Design that stands testament to strength and perfection
Dinesh Panwar, Principal Architect- Urbanscape Architects in conversation with Leandra Monteiro shares the inspiration behind his latest project Stonex Kishangarh and the challenges he overcame to create perfection. What was the inspiration behind the design of this project? (Stonex Kishangarh) The design of the complex, in entirety stands as a testament to the ethos of Stonex – strength and perfection, through their state-of-the-art products and technology while adhering to the brand’s humble and rooted approach towards its processes, conceived as an unassuming and environmentally perceptive complex. Adhering to exigencies of site and logistically sound planning the manufacturing block orients rather unconventionally in the East-West direction. The orientation is strategically exploited by incorporating complementary systems: North light trusses are introduced, sloping at a suitable angle of 23 degrees towards the south providing for ample surface for photovoltaic panels. The design of the office building revolves around the concept of mutually respecting the surroundings and nature. The built form is raised and sunk into the ground away from trees already existing on site. What were some of the challenges faced? To address the hot and dry climate of Rajasthan, a partly sunk mass, that stays cool during summers and warm during winters is created. This is achieved by the natural phenomena of Earth Berming and Earth Coupling. The temperatures indoors are regulated with the help of radiant cooling, allowing for a 60% efficiency in the running cost of the building. The built form is raised and sunk into the ground away from trees already existing on site. Consequently, the built mass and the ground is punctured to create sunken courtyards and an Amphitheatre within the earth-cooled lower floor. Being partly underground, the eccentric mass defines a seamless silhouette adorned by screens in stone and greenery climbing up the entire roof in a sweep. What are some of your other stand-out projects? Personally, I enjoy working on Institutional projects the most, because of the sheer scale and the open hand one gets while designing them. One of our institutional projects – the Singapore International School, in Gurugram is definitely a stand-out project. Our own design studio, located in Shahpur Jat, New Delhi is designed with a lot of emotion, thought, and a sense of nostalgia.
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