floors but also up to the ceiling. Moving away from the conventional concrete ceiling with false POP plaster, we have used a combination of barrel vaults in cement paint along with fire brick cladding to configure the ceiling. This is a smart solution as it is beautiful and affordable for construction and maintenance
Viral Patel
The direct glare coming from the south facing façade is reduced by a thick exposed brick wall. Dramatized with a circular opening, it allows visitors to have a sneak peek into the interiors. The adjacent perforated screen, built by tactful placing of bricks, allows light and facilitates air circulation.
Having created functional zones with strong visual connections within the 1000 sq.ft. area, the project is a delineated effort towards configuring maintenance-free interiors within a modest expense by putting together some skilful materials for a sensorial effect. For instance, one of the circular partitions acts as a planter while the other acts as a display for products. The melange of materials and lighting metamorphose the space into a vernal and fresh one.
Using monotonous material was a decision coming from constraints of time and budget. As designers, we transformed this limitation into an opportunity by adopting a very local, identifiable material and turning it into contemporary interiors, and creating functional elements that also act as space segregators
Shabana Sadikot Ghoghari
The material palette is innovative: the flooring is of exposed concrete with a distilled use of metal scrap, which gives a depth to the visual composition. Plants bring in freshness and a contrasting tone to the overall earthy colour scheme. Instead of expensive artefacts, brand products take centre stage.
A combination of fire blocks, cement boards and mild steel forms the furniture and partitions. The wooden furniture makes the ambiance warm and welcoming. The metal fabrication generates a geometrical composition framing different visuals. Sleek metal pipes bring in simplicity through linearity while squeezing optimal functions from every niche and corner.
Taking forward the rustic theme, the industrial lights have been carefully crafted and placed. The graphical appeal is accentuated with combination of industrial and ceramic lights, custom designed fixtures, and task and mood lighting to uplift the periphery or for highlighting spots.
An Experiment in Textures
Material Palette
Mother’s room & Den: Statuario and wooden flooring, walnut veneer
Living, Dining: Fumed white oak veneer, Silver Travertino cladding (Stone Source)
Den: Fumed white oak veneer
Master bedroom: Distressed Wenge veneer, Fumed white Oak veneer on headboard with gold leafing.
Daughter’s room: Coloured (white) Polyurethene coating, Fumed white oak veneer desk, and coloured (white) back-painted glass storage for study.
Fact File
Location: 22nd floor in a high-rise in Central Mumbai
Area: 3500 sq.ft
Design Team: Tejal Gada, Khushboo & Kunal Khandelwal
Interior Contractor: Zigma Enterprises
Automation: Raylogic
Furniture & Accessories: Poltrona Frau, Vondom, Mozaic, DeFurn (China), Chor Bazaar
Architectural Lighting: Scoop Lighting
Decorative Lighting: Vibhor Sogani, Tom Dickson
Photos: Sebastian Zachariah, PhxIndia
Textured walls, material and light experimentation as standalone design features define each space, giving it an individual character, while simultaneously lending a continuity in visuals through tying elements such as the wooden dropped ceiling forming a wooden band in the living and dining area.
The concept of the house became an experiment with textures wherein the house is an eclectic mix of design features put together sensitively. Each space has a singular point of focus/element in the form of a wall treatment or texture in the sense that various modalities of function and design then revolved around it. At the same time, we had to make sure that the design flowed from one space to another without any in your face or stark contrast while maintaining a unique identity of each space
Khushboo Khandelwal
The highlight of the living room is a silver travertine stone panelled wall (from Stone Source) in the passage leading into the living room, giving a structure to the passage and enveloping the living room. The passage leading to the living room and the bedrooms is dropped down by a wood panelled ceiling forming a tying band element in the living and dining area. This adds scale and defines the spaces, without any visual break or partitions. Vondom planters in the passage add a quirky element against a mirror back wall, leading into the dining area.
All the in-built furniture along and some loose furniture like the bar unit, the dining console, the entrance unit etc were customised by us along with our contracting team. The dining table, armchairs, glass centre and side tables, dining chairs, den sofa (drawing inspiration from Roche Bobois) were customised by Mozaic. Items like the wooden chaise in the living area, bar stools, wooden barrel centre tables etc were sourced from DeFurn. The main white sofa is “Manto” from Poltrona Frau. Artefacts and curios are from Defurn, Mozaic, and Chor Bazaar
Kunal Khandelwal
The dining area extends into a large sundeck, where a simple Corten steel console pulls out to form a concealed bar area. Textured paint on the wall complements it. The den is used primarily to watch movies and for card sessions. Here, a textured “wooden wall” with quirky card symbols becomes the design highlight of the space. The wall is designed as a series of fumed white oak veneer panels, faceted at various angles, along with concealed lighting. The sofa arrangement is a series of individual seats in funky patterns and coloured motif fabrics.
The master bedroom has a distressed finish wenge veneer wall, with a recessed brass strip disguising the wardrobes, the bathroom and the dressing storage. The headboard is a collage of wooden and gold motif panels, and the highlight of the room is an “ornamental relief” wall, giving a sense of understated luxury.
In the mother’s room, the focal point is a slanted textural pattern in walnut veneer, which forms the headboard, and is complemented in the wardrobe handles. The daughter’s room is clutter free, and in varied textures of white, complemented by grey and yellow as soft furnishings. Colored quotes on the wall define the surface treatment and become the focal point, adding a sense of playfulness to the space.
A Visual Dialogue
Abhigyan Neogi & Ar. Kanika Suri, Chromed Design Studio
Fact File
Project name:Epic Kitchen N Bar
Location: Hudson Lane, Vijay Nagar, New Delhi
Gross Built Area: 4000 sq.ft
Commencement: May 2017
Completion:February 2018
Architect Firm:Chromed Design Studio
Design Team:Piyusha Upadhyay, Kanika Vohra, Abhigyan Neogi
Photo credits:Arvind Hoon
Text by:Ar. Himani Ahuja (One Digital)
Located in north Delhi, GTB Nagar, Hudson Lane, amidst a street lined with themed cafes, never fails to surprise with its overall cheery ambience. Each cafe here is unique, as is Epic with its artistic decor.
Making a well-deserved comeback from the 1980s is the Memphis design movement, reflected in the vibrant Full Stop Café, alive with loud pop colors, zany patterns, and bright neon lights. Various signs and installations give the place a memorable hallmark. High in graphic design content, the space engages the onlooker in a visual dialogue.
Other highlights are a suspended community table, an acrylic chandelier, long vertical vision panels for natural daylight, different flooring patterns and styles, elements peculiar to the Memphis style such as Laminates and Terrazzo on table tops and on floor finishes, wide gateways in Sesame Street Colours and Squiggle prints, walls adorned in wacky geometric mirrored prints, and simple stippling artworks on black panelled walls.
A cleverly designed air conditioning layout is a characteristic of this place, as it runs parallel overhead to the aisle while cooling the area uniformly and without any hot pockets. Vertical circulation points include a canary yellow Helical staircase near the two-way elevator, and a wider staircase with classy black décor for the staff.
There is a visible transformation in the quality of space once the visitor climbs the final flight of stairs. The bright neon and acrylic colours transform into emerald greens and tasteful Eames chairs covered in velvet. There is a cut-out overhead for an added feeling of comfort with a double height space. Indoor plants, black panels lined with green textures, a see-through bar back complimented by a brass monolithic bar, a dark green panelled wall with mounted typewriters and a lit-up crossword, brass sphere installations around the DJ console, and a Kadappa flooring, form the interesting creatives.
The elevator leads to a terrace where the design sports a partial indoor space complemented by lush outdoors. A truss with glass fitted in the voids at the top and walls, allows one to experience the skies, and at night, the terrace lights up to reveal the wall decor with wall mounted lights and patterned panels.
Getting it Right
Especially in high rise buildings where space is a constraint, modern kitchens are coming up with in-built refrigerators and dishwashers as they look cleaner, and they also fit in the same depth as the kitchen counter that is around 24 to 26 inches as compared to the large refrigerators that project out from the counters by 6 to 8 inches. The in-built fridges have a capacity of around 275 litres, so one may need to select as per the requirement. A variety of brands like Miele, Seimens, Kaff, Elica, Faber etc, are available as per the budget and desire for aesthetics.
As regards materials for countertops, cabinets etc, it’s best to choose the materials and finishes including the hardware and fittings before the project begins. Finishes are available in glossy, lacquer, matte, and non-reflective glass. For countertops, I have used quartz marble from Kalinga marble from Classic Marble Company (CMC), and for the island counter, orange back painted glass. For cabinets, I have used Marine Ply with lacquer, and the Italian kitchens have MDF/ Particle Board with lacquer or anti-scratch laminate, or Marine Ply with back painted glass and veneer. The backsplash is the same counter quartz turned up.
We look for hardware that enables smooth functionality, is long lasting and easy to clean. The kitchen design should consider optimum space utilization, even the corners. Hettich and Blum are some of the brands we use on our sites.
When Craft Becomes the Structure
Name of Project: The Crafted Shell
National Competition: 2nd Runner up
Location: Panjim, Goa
Architects: Design Urban Office Architects
Project Team: Dipal Kothari, Atrey Chhaya
The form resonates with the structure of a Seashell, which is intrinsic to the coastal state of Goa. The form is initiated by the Fibonacci spiral, a series of incremental numbers that define the growth of a shell. With the same rational, the scale of the structure can be adapted to various site conditions.
The craft
Crafted at the edge between land and sea it is a part of Goan culture and identity. The sweeping expansive structure creates possibilities for multiple uses. The efficient design of the Shell allows for maximum habitable volume with minimum material resources. The geometry of the seashell is observed, analyzed and manipulated to derive a habitable space.
A series of wind flow analysis was carried out to create optimal flow thereby maximizing cross ventilation and reducing heat pockets within the structure. Slits in the roof bring in diffused natural light and ensure uniform lighting in the interiors. The slits allow for warm air to rise and escape, thereby naturally ventilating the interior spaces. This would ensure a cross ventilation flow in the structure.
Adaptive plan
The form and structure of the design allows for the space to be used for a variety of possible configurations. An office, a reception and the entrance plaza form the only constants around which various functions can be organized. The pavilion extends into the landscape areas around it creating a seamless indoor-outdoor experience along its periphery. Various hard and soft landscapes are designed to create a tactile experience.
Dual response
The elevations of the structure depict the dual response of the design. The Public front forms the identity of the structure inspired by the shell, however, it prevents direct views into the interior space. The Plaza is the only feature scooped into the closed form creating an inviting entrance. The Private space of the school incrementally increases in volume through sweeping curved surfaces that bring in natural light and ventilation and opens into an outdoor space.
Like the form of a shell, the roof is a complex double curved surface. Though the design has been conceived using advanced digital software, the materials used are traditional thatch bales laid over a bamboo mat. Thatch is a locally sourced and extremely versatile material that can be laid in tied bales to achieve highly complex formations. The supporting structure is half cut bamboo rafters that can be bent to match the shell geometry in a array formation to create a supportive mat spanning between the bamboo trusses. This combination is a structurally efficient net zero carbon structure, that naturally breathes allowing for comfortable, habitable spaces within.
Ar. Dipal Kothari, Ar. Atrey Chhaya
The Learning Areas of the School are completely open to a continuous panoramic view that seamlessly connects with its surrounding.
Outer shell
The views of the School emphasize the shell structure and create an intimate shelter for the school within. The property of the Shell Structure is that it is shaped to transmit applied forces by compressive, tensile and shear stresses that act in the plane of the surface. Thereby, it requires minimal thickness for a maximum span. The shell form is achieved by using an innovative stick and mat construction technique.
Structural system
The structure is designed with locally available natural material - bamboo. The materials are selected to ensure that the net carbon footprint of the structure will be zero. The span is divided into 6 equal bays by bamboo trusses. The surfaces in between the trusses are spanned with bamboo mats. Thatch bales cover the rafters and follows the curvature of the shell.
Stick & Mat structure
The structure is constructed with bamboo sticks that can be tied and bent into 6 pre-defined curved trusses. Bamboo mats can be tied and assembled on the ground and hoisted to location and tied with trusses. They would adjust to take the shape of the shell form.
Environmentally Sound
The KGI Garment Factory is a naturally day-lit building, which houses 500 employees. The structure is composed of steel, concrete glass, and a rammed earth wall. It was designed to incorporate sustainability, most importantly in its natural lighting and temperature control, thereby, increasing employee satisfaction and productivity. The design also promotes local architecture and craftsmen.
The combination of well-known economic benefits (cost, durability), environmental benefits (recyclable, sustainable), and social benefits (health, safety, local workforce employability) of steel has proven to be the perfect choice for this project. Large span structure PEB was the requirement. Steel supplied by Kirby building systems is used here in making the roof and columns.
Usually steel is the chosen material for any manufacturing and storage facility worldwide due to its versatility, strength and durability. We have used steel supplied by Kirby Building Systems in making the roof and columns.
Ar. Pavitra Sriprakash, Shilpa Architects
The Abodo Rammed Earth Wall made using fly ash blocks of recycled material, funnels the glare-free north light into the Shop Floor. The soil used is organic and a locally available material worked on by local craftsman. Its superior thermal mass ensures appropriate temperature control inside the building. Skylights installed on the roof make way for natural lighting. The design has been created with the best orientation for lighting while reducing heat gain and glare into the building.
30 turbo vents maintain the room temperature within the factory shed, while providing ample ventilation without air conditioning. The combined effect from the ventilation and skylight interventions alone result in energy savings of 48%.
Adaptive Reuse of Rajghat Power Plant
Located in the cultural hub of the city, in close proximity to prominent infrastructure of Delhi, the urban scape is transformed into an icon for fashion and design. The luminous and dynamic layers of building skin attract and lure. As users enter the building, the imagery is transformed into unique atmospheric experiences.
Being a fashion hub, the intention was to draw inspiration for the built form from folds of fabric. Blurring proposes new ways of thinking about architecture, presenting new ideas of what architecture can be. It creates an awareness that architectural design involves more than materials and static forms, it doesn’t necessarily need to have boundaries.
Ar. Aarushi Kalra
As one looks around, platforms at various levels can be seen harbouring a variety of activities. With each new turn, comes a new experience may it be a fashion show against the Chimney, a visit into the studio courtyard to interact with various designers or losing oneself in the sweeping walls of the bazaar.
Standing by the water body, one can reminisce about the railway line with a coal trolley. As one looks up, the coal mill comes into focus that has been modified to line with fins that guard it from the harsh sun. The front of the coal mill has been modified to form a stage set for exhibits, while the coal hoppers form a backdrop for the projection of shows and visuals.
Walking up the flight of stairs, one is awed by the stark contrast between the rigid Power Plant woven with an entirely new language. The large floor skylights, the swooping strips, add a sense of scale to the space. On one side is the turbine hall, boldly treated with a piercing cut out, while on the other is the coal mill that has been minutely altered to keep the industrial character intact. Both are connected by strips in metal, that form bridges, walkways and a backdrop for the amphitheater.
Fashion and architecture were overlaid to treat the Rajghat Power Plant in a design language that does not overpower the existing framework but adds stylistic qualities of fashion to an industrial complex in a bold manner.
Sense & Sensibility
As a vision of grandeur and awe, this seat of power is an iconic building. Keeping in mind the end users - the people of Goa - the building rises in all magnanimity with a humane touch. Its Portuguese character evokes a strong sense of belonging as it is in keeping with the architectural heritage of Goa. The imposing dome, porches, grand steps, colored vertical glazing, and fine detailing are representative of the expressive architecture of the region.
As architects, we understand the sensibilities and sensitivities of creating people-centric spaces, and go beyond mere physical planning to take into account the social, historical and cultural identities that define the place, and accordingly create the public space. Our design process capitalizes on the local community’s assets, aspirations and expectations, which we then convert into a physical manifestation of space and form.
Ar. Sabeena Khanna, Studio K.I.A.
Based on the client brief to create a one-of-its-kind model Collectorate in the country, which each state would want to emulate, and to develop a system of paperless work in a government office by having an I.T.- enabled building, Studio KIA set out to create a state-of–the-art public facility, which is rooted in its past, stands in the present, and is futuristic in its planning. Facilities plugged into the fabric of the building include Power back-up, Audio Visual Technology, UPS back up, I.P.Telephony system, Video Conferencing, Disaster Management and a National Informatics Centre.
Form follows function is an old paradigm, and this building stands testimony to this principle. The desired segregation of public movement and staff circulation at the horizontal plane, yet having vertical connectivity, has been beautifully achieved in the created form.
Aligned on the true North-South axis, the access points to the building have been sited on the four cardinal points through the grand porches. The north end of the site has a large Parade ground for formal functions. The four corners are the vertical circulation cores of the building, depicting the bond between earth and the sky. The colored glazing, which is contemporary in design yet vernacular in appeal, is an emulation of the stained-glass windows that are integral to Goan and Portuguese public architecture.
The stately dome is the embodiment of grandeur and symbolic of a blessing. It is the most important area of the building as it encases the V.I.P. lobby and opens onto a grand porch terrace that has a flag hoist. It signifies awe and power.
The building is well lit and airy with ample natural light and cross ventilation. The public areas and those exposed to the vagaries of weather, have non-skid flooring in keeping with the wet, rainy weather of Goa. Also, the public corridors are designed to be deeper with overhangs, so as to avoid rain from coming into the public interaction rooms.
The built mass was planned with internal courtyards to allow wind movement within the building and help reduce humidity levels. These landscaped courtyards are the breathing zones that infuse fresh life into the building.
As a public building, it has been made differently-able-friendly with provision of tactile on the floor (blind paths), handicapped-user-friendly restrooms, ramps with handrails etc. and connectivity through elevators for all floors. All the signage is in English and local Konkani as well as in Braille. Floor maps for guidance have been put up at strategic locations on all floors.
Facilities for dining, printing, photocopying, public dealing counters, Citizens Facilitation Centre and Senior Citizens room and other support infrastructure are at the ground level for the convenience of the elderly.
Contemporary Vernacular Architecture
Kolhapur is an urban town in a predominately rural area and is surrounded by the River Panchaganga. Its main source of income comes from agriculture and sugarcane farming. Due to a growing population and being limited for horizontal growth from three sides, the town is seeing vertical development of housing societies.
The design concept compensates the urge for open spaces with a terrace in every apartment. The large terraces opening into a large common green zone create a transition space between the indoors and the outdoors, and carry significant importance in the resident’s life for performing various rituals and religious activities. In the Indian context, such semi-open outdoor areas cater to outdoor activities and also help in controlling the indoor environment.
Fact File
Project Name: Life Style
Client: Bhima Builders & Developers
Location: Kolhapur
Site Area: 5025.90 sqm
Built up Area : 7192.19 sqm
Architect: Sunil Patil and Associates
Project Team: Ar. Sunil Patil, Ar. Anuja Pandit, Er. Sanjay Patil
Landscape Designer: Ar. Nila Jirge
Structural Consultant: Dr.A.B. Kulkarni & Associates
Civil Contractor: Bhima Builders & Developers
Plumbing Consultant: Sunil Limaye
Photo Credits: Sanjay Chougule
Credits
Exterior Flooring: Supreme Paver Block
Internal Flooring: R.A.A Ceramic
Exterior Paint: Apex exterior paint of Asian Paints
Interior Paint: Acrylic emulsion of Asian Paints
Railings: Custom-made SS Glass Railing
Roofing: Timber Line
Sanitaryware: Jaquar
Windows: Jindal Aluminum Windows
Though it is a group housing project, each apartment is designed with large shaded openings allowing ample light and ventilation. Cross ventilation helps in maintaining the thermal comfort.
All the openings are recessed and well shaded to allow only diffused light and avoid the harsh solar radiation to create a comfortable indoor environment. Since all the common areas like lobbies and staircases are well lit and ventilated, there is reduced energy demand. Full height openings create an effect of free-standing walls. Glass railings maintain a sense of simplicity and elegance.
Continuity through the housing is maintained with white bands, yet each building is individual with different colours with a grey base. The white bands wrap the building and shade the facades and openings. The pergola on the top is a dynamic feature, creating shaded terraces and a different pattern on the façade. The distance between two buildings ensures privacy and yet are visually connected through landscape areas in between that serve as interaction areas for the residents. The clubhouse has a large amphitheater, a multipurpose hall, playground, lounge etc.
Exposed Insulated Standing Seam Roof
The concept of roof to facade is not new and is widely used in many public buildings around the world, especially airports and stadia. What is new is its application in an auditorium, which we conceived at the proposed 750-seater auditorium located within the Symbiosis University of Applied Sciences campus in Indore, off the new Super Corridor.
The exterior shape of the building was inspired by Indore’s local flower Palash. The striking orange colour of the flower and the distinct shape of its petals form the mass of this building. The fluid shape of this structure is strategically designed to enclose a conventional shaped auditorium within the steel enclosure and is designed to accommodate all modern support functions such as stage lighting, acoustics, AV system, a 50 feet wide stage and provision to accommodate 30 feet tall props/curtain.
We are proposing to use a standing seam insulated roof manufactured by either Kalzip or Rigidal, which extends into the facade of the structure.
Ar. Amol Prabhu
Use of exposed insulated standing seam roof is not new to us. Ten years ago, we had used the same material at the Indoor Stadium of the National Sports Club of India in Worli, Mumbai. The acoustic and thermal insulation results of this roof were astounding, wherein, we were able to insulate the entire roof from exterior and interior sound and also provide an air-conditioned environment within the stadium, without the need to add a false ceiling. We propose to do the same at the Symbiosis Auditorium.
The auditorium will cater to the needs of not only the students but also the local businesses to conduct their events. So, the auditorium had to be designed to be flexible to audio and video playback.
A Sensory Richness
Credits
Tiles: Lakasa, Dream Home
Lighting: Legero, Phillips
Colour: Asian Paints
Hardware: Exit Germany
Modular Kitchen: Lube
Ply: Greenlam
Air Conditioning: Diakin
Structural: BMSF Consultants
Landscape: Studio EN
MEP: Electrotech Consultants, Paradise Consultants
HVAC: Arora Consultants
Water Bodies: Fountaineers
Design Concept: The concept for this home grew out of a longing for the forest and the protective shade of a tree canopy in the context of a city. The site, a 2-acre plot that was formerly agricultural land, was devoid of vegetation. Not a single tree grew within the site boundaries although lush planting edged the periphery. And so grew the idea of architecture as another nature.
Design Process: The site has two access roads linked by a vehicular path that has been planted with grass pavers and cobblestones to dissolve into the landscape and minimize non-porous surfaces. A key element in the garden is the pool pavilion and pool deck that flow into the living areas on the lower level. A series of decks and water features seamlessly connect the home and garden and create ‘outdoor rooms’ of varying scales and volumes. The drop off point is protected by a floating metal canopy and framed by pergolas of fins that establish a quiet rhythm. There is a primary internal spine that connects all the internal spaces on both levels. The poolside bar, and formal living and dining areas, oriented on either side of a water court are placed linearly to the east of the circulation spine.
The metal canopy roof consists of individual laser cut metal sheets fixed on an inverted support structure. The supporting columns each have a unique branching structure and were customized at site. The metal was left to rust naturally and sealed with a Pu coat to protect it.
Ar. Swanzal Kak Kapoor
Saka Studio
A dramatic cantilevered metal tread staircase leads upwards to the private living spaces at the upper level. The circulation culminates in a lobby, guest toilet and court. At the upper level, the circulation spine becomes a breezeway, with terraces at both ends. Three bedroom suites, a family lounge and a beautiful outdoor deck in the north-east nestled under the roof canopy comprise the upper level. Small balconies overlook the water court and become spaces of quiet contemplation.
Materials & Colours: The facade materials, in addition to oxidised steel, include riverbed Teakstone, oiled Thermo-oak and Ironic, which will age slowly and change colour This Aravali palette of rust, grey, gold and brown, roots the home firmly in its natural context. Sustainability is enabled through a careful selection of local materials that will require no recurring maintenance, the roof canopy is both a central visual element and a means of climatic temperature control, maximising porous surfaces in the landscape by shading openings and the roof slab, rainwater harvesting, and a floor plan that maximises daylighting and cross-ventilation. Local stone working skills have been harnessed in finely detailed teakstone walls.
Design Response: The real strength of this home is its sense of quiet and the innovative and exploratory quality of its architecture. The dynamics between the vertical lines of teakstone walls, the branching structure of the tree columns and sculptural, carefully positioned openings and courtyards create constantly shifting geometries that delight and draw the eye forward.
Beauty, repose, sensory richness and dynamic value are primordial to the expression of this home. A sense of peace and stillness pervades all the spaces and there is a magical unfolding of views, light and pattern as you move through the home, almost like a walk in the forest. In both, day and night settings, the home embodies counter points of sensory experience; there is an almost meditative stillness to the forms, lines and experiential quality.
Building Interiors
Ajay Khurana, Chairman, REHAU South Asia
REHAU’s building materials and design strength
With its strong focus on Made in India and Made for India, the company offers localised products for consumers across furniture, windows and building solutions through its Indian arm, REHAU India. Its two plants in Pune manufacture edge-bands, profiles for windows and doors, rigid profiles and industrial solutions. Its third facility in Vadodara, which has been operational since December 2017, caters to the northern market with edge-bands, and will introduce new products as per project needs.
REHAU’S Retail Plans
- To double retail experience centers by end of this year
- Launch of Inspiration Express- an interactive mobile lounge - to bring products directly to customers
- adodara facility to strengthen north India capacity
- To open dealer centres in Gurgaon, Guwahati and Patna apart from its existing centres in Bangalore and Delhi, and take the number to over 70 in the next two years
- Targets Rs. 1000 crore revenue by 2020.
The company has flagged off REHAU Inspiration Express, a unique mobile experiential showcase encompassing the entire range of Advanced Living Solutions from furniture, windows and building solutions. The bus will travel to 60 cities over a year, showcasing REHAU products to consumers, specifiers, architects, interior designers, and contractors, and facilitate interaction of the products with the audiences, enabling them to get live experience and access to direct information.
“REHAU is ready to respond with appropriate solutions to bring its products closer to consumers and tap architects, who play an important role in decision making, outside homes,” said Ajay Khurana, Chairman, REHAU South Asia.
The Inspiration Express displays surface solutions, RAUCORD outdoor/ indoor furniture, roller shutters for kitchen cupboards, uPVC windows and doors, Radiant heating/cooling solutions, plumbing pipes, RAUVISIO Mineral (Solid Surface) and pre-laminated boards, RAUVISIO Crystal Mirror used as wall panel, and 2.0mm RAUVISIO Crystal Wave laminate etc.
Commented Ar. Manish Motwani, Chief Architect, RSP Group, “REHAU is demonstrating a strong commitment to be present across every consumer touchpoint. This is the need of the hour and will help to understand the company’s product portfolio in an interactive and experiential platform.”
Get Stoned
A gemstone or a precious or semi-precious stone is a piece of mineral crystal, which, in its cut and polished form is used to make jewelry or decorative home interior products. However, certain rocks such as lapis lazuli, malachite, opal and jade or organic materials that are not minerals such as Amber and Mother of Pearl, are also used for making jewelry and are considered as gemstones.
Gemstone Handinlay Columns (1100 No.), Sheikh Zayed Mosque, Abu Dhabi, UAE.
Physical Properties
The precious and semi-precious stones from Aqua Imperial include the natural Mother of Pearl from the deep seas & oceans, Lapis Lazuli from Afghanistan, Agate from Brazil, and Petrified Wood from South Africa. The company offers more than 50 varieties of precious & semi precious stones sourced from across the world. These are used in home decor products to enhance the interiors.
These are the hardest stones available on earth and, hence, require least maintenance as compared to other natural products, and they can last forever.
Application
Application of the precious stone depends on the vision of the client, the architect, and the interior designer. The stones are ideal for a wide range of applications, such as, drawing room flooring in upscale villas, center table tops, dining table tops, bar counter tops, kitchen-islands, bedside table tops, bathroom counter tops and home accessories like agate coasters, lamps, decorative trays, T-lights, and photo frames. The stones have also been used as backdrops in hotel lobbies, office reception areas, and sitting area of living rooms; for flooring, on pillars and columns.
What inspired Imran Qasim, the man behind the stones business?
While exploring the markets in Pink City, Jaipur, I fell in love with precious stones and used to marvel at their potential application in areas other than jewelry. The Taj Mahal, in all its glory, and the innumerable palaces in Rajasthan were a major inspiration too, for their varied application of semi-precious and precious stones.
Semi-precious and precious stones have a wide range of applications, but most of our clients prefer Petrified wood dining tabletops, back-lit agate bathroom countertops, hand inlaid decorative lamps and multi-color agate coasters etc. We are also retailing them as ready products and we undertake major projects through architects and interior designers.
The stones are pretty expensive as the raw material is rare and their availability is getting rarer. This has had a direct impact on their cost which is increasing year to year with a price range of `3,000 to `25,000 per sq.ft.
About Aqua Imperial
Aqua Imperial, a pioneer in the gemstone slab manufacturing business, was set up in 2002 in Greater Noida with a 13,000 sq.ft. factory. The company has an American subsidiary called KYVET. The production process starts with selection of raw material that is quarried in various places around the globe and is handpicked to achieve the best color, shape and size. The raw material is put through a long process of cutting and setting at the company’s state-of-the-art manufacturing facility, using specialized epoxy glue that has been especially developed in-house. The slabs are manufactured in 2-3 cm thickness as standard or customized, based on special request. The application process in projects includes design to fabrication and has an average lead-time of 60 to 90 days.
Aqua Imperial has undertaken renowned projects namely, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque of Abu Dhabi UAE, Shangri-la Hotel in Abu Dhabi UAE, Royal Palaces in Saudi Arabia for Princess Mashel Bint Sultan bin Abdulaziz and Princess Madawi .
International clients include Rochdale Spear Ltd. in Vietnam, MJ Design Associate Inc. USA, Agape Tiles LLC, Florida USA, Zgallaries, USA, Marjourie Skouras Designs CA. USA, 2XL Furniture & Home Decor. Dubai, and D&A Trading Company Ltd., Vietnam.
Driving Change Inside Out
She believes that the role of a designer goes beyond merely designing luxurious homes to spreading design to a larger mass - towards which vision she initiated the cleaning-up of slums in Indore. Further, through her plastic-free campaign, she has been instrumental in making the women of these communities self-sufficient by guiding them to design, make and sell eco-friendly bags from recycled cloth and paper.
Her works are known for their functionality and judicious use of space, as she strives to create minimalistic designs with a traditional essence, through extensive use of natural materials, traditional arts and Indian handicrafts. Besides commercial and residential projects, she has worked on the restoration of heritage buildings, including temples.
Awards & Accolades
- Stylish Designer Award by INIFD in 2016
- Outstanding Contribution of Interior and Architecture in the Reality Kings Awards
- Awards in the Home Sweet Home Contest
- Hosted NATCON, 2016 IMAGINE (a national convention of IIID) as a Convener.
- WEF Award for Exceptional Women of Excellence 2017 in New Delhi
High-end retail storeExcerpts from her interview with MGS Architecture magazine:
How has modern architecture impacted Indian society at large?
The changing culture of architecture in modern India, both as a lifestyle and as a profession, has been eye-opening. In terms of lifestyle, we never predicted the extent to which architecture and design could affect us as well as the society and culture we live in, nor did we predict how deeply symbolic of our beliefs and attitudes they’d become. The huge wave of development and technology that caused us to try and ape everything that didn’t belong to us, has made us question and search for our own identity and provoked us to revisit the solid traditional roots and foundation of Indian architecture.
Indian architecture, primarily established through historical and cultural influences, is most recently a conversation about how best to modernize. India’s architecture has to mediate rapid urbanization with respecting its climate, culture, and tradition. Questions of cultural preservation are especially pertinent in India after the dominance of western influences.
Italian flooring and cladding used in reception area at Indo-Thai office
Traditional materials or the modern composites? What are trending?
The return of brick-look tiles is one of the growing trends and they come in a wide variety of sizes and finishes, and exposed brickwork is very much in trend nowadays. Terracotta is coming back into fashion. We are witnessing a resurgence of the warm shades of Terracotta not only in home furnishing accessories, but also as an indoor finish. It is a tasteful material that combines with a large number of styles, adding a retro touch to interior designs.
Director’s cabin at Indo-Thai office accentuated by wooden furniture
Natural stones are symbols of timeless appeal. They add a rich and expensive look to architecture and interior design, be it marble, granite, onyx, quartz, travertine, slate or limestone, all of which give great flooring and wall decoration ideas. Even a small mosaic artwork with natural stones or a table top can dramatically transform a room and create a stunning interior decor on a low budget. Glass, steel and composite materials are trending as well.
How can designers and architects contribute towards resource optimization?
Indians believe that old is gold and are not averse to using recycled stuff. A few examples are: using leftover/broken tiles from sites and arranging them in a mosaic pattern for a unique table top. DIY floor pillows from pieces of left out sponges. Recycling old tables by adding a new colour to them or giving a rustic look. Use of scrap materials in suspended ceilings and creating a feature wall with them. Sewage pipes can be modified and used as seating by adding gelatine sheets on one side for a colourful effect.
By simply taking coloured cellophane and fashioning it to one side of each pipe, the creatives at Urfun Lab have fashioned a makeshift kaleidoscope of colourful forms that transform an unsightly concrete roadside pile into a strikingly beautiful, unexpected public space. In fact, many areas of India are undergoing an incredible transformation as the existing infrastructure is being overhauled with up-to-date systems.
Digital Craft
Emphasis is laid on symmetry, proportion and mathematics with the orderly arrangement of semicircular arches, hemispherical domes and hybrid vault systems – combining Groin Vaults & Rib Vaults. Sub-division of these geometries is intricately articulated as mathematical patterns that emerge and flow along pseudo-structural curves that divide the vaults and dome systems to create visual effects on the low-height ceilings.
The project is conceived to have a space with a strong essence of Jaipur’s heritage, translated parametrically through geometry and patterns created by using Digital Fabrication Techniques coupled with Local Craft. Aligning itself to the traditional Jaipur architecture, Farzi Café Jaipur has been designed to encapsulate the region’s essence with the use of identifiable arches, domes and vaults conventionally seen as a reminiscent feature.The use of digital technologies in this restaurant project formed the backbone of design process, fabrication methodology and cost-optimization. While parametric design methods aided in designing of highlight elements, CNC milling and Laser Cutting were used as key digital fabrication methods that allowed ‘Digital Craft’ to realize in this constrained project. Training of local craftsmen to understand digitally-translated information on site helped to control costs and plan the project in accordance with time and budgets; something that a typical restaurant project is bound to have.
Sushant Verma
Computational Design Methods are adapted by rat (Lab) Interiors to use mathematics for algorithmically creating patterns that are articulated in the restaurant as 3D Relief Art through CNC Milling, 2D back-lit cut-outs in Façade and Interiors as well as Perforated Jaali Elements that surround the outdoor space. Differentiated triangles with filleted corners are scaling to form the surface treatment of Hybrid Vaults and Dome that exemplify a blend of local craftsmanship and laser cut geometries.
The parametrically triangulated radial pattern is replicated as subdivisions in the vaults and dome in the false ceiling. A blend of colours, patterns and soft materiality signify the rich heritage of Jaipur.
Digitization in Interior Design is unparalleled and permeating in a big way. It has become conducive to innovative thinking and integrates the traditional interior design concept and modern digital information technology as a whole. Use of digital technologies allow the creative process to be more informed and widens the bandwidth of creative canvas beyond the conventional methods of designing an interior space, especially when the program is as complex as a restaurant space that comes with its own dynamics of cost, time and efficiency constraints.
Anchal Chaudhary
Materiality & Features
2mm thick and 50mm wide profile in polished brass encapsulates the restaurant walls and columns, in continuation of the arches of the door design. Four double doors open in a four feet wide aisle towards the entrance of the restaurant, two steps up from the main parking level as this aisle is defined with a brass polished railing. The railing design complements the arches inside the restaurant. Handmade tiles, wooden flooring and Italian stone are used for the flooring to demarcate areas.
Signature style and installation-type elements by rat[LAB] INTERIORS have been used in the space as vault systems, tessellatdome, jaali patterns, chandelier elements and branding artwork. The bar can be seen with hanging crystal and bronze finished parametric drop elements with dimmable LED lights. The metal pipe light installation over the bar is parametrically designed with variable drop lengths that collectively form an arch-shaped double-curve vault.
Variable Lengths of half-inch diameter metallic pipes are encased in a tubular casing depicting designer’s articulatihe brand logo as protruding ‘F’.
Godrej Interio - Defining Workspaces as Social
As per the research there are 6 trends that we see emerging:
- Technology Integration
- Autonomy for people to choose where and how they work
- Promotion of employee wellbeing
- Expression of brand culture
- Space Optimisation
- Environment friendly design.
India’s multicultural office workers increasingly want control, freedom and choice: Where do they work from and How do they Work? They do not like Traditional Formal work settings. Given a choice, they will prefer to work from workspaces that are informal, allow collaboration and makes them feel at home. They rate workspaces full of cabins and cubicles boring. Work is increasingly happening from spaces such as cafeteria, work lounges, break out spaces etc.
Organisations increasingly realise that it’s not individuals but networks that help them compete. Organisations today are becoming agile. They want to leverage power of formal and Informal networks to deliver business results. Organisations are attempting to make available spaces that encourage interactions and collaborations as a way to build an organisation’s social capital through leveraging power of formal and informal networks: allowing people choice and freedom to work in different work settings. The Social Office is expected to grow by 20% YOY predominantly in MNCs and Corporates.
Topography of Curved Bookshelves
The library is located in the 33,700m2 cultural centre of Binhai district in Tianjin, a coastal metropolis outside Beijing, China. It features a luminous spherical auditorium around which floor-to-ceiling bookcases cascade. The undulating bookshelf is the building's main spatial device, and is used both to frame the space and to create stairs and seating, the layered ceiling and even louvres on the façade. The Library was designed and built in a record-breaking time of only three years and offers space for 1.2 million books.
The library is one amongst a cluster of five cultural buildings designed by an international cadre of architects including Bernard Tschumi Architects, Bing Thom Architects, HH Design, and MVRDV. All buildings are connected by a public corridor underneath a glass canopy designed by GMP.
The building's mass extrudes upwards from the site and is 'punctured' by a spherical auditorium in the centre. Bookshelves are arrayed on either side of the sphere and act as everything, from stairs to seating, even continuing along the ceiling to create an illuminated topography. These contours also continue along the two full glass facades that connect the library to the park outside and the corridor inside, serving as louvres to protect the interior against excessive sunlight whilst also creating a bright and evenly lit interior.
The bookshelves are great spaces to sit and at the same time allow access to the upper floors. The angles and curves are meant to stimulate different uses of the space, such as reading, walking, meeting and discussing.
The five-level building also contains extensive educational facilities, arrayed along the edges of the interior and accessible through the main atrium space. Public program is supported by sub-terranean service spaces, book storage, and a large archive. From the ground floor, visitors can easily access reading areas for children and the elderly, the auditorium, the main entrance, terraced access to the floors above, and connection to the cultural complex. The first and second floors consist primarily of reading rooms, books and lounge areas whilst the upper floors include meeting rooms, offices, computer and audio rooms and two rooftop patios. Cleaning is done via ropes and movable scaffolding.
Tianjin Binhai Library was built according to the Chinese Green Star energy efficiency label and has achieved two star status. MVRDV collaborated with Tianjin Urban Planning and Design Institute (TUPDI), structural engineers Sanjiang Steel Structure Design, TADI interior architects and Huayi Jianyuan lighting design.
Seamless Connectivity
Spread across 5 acres of land, the building's site is located in the serene forest area near the famous Chattbir Zoo. The layout of the school is designed in linear form for flexibility, and to ensure easy movement throughout, a loop road connects all the essential parts of the site. A bridge connects two structures, and more than just a link, it acts as a mid-space gallery or a dais to address gatherings.
The building block is placed in the direction of the wind flow for optimum cross ventilation and to decrease electricity consumption. The building's orientation is north-west and south-east, with the main entrance facing west. According to prescribed standards, the recommended spacing of expansion joint is 100'-0" or 30 m interval. This gap is filled to restore the waterproofing, fire-proofing, sound proofing, and air barrier.
After going through the site features, requirements, constraints, etc., it was decided to plan the building in such a way so as to differentiate the functionality of the different blocks. Accordingly, the future college is placed on the right-hand side (SE) and the primary/secondary school blocks on the left (NE).
The aim was to give a grand front look to the institute such that the scattered building blocks are visible from the furthest possible distance on all sides
Ar. Sanjay Goel
The building is earthquake resistant with eco-friendly features that include provision for rainwater harvesting, use of low impact materials such as fly-ash bricks, and reflective glass for thermal comfort. A modern façade with ACP blocks and heat resistant fixed glazing on the façade and windows minimize heat gain, keeping the building cool in summers and hot in winters. The landscaping complements the building, acts as a sound barrier and creates breathing spaces. For acoustics, fabric wall panels have been used. Provision has been made for constructing a semi basement floor in the internal courtyard for assemblies, exams and parking, without disturbing the existing building blocks.
Optimum Sustainability
The over 1.8 lakh sq.ft school complex spread over 7.5 acres of land, is based on extensive green planning for incorporating green features and eco-friendly building materials. All the school blocks are north-south oriented and multiple internal courtyards have been planned to enable the building to breathe from within. The spacious classrooms and the library receive the north light through large windows, while the south side has deep verandahs and corridors that cut the sun's glare and mitigate the heat effect of the Vadodara weather.
Every classroom has ventilators above the windows and doors - keeping the internal area well ventilated and cooler than the outside ambient temperatures. Each classroom has landscaped spaces outside the north windows and landscaped courtyards on the southern side, such that students and teachers breathe more oxidized air.
A vermiculite plaster inside and tile cladding on the outside add to the heat insulation of the fly ash brick walls. The terrace tops have been laid with heat insulating layer and then fixed with white glazed tiles that reflect all the heat.
Other construction elements include low VOC paints and sealants; recycled materials, bagasse (sugarcane stalk remains) boards for the furniture, and natural stones like pebbles, marble, and granite for various landscape features.
Optimum sustainability has been ensured by incorporating green features and products throughout the building and to the extent possible
Ar. Prem Nath
Rainwater harvesting, and sewage treatment plants enable use of more than 75% water for flushing and landscaping. Solar panels of 60kw enable 7- 8% power saving and power backup. Most Importantly, by virtue of the planning of the school blocks, air-conditioning is not required for any classrooms, labs, library and other student areas, which is a major power saving feature of more than 35% of the electric load.
Installation of energy-friendly T5 tubes, CFLs and LEDs has enabled power saving up to 20% than the routine usage. Water saving faucets and sensor-controlled urinals enable a lot of water saving. FRLS cables and compact / dry type transformers enhance energy efficiency. STP and rainwater harvesting, topped with water saving faucets enable a daily saving of 75 - 80%
Human Element in Buildings
R. k. Charitable Foundation was given land by the government of Rajasthan to build and run an institute for girls who find it difficult to move from villages, and later face difficulties in getting admission in colleges in bigger cities like Ajmer, Jaipur, etc. The basic intent given to us as a designer was to have a built environment most suitable to accommodate present and future requirements and challenges related to academics. At the same time, it was expected that the built environment should provide the girl students a sense of pride, belongingness, along with physical and psychological security.
Before putting anything on the drawing board, we decided to have a well-defined "building program" through discussions with a group of academicians to work out the physical requirements and the underlying philosophy and intent of the institute. This made the design concept very easy for us, because we strongly believe in the power of space and its physical and metaphysical integration.
To give a scale to the façade, we decided to have a linear lay-out, and placed the administrative block right in the middle of the other two major science and humanities blocks. We also believe in informal education outside the formal classroom, so we worked in getting the open left out spaces as activity spaces, as a result of which, these spaces became an integral part of the "form" of the building.
From the entrance to the back of the building and also at the centre as a courtyard - small to large fragmented designed negative spaces are now functioning as positive spaces for students and faculty to connect and learn from each other. This has brought the human element as part of the building as form and space both.
The design sensibility of designer and user play a bigger role is making a building sustainable rather than use of innovative materials claiming to be greener and sustainable.
Principal Architect, Sanjay Kothari
I believe that whatever we do has to flow with the contemporary needs and skills for the survival of society as a whole for a longer period. The term sustainability has more to do with the ways of human living in order to connect with nature, naturally. Sustainability is a much more serious term to internalize as a system rather than its appearing and being used by external forces which we might call "the market".
Climatic considerations, orientation of the structure as per wind direction and solar movement while designing, shaded verandahs, deep recessed windows, courtyards, active outdoor unbuilt spaces, are things that relate to culture and contemporary use and to make them sustainable as a user across the timeframe.
