The Virasat-e-Khalsa Heritage Centre, a mammoth museum chronicling Sikh history was recently inaugurated in the land of Sikh warriors, Anandpur Sahib by Chief Minister of Punjab in the presence of Boston-based designer of the complex, Moshe Safdie, who is known for creating the famous Holocaust Memorial Museum in Jerusalem.


The classy complex, which is expected to draw international attention, has come up in rugged surroundings but with water bodies of extraordinary beauty, and reflect the surrounding hillocks, lend the complex an astonishing degree of serenity. Sprawl over 65-acre, the complex is deeply rooted in its surrounding landscape and resonating with regional architecture, seemingly rises from nearby sand cliffs. Clad with local sandstone and evoking the fortress cities of Rajasthan, Gwalior and Punjab, the Centre acknowledges the Sikhs' history as celebrated warriors. The upwardly curving roofs of the museum's tower-like galleries are covered in stainless steel, designed in counterpoint to the rich tradition of gold domes that crown sacred Sikh buildings as the Golden Temple in Amritsar. The project is said to be the largest contemporary heritage complex ever conceived in India and provides a delightful audio-visual experience unlike anything one has seen in Indian museums.


The museum campus is composed of two functionally integrated sets of buildings. The western complex, forming a gateway to Anandpur Sahib, houses exhibition galleries; a two-level library centered around a grand reading room overlooks water garden; a facility for storing rare archival materials and a 400-seat auditorium. A 540-foot bridge from the western complex crossed a seven-acre network of reflecting pools, providing access to the eastern complex which houses permanent exhibitions presenting Sikh history, religion, and culture.

Arranged in group of five, the galleries reference the five virtues of Sikh religion. The symbolic themes of earth and sky, mass and lightness and depth and ascension are represented by the museum's sandstone towers and reflective silver roofs and are further echoed inside the museum's galleries.

The delightful experience begins at the Boat-shaped building 'Punj Paani' - the first gallery depicting the past and the present of Punjab, as seen in its villages and towns. The inside walls of the towering boat-shaped building have multiple colourful panels to create a three-dimensional effect, every inch hand-painted to perfection. The building also houses the largest hand-painted mural in the world, which uses a staggering 24,000 metres of fibre optics to illuminate it to depict Diwali.


As one will walk through the ramp encircling 'Punj Paani, he will find that with the help of sound, music and other visual manipulations, the entire cycle of a year is recreated within a span of just eight minutes. The vibrant colors then give way to a subdued, star studded night with a tower of light at the centre, which symbolizes the emergence of 'Ek Onkar', illuminated, pure and eternal. From here begins the journey of the evolution of the Panth with the birth of Guru Nanak Dev. The experience is enriched by the auto-trigger audio guides, available in English, Hindi and Punjabi. 'Auto-trigger' implies that as you walk into any gallery and the audio guide plays content specific to the area. In the 'Five Crescent Building', the tone and tenor of the colors and sound becomes more militant and depict the struggle and sacrifices made by the last five Gurus to establish the Panth.

The 15 galleries which are completed so far out of 25, cover an area of 650,000 square feet. Ten more will be completed subsequently. The second phase of the complex, for which work is still going on, is expected to show the growth of Khalsa over the last 300 years, culminating in the partition of Punjab.


Safdie and his associate architect, Ashok Dhawan of New Delhi, worked closely with the exhibition designer, Amardeep Belh of Design Habit in New Delhi, to achieve a successful integration of architecture and display. According to the interior designer of the building, Mr. Amardeep Behl, "It took us almost three and half years to complete the interiors which include paintings, murals and around 400 artist were involved in it including designers."

Moshe Safdie was commissioned to design the Khalsa Heritage Centre in 1997, after the chief minister of the Punjab visited the Children's Holocaust Memorial at Yad Vashem, the Safdie-designed Holocaust memorial in Jerusalem. As the Centre evolved, Safdie was able to renew a long, close relationship with India that had begun in the 1960s with his work on Louis Kahn's Indian Institute of Management school at Ahmedabad, Gujarat.

Catering to the trend of hi-end living and the demand for second homes, Architectural and interior design consultancy firm Della Tecnica, has ventured into constructing luxurious villas for those who values spending time in the lap of serenity, peace and environmental beauty.

Nestled amidst the lush green mountains of Lonavala, Della Enclave is a destination that redefines luxury. Consisting of 46 beautiful Mediterranean and Contemporary style villas (Phase I & Phase II) spread over 24 acres of the breathtaking landscape, the project gives a global living experience, where modern luxuries and amenities are in perfect synergy with untouched natural serenity. Only 3.2 Kms from the Mumbai-Pune Expressway, these villas are ideally located to insulate one from the bustle of city life, while maintaining easy connectivity at the same time. It is a perfect getaway for those who are looking for quiet times in the lap of natural surroundings. The unique benefit that owners of villas at Della Enclave can avail is the availability of developed infrastructure.



The complex boasts amenities like a modern and fully equipped gymnasium, spa, salon, swimming pool, beautiful landscaped lawn, to name a few. The villas and complex are both built according to the instructions of Vaastu Shastra, infusing positive energy in ones homes and lives.


The project boasts of facilities like broadband, Wi-Fi Internet, House-keeping, visitors car parking, 24/7 security with CCTV, 24/7 Hydro Pneumatic water supply and uninterrupted electricity with DG Backup are provided in addition to all other facilities as that of a 5 Star resort. Besides, business centre and lounge, ambulance at site and doctor on call is also available. The complex also comprises banquets, golf range, 4 restaurants and bars. The project is an eco-friendly and supports rainwater harvesting, Installation of STP, low voltage cabling, saves electricity and ecological paints and materials and ample landscaping.

So let Della Enclave enchant one with its charming architecture, world class services and amenities, and breathtaking surroundings; an oasis of luxury and scenic beauty. The Della Enclave complex also consists of Della Adventure – Asia's largest Adventure Park and Resort.


After successful completion of first phase consisting of 24 villas, Della Tecnica has launched second phase of Della Enclave, Signature Villas which will consist of 22 villas develop on 5000 sqft of plot with 3500 sqft carpet area. The concept of second homes is now more than just affordable houses in the outskirts of the city. Second homes are now a reason to relax, and spend time with family.

Announcing the second phase of Della Enclave Mr. Jimmy Mistry, Chairman and Managing Director of Della Tecnica, said, "We are glad to note that today's Indian customer have a developed taste for fine living and are looking for out of the world concepts in architecture and designing. They are increasingly asking for stylish holiday homes to own, which is definitely encouraging. Della Enclave villas within the project area boasts of India's largest adventure park, a 5 star-resort with swimming pool and spa facility and a banquet hall. The concept has been developed after a good deal of research and insight into the emerging demands of Indian home buyers."


After investing Rs.250 crore in the Lonavala project, the company also plans to set up villa projects in five cities in next three years with an investment of around Rs.1,500 crore. "After receiving an encouraging response to our villa project in Lonavala in Pune, we are now planning to set up five more in major cities like Bangalore, National Capital Region (NCR), Kolkata, Indore and Ahmedabad in next three years," said Mr. Mistry.

The Mumbai-headquartered firm, which has launched a villa project along with an adventure park and resort in Lonavala, will fund these projects with a mix of debt and equity. "While 30% of the fund will be through equity, rest 70% will be raised through debt," he said.

Referring to listing plans, he said the company is not in a hurry to list as it will wait till a certain scale is attained in the revenue front in the near future.

CCI Projects Pvt Ltd (CCP) has recently launched a green project named Rivali Park, a mix of residential, commercial, retail, hospitality and cultural spaces within a gated community. Located on an area of 22 acres of land in the Mumbai suburb of Borivali (East), the project was designed by an internationally renowned design and architecture firm Gensler, USA. Till date all statutory clearances for the project have been obtained. Phase I of the project, a residential complex is expected to be completed in about 36 months. The residential complex will be followed by retail, entertainment, commercial and hospitality units in subsequent phases. The entire project is expected to take 6 to 7 years to complete.

The project plans fulfil all the criteria for "Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design" (LEED) certification. A residential complex has been designed in 4 clusters that offer a mix of low and high-rise towers. Each building has been oriented to catch the breeze and minimize heat waves. Each flat will have at least 2 exposures to the outside. The shorter buildings will have sky gardens, so that the view is always verdant from any observation point. Each cluster will have an individual courtyard with seating nooks and walking paths. Ample 3-level parking will be available. The ground level will be a vehicle-free pedestrian podium, offering a high degree of safety to the young and old alike. Extensive traffic studies are being conducted to avoid vehicular and noise pollution.

Vision and Creation

Talking about the Project Mr. Harjith Bubber, CEO & MD, CCI Projects Pvt Ltd said we had a simple vision to transform the property so that it mirrored the lifestyle of South Mumbai. A hardcore South Mumbaikar, his ethos resonated with the culture of the island city. Our team of architects at Gensler conceived of Rivali Park to make his dream a reality. Our aim was to create a plan with an intelligent design and a social conscience.

Elaborating on the plan creation he said, Architecture is about people. Rivali Park – named after Borivali, where it is located – is a project that focuses more on planning than building. After all, buildings are mere containers that hold people. We wanted to create something beyond brick and mortar, an integrated residential, commercial and entertainment hub that would assert its identity and make the suburb a landmark. The Rivali Park design combines sophistication with self-sufficiency.

The project began with a comparative study of the suburbs and downtown Mumbai. What we observed is that the suburbs have grown out of a need to accommodate the surging masses that have been thronging to Mumbai since independence. Their growth is rapid and imposed, favouring functionality rather than aesthetics. Suburban residential colonies are blocks of residential apartments where people come home to their families after a day of work in the city. This is in contrast to the downtown area, where maidans, academic edifices, shopping plazas and residential buildings all co-exist side by side. South Mumbai continues to represent the social and cultural hub of the city, retaining its rich old world charm with its mingled spaces and narrow paved alleys.

Challenges

The biggest challenge in planning Rivali Park was the perception that suburban residences and commercial buildings cannot be mixed too closely in high value properties. The Mumbai psyche subconsciously classifies each suburb by its location, demographic mix, proximity to major landmarks and availability of amenities. Each suburb adds its unique flavour to the melting pot. People have become used to segregated spaces in the suburbs. That is simply how life is; there's just no time to ponder over anything else. The young, upcoming suburbanite may travel to South Mumbai daily for work and study, and maybe even visit a theatre or art gallery occasionally, but home will always be a 60 minute commute away. We had to convince the mindset that residences can maintain a high quality even when they are located alongside commercial, art and entertainment units. Gensler's global experience of individual mixed-use components that attract people and create market power enabled us to take on this challenge.

The key to Rivali Park is much more planning than architecture per se. It envisages an upwardly mobile, cosmopolitan community of about 50,000 people with extensive opportunities for social and cultural interaction within their own backyard. The focus is on creating gathering spaces for the people. Technically known as "negative spaces", these are the spaces between the buildings. Most projects focus only on the "positive spaces" that are actually inhabited. We see negative space as a very important and active feature of community life. To create a constant but varied mix of people, we conceived of a shopping mall opening onto a retail street. The mall is a very important element that will help generate retail mass.

The nearest performing arts space is Prithvi Theatre at Juhu. The large population inhabiting the stretch beyond Andheri needs something that they can call their own. The Rivali Park retail street will culminate in a public plaza and performing arts building. The public spaces will include shops, cafeterias, a hotel and office buildings. These spaces will be open to all. The Rivali residential buildings will be nestled within the 'L' of this arrangement. The complex is flanked on two sides by the Kanakia Residential and Commercial properties.

Residential Quarters

The Rivali Park residential complex is made up of 2 courtyards and 2 compounds adjacent to the retail street. The apartments themselves are designed inside-out. Traditionally, builders focus on the inside – the positive spaces – and the outside is whatever is left over. We have consciously controlled both the inside and the outside in Rivali Park. A lot of attention has gone into the negative spaces within the residential section, because they bring people together and make the place a destination. The four residential clusters offer a mix of low and highrise towers from 7 to 50 floors, each having 2 and 3 BHK apartments, penthouses and duplex apartments. We have deliberately avoided uniform high- rise buildings or towers. The varied building heights will transform the skyline into a mini urban landscape. Each cluster will have an individual courtyard with seating nooks and walking paths.

A flat slab structure is being considered for the apartments to give the occupants flexibility to plan their own interiors. Each building will have a separate fire exit, as per norms. Ramps will be constructed on the ground floor to facilitate movement of physically challenged individuals and senior citizens.

External Façade

The architecture will be clean, rational and modern, pleasing to the eye outside the building and comfortable for the people living inside. The design has to be true to the building material, which in India is RCC. We have attempted to lighten the heavy look of RCC by using glass and screens. The buildings will be oriented so that the apartments are protected from heat waves. Each flat will have at least 2 exposures to the outside to bring about cross ventilation. The shorter buildings will have sky gardens, so that the view is always verdant from any observation point.

Traffic Management

Extensive traffic studies of the area have been carried out by Eigen. The entire residential complex has been conceptualized on a vehicle-free pedestrian podium, offering a high degree of safety to the young and old alike. In order to keep the ground level alive in the residential area, the drop-off points have been very carefully thought out. Full use will be made of the existing service road and two side roads that are already in place. The traffic management plan deals with all levels and curves in the side roads to ensure the smooth passage of vehicles. Traffic will circulate around the podium. RTO chowkies and traffic islands are an important necessity in any good locality and will be considered once permissions are obtained.

Car Parking

The complex will have space to accommodate 4000 cars. Ample 3-level parking will be available. Totally underground in the retail and commercial spaces and mostly underground with a small portion at street level in the residential complex.

Talking in length on the project he summed up by saying, Rivali Park offers artistic and creative individuals an outlet for expression. Its public spaces will bring in a new mix of people everyday, converting an erstwhile drab suburb into a cultural hub. The comfortable living quarters with a mix of levels, the open spaces against the backdrop of the Sanjay Gandhi National Park and the retail and commercial facilities will together transform the location into a comfortable haven where every amenity will be in close proximity. Situated off the Western Express Highway, minutes away from Borivali Railway Station, the residents of Rivali Park will experience the best of Maximum City.

The University of Aberdeen has recently opened the doors of its new library to students and public. Designed by Danish architects schmidt hammer lassen (SHL) to provide a 21st century learning and research environment to students, university staff, and visitors, the library is envisaged as a cube evoking the ice and light of the north.

The new library serves a community of 14,000 students. The 15,500 square metres of floor-space accommodates 1,200 reading spaces alongside archives, historical collections and a rare books reading room. It has also traditional silent study rooms to interactive areas for collaborative projects, supported by information technology. The entire building has comprehensive wireless network coverage with sockets to plug in your PC throughout.

Project at a Glance
Project	: University of Aberdeen New Library
Architect	: schmidt hammer lassen architects
Location	: Aberdeen
Client	: University of Aberdeen
Completed	: September 2011
Area	: 15,500 m²
Competition	: 2005, 1st prize in restricted international competition
Engineer	: Arup & Partners Ltd
Quantity Surveyors	: Davis Langdon LLP
Landscape Architect	: schmidt hammer lassen architects

In addition to housing a collection of over one million books, the new library also provides an advanced learning environment by means of a series of flexible spaces offering various opportunities for individual study, group-working, seminars, and meetings.

Established in 1495, the University of Aberdeen is the fifth oldest English-language University in the world. The practice SHL won the Aberdeen competition to design its new library in 2005 beating world's renowned architectural firms. The client wanted a building to be an icon that would make an impact on the skyline and act as a hub for all activities in the surrounding areas. SHL provided a simple logistical solution for the project and proposed that the new library should be built alongside the existing fully operational Queen Mother library, reducing disruption.

Structural Design

While designing the project, SHL was very sensitive to the significance of libraries in contemporary public life. Schmidt believes that contemporary society has lost its 'third space' (a term coined by the American urban sociologist Ray Oldenburg). 'Today, we have places to live and work, but sadly lacking in the third type of spaces.' The University of Aberdeen library is conceived in this spirit, with the ground floor open to the public with lounge and cafe, an exhibition, seminar space and a media wall. It also has 'Break-out' zone on Floor 7, where students can enjoy panoramic views of the city while reading, working on a laptop, or engaging in quiet conversation.


The library is an eight-level building where its atrium's vast spiraling volume connects all eight storeys and with its sweeping contours and organic form, this space contrasts with the clean cut exterior profile. The lifts, stairs and circulation are neatly packed into service cores on north and south of the building. The steel structure is hidden within the skin, creating clear deep floor plates animated by the multi-colored books and only interrupted by the atrium. The building is equipped with all the latest technologies and new learning environments.

Sustainability

Special emphasis has been given while designing and creating a green and sustainable project thus minimizing long-term running costs and energy use. All working environments are generously day-lit. Through the use of high performance glazing, the amount of solar gain and heat loss is kept to a minimum. The ratio of glass to solid panel on the internal elevations is approximately 50% and this irregular pattern of insulated panels and high performance glazing creates the effect of a shimmering façade during the day and a soft glow at night, creating a luminous landmark for Aberdeen.


In terms of sustainability, photovoltaic cells are located on the roof to supplement the building's electricity requirements. A water recycling system is utilized to collect and store rainfall from the roof - the rain water is then recycled for use in lavatories.

A green displacement ventilation system has been utilized to save energy and system supplies air at 18-19°C, thereby obviating the need for mechanical cooling for a significant period of the year. System pressure drops are much lower than in conventional fan coil unit systems, and this permits the use of far smaller fans to circulate air through the system. Temperature stratification allows for the conditioning of the occupied zone only, and in this way energy is not wasted in conditioning the unoccupied zone directly beneath the ceiling.


The university's traffic strategy also emphasizes sustainability, encouraging the use of sustainable transport systems such as cycling and buses rather than cars. Facilities such as showers for staff cycling to work have been provided in the new building. As a result of all these, the project has achieved a BREEAM Excellent rating.

The new Library is designed to be both a meeting place and a cultural centre for the University and the wider Aberdeen community. Construction started on this project in September 2009 by main contractor Pihl UK and was completed in 2011. The £57million project is the largest capital fund-raising project yet undertaken by the University, receiving support from alumni and private donors around the world, from companies in many sectors of business, and from charitable trusts local and national.

Skidmore, Owings & Merrill, Inc (SOM) has been awarded, by Blenheim Properties, the commission for the master plan for Green Tech City in Hanoi, Vietnam.

SOM's master plan incorporates advanced city design methods and sustainable principles to reduce the demand for non-renewable resources and typical civil infrastructure. Covering an area of 145 hectares, the plan integrates two existing villages with future development and provides necessary community amenities to serve a future urban population in excess of 20,000 people. The Master Plan expands and reinforces the local traditions and green urban character of Hanoi. The plan also engages and enlivens the strategic green landscape corridor envisioned at the city scale along the adjoining river and applies state-of-the-art technology in carbon emissions reduction, energy needs reduction and smart infrastructure.

In addition to a new linear riverfront park, the Master Plan generates a series of organic, low-rise, pedestrian-friendly residential neighborhoods within the planned 'Green Corridor'. This is balanced by a more urban and dense edge of highrise development articulating the future skyline of the district. A complete urban living environment will emerge on site, including a variety of housing types integrated with schools, healthcare clinics, sports and other public facilities. One of the key architectural features at the heart of the plan is a new Cultural Forum building animating a civic piazza, establishing an iconic meeting space for this new community and the wider population of Hanoi. This building is designed to accommodate a range of uses including an auditorium, TV studio, art gallery, mediateque, and cafés.

The fragmented system of existing agricultural water channels on site is reorganized into an interconnected network of landscaped waterways. These will provide continuous bands of public green space defining intimate outdoor spaces for each neighborhood. This water system assists in managing flood control, preventing rainwater runoff into surrounding areas, filtering and cleansing grey water and providing a source for irrigating new viticulture activities. New public spaces also protect and encourage new native wildlife habitats to form. In addition to the new city riverfront park, these spaces include a linear canal park, a lake-front district, public gardens, children's play areas, sports and recreation fields, a wetland centre and nature walks.

The plan was informed by a rigorous process designed to optimize its environmental sustainability. Wind and solar analyses were used to determine the optimal orientation of streets and buildings in order to create comfortable urban micro-climates. These ensure the plan will harness natural environmental conditions in order to maximize comfort and minimize infrastructure requirements as well as operational energy costs.  Sustainable district-wide technologies like canal water cooling, tri-generation plants, waste recycling and rainwater harvesting are integral components of the plan. While contemporary building technology is championed, the plan also promotes low-tech passive design strategies for environmental-friendly architecture that is appropriate for the local economy and Vietnamese climate and culture.

Stepping out onto the balcony of a 24 storey apartment, hopping into its more than 10m lap pool attached to the façade, and enjoying the view over the city of Singapore – this has just become reality for the residents of "The Marq". The owners of apartments of the two towers of Marq get to enjoy up to 1,020 square metres of living space, their own elevator, 24-h service, and a fantastic 360 degree panorama view through the impressive 5.50 metre high solar control glazing which provides an optimum indoor environment.

Paterson Hill is known as one of the best addresses in Singapore. Located in the centre of the metropolis, this quarter offers the most exclusive choices in terms of shopping, food, and wellness. Lately, it is also home to "The Marq". The owner company SC Global has been targeting the local and international super-rich and the has been very successful: the largest and most exclusive apartments were sold within a matter of a few hours at exclusive prices. The two towers of The Marq are named "Signature Tower" and "Premier Tower". There are 66 exclusive apartments on a foundation of 11,500 square metres. The Premier Tower houses 42 four-room apartments of 280 square metres each. In addition, there are three penthouses with 1,020 square metres each. The Signature Tower has 21 six-room apartments (560 square metres) with so-called "Infinity Pools" attached to the facade – special pools with a concealed water edge – that are especially striking on the facade of a skyscraper.

Solar Control Glazing

All of the apartments are impressive due to their up to 5.50 metre high floor-to-ceiling glazing over the entire width, which further enhances the view over the breathtaking skyline. The colour-neutral glazing lets the residents enjoy the pure colours. The high-end coating ipasol neutral 68/37 by Interpane also keeps the rooms from overheating. This lowers the costs for air conditioning. Especially in the tropical climate of Singapore, located almost at the equator, this is an important factor. The intensity of the solar radiation is correspondingly high, even in a prevalent rainy and humid climate. The glazing's solar factor of 37% as per EN 410 is low. Nonetheless, an enormous amount of daylight enters the rooms (tV = 63, or 65%, depending on the glazing design). It is in this way that the energetic properties of the glazing lower the operating costs and preserve natural resources.


This glazing features another specialty: Interpane equipped the surface of the inside pane, which faces the gap between the two panes (position 3) with an additional iplus E thermal insulation coating. In this case, it is not so much for keeping the building from cooling down too much, but rather for lowering the inside reflection from eleven to eight percent. This enhances the view outside, especially at night when the lights are on. The outside reflection was also lowered from ten to eight per cent, which results in a very colour-neutral appearance and maximum transparency. Due to the vast size of the panes alone, the design of the glass facade is massive: on the outside, 8 mm heat-strengthened glass with ipasol neutral 68/37, a gap between the inner and outer pane, silicone sealing, and on the inside 8 mm heat-strengthened glass with iplus E. For the largest panes: on the outside, 10 mm heat-strengthened glass with ipasol neutral 68/37, a gap between the inner and outer pane, silicone seal, and on the inside 10 mm heat-strengthened glass with iplus E.

Architect: Oscar & Ponni Architects

Puducherry is an ideal travel destination and the Accord Puducherry is the symbol of a luxurious sojourn in a city filled with a nostalgic past and an exciting future. This hotel is an elegant oasis of space and calm offering spectacular views of the city from all around the complex. It is conveniently located in the heart of Puducherry's vibrant business and entertainment area and close to the Auroville Ashram complex. It is adjacent to the Rajiv Gandhi Statue that welcomes any traveler to the city.


The architectural style is neo-classical reflecting the colonial style prevalent in Puducherry. The elevation is elegant and has mixture of Indian Dholpur stone, toughened glass, textured paint and wood. The simplicity of horizontal and vertical lines works in perfect harmony with the proportions of the building. The plan of the complex is U shaped and looks inward to the swimming pool.

The sweeping Indian dressed granite driveway porte-cochere is large and inviting and is reminiscent of the French colonial architecture. The wide glass doors opens into a breathtaking double height lobby that is entirely marble clad, topped by a huge golden oval gold leaved ceiling. The giant gold oval ceiling has three magnificent cut glass chandeliers that emphasize the magnificence of the space.


The Italian marble flooring is an exercise of Florentine marble design that is positioned geometrically opposite to the oval ceiling. The symphony of varying shades of Italian marble as well as geometric motifs is a testimony of finesse in design and execution. The far end of the lobby culminates in a marble reception desk that has a wide curve terminating with two large marble globes. Behind this desk are three marble alcoves framed by massive marble columns. Each marble alcove is in turn framed by three delicate lace of marble lattice work made entirely of the purest white Indian Macrana marble. The artwork is a unique design of marble and metal work that is abstract in nature.

The Eastern wall of the lobby is clad by large mirrors with specially commissioned artwork that forms the center piece of the composition. The lift wall has intricate marble work crowning the elevator openings. The lobby opens out to the coffee shop and bar on right side and the pre-function areas to the banquet hall on the left side. The pre-function area is defined by a long row of magnificent tall marble columns reminiscent of renaissance palaces. The marble motifs are set in modular fashion breaking the spatial scale into areas of pleasant sequential experiences.

The banquet hall "Crystal" in the ground floor has large carved doors with curvilinear handles ushering the visitor to a truly royal interior filled with plush carpets of ceremonial Indian colors of red, yellow and green. The design motifs in the ceiling are reflected in the carpet design. The elevation of the walls have marble columns, fabric paneling, and carved light boxes – alternating with one another to give a true feast for the eyes. All intricate power and communication arrangements of the latest design have been installed to give the end-user a smooth and comfortable conferencing experience.

The lobby opens out into the glazed areas of the coffee shop by way of a carved wooden portal. The coffee shop "Seasons" provides yet another facet of an excellent aesthetic and culinary experience. The garden forms the design concept of the coffee shop and the regal gazebo reflects this theme aptly. Contemporary designs in terms of the Italian marble design and wall cladding is cleverly inter-twined with Indian carved panels made of Indian white Macrana marble. The cove ceiling has three modules in the dining area and one in the food display area. Ornate cut-glass chandeliers complete a regal yet landscape oriented coffee shop. The furniture adds to the informal yet regal culinary experience. The colour scheme is in muted shades of beige and white with flashes of green.


The bar aptly named 'The Zodiac' evokes a cosmic feel by the wave like curvilinear design of the flooring, ceiling, elevations and bar counter. The orbs of lights above the bar counter throws lights in an aesthetically pleasant fashion completing the cosmic experience. Shades of Botoccino and Brown Emprado marble harmoniously blend into one another and also forms part of the huge curved bar counter. The bar display is resplendent with mother of pearl panels that glow in the soft pendant lighting of the bar ceiling. The wood panels are also wave shaped with clever lighting and emphasized by slim vertical tiny metal rods that give visual anchorage. The huge curved leather panels form the primary peripheral elements of the ceiling design culminating in curved wooden members in the center.

For the convenience of the business traveller in Puducherry, the hotel also has a full-service Business Centre, open 24 hours daily. Giving a corporate feel, the extensive wood veneer paneling coupled with patterned blue carpeting, this business center has all hi-tech facilities for any guest.

The bar overlooks the pool area which has Italian Bizazza tiles in blue and white patterns complete with wooden pergolas and Italian marble columns. A Bizazza tile marine themed mural overlooks the pool area.

The guest corridor is laid with marble skirting and borders encircles a rich carpet corridor gives the visitor a welcoming feel to the guest room. The guest room is designed along modern lines with furniture of light veneers, contemporary light fittings, and artwork. Indirect lighting is a feature of the guest room. The bathroom and toilet fittings are all German and the entire bath/ toilet areas are clad with rich Italian marble. The suite rooms are designed along contemporary lines and have all the modern wi-fi amenties.

Architect: Oscar & Ponni Architects

Nestled on the bustling TTK road in Chennai, is a stately elegant building that is a beautiful blend of contemporary Zen and organic architecture. The concept was an urban edifice designed with traditional elements such as a courtyard and contemporary green design. Each element was designed using natural materials and there is a clear integration of the outdoor space of the courtyard with each indoor architectural space. The clients are firm believers of nature and vastu and the design brief emphasised the need for integrating nature with every part of the living spaces.

Contemporary Architectural Design

The Raghavan building is a mixed use building that has a swanky I-Phone store on the ground floor and first floor level. The building also has residential apartments in the second and the third floor. The second floor houses the grandparents and grandchildren apartment and the third floor houses the sons and daughters' apartments.


Natural stone is an integral part of green design and the building is an example of how the ancient traditional materials can be used in any part of the exterior and interior of the house. The compound wall, exterior paving, indoor flooring, counters and elevation of the building is extensively clad by its 4 inches thick Sadarhalli grey granite especially hand-picked and transported from the Sadarhalli quarries of Karnataka.

Taking on the principle of Zen and the stone temple of karnak in Egypt, each stone member of the elevation is 15 feet high 4" thick granite monolithic blocks. This monolithic granite blocks are combined with natural wood fascia, steel and glass to form an elegant symphony of contemporary architectural design.


The exterior and interior design is a union of the human habitat and nature. The double height staircase lobby has a beautiful mural of a tree. The granite cladded steps transfer one from the commercial sector of the building style up to the residential sector of the second floor and the third floor apartment. And the basement houses the car parking and engineering services of the building.

The entire building, both interiors and exteriors, is built of Indian granite and marble as well all furniture and furnishing sourced entirely from India. The interior furnishings and furniture are contemporary in nature, almost ascetic in style. The design is both low maintenance, cost effective and energy efficient.

The concept of the landscape is simplicity, tranquillity and grace and this effect is emphasized by the usage of grey granite, pebbles, wild grass and elegant shrubbery. The stone sculpture is designed along Zen principles also integrates a waterfall. The combined effect is one of a peaceful forest in an urban jungle

UNStudio/ Ben van Berkel, with consortium DUO², recently completed the swirling and one of the most sustainable large office buildings in Europe for two governmental offices, the national tax offices and the student loan administration. The design for the

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Designed as a hotel and office in a garden, the project, PARKROYAL on Pickering, at Upper Pickering Street is a study of how to increase the green replacement in a highrise development in the city center and multiply it in a manner that is architecturally striking, integrated and sustainable.


Located in central Singapore, the site is at a junction between the CBD and the colorful districts of Chinatown and Clark Quay, and faces Hong Lim Park. A contoured podium responds to the street scale, drawing inspiration from a combination of landscaped bonsai arrangements that are modelled, chiselled and spliced to mimic natural landscapes and mountain rock formations as well as that of the contoured paddy fields of Asia. These contours are precast concrete elements of modular radii, allowing the complex, sculptural podium to be put together from a basic 'kit of parts'.

At a Glance:
Project	: PARKROYAL on Pickering, Singapore
Location	: 3 Upper Pickering Street, Singapore 058289
Design Inception	: Dec 2007
Start of Construction	: Dec 2009
Opening	: January 2013
Project Cost (construction)	: S$ 137 million
Gross Floor Area	: 29,811.54 sqm
Plot Area	: 6,958.9 sqm
Architects & Interior Design	: WOHA
Client	: UOL Group Limited

On the ground the contours create dramatic outdoor plazas and gardens which flow seamlessly into the interiors. Greenery from the park is drawn up in the form of planted valleys, gullies and waterfalls. The landscaping also conceals openings to the above ground carparking while allowing in air and natural light. The top of the podium is a lush landscaped terrace housing the development's recreational facilities, with infinity edge pools opening up unobstructed views of the city. Birdcage cabanas perched over the waters add interest and delight.


The crisp and streamlined tower blocks harmonize with surrounding high-rise office buildings. They are attenuated into an open-sided courtyard configuration, breaking down the 'wall of buildings' effect and maximizing views and daylighting into the building. Blue and green glass creates a patina that recall the waters of Singapore River adjacent. Lofty 4 storey sky gardens bring lush greenery directly to the rooms and break down the scale of the building. Corridors, lobbies and common washrooms are designed as garden spaces with stepping stones, planting and water features which create an alluring resort ambience with natural light and fresh air, instead of being 24-hour energy guzzling air conditioned spaces. Tall overhangs work together with leafy foliage to screen these spaces from the weather and direct sun.


A total of 15,000m2 of skygardens, reflecting pools, waterfalls, planter terraces and green walls were designed; this is double the site area or equivalent to the footprint of Hong Lim Park! A diverse variety of species ranging from shade trees, tall palms, flowering plants, leafy shrubs and overhanging creepers come together to create a lush tropical setting that is attractive not only to the people but also to insects and birds, extending the green areas from Hong Lim Park and encouraging bio-diversity in the city.


These landscapes are designed to be self-sustaining and rely minimally on precious resources. Rainwater collected from upper floors irrigates planters on the lower floors by gravity supplemented by non-potable recycled Newater, which will also be used for all water features. Photovoltaic cell arrays on the roof will power grow lamps and softscape lighting, making these Singapore's and perhaps the world's first Zero Energy Skygardens!


This project is awarded Singapore's Green Mark Platinum, the nation's highest environmental certification. The hotel officially opened in January 2013.

Designed by 3XN, the new Chancellary for the Danish Embassy in New Delhi demonstrates the story of the classic Danish house turned upside down. The typical Danish house has four outer walls to protect against the cold and wind and the saddle roof keeps the snow and rain at bay. In India, on the contrary, the hot climate creates the need for protection against the sun and cool, shaded rooms.


The Chancellary is constructed around 12 simple inverted houses combined in a repetitive structure. The easily recognizable Danish shape is turned on its head enabling one to walk in the shaded galleries along the roof of the inverted houses. Water basins cool down the adjacent areas and create beautiful reflections on the ceilings of the buildings.

Project at a Glance
Project	: Danish Embassy
Location	: New Delhi
Architect	: 3XN
Developer	: Danish Foreign Ministry
Status	: Designed

The compound includes a number of different functions in each three-level house. The spine of the structure is formed by the triple high hall and reception area leading to two different chanceries – the Danish on the right and another country on the right. The incubator rooms function as temporary offices for Danish companies expanding into India. Three residence houses are placed at the back – away from the entrance activities – placed around their own swimming pool and garden area with space for play and recreation. The buildings also contain parking and showroom in the basement, roof terraces, and visa offices with their own separate entrance. The decentralized structure with small volumes makes it possible for the Chancellary's many different activities to unfold without necessarily interfering with each other.


Four basins connect the two chancellaries, the residences and the reception area like blue courtyards. They are carefully decorated with art, stepping stones and water lilies for soothing visual breaks for the employees and guests. A mix of Danish and Indian trees provides outdoor shading areas in the garden and the surrounding wall with climbing plants is a colorful backdrop to the scenery.

Scandinavia has recently opened its largest hotel that symbolizes not only the identity of the modern Ørestad area of Copenhagen but also marks the Capital's increasing importance on the international convention and congress scene. The sculptural profile and visibility of the hotel from the various corners of Copenhagen make it an architectural landmark which will draw many visitors to the Ørestad neighbourhood.


With its 814 rooms and 30 conference rooms, the Comwell Bella Sky Hotel offers a wealth of new accommodation and resources for the Bella Convention and Congress Center in Copenhagen. In future, this will draw an even larger segment of the international world class conferences and events to Copenhagen. Designed by 3XN, Bella Sky Hotel is a distinct new profile in the Copenhagen skyline with the two towers reaching up 76.5 meters, and leaning out at a staggering 15 degrees in each direction (11 degrees more than the leaning tower of Pisa). This results in a sculptural building unique in Copenhagen which has started drawing many curious looks from all over the city.

Bella Sky Facts
Architect	: 3XN Architects, Denmark
Location	: Bella Center, Center Boulevard S, Copenhagen S, Denmark
Client	: Bella Center A/S
Size	: 42.000 m2
Height	: 76,5 m (23 floors)
Number of Rooms	: 814 rooms and 30 conference rooms
Engineer	: Rambøll Denmark

The characteristic leaning towers are designed with purpose. The fact that they lean away from each other ensures optimal guest views from both sides of each tower over the nature park 'Amager Common' and the Copenhagen rooftops just beyond.


'Some of the best views can be found in Ørestad, and therefore it was important to find an architectural solution which allows views from nearly every room. The effect of the leaning towers has also resulted in corner rooms where the building angles create a view which is actually underneath the room! It gives the illusion of floating above the view itself,' says Kim Herforth Nielsen, Principal and Founder of 3XN. 'Of course, the most fantastic view of all is from the Hotel's Skybar which is open to the public' he added.


'We have knowingly worked towards designing a building unlike anything else in Copenhagen - And we did that because Ørestad, which is a new city neighbourhood is also unlike any other place in Copenhagen. Bella Sky is designed specifically to reflect the identity of Ørestad, contributing in a positive manner,' he said.

Stylish Interior Strategy:

The Best from Nordic traditions
3XN has also designed a large portion of the interior, and in that regard has aimed to differentiate itself from other hotels.

Mr. Nielsen goes on saying, 'although Bella Sky is the Nordic region's largest hotel, we have done everything to ensure that the hotel doesn't give the typical impersonal and formal feeling that so often defines large hotels. Therefore, we decided to interpret the overall theme as New Nordic Cool. We looked at how Scandinavians approach the design of their homes, how they live – and then chose the best of our design tradition for the Bella Sky Hotel. Key words for us were simplicity, functionality and high quality, both in design and materials.


Therefore, anything synthetic was banned in the selection of materials for the hotel's 814 rooms. Carpets are in wool, bed sheets in high thread count cottons, and there is a prevailing use of natural materials such as smoked oak and leather found throughout the décor. The smokey color palette gives the rooms warmth and at the same time creates references to the Nordic nature, which is evident from the hotel views over the nature park, 'Amager Common.'


3XN has chosen the best from the Nordic tradition in terms of furniture designers, and has used a strategy comprising both new and classic design from a selection such as Hay, Arne Jacobsen and Finn Juhl. The common thread running through the chosen furniture, textiles and lamps, are round organic forms, which underline the informal and relaxed mood.

The Bella Chandelier - A light sculpture Unique in design and technology

In the Hotel's lobby, guests are welcomed by a specially commissioned light sculpture from 3XN's research and development department, GXN. The Bella Chandelier contains over 7000 LED lamps, reflecting a changing program of cool and warm colours which are reminiscent of Nordic light. The warm reception area is framed by a golden wooden wall, textured to give the impression of a bundle of logs. Compact and mobile reception desks ensure a more personal service, where the hotel's employees can welcome guests in an informal and relaxed manner.

Kim Herforth Nielsen describes it further, 'we wish to give the Hotel's guests an experience of walking into a warm, relaxed and friendly space when they arrive at the Bella Sky Hotel. The décor and the interior strategy aim to complement the personal service level, thus giving the guest an informal feeling of freedom from the very first impression.


With the aim of bringing art and science together in one unique light and color experience, the multidisciplinary team of GXN was on a journey exploring the realm between structure, technology and design. And finally they commissioned specially designed light sculpture 'The Bella Chandelier' which is inspired by the stringent yet dynamic design of the Bella Sky.

In several areas, the Bella Chandelier is an example of pioneer work in creating light installations: Hence, the custom milled aluminum cores used as compression rods are merely 36 mm in diameter, making them the slimmest of their kind. Furthermore, the light and spacious expression of the Bella Chandelier is a result of its tensegrity structure where a perfect equilibrium of forces is reached through a precise balance of the elements. Never before has a tensegrity structure of this size been made with as high level of integrated and optimized design.

This extremely slim construction together with the integrated dynamic lighting makes the Bella Chandelier stand out worldwide as an extraordinary example of engineered art. At the same time, the light sculpture perfectly reflects the architecture and design of the Bella Sky.


The Director of Bella Center, Mr. Arne Bang Mikkelsen is delighted that the newest addition to the Bella Congress and Convention Center is more than just the sum of its parts. He says, 'We have received an architectural icon, a symbol for Bella Center and for Copenhagen, which through its unique form provides people with an experience both from the outside as they approach the hotel and on the inside as they experience the many facilities and amenities offered. The Hotel is so sculptural, that we have decided not to add any signage on the exterior. The architecture speaks for itself.' At the same time, the Director, Arne Bang Mikkelsen mentions that the collaboration with 3XN architects was 'perfect.'

Following an international competition, BDP's Indian studio was appointed by the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) to prepare a masterplan and detailed design proposals for a new 230 ha learning Eco-campus on the outskirts of Mandi, H.P. BDP's design for Ecocampus which can assist the institution to move towards environmental sustainability through good operational and management practice, won the competition.

The human scale sustainable campus is on a site with great natural serenity and beauty. Its layout responds to the microclimate and topography of the steep site in the part forested hills in the western Himalayan region.

As per the proposal and design, the project would be completed in a phased manner where Phase I includes shared state-of-the-art laboratories and workshops in learning houses situated on various levels and connected via pedestrian bridges. A market square forms the heart of the campus and creates a place to encourage social interaction and celebration.


The faculty staff housing element forms a retreat on the higher levels at the campus peninsula. It is laid out in a village setting offering fantastic views. Proposed building typologies echo the traditional style of Himalayan vernacular and strive toward a new architecture for the region.

Project at a Glance
Project name	: IIT Mandi - Eco–Campus
Location	: Himachal Pradesh, India
Program	: Educational complex
Area	: Site area: 230 ha
Year: Design	: 2011 (international competition, 1st prize)
Phased completion	: 2012-2015
Client	: Indian Institutes of Technology
Architect, Masterplanner and Landscape Architect	: BDP

IIT Mandi is the latest of a new generation of Indian Institutes of Technology being promoted by the Indian government. Manisha Bhartia, Urbanism studio leader says: "The Institute's new campus will set a benchmark for developing innovative, contextual and environmentally sensitive building in the Himalayan region."

This project will be led by BDP's New Delhi studio with support from the UK headquarters. Phase I could start on site early next year, with phased completion between 2012 and 2015.

The Indian real estate sector is booming with some great works of architecture such as Cybertecture, Spire Edge, Park Hyatt, SymHomes Mk1, North Eye, World One etc. In the forthcoming wave of contemporary architecture is a great specimen called 'Deya,' which is a part of the project christened 'Atmosphere,' being recently announced by the Kolkata-based developer Forum Group.

Atmosphere will be a new architectural icon – a sculpture in the sky. The Rs.550 crore luxury residential condominium project will consist of two towers of 39-storey each and will be highest in Kolkata. The towers will have a total area of 400,000 square feet and will feature villas in the sky with garden on each duplex unit.

The most picturesque feature of the Atmosphere is the amorphous shape-shifting, tubular piece of floating sculpture called "Deya, (means cloud in Bengali) which is hanging between the twin towers at a height of 500 feet.

Designed by the Singapore based Arc Studio, the magnificent hanging sculpture is intended to look like as if a cloud was gently floating between the peaks of the two towers. The structure will span more than 320 feet in width, 55,000 square feet of usable space and will have a silver lining featuring 15,000 kinetic discs on its surface to keep it glowing.

"A cloud has no particular form or character. When one is driving around the city, or looking at Deya from different parts of the city, its form will seem to be changing constantly. Similarly, as the sun moves in the sky, Deya will look different in its form, appearing sometimes solid, sometimes translucent and sometimes even a notion of being fluid," said Rahul Saraf, Managing Director, Forum Group.

Sitting 100 metres in the air, "Deya" will have a clear span of 65 metres. With four levels, the highest being the party deck, it will serve as a community space, and both its interior and "outer" skin will be put to use. It will command a 360-degree view of the wetlands stretching before it and feature multiple swimming pools, a gym, a spa, squash courts and a badminton court, a jogging track, a mini cinema theater, open-air party deck, an amphitheater, and multiple lounges and spaces for smaller gatherings. And all that is meant for the exclusive use of the 80 families that will reside in the Atmosphere.

Built around a pathway shaped like a Mobius strip (loop of infinity), Deya will change Kolkata's skyline. The developers feel that other than being an object de art for the city, Deya will also be one of the most expensive clubs that the country would have ever built.

The luxury design of this artistic residential sculpture also conforms to the green architectural standards. The Forum Group has provided for the rainwater to be harvested in collection tanks within the foundations of Deya, which will further be used for landscaping and other purposes. At first glance, the property looks like one of the fascinating towers from Dubai, but this skyscraper will be one of the prominent pieces of architecture in the Indian real estate landscape.

The impact of earthquakes and wind at that height has been tested, and a mock-up is being done in Singapore, where for six months the structure will weather the elements.

Structural Design

For this unique project, International engineering consultancy Web Structures has been contracted by developer to create a dramatic cloud-like sky-bridge in the Indian city. The earthquake engineering specialists Web Structures brings its expertise of working on tall buildings around the globe to Deya.

Part of the design process has been the creation of a mock-up in China. The 1/20th scale model has been used to help in the assembly and scaling of spaces. Dr Hossein Rezai, Web Structures group director, said: "We have come up with a complex structural engineering solution to frame the space the architects have defined. "It comprises more than 1,500 steel sections with a total weight of 1,500 tons, which will be assembled 100 metres above the ground.

"The structure has to straddle between two towers in a combination of a "beam-like" and a "catenary" system. The primary challenges facing the structural system include fundamental issues of safety and serviceability, as well as the critical issue of constructing such a large structure some 40-floors up. Limiting and controlling the movements of the towers at the roof levels where the cloud structure is supported, whilst maintaining serviceability of the towers and the sky-bridge under seismic loads and the high wind forces that prevail in Kolkata have been our primary structural considerations."

Kolkata is in a Level 3 seismic zone, making it vulnerable to earthquake damage. It is also exposed to high wind speeds during monsoon storms. Dr Rezai said: "These conditions present a challenge in themselves. However, when supporting the bridge spanning 65m between them, the ability of the towers to deal with the force and movements caused by these elements becomes even more important.

"As the towers can move independently from one another those movements must also be controlled so the sky-bridge can be safely supported. The supports have been designed to accommodate the movements.

"The movements on top of the roof supporting the structure have been reduced to less than 120mm. The structural arrangement also creates a building that moves laterally when it is subjected to external forces, minimising any potential rotation.The structural anatomy of the final design includes nine different components, each performing a distinctive task to ensure the "whole" structure responds to all the structural requirements in a holistic and appropriate manner."

Longitudinal trusses will span the towers and form the main spine supporting the structure. Horizontal arches will control lateral movements.


Dr Rezai added: "A sliding/multi-rotational bearing assembly system will create the seismic isolation required for the building. It will allow lateral movements arising from wind loads and seismic effects and will allow the buildings below and the bridge above to move relative to one another in an independent manner.

Web Structures, with offices in Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, London and Shanghai, has overseen the creation of a sky-bridge linking three towers at the 50-storey Troika development in Kuala Lumpur, designed by Norman Foster.

Other than the structural design which is created by Web Structures, the wind tunnel investigations has been done by Tony Rofail of Australia-based Windtech Consultants. The contractor is Mero Construction, which has a subsidiary in Chennai. The lighting is being conceived by the Japan-based Kaoru Mende, and at night Deya will be lit up by myriad LED lamps. The estimated cost of Deya alone is INR 100 crores. The construction on the project is started by mid March 2011 and will take approximately 30 months to complete.

Designed and developed by Abin Design Studio, the Building IMI, Kolkata is inspired by nature. The sky with its various states and ever changing colors is one of the most dynamic elements of nature and this is what has inspired the built form façade. The colored laminate with Vanceva PVB glass on the façade follows no repetitive pattern and is symbolic of the unpredictable nature of the sky. It also represents the vibrancy of today’s youth.


The client brief required a management institute of international standards. Provisions for state-of-the- art facilities and smart classrooms have been made for. The latest technological provisions in the institute allow for worldwide exchange of knowledge through conventions and seminars. The architectural language of the built form is a representation of this. The colored façade gives it a unique identity.

At a Glance
Location	: Kolkata
Function	: Education
Site Area	: 2.75 Acres
Building Area	: 5000 Sq M
Total Floor Area	: 27000 Sq M
Principal Architect	: Abin Chaudhuri (Principal)
Client	: IMI, Kolkata
Interior/ Landscape Design	: Abin Design Studio
Principal Civil Contractor	: Mfar Constructions
Principal Interior Contractor	: Touchpoint
Photographer	: Pradip Sen

The building situated in a very dense residential urban fabric, was a huge constraint and dictated linear planning. Special efforts were made to ensure create non-monotonous spaces which did not follow expected linear pattern. The narrow entrance to the site did not allow a naturally large frontage and curve glass façade was designed such that it would create the necessary frontage for an institutional building.


The chromatic glass façade comprises 2 layers of 5mm clear glass each with an intermediate PVB layer 1.2mm thick which acts as an insulator, reducing the heat buildup inside. The façade becomes more dynamic by night when the inside lights are switched on and has a mesmerizing effect on the plaza below. The circulation spaces and spill out zones have been created along the curved glass façade, allowing them to be naturally lit in the day and giving them a more interesting and dynamic feel. Emphasis has been given to interaction points not just for students but also for the faculty encouraging exchange of knowledge and ideas at all levels.

The reception has been designed as a triple height space naturally lit by a huge skylight above. The corridors and spill out spaces culminate around here at the upper floor levels. Care has been taken to ensure that the library is also well lit during the day and has been designed such that it is surrounded by glass on three sides, shaded by the existing trees on site.


Color has subtly been introduced in the interiors as well in the form of colored glass partitions, colored glass slits on the wall or simply in the furniture. An integrated plaza with a water body has been designed. The water body receives no direct sunlight and creates a comfortable micro-climate. Wherever possible shading trees have been planted and soft landscape is introduced.

It is an institute that has achieved international standards not only by providing state-of-the-art facilities but also by having an architectural expression which represents that.

A new architectural highlight in the skyline is the new Unilever headquarters for Germany, Austria, and Switzerland. Situated right by the river Elbe and prominently positioned in Hamburg's HafenCity, the building resembles the cruise ships. The enormous transparency inside the building, generates a feeling of openness and freedom.


Designed by Behnisch Architekten, the central element and heart of the Unilever building is the generous atrium, flooded by daylight, which offers public amenities at ground floor level. Light streams in through generous glazed surfaces in the roof construction. The roof, which was optimized by means of light simulations, also provides the office areas with sufficient daylight. Near the central access areas around the atrium, there are open spaces looking out over the interior expanse – the Meeting Points. These serve as access to the office zones while encompassing central facilities such as copy stations and kitchenettes. The Meeting Points are connected to one another by bridges and walkways. Horizontal and vertical neighborhoods are created which are primarily intended for informal encounters. Vibrant and communicative interaction evolves, fostering a feeling of togetherness among the employees.


The Unilever building follows the principles of holistic, sustainable architecture. Its energy concept focuses on avoiding technical solutions, while introducing, where appropriate, technology that helps save resources. Particular attention was paid to the arrangement of the individual levels with respect to capturing a maximum amount of daylight in all areas. The building's high degree of flexibility facilitates the adaptation of use to future requirements; the layout and the arrangement of the individual areas conform to the prerequisites for optimal microclimatic conditions.

Architect	: Behnisch Architekten
Location	: Hamburg, Germany
Client	: HOCHTIEF Projektentwicklung
User	: Unilever Deutschland GmbH
Completion	: September 2009

It was the users' acceptance of the building that stood at the centre of all considerations. All of those areas with an essential bearing on the use of the building, the atrium in particular, underwent analyses to arrive at the maximum level of comfort in terms of room acoustics and were optimized accordingly. This is due to manually controllable radiators, manually adjustable blinds and glare protection as well as windows which can also be opened onto the atrium, every employee can influence his or her immediate working environment. A modular system is available for furnishing consisting of a wide range of elements such as stand-up tables, benches, storage spaces, room cells etc., which individual departments can use to put together the office of their choice.


The energy concept comprises active components as well as passive measures. Due to its location right next to the cruise ship terminal, the building is exposed to diesel generator emissions from the ships that lie there at anchor. Therefore, a hybrid system was introduced for ventilation: primary ventilation is provided mechanically via a compressed air floor, whereby the air supply is fed into the office area via a filter system and from there into the atrium. Heat exchangers are located near the roof so that warmth can be recovered and no energy is lost. The office area is cooled by means of thermally activated reinforced concrete ceilings with water flowing through them. In order not to restrict the ceilings' thermal storage capacity with insulating panelling, a floor construction, which was specially designed for this project and which unites properties for both ventilation and acoustics, serves as an absorber surface for room acoustics. A single-layer film facade placed in front of the building's insulation glazing protects the daylight-optimized blinds from wind and other weather influences. Unlike a double facade made of glass, this construction does not require horizontal partitioning as a fire prevention measure. As a result, the air-filled space in the facade can be used for window ventilation of the building.

Daylight and Comfortable Temperature

Neutral views, lots of daylight and a high level of solar protection are the strengths of the ipasol neutral solar control facade. It comprises two parts: On the ground floor, the generously dimensioned glazing in a pillar-beam design allows plenty of light into the building. Especially in the summer months, the reflecting water caused the facade to let in considerably more light and heat. Therefore, the planners decided to use ipasol neutral 50/27: With the large windows and the special light intensity, as little as 50% of daylight transmission provides for bright rooms, so that artificial light only has to be used relatively late in the day. This reduces the operating costs and is good for the environment. The particularly low solar factor (27% as per EN 410) effectively protects the rooms from heating up too much on sunny days. This reduces the costs for air conditioning. The neutral glass also allows for a pristine view from the offices over the Elbe River and HafenCity.

From the first storey upwards, the glass facade is protected from the rough sea air by a "plastic cocoon". Since the sophisticated cover, despite its high transparency, reduces light transmittance, the planners decided to use ipasol neutral 70/39.

The high level of light transmittance (tL = 70%) maximises the daylight transmission. Together with the "plastic sail" enclosing the building, the solar factor of 39% is sufficiently low. In the wintertime, the Ug-value of 1.1 W/m2K (as per EN 673) provides for effective heat insulation. In some parts of the building, a cold sound-insulation facade, using laminated sheet glass supplied by Interpane, provides additional protection from increased noise levels.

Awards

The building sets new ecological standards and received several awards including the golden environment award of the HafenCity Hamburg GmbH, the WAF Award (World Architecture Festival), and the international Bex award (Building Exchange Award) are all proof of its sustainable and architectural excellence. The façade, which features ipasol solar control glazing, optimises the energy balance: In warm months, it minimises the costs for air conditioning and in cold months, its insulation value of 1.1 W/m2K (as per EN 673) keeps the warmth inside the building. Another part of the energy concept is the application of LED technology for lighting the workplaces. This reduces power consumption by up to 70% compared to using halogen lamps.

At a Glance
Project	: Waste-to-Energy Plant
Client	: Amagerforbraending
Location	: Copenhagen, Denmark
Architect	: BIG-Bjarke Ingels Group
Collaborators	: Realities United (Smoke Ring Generator), AKT (Façade & Structural Consulting), Topotek 1/ Man Made Land (Landscape)
Building	: 95,000 m2
Landscape	: 90,000 m2
Roof + ski slope	: 32,000 m2
Façade area	: 74,000 m2
Administrative + Visitor center floor area	: 6,500 m2
Partner-in-Charge	: Bjarke Ingels, David Zahle

BIG is selected to design a new Waste-to-Energy Plant in Copenhagen, Denmark. Along with the energy plant, it is also proposed to create a ski slope and other entertainment facilities in the plant. The project is expected to be completed by 2016.

Located in an industrial area near the city center the new Waste-to-Energy plant will be an exemplary model in the field of waste management and energy production, as well as an architectural landmark in the cityscape of Copenhagen. The project is the single largest environmental initiative in Denmark with a budget of 3,5 billion DKK, and replaces the adjacent 40 year old Amager for braending plant, integrating the latest technologies in waste treatment and environmental performance. BIG won over Wilkinson Eyre Architects, Dominique Perrault Architecture, 3xN, Lundgaard & Tranberg Architects, and Gottlieb Paludan Architects who were short listed to compete out of 36 international proposals in Fall 2010. The winning team was announced by a panel of judges whose decision was unanimous.


"BIG's proposal contributes to the city with something useful and beautiful. We see this creating a lot of opportunities and with this unique building, we can brand the Danish knowledge and technology to show the world our abilities within environmental and energy issues," said Ulla Röttger, Director of Amagerforbraending.

Instead of considering the new Amagerforbraending as an isolated architectural object, the building is conceived as a destination in itself and reflects the progressive vision for a new type of waste treatment facility. The roof of the new Amagerforbraending is turned into a 31.000 m2 ski slope of varying skill levels for the citizens of Copenhagen, its neighboring municipalities and visitors, mobilizing the architecture and redefining the relationship between the waste plant and the city by expanding the existing recreational activities in the surrounding area into a new breed of waste-to-energy plant.

"The new plant is an example of what we at BIG call Hedonistic Sustainability – the idea that sustainability is not a burden, but that a sustainable city in fact can improve our quality of life. The Waste-to-Energy plant with a ski slope is the best example of a city and a building which is both ecologically, economically and socially sustainable," Bjarke Ingels Founder and Partner, BIG.


The slope is ecological using a recycled synthetic granular, upending the convention of the energy intensive indoor ski resort. Access to the slopes is via an elevator along the plant's smokestack providing views into the plant, giving glimpses of its internal workings finally reaching an observation platform 100m above giving sightseers an unobstructed view from one of the tallest structures in Copenhagen. While all of this is going on, the smokestack is modified to puff smoke rings of 30m in diameter whenever 1 ton of fossil CO2 is released. These smoke rings which are the brainchild of Germany-based art studio realities:united will form due to the condensation of water in the flue gases as they slowly rise and cool, serving as a gentle reminder of the impact of consumption and a measuring stick that will allow the common Copenhagener to grasp the CO2 emission in a straightforward way - turning the smokestack traditionally the symbol of the industrial era into a symbol for the future. At night, heat tracking lights are used to position lasers on the smoke rings into glowing artworks.


"Designing a façade for a building is like wrapping a gift without having to consider its content. Instead of concentrating on the wrapping paper, we have instead invested our energy on creating a gift for the citizens of Copenhagen and its visitors no matter if they are adults or children, professionals or beginners. I can't wait to ski on a base of clean and green energy with a view over the city in 2016", David Zahle, Partner, BIG.


From a distance, the entire building is wrapped in a vertical green façade formed by planter modules stacked like bricks turning it into a mountain from afar. The surrounding topography is sculpted by Topotek 1 & Man Made Land to form a park which offers informal sport activities in summer and winter. Along its western border a field of hills will mimic a mogul piste. A path system throughout the park interconnects the whole site and creates good connections to the neighboring residential area.

Zaha Hadid Architects recently announced the completion of the Guangzhou Opera House. The Opera House design is the latest realization of Hadid Architects' unique exploration of contextual urban relationships, combining the cultural traditions that have shaped Guangzhou's history, with the ambition and optimism that will create its future.


Like pebbles in a stream smoothed by erosion, the Guangzhou Opera House rests in perfect harmony with its riverside location. The Opera House is at the heart of Guangzhou's cultural development. By adopting state-of-the-art technology in its design and construction, it is a lasting monument to the New Millennium, confirming Guangzhou as one of Asia's cultural centres. Its unique twin-boulder design enhances the city by opening it to the Pearl River, unifying the adjacent cultural buildings with the towers of international finance in Guangzhou's Zhujiang new town.

Design

The 1,800-seat auditorium of the Opera House, houses the very latest acoustic technology, and the smaller 400-seat multifunction hall is designed for performance art, opera and concerts in the round.



Technically, the 70,000-square-meter complex was built using both cutting-edge technology and obsolete construction methods. Though finished in steel, glass and concrete, the pair of asymmetric buildings — the main structures of the opera house is built up of a metal skeleton requiring 59 unique, custom-cast steel joints.

According to the designer, the design of this project was evolved from the concepts of a natural landscape and the fascinating interplay between architecture and nature; engaging with the principles of erosion, geology and topography. The Guangzhou Opera House design has been particularly influenced by river valleys – and the way in which they are transformed by erosion.

Fold lines in this landscape define territories and zones within the Opera House, cutting dramatic interior and exterior canyons for circulation, lobbies and cafes, and allowing natural light to penetrate deep into the building. Smooth transitions between disparate elements and different levels continue this landscape analogy. Custom moulded glass-fibre reinforced gypsum (GFRC) units have been used for the interior of the auditorium to continue the architectural language of fluidity and seamlessness.


According to the designing firm, the exterior of the opera house is inspired by the idea of two rocks in a stream. The designer's approach resulted in spaces that smoothly flow into others, as in nature. Ramps and gradually cascading stairs give access to the main entrances and the outdoors. Inside, visitors go from one area to the next surrounded by the kind of clean, fluid lines and textures. In the grand entrance hall, windows composed of triangular pieces of glass let in sunlight by day and the neighborhood's neon-lit skyscrapers and towers by night.

The Guangzhou Opera House has been the catalyst for the development of cultural facilities in the city including new museums, library and archive.

Located in Zonamerica Business and Technology Park, South America, the project is a mixed use development (restaurant, auditorium, cafeteria, terrace decks, office space) designed by Carlos Ott Architects in association with Carlos Ponce de León Architects. The project is slated to be completed by the end of 2011 or beginning of 2012.


Being built using glass, steel and concrete as building materials, it is a conical inverted building, developed from two semi ellipses, growing from the bottom to top of the penthouse. With unusual form, it will be one of the most original and elegant contemporary buildings of the country.

Commissioned by Zonamerica in celebrating its 20th anniversary in 2010, Celebra Building combines an extraordinary shape with the flexibility required in every office building. It aims to appeal customers with the highest sets of demands, which are reflected in the design with emphasis in attaining LEED certification and bounding this building to make use of state-of-the-art technology - in every area of this project.

Celebra Office Building
Date	: 2010
Location	: Zonamerica - Montevideo - Uruguay - Uruguay
Architects	: Carlos Ott Architects in association with Carlos Ponce de León Architects
Practice	: Ponce de León Architects

Structural Design

Celebra is a seven storey office building which incorporates a number of spaces to meet the needs of staff and visitors, such as conference rooms, business centre, a bank, a cafeteria and terraces on the upper floor. The building's complex appearance contrasts with its simple internal layout. A central core which holds inside elevators, staircases, shafts, toiletes, etc, runs through the entire height of the building, leaving the rest of each floor plan free to accommodate the future tenants with full flexibility.

The ground floor is occupied by the lobby, and the bank. The first level comprises the business centre, and the rest of the above floors are offices. In the basement, there are conference rooms, the lower level of the bank, cafeteria and service areas. The last floor is dedicated to accommodate penthouse offices, as well as terraces with unobstructed views. Some of the terraces are private, belonging to the offices located on that floor, while the others are designed for public use. The building can easily and economically accommodate frequent renovation and alteration, each floor plan can be quickly divided according to each customer needs. Office infrastructure, interior systems, and furnishings are up to the challenge.

Project work & Construction

Celebra will be the most important building in Zonamerica, thus occupying a plot in front of where R.102 and R.8 motorways connect the R8 motorway, making the building visible to passers-by and becoming an added value to the landscape of this part of Montevideo.

The project includes the construction of roads and urban planning of that sector of Zonamerica, something that benefits the integration of Celebra to its surroundings. The soft curves of roads relate perfectly to the floor plan of Celebra.

The shape of the building was developed using computer modeling techniques. Its unique shape imposed an engineering challenge when designing its structure. Celebra has been designed so that it has no front or back in conventional terms, that is why relates with all its surroundings equally, without turning its back to any of the other buildings. In order to maximize the amount of usable space, there are two kinds of pillars in Celebra, vertical ones, and tilted ones. Vertical pillars are integrated to the core. While the other ones are located close to the façade and accompany its inclination towards the outside.

Great care was taken in the design of the façade curtain wall, which has the added complexity of being curve and inclined towards the outside as the building gains height.

The extensive use of glass and steel in the outer skin relates in harmony to the nearby buildings, which use the same materials on their façade. Giving the high tech image that characterizes the urban shape of Zonamerica. The façade which is inclined outwards, provide interesting reflections of the surrounding areas.

The building which will become the symbol of Zonamerica, will also be the tallest one, dominating the surrounding area, without imposing itself. Celebra will set the trend for the new buildings to come to the business & technology park.

The final sculptural solution allows different perceptions and views of the building from each angle, as 360° of views from the building. It would become a symbol of the high level of industries and services hosted at Zonamérica.

Sustainability

Celebra building is currently in process to obtain GREEN BUILDING certification by the USGBC (United States Green Building Council), and is estimated that a high score in LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) will be achieved. The objective of the designers was to create a building with high performance regarding energy use during its entire lifespan, with the result of refined design, remarkably friendly to the environment aiming to have low operational and maintenance costs.

By means of an adequate use of the plot and its immediate surroundings, and seeking to minimize the use of potable water, with innovations in this field; and reducing to small numbers the use of fossil fuels, Celebra building will become an icon in innovation in the field of green buildings in Uruguay.

Among other measures taken regarding energy conservation, decreasing infiltration and increasing insulation are exemplified by the extensive use of efficient materials, such as lightweight polymers, double glazing with low-transmittance and shading coefficient, etc.

The handling of natural ventilation will allow fresh high quality air to reach the different spaces inside the building and maintaining its occupant's health.

In addition, the north facing curtain wall is silk screened in order to reduce the amount of light that passes through, thus reducing the greenhouse effect.


Special care was given to the correctly sizing of the heating, ventilating (natural as well as mechanical), and air-conditioning systems, to diminish the amount of energy used in those systems, improving performance by means of an intelligent control to manage them. Chillers with heat recovery and capacity modulation were selected for energy saving.

Photovoltaic panels located above the parking lot, contribute in making a significant reduction on the amount of power used from the public network. The electricity generated is used for illumination of the parking lot itself, with space to accommodate 325 cars. Special places are provided for hybrid and electrical cars, with outlets for energy recharging. It is important to remark that Celebra building will make a minimum use of fossil fuels.

Extensive use of eco-friendly and recyclable materials are used for the insulation of Celebra. The steel used in the structure has a high percentage of recycled steel incorporated in the manufacturing process. FSC-certified wood is used extensively in the building, in panelling and doors. The acoustic ceiling is made from recycled materials and is recyclable itself. In addition regional materials are widely used throughout the project.

With the completion and opening of Park Hotel in Hyderabad, one more name has been added in the list of marvels in India. Described as a 'Modern Indian Palace,' this newly constructed and country's first LEED Gold certified hotel combines high-performance design with local culture and this is its greatest glory.

Designed by the New York-based architectural firm Skidmore, Owings & Merrill, LLC (SOM), The Park Hotel Hyderabad, the flagship hotel for The Park Hotel Group, is 531,550-square-foot, 270-room hotel infuses a modern, sustainable design with the local craft traditions, and is influenced by the region's reputation as a center for the design and production of gemstones and textiles.


"This building signals our commitment to creating a design that simultaneously felt at home among the exuberant vernacular architecture of Hyderabad, while simultaneously incorporating the latest sustainable strategies and technologies," says Roger Duffy, SOM's Partner in Charge of the project.

Sustainable Design

The project is distinctive for its profound implementation of sustainable design strategies, with special attention paid to the building's relationship to its site, daylighting and views. Solar studies influenced the site orientation and building massing, with program spaces concentrated in the north and south facades, and service circulation on the west to reduce heat gain. The hotel rooms are raised to allow more expansive views, situated on top of a podium comprised retail spaces, art galleries, and banquet halls open to guests and visitors.

At a Glance
Project	: The Park Hotel
Architect	: Skidmore, Owings & Merrill, LLC (SOM)
Location	: Hyderabad, India
Project Area	: 531,550 ft2
Building Height	: 30 m
Number of Stories	: 9
Completion Year	: 2010
Project Awards	: 2010 • Boutique Design Magazine • Best Exterior Design 2009 • Cityscape • Hospitality Projects Award

The building's three sides wrap around an elevated central courtyard that can be accessed from the hotel lobby. This flexible outdoor area is protected from strong winds, and serves as an extension of the restaurants inside. It features a private dining court and a swimming pool, which can be seen from the adjacent areas and the nightclub below, with moving patterns formed by light passing through the pool's water. The outdoor courtyard was designed to be a multifunctional space accessible from the lobby, restaurants, and bar that surround it. Elevated three stories above ground, this veranda provides views to Hussain Sagar Lake and the city.


The facade provides a range of transparency according to the needs of the spaces inside. Perforated and embossed metal screens over a high-performance glazing system give privacy to the hotel rooms while allowing diffused daylight to enter the interior spaces and provides acoustic insulation from trains passing nearby. The opaque areas of the cladding shield the hotel's service areas from public view. The shape of the facade's openings, as well as the three-dimensional patterns on the screens themselves, were inspired by the forms of the metalwork of the crown jewels of the Nizam, the city's historic ruling dynasty.


SOM designed many of the project's interior spaces, including the lobbies, the lobby lounge, retail, and banquet halls. The interiors continue the jewelry concept – with silver, gold and gem tones throughout. Many of the interior surfaces, including the mosaics, reflect local designs, which were implemented by artists and craftsmen from the region.

Priya Paul, Chairperson of Apeejay Surrendra Park Hotels which owns The Park brand, describes The Park, Hyderabad as "a Modern Indian Palace, something refreshing and different that speaks to the aspirations of India today."


Collaboration with manufacturers, fabricators, and researchers played a vital role in developing this low-energy prototype building, with data gathered in collaboration with the Stevens Institute of Technology's Product Architecture Lab in Hoboken, New Jersey. As a result, the design team was able to reduce the building's energy use by twenty percent. In addition, an on-site water treatment facility and sewage treatment plant process both gray water for reuse and waste water for release back into the city's sewer system.

LEED Gold Certification

The project achieved the first LEED Gold certification for a hotel in India, and has been awarded Best New Hospitality Project of 2010 from Cityscape India. The Park Hotel has also recently won two awards at MIPIM (the international property market that took place in Cannes, France) the best Hotel & Tourism Resort, and the special jury award for best overall development.

The Park Hotel also served as a case study for using a collaborative process to achieve an environmentally efficient design in Design Principles and Practices: An International Journal in 2009, and was the subject of a white paper written by the design team on the high-performance curtain wall system.

Spire Edge office tower stands as an iconic landmark on a new IT park located in Manesar, Gurgaon. The tower is a 21 storey building accommodating offices, auditorium, gallery and other facilities.

Eco Infrastructure

The key design feature of the iconic tower is a continuous green eco-infrastructure at the north façade, ascending up the tower through green ramps from the basement, infusing it with an ecological and social terraces and garden and back down on the rear facade by a series of ramps around a meeting room.

The greenery is brought up to the roof garden by a series of vertical landscaping systems, ie. vegetated green walls, green planter ramps with a pedestrian walkway, and a series of sky terraces.

The south facade of the building also has a continuous green ramp that brings pedestrian and vegetation from the ground all the way up to a lush roof garden located at the top of the iconic tower and connects to the north façade green eco-infrastructure.

Water Infrastructure

The tower has been designed as a self-sufficient water reuse/recycling system within the building. Both of the green ramps act as a water filter/collecting device to channel rainwater collected from the roof garden to the water tank located at the basement of the building, hence being recycled and reused by the users of the building.

Rainwater Harvesting/Recycling: The building's extensive landscaped areas are irrigated via a large-scale rainwater recycling system. Rainwater is collected from the perimeter landscaped ramps and roof garden. It is channeled and stored at the lowest basement level, beneath the Eco-cell, and reused as recycled water within the building.

Project Name	: Spire Edge Manesar
Principal-in-Charge	: Ken Yeang
Client	: A.N Buildwell PVT. LTD.
Location	: IT Park Millenium Spire Manesar, Gurgaon, India
Nos. of storeys	: 20 storeys + Roof Garden
Site Areas	: 4,765 sq.m
Proposed Development	: Commercial and Offices
Total GFA	: 22,559 sq.m
Plot Ratio	: 1:4.7

Eco-cells

There are two eco-cells located at north and south side of the building where the spiral ramps meet the ground and continue to the basement levels. The Eco-cells allow vegetation, daylight and natural ventilation to extend into the car-park levels below. The lowest level of the Eco-cell contains the storage tank and pump room for the rainwater recycling system.

Sun-Shading Devices

The project's climate-responsive façade design originated with the analysis of the local sun-path. Facade studies analyzing the solar-path determined the shape and depth of the sunshade louvers, which also double as light-shelves. The light shelves merge into single louvers at the north facade creating a slick look for the façade. In conjunction with the south spiral landscaped ramp, north green walls and ramps, and sky gardens, the sunshade louvers also assist in establishing comfortable micro-climates in habitable spaces along the building's exterior.

Roof Gardens, Creative Meeting Spaces and Sky Courts

The south spiral landscaped ramp acts as a thermal buffer protecting the south façade from direct heat gain, and creates areas for relaxation and event spaces. These extensive gardens allow for interaction between the building's occupants and nature, offering opportunities to experience the external environment housed within the tower and to enjoy views of the IT Park. As it reaches each corner of the building the spiral ramp leads the users into Creative Meeting Spaces and terraces for multiple usages. A series of sky courts at the north façade also create an outdoor environment for the office users' for creative and social interaction.

Toilets and Elevator Lobbies

All toilets and elevator lobbies have natural ventilation opportunities.

Internal Life

The internal typical office spaces have large span floor beams to eliminate anything in-between columns. The floor configuration seeks to create a new form of internal life for its users, with occasional skyterraces linked to the eco-infrastructure, a rear ramp at the south face that has Creative Meeting Rooms.

The newly constructed building –Administrative and Academic complex of "Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Technological University, Lonere, Alibaug, India has been conferred with an international award for its unique architectual design by World Architecture community. The academic complex has been very carefully designed by Architects Mr. Ajay Kulkarni and Mr. B.W. Dhumaley and well executed by the contractors M/S Choudhury and Choudhury (India) Ltd., Mumbai.

The site has exciting and picturesque surroundings of Sahyadri hills and the great Raigad fort on its backdrop. This state-of-the-art building catering to the needs of Academic and Administrative complex serves as a catalyst for the process of learning and teaching .The design of the whole campus draws its inspiration from the timeless monument of Raigad fort. The grand plaza of the building reminds you of the great doorways, which our ancient architecture has offered us, and a very strong axis of the corridors almost instruct discipline which an institute desires to imbibe in her students. The building spread over a large footprint, has sprawling corridors, landscaped courts, abundant light with ventilation, with highly inspiring built environment and a monumental character.

Expressing their views on the project, Architects Mr. Ajay Kulkarni and Mr. B.W. Dhumaley, said, "We have carefully studied the requirements of the students and ensured that they get best of both the worlds, the bountiful nature and an inspiring built environment for the gaining and imparting knowledge. We are inspired by the traditional courtyards and resulted into such series of beautiful small and big courts, inducing a very healthy and fresh microclimate."


Being an institute, the circulation is highly legible but not monotonous. It is full of variety achieved through intelligent designs of almost 12 staircases, each one unique in its own way. This is deliberately done to establish a strong sense of communication with the students. The staircases encourage and provoke the students to meet and share their views. Time has proved that boys and girls are responding to these informal spaces deliberately designed in the way the Architects had anticipated.

Justifying to its design qualities and the execution on site the World Architecture Community has offered its citation from its honorary members of WA Awards 20+10+ X 6th cycles. From total 8000 entries across the world only 53 has been selected and out of these two projects were awarded from India. Among two buildings one is our University Building situated at Lonere, Raigad.

The building with very specialized specification and ambitious design was equally a challenge to execute, particularly in a rural setting, where everything needed to be established from scratch. Material was procured from various parts of the country and there was no compromise on any aspect of execution of this great design. This task was well executed by M/S Choudhary and Choudhary (India) limited, the contractors and builders firm from Mumbai. Mr Anand Gupta,the Managing Director, Choudhury & Choudhury states that the building has a very strong personality which everyone associated with the project are very proud to be associated with. We have been gathering continuous feedback about the good construction and the design of the building for past few years. The dream realized was possible only with the continued support from a very inspiring building committee and the university administration", he added.

Vice Chancellor, Dr. Mankar of the Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Technological University and University Engineer Mr Vilas Chavan have congratulated the Architects, Project Engineer and everyone associated with the project on this achievement.

At a Glance
Project	: Ferrari Theme Park
Location	: Yas Island, Abu Dhabi
Total area covers	: 176,000m2
Enclosed GFA totals	: 86,000m2
3D Roof area measures	: 236,000m2
Building height	: 48m
Roof edge circumference	: 2200m (7217.8 ft)
Steel used	: Over 35,000 tonnes
Architect	: Benoy

Much awaited world's first Ferrari Theme Park and the largest of its kind has recently opened its door for public. Designed by globally renowned architectural firm Benoy, the theme Park is truly an architectural marvel in the desert having 10,000 sq m glass funnel at the heart of its roof. Located at the centre of the landmark Yas Island mega-scheme in Abu Dhabi, the Ferrari World Abu Dhabi expresses the language, values and passion of the Ferrari brand itself and host a number of attractions, including rides for children of all ages. It is providing the complete Ferrari experience: over 20 state-of-the-art attractions, each designed to bring to life a different part of the Ferrari story, including the world's fastest rollercoaster, travelling at speed exceeding 200 km/h and emulating the thrilling sensation of being in a Ferrari F1 car, or the G-force experience taking passengers on an adrenaline-pumping ride up over 62 m, through the roof and back down again.

Attractions

Over 20 state-of-the-art rides and attractions The world’s fastest roller coaster emulating the feeling of being in an F1 car G-force experience taking passengers on an adrenaline-pumping ride up over 62m, through the roof and back down again State-of-the-art racing simulators using a similar system as those used by the Ferrari racing team Flume ride journey through the heart of a Ferrari 599 engine Driving and Racing school for junior drivers, with expert training Aerial voyage over Italy following a Ferrari

To reflect Ferrari's sinuous form, the design of building is directly inspired by the classic double curve side profile of the Ferrari GT chassis. The double curve was proportionately applied in elevation to set the structure's length and height. This proportion gave rise to the dynamic scale of the building at 700 metres from tip to tip of the tri-forms. The metal skin roof is highly insulated and the main façades utilize efficient glass to reduce the thermal loads and glare. The spectacular roof forms a feature of the building providing a fifth elevation and serves as the backdrop to a huge Ferrari logo that will welcome all passengers flying into Abu Dhabi International Airport.

The Park is owned by Aldar Properties PJSC, Abu Dhabi's leading property development, management and Investment Company. Farah Leisure Parks Management L.L.C, a joint venture between Aldar Properties PJSC and ProFun Management Group Inc. (international leisure facilities management and operating company) is responsible for managing and operating Ferrari World Abu Dhabi. Ferrari's key principles of excellence and performance in the context of technological innovation will underpin every aspect of the project.

Building Architectural Elements

Ferrari World building architectural elements can be divided into the following components:

• Central shield area
• Tri-form arms
• Swept silver bull nose edge
• Soffit cladding
• Grand funnel glazed roof
• Primary entrance/ exits and coaster bridges.

Building's Structural Design

Due to the shape of the island and the position of Ferrari World, the building was conceived as a very simple 'ground hugging' form, peeling up from the landscape in flowing lines like a red sand dune. The visually distinctive form and shape, crowns the Abu Dhabi Formula 1 track and every flight in and out of Abu Dhabi International Airport will experience the true beauty of the sleek shape and form of this building; an architectural expression of the values of the Ferrari brand itself.

A three pointed star form with a main core enclosed element and three extensive 'triform' claws to cradle the outdoor attractions, the 3D nature of the building was derived from an analysis of the sinuous double curves of countless Ferrari body shells. At the very centre of the plan the huge roof dips and gathers itself into the ground like a huge crystal glazed and lit funnel, creating the perfect setting for one of the world's most exciting acceleration rides.


The building entrance to the north is linked directly to the shopping complex via the Ferrari Gateway Bridge, leading into the Welcome Pavilion; an area dotted with authentic cafés and stylish restaurants. Inside the Ferrari World building, a soaring space frame structure covers a huge undulating plaza deck, on which many themed rides and attractions - designed by Jack Rousse Associates, are located.

Driving along the western arterial road, approaching the building, the southern tri-form peels up and sweeps off into the distance revealing the true extent of the buildings 700 meter long elevation, shimmering in the sunshine from the west.

Exterior

The primary inclined shield façade that wraps around the building is over a kilometer in length and leans outward by 12 degrees, pushed nine meters into the air at the base and forward, accentuating the approach to the building while helping to visually position the attractions inside onto a pedestal, giving the impression that the interior is somehow unobtainable, like the Ferrari Car itself. In the distance, the sunlight lights up the adjacent mangroves in a bath of light reflecting in the pixel solid and glazed facade, light dances and sparkles from within. As the sun sets the façade is lit by tracer lights from the exterior fins, these 'race' around the building's full 1km elevation, simulating the racing of cars into the night.

The roof form is based on a 120 degree tri-form arm arrangement that extends over 700meter in diameter, surrounding the 3 levels of 176,000 sqm of main accommodation within. The east and west tri-form arms house the world's fastest Formula 1 themed roller coaster as well as the world's first duelling roller coasters, and the southern tri-form arm acts as a flexible performance space capable of holding more than 15,000 people.

As one continues past the western tri-form housing the GT coasters, the synergy of the roof forms and the coasters becomes apparent, one seemingly blending into the other, cascading forms that express the emotion of Ferrari. Looking back towards the race track, the sunset in the west, the light glistening off the silvered edge of the roof, it's a unique and prestigious development that delivers new benchmarks for quality and innovation, a building that utilizes the vision and skills of Benoy's highly experienced design and delivery team.

On entering the building at the upper plaza level from the north one crosses the threshold between the outside world and the space within, one is struck by the sheer scale of the building. The roof extends up and over your head and disappears into the distance at 320 meters in diameter. If one continue through the space, extending out in front of a vast glazed crystal like funnel roof at 100 meters in diameter, pulling down to just 17 meters diameter at its base, creating an intensity of space inside and providing the perfect location for the thrilling G-Force shot ride within its centre.

The central funnel roof is supported on 12 primary columns which form a 12 point Arabic star pattern that is used to describe the primary geometry of the overall roof space and extends out to meet the primary raked shield façade. As you turn back to face the entrance, around you extending out in all directions are the themed rides and attractions that are unmistakeably Ferrari sat on a gross foot print area of over 86,000 sqm.

The Grand Funnel Roof

Being the central focus of the interior of the building it provides a critical architectural element and link to the outside world. The funnel roof is supported by the apex of the cross over arches of the primary structure beneath that form a ring of arches. To complete the concept the funnel roof has been fully glazed with a spider system that floats over the Mero space frame within. The upper perimeter of the funnel roof contains an upstand detail that houses the natural smoke extraction, providing a minimum of 150sqm of smoke extract.

The funnel roof incorporate external solar shading to ensure that heat gain is minimized. Sightlines from the lower level to the shot ride were a critical element for JRA and have been incorporated into the design. The funnel glass roof is a double-glazed curtain wall attached to the Mero space frame by use of special connectors. Insulated glass units and external solar shading has been used for the glass panels facing the exterior.

A total of 2,640 solar control glass panes (ipasol neutral 48/27) were inserted into the metal frame of the funnel on 30 levels with various pane dimensions. Additionally, this glazing was coated with a spiral pattern of ipachrome design with a varying degree of coverage – seen from underneath, the huge mosaic looks like a vortex. The coverage of the individual panes with ipachrome design varies from 40 to 85%. The closer the panes are to the upper end of the funnel the higher the degree of coverage – hence the shading effect of the glazing, measured as its solar factor, increases from bottom to top. With the funnel, the façade builders of JAP (Jungbluth Alu Partners, Belgium), took up a demanding logistical challenge: in order to ensure the accuracy of the spiral pattern, each of the panes had to be produced and glazed individually, piece by piece. The inclination angle of the funnel varies; therefore, the panes also differ in size on 30 levels: from 2220 x 2029 mm in the lower part via 2420 x 2029 mm in the middle up to 2618 x 2029 mm at the edge of the roof.

Inside the glass funnel, the 70 metre high "G-Force Tower" has been installed.

External Facade

Not only the roof of the leisure park, but also its façade is largely colored in Ferrari red. The vertical façade of the building is furnished with 6,000 square metres of solar control glass (ipasol neutral 48/27) and individual screen printing. Ferrari-red metal spandrels are interspersed in a mosaic-like fashion. This façade is inclined at an angle of ten degrees toward the interior. The level of outside light reflection is 15%. Since about 40% of the glass area is additionally screen-printed, the average daylight transmittance (tL) is 40%. The solar factor is reduced further by the screen printing (23% according to EN 410), which contributes to protecting the building from heating up. Ferrari World is a leisure park that sets new standards not only in terms of amusements but also in terms of architecture.

Facilities-Entrances and Bridges

Ferrari World Abu Dhabi makes provision for five main exit points leading directly to the outside: Main Entrance / Exit to the north, Two Coaster Bridges in the east & west, and Two link bridges/ fire exits within the east and west shield façades.

The entrance is clearly defined, well sign posted from all areas and well lit, through the Welcome Pavilion from the main retail centre. The gateway bridge creates an independent exclusive access for all guests to the theme park, and offers dramatic sweeping views of the mega roof structure to the east and west.

Entire circulation of the public is via the bridge, located halfway between Ferrari World Abu Dhabi and the Yas Retail Mall. Guest amenities on the Plaza and Mezzanine levels are accessed via walkways and ramps. There is one passenger lift at the undercroft level parking area that culminates at F08 box found at the plaza level. Other means of vertical circulation to the plaza level are staircases at Core 3, 4 and 7.


There are three fire escape and fire fighting lifts, which are E-4S, E-7P, and E-9S respectively. Means of escape from plaza level are the 3 main bridges outside and the stairs at the coaster bridges as well as stairs at cores 4,7,9 and 10. Three passenger lifts are provided at the plaza level, serving both the general public space and the boxed rides (Behind the Scenes, Café, Authentic Local Food, Ferrari Café, and Race Strategy) such as those in Core 4, 7, 9,10 and 18. Accommodation stairs S-7 is intended for guest use which accesses the Behind the Scenes boxed feature.

Ferrari World Abu Dhabi is serviced by the lower undercroft area. which is accessible only to designated employees and authorized personnel from the perimeter service road, used for deliveries, maintenance, warehouse, trash hauling and employee shuttle buses. The main maintenance and warehousing facilities for the Theme Park and overall building are located in the Undercroft. This area have loading docks for deliveries coming into the building including merchandise, food/beverage, supplies, maintenance parts and supplies, etc. All deliveries must be authorized and coordinated with security to allow access to the Undercroft Level. Employee shuttle drop-off and pick-up is also located within the undercroft area.

Watervilla De Omval is a tautly designed houseboat floats in the Amstel river of Amsterdam. Unlike most floating houses, this houseboat is very contemporary designed without losing the characteristic appearance of the typical houseboat. The client gets a lot of positive reactions and apprecition from others for the project, it even happens that people who pass by boat knock on the windows and ask if they can enter the boat.

Architect	: +31ARCHITECTS, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
Project team	: Jasper Suasso de Lima de Prado and Jorrit Houwert
Location	: Omval 4, Amsterdam, Netherlands
Client	: Private
Construction	: Pieters bouwtechniek, Amsterdam, The Netherlands Alferink-van Schieveen, Zwolle, The Netherlands
Building Contractor	: Dijkhuis Aannemersbedrijf b.v. / Ardesch, Hardenberg, The Netherlands
Cabinet Maker	: Forsa meubels, Utrecht, The Netherlands
Key Materials	: Aluminium cladding by Reynobond and Aluminium Windows by Sapa
Built-up Floor Area	: 197 sqm
Year of Completion	: 2010
Photos	: Colin Morsch

Living on the water gets more popular in Holland. The clients/owners who used to visit the architectural firm +31ARCHITECTS always love the typical charms and characteristics of living on the water but don't like the standard "caravan" appearance of the existing houseboats. As more people want to live on a contemporary houseboat that has been designed for their specific needs, the houseboat at De Omval is an obvious example of their wish.

Design

Client wanted a boat with an open floor plan where they could enjoy the views to the water and the outdoor space to a maximum. The distinguished curved line of the facade directly derives from this desire and the restriction that the boat couldn't be more than three meters above the water.

The living area and open kitchen are located on the waterfront, from here one has a panoramic view at the Amstel and you can enter the floating terrace. Following on from the living area and kitchen the bedroom is located on a split level. The split level introduces an open route to the ground floor of the boat and at the same time, makes it possible to create a terrace on the south side without exceeding the maximum building height.


To accentuate the round lines of the facade it is carried out in with shiny aluminum. The white plastered walls and ceilings follow the curve of the facade creating a seamless transition from the exterior to the interior.