World Architecture Awards 10+5+X Submissions
World Architecture Awards Submissions / 50th Cycle
Vote button will be active when the World Architecture Community officially announces the Voting period on the website and emails. Please use this and the following pages to Vote if you are a signed-in registered member of the World Architecture Community and feel free to Vote for as many projects as you wish.
How to participate
WA Awards Submissions
WA Awards Winners
Architectural Projects Interior Design Projects
Architectural Projects Interior Design Projects
Passive Solar House With Pit Garden
This residence is a passive solar house based on an ancient pit dwelling. However, instead of living in the pit, the pit is used as an "pit garden," and the rooms are located on three sides around the pit. The idea is based on the idea that the “ancestor” of the passive house, which collects heat in winter in the earthen floor, is the pit dwelling, which has a furnace in the center of the earthen floor. However, there is a crucial difference between a pit dwelling and a passive house. A pit dwelling has only an entrance and a skylight for smoke ventilation, and when the entrance is closed, the house becomes a highly centripetal shelter with the furnace at its center. The passive house, on the other hand, has a cross-section as if the south face of the pit were cut off, and the large, south-facing glass meets the outside, which greatly reduces the shelter qualities. This house solves the problem by making the pit space an inner garden. If the pit space is a garden, there is no need to act as the rooms, and the living room and bedrooms can be placed around it. However, if the “pit garden” is “useless,” there is no meaning. The south side of the “pit garden” has a large opening 5m high and 8m wide, and the north top is a tower house over 10m high that provides stable ventilation through the chimney effect. The “pit garden” plays a key role in the passive system by collecting heat in winter and storing cooling by ventilation at night in summer. Since this is just a garden, there is not any specific functions to do. No lighting is installed; the light comes on at sunrise and sets in the darkness after dusk. The residents entrust the blessings of the sun and the wind to this “pit garden”.
We wanted the “pit garden” to be like the outside of the house, so the “pit garden” was to be surrounded by a galvanized steel shingle roof. The floor of the “pit garden” is the base of the reinforced concrete foundation itself. It is a rough floor with no decoration.On the other hand, the rooms surrounding the “pit garden” are calm spaces wrapped in wooden boards. Therefore, the contrast between the inside and outside of the “pit garden” is very strong. For the surrounding rooms, the “pit garden” is like an external space, and when one enters the “pit garden,” one feels as if the sky and the earth are connected.
The site is located in Iwata City, Shizuoka Prefecture, Japan, in a typical detached residential area. The house is not concerned about the neighbors, as the “pit garden” provides a buffer from the outside. While neighboring houses have thickly planted gardens to block the eyes of neighbors, this house's exterior garden is unplanted and paved with crushed stone. The outside garden becomes a light garden for the neighborhood, and conversely, this garden allows people to enjoy the neighborhood's plantings from the outside garden.
Dimensions
Site area: 327.13m2
Building area: 102.94m2
Total floor area: 136.63m2
(1st floor area 77.01m2, 2nd floor area 59.62m2)
Structure: Conventional wood structure -Tenryusugi: Japanese cedar cut in north mountain area in Shizuoka pref.
Client: Syunya Takahashi
Design (architect): Kikuma Watanabe
Design (company): D Environmental Design System Laboratory
Structure Design: Syunya Takahashi D Environmental Design System Laboratory
Construction:Kuwataka Kensetsu Co.,ltd
We wanted the “pit garden” to be like the outside of the house, so the “pit garden” was to be surrounded by a galvanized steel shingle roof. The floor of the “pit garden” is the base of the reinforced concrete foundation itself. It is a rough floor with no decoration.On the other hand, the rooms surrounding the “pit garden” are calm spaces wrapped in wooden boards. Therefore, the contrast between the inside and outside of the “pit garden” is very strong. For the surrounding rooms, the “pit garden” is like an external space, and when one enters the “pit garden,” one feels as if the sky and the earth are connected.
The site is located in Iwata City, Shizuoka Prefecture, Japan, in a typical detached residential area. The house is not concerned about the neighbors, as the “pit garden” provides a buffer from the outside. While neighboring houses have thickly planted gardens to block the eyes of neighbors, this house's exterior garden is unplanted and paved with crushed stone. The outside garden becomes a light garden for the neighborhood, and conversely, this garden allows people to enjoy the neighborhood's plantings from the outside garden.
Dimensions
Site area: 327.13m2
Building area: 102.94m2
Total floor area: 136.63m2
(1st floor area 77.01m2, 2nd floor area 59.62m2)
Structure: Conventional wood structure -Tenryusugi: Japanese cedar cut in north mountain area in Shizuoka pref.
Client: Syunya Takahashi
Design (architect): Kikuma Watanabe
Design (company): D Environmental Design System Laboratory
Structure Design: Syunya Takahashi D Environmental Design System Laboratory
Construction:Kuwataka Kensetsu Co.,ltd
Path Art Studio And Personalized Residence Maharagama, Sri Lanka
Project Overview
The "PATH" Art Studio and Personalized Residence is a deeply personal and artistic creation that serves as both a home and a gallery. The design takes inspiration from the client's personality, art, and lifelong journey. The residence is more than just a space to live; it embodies the ongoing journey of life and art that the client is on. This connection between the designer and the client, a childhood friend, added layers of emotional and creative complexity to the project, making it both challenging and extraordinarily fulfilling.
The project focuses on integrating art, workspace, and gallery into a harmonious whole. Throughout the design, natural elements such as light, shade, sound (like the sounds of birds), and the natural movement of sunlight through trees are captured and woven into the architecture. These sensory elements create an environment that feels alive and fluid, giving the space a dynamic, ever-changing character depending on the time of day.
The spaces themselves feel poetic and dramatic, shifting in mood from calm to energetic. As light and shadow dance across the surfaces, the residence becomes a place of eternal elegance, where calm and chaos exist in balance. The gallery spaces, nested within living areas and the workshop, allow for both creative expression and quiet reflection. This design embodies a profound sense of calm, the peace necessary for a productive, artistic life.
The color palette of the building is deliberate in its simplicity. The natural tones of cement and stone finishes speak to the environment, while the use of black metalwork creates a striking contrast to the surrounding materials. The copper accents and timber colors reflect the client’s artistic vision, with the copper's natural patina adding a sense of elegance and strength over time. Every material was chosen not only for aesthetic appeal but also to reflect the organic, evolving nature of the client’s artistic practice.
The innovative use of textures, such as the reinvention of cement finishes and boundary elements, frames both the building and its surroundings into a cohesive narrative. The careful choice of materials and finishes connects the residence to its natural context while maintaining the client’s personal artistic statement.
Architectural Concept:
This architectural concept encapsulates the essence of the artist's work by blending art, nature, and architecture into a harmonious space. The design celebrates creativity, tranquility, and the artist's journey, with the entire space designed to foster a deeper connection to the environment. The artist can immerse themselves in the serene surroundings while working on their sculptures, making the studio a place of both creative energy and peaceful reflection. The residence integrates nature, offering natural light, greenery, and panoramic views that inspire the creative process. This thoughtful design provides an ideal environment for sculptural work, making the connection between art and nature seamless.
Architectural Brief:
Ground Floor:
• Security Post with Main Entrance: Provides security while serving as a welcoming transition into the residence.
• Entrance Court: A spacious court visually linked to lush gardens, blurring the boundary between built and natural environments.
• Front Garden and Pathway: A guiding journey through the landscape, drawing visitors into the artistic world within.
• Entrance Pond: A calming water feature that enriches the sensory experience of arrival.
• Outside Stairway: Leads to the second-floor visitor space, enhancing the sense of exploration.
• Main Gathering and Multifunctional Space: The heart of the residence, flanked by reflective water bodies, fostering artistic activities:
- Painting Studio: Bathed in natural light, serving as an inspirational workspace.
- Performing Arts Platform: A space for sculptures, installations, and live performances.
- Lecture and Discussion Area: A forum for artistic exchange and education.
- Workshop for Students: A teaching space fostering the next generation of artists.
- Kitchen and Pantry: Designed for functionality while aligning with the artistic ethos.
- Master Bedroom and Bathroom: A private sanctuary with expansive views of nature.
- Swimming Pool and Deck: A secluded retreat, seamlessly blending with the landscape.
- Natural Pond and Rear Garden: Enhancing the residence’s integration with nature.
• Workshop and Storage Area:
- Designed for metal sculpting and drawing, seamlessly connected to the landscape.
- Large openings allow natural light, fostering creativity.
- Thoughtful storage solutions maintain an organized workspace.
First Floor:
• Family Gathering Area: An intimate space for family interaction and relaxation.
• Two Bedrooms with Attached Bathrooms: Tranquil retreats designed for comfort.
Roof Top:
• Roof Terrace: A secluded relaxation space with scenery.
• Solar Panels: Enhancing sustainability with renewable energy solutions.
Water Tank and Services: Discreetly integrated to maintain a minimalist aesthetic.
Design Considerations:
One of the key design objectives was to create a passive cooling environment that maximized the benefits of the lush greenery surrounding the building. The building is orientated to follow the sun path, ensuring that the solar axis runs perpendicular to minimize direct sun exposure. The interplay of light and shadow is central to the experience of the space, with large windows and strategic fenestration enabling natural ventilation and keeping interior spaces cool.
Water features, such as the ponds and water bodies, were introduced not only for their aesthetic beauty but also for their cooling properties. These features facilitate air circulation, ensuring the building remains naturally cool and comfortable, even during the heat of the day. Tall trees surrounding the residence further enhance natural cooling, adding to the sense of tranquility and connection with the environment.
The rooftop was designed to accommodate solar panels, supporting sustainable energy practices while maintaining a clean and minimal design. The building's structure also hides services like water tanks and utilities, ensuring the aesthetic of the residence remain uncluttered.
Technological and Material Innovations:
• Innovative Lettering: The soffit lettering introduced new techniques during construction, highlighting the client's creative spirit.
• Unique Plaster Textures: New methods were used on-site to create texture on the plaster, contributing to the visual appeal of the interiors.
• Fenestration as Design Feature: The strategic placement of windows was not just for functionality but to create visual interest and a deeper connection between the interior and nature.
• Play of Heights and Levels: The design deliberately uses varied ceiling heights and floor levels to create a more intimate, human scale. This approach opens up the interior, allowing for a clutter-free environment where every room feels expansive and clear.
Exploration of Materials:
The project is an exploration of the inherent beauty of materials and the potential of creating elegance through simplicity. The building was conceived within a specific budget without compromising quality, making the most of the available resources. This was achieved through the clever use of local and natural materials, such as cement, stone, and wood, to create a comfortable, functional, and beautiful space. The focus was on preserving the authentic nature of these materials cement’s raw beauty, the textural richness of stone, and the natural warmth of timber while using them in creative ways to form unique finishes.
Key material innovations were made by integrating concrete, plaster, and natural stone in untraditional ways. Exposed concrete was used as a structural element, while intricate plaster patterns and textured walls give the space a tactile, dynamic quality. The design also features custom finishes, such as laser-cut plywood soffit lettering, which was precisely placed on formwork prior to concreting, ensuring that the texture remained intact throughout construction.
Design for Sustainability:
The building was designed with a minimal footprint, addressing the challenges posed by rapid urbanization and the resulting loss of greenery, which exacerbates the urban heat island effect. Situated within an area rich in trees and natural vegetation, the design prioritized the preservation of the landscape, incorporating green spaces that not only enhance the building's aesthetic but also provide environmental benefits.
By maintaining the surrounding greenery, the building actively contributes to reducing the urban heat island effect. The preservation of trees and landscaping helps maintain the surrounding microclimate, cooling the air and providing shade to nearby structures. This design choice not only benefits the residence but also positively impacts the immediate neighborhood, encouraging a more sustainable and pleasant living environment.
The integration of natural features such as water bodies, expansive green areas, and a focus on creating a low environmental impact fosters an eco-friendly atmosphere. The preserved landscape has transformed the surrounding neighborhood, with the natural greenery helping to regulate temperature and contributing to a more pleasant, calming environment.
Sustainability and Social Impact:
The building’s character shapes the region’s ambiance, fostering sustainable practices and inspiring others in the community. During the pandemic, the project remained on schedule, with cost overruns minimized through careful simplifications in finishes and construction methods. This pragmatic approach ensured that the building was completed on time while maintaining a focus on both environmental and social benefits.
The residence not only meets the client’s needs but also provides a positive example for the community, demonstrating how architecture can work in harmony with nature and contribute to a sustainable, thriving environment
“PATH” ART STUDIO AND PERSONALIZED RESIDENCE
Location –MAHARAGAMA SRI LANKA
Location Address- NO: 135, JAYA MAWATHA, NEELAMMAHARA ROAD, MAHARAGAMA SRI LANKA.
Clients name – Visual Artist PATHMAL YAHAMPATH
Clients Phone number - 0772264801
Clients Address - NO : 135/5, JAYA MAWATHA, NEELAMMAHARA ROAD, MAHARAGAMA .SRI LANKA.
Clients email address- [email protected]
Date of the design –March 05 2020
Date of the construction commencement – August 20 2020
Date of the construction completion – Jan 10 2023
Land area – 42.10 P
Site area – 3149 Sq.ft
Number of floors - 2
Number of rooms – 3
Cost of the project – 37m
Cost of the land – 35m
Dishna Thilanka: Principal Architect
Supun Lokuge: Structural Engineer
The "PATH" Art Studio and Personalized Residence is a deeply personal and artistic creation that serves as both a home and a gallery. The design takes inspiration from the client's personality, art, and lifelong journey. The residence is more than just a space to live; it embodies the ongoing journey of life and art that the client is on. This connection between the designer and the client, a childhood friend, added layers of emotional and creative complexity to the project, making it both challenging and extraordinarily fulfilling.
The project focuses on integrating art, workspace, and gallery into a harmonious whole. Throughout the design, natural elements such as light, shade, sound (like the sounds of birds), and the natural movement of sunlight through trees are captured and woven into the architecture. These sensory elements create an environment that feels alive and fluid, giving the space a dynamic, ever-changing character depending on the time of day.
The spaces themselves feel poetic and dramatic, shifting in mood from calm to energetic. As light and shadow dance across the surfaces, the residence becomes a place of eternal elegance, where calm and chaos exist in balance. The gallery spaces, nested within living areas and the workshop, allow for both creative expression and quiet reflection. This design embodies a profound sense of calm, the peace necessary for a productive, artistic life.
The color palette of the building is deliberate in its simplicity. The natural tones of cement and stone finishes speak to the environment, while the use of black metalwork creates a striking contrast to the surrounding materials. The copper accents and timber colors reflect the client’s artistic vision, with the copper's natural patina adding a sense of elegance and strength over time. Every material was chosen not only for aesthetic appeal but also to reflect the organic, evolving nature of the client’s artistic practice.
The innovative use of textures, such as the reinvention of cement finishes and boundary elements, frames both the building and its surroundings into a cohesive narrative. The careful choice of materials and finishes connects the residence to its natural context while maintaining the client’s personal artistic statement.
Architectural Concept:
This architectural concept encapsulates the essence of the artist's work by blending art, nature, and architecture into a harmonious space. The design celebrates creativity, tranquility, and the artist's journey, with the entire space designed to foster a deeper connection to the environment. The artist can immerse themselves in the serene surroundings while working on their sculptures, making the studio a place of both creative energy and peaceful reflection. The residence integrates nature, offering natural light, greenery, and panoramic views that inspire the creative process. This thoughtful design provides an ideal environment for sculptural work, making the connection between art and nature seamless.
Architectural Brief:
Ground Floor:
• Security Post with Main Entrance: Provides security while serving as a welcoming transition into the residence.
• Entrance Court: A spacious court visually linked to lush gardens, blurring the boundary between built and natural environments.
• Front Garden and Pathway: A guiding journey through the landscape, drawing visitors into the artistic world within.
• Entrance Pond: A calming water feature that enriches the sensory experience of arrival.
• Outside Stairway: Leads to the second-floor visitor space, enhancing the sense of exploration.
• Main Gathering and Multifunctional Space: The heart of the residence, flanked by reflective water bodies, fostering artistic activities:
- Painting Studio: Bathed in natural light, serving as an inspirational workspace.
- Performing Arts Platform: A space for sculptures, installations, and live performances.
- Lecture and Discussion Area: A forum for artistic exchange and education.
- Workshop for Students: A teaching space fostering the next generation of artists.
- Kitchen and Pantry: Designed for functionality while aligning with the artistic ethos.
- Master Bedroom and Bathroom: A private sanctuary with expansive views of nature.
- Swimming Pool and Deck: A secluded retreat, seamlessly blending with the landscape.
- Natural Pond and Rear Garden: Enhancing the residence’s integration with nature.
• Workshop and Storage Area:
- Designed for metal sculpting and drawing, seamlessly connected to the landscape.
- Large openings allow natural light, fostering creativity.
- Thoughtful storage solutions maintain an organized workspace.
First Floor:
• Family Gathering Area: An intimate space for family interaction and relaxation.
• Two Bedrooms with Attached Bathrooms: Tranquil retreats designed for comfort.
Roof Top:
• Roof Terrace: A secluded relaxation space with scenery.
• Solar Panels: Enhancing sustainability with renewable energy solutions.
Water Tank and Services: Discreetly integrated to maintain a minimalist aesthetic.
Design Considerations:
One of the key design objectives was to create a passive cooling environment that maximized the benefits of the lush greenery surrounding the building. The building is orientated to follow the sun path, ensuring that the solar axis runs perpendicular to minimize direct sun exposure. The interplay of light and shadow is central to the experience of the space, with large windows and strategic fenestration enabling natural ventilation and keeping interior spaces cool.
Water features, such as the ponds and water bodies, were introduced not only for their aesthetic beauty but also for their cooling properties. These features facilitate air circulation, ensuring the building remains naturally cool and comfortable, even during the heat of the day. Tall trees surrounding the residence further enhance natural cooling, adding to the sense of tranquility and connection with the environment.
The rooftop was designed to accommodate solar panels, supporting sustainable energy practices while maintaining a clean and minimal design. The building's structure also hides services like water tanks and utilities, ensuring the aesthetic of the residence remain uncluttered.
Technological and Material Innovations:
• Innovative Lettering: The soffit lettering introduced new techniques during construction, highlighting the client's creative spirit.
• Unique Plaster Textures: New methods were used on-site to create texture on the plaster, contributing to the visual appeal of the interiors.
• Fenestration as Design Feature: The strategic placement of windows was not just for functionality but to create visual interest and a deeper connection between the interior and nature.
• Play of Heights and Levels: The design deliberately uses varied ceiling heights and floor levels to create a more intimate, human scale. This approach opens up the interior, allowing for a clutter-free environment where every room feels expansive and clear.
Exploration of Materials:
The project is an exploration of the inherent beauty of materials and the potential of creating elegance through simplicity. The building was conceived within a specific budget without compromising quality, making the most of the available resources. This was achieved through the clever use of local and natural materials, such as cement, stone, and wood, to create a comfortable, functional, and beautiful space. The focus was on preserving the authentic nature of these materials cement’s raw beauty, the textural richness of stone, and the natural warmth of timber while using them in creative ways to form unique finishes.
Key material innovations were made by integrating concrete, plaster, and natural stone in untraditional ways. Exposed concrete was used as a structural element, while intricate plaster patterns and textured walls give the space a tactile, dynamic quality. The design also features custom finishes, such as laser-cut plywood soffit lettering, which was precisely placed on formwork prior to concreting, ensuring that the texture remained intact throughout construction.
Design for Sustainability:
The building was designed with a minimal footprint, addressing the challenges posed by rapid urbanization and the resulting loss of greenery, which exacerbates the urban heat island effect. Situated within an area rich in trees and natural vegetation, the design prioritized the preservation of the landscape, incorporating green spaces that not only enhance the building's aesthetic but also provide environmental benefits.
By maintaining the surrounding greenery, the building actively contributes to reducing the urban heat island effect. The preservation of trees and landscaping helps maintain the surrounding microclimate, cooling the air and providing shade to nearby structures. This design choice not only benefits the residence but also positively impacts the immediate neighborhood, encouraging a more sustainable and pleasant living environment.
The integration of natural features such as water bodies, expansive green areas, and a focus on creating a low environmental impact fosters an eco-friendly atmosphere. The preserved landscape has transformed the surrounding neighborhood, with the natural greenery helping to regulate temperature and contributing to a more pleasant, calming environment.
Sustainability and Social Impact:
The building’s character shapes the region’s ambiance, fostering sustainable practices and inspiring others in the community. During the pandemic, the project remained on schedule, with cost overruns minimized through careful simplifications in finishes and construction methods. This pragmatic approach ensured that the building was completed on time while maintaining a focus on both environmental and social benefits.
The residence not only meets the client’s needs but also provides a positive example for the community, demonstrating how architecture can work in harmony with nature and contribute to a sustainable, thriving environment
“PATH” ART STUDIO AND PERSONALIZED RESIDENCE
Location –MAHARAGAMA SRI LANKA
Location Address- NO: 135, JAYA MAWATHA, NEELAMMAHARA ROAD, MAHARAGAMA SRI LANKA.
Clients name – Visual Artist PATHMAL YAHAMPATH
Clients Phone number - 0772264801
Clients Address - NO : 135/5, JAYA MAWATHA, NEELAMMAHARA ROAD, MAHARAGAMA .SRI LANKA.
Clients email address- [email protected]
Date of the design –March 05 2020
Date of the construction commencement – August 20 2020
Date of the construction completion – Jan 10 2023
Land area – 42.10 P
Site area – 3149 Sq.ft
Number of floors - 2
Number of rooms – 3
Cost of the project – 37m
Cost of the land – 35m
Dishna Thilanka: Principal Architect
Supun Lokuge: Structural Engineer
Regional Science Centre at Rajkot
Today, the integration of Science and Technology into the fabric of societal development resonates universally. The intersection of scientific innovation and socio-economic progress is a global pursuit, and as nations strive for holistic development, using Science and Technology as catalysts for change becomes a shared ambition. To this end, the Gujarat Council on Science and Technology (GUJCOST) was set up in 1986, in the progressive Indian state, with a commitment to addressing regional challenges that align with the broader international narrative, emphasizing the universal importance of scientific attitudes and awareness as a catalyst for socio-economic advancements.
With a focus on addressing backwardness, rural unemployment, and poverty, and emphasizing the importance of cultivating scientific attitudes in daily life, GUJCOST is establishing community science centres across Gujarat through public-private partnerships, underscoring the state’s dedication to leveraging knowledge and innovation for positive societal change, and ushering in a future where science empowers communities and propels the country towards unprecedented socio-economic growth.
The Regional Science Centre in Rajkot, one of the major cities & an industrial hub of Gujarat, is a unique addition to the cityscape, blending architectural ingenuity with regional influences and a clear programmatic vision. Inspired by the local cultural tapestry, the design draws parallels to an annual religious fair, situated on an elevated mound within a picturesque picnic spot. Evolving through multiple design stages, the center's form symbolizes the continuum of life, with a sacred central space representing the void of pure potential from which all creation emanates. Segmentation of the structure creates a metaphorical embrace of infinity, reflecting boundless possibilities.
The central plaza, akin to a marquee, serves as a vibrant public space hosting events and cafes, accessible through buffer passages. The tensile canopy ethereally transforms the void into a celestial tapestry through which sunlight casts intricate patterns of light and shadow upon the ground, like cosmic constellations mapping the journey of the universe. Radially projected walls in a dial formation create a pyramid-like structure, forming courts with theme-based open-air exhibits. Offering interactive exhibits, workshops, and demonstrations, the Centre invites families, schools, and groups to embrace the wonders of science in an enjoyable and accessible way, enriching the cultural and educational fabric of the city and its surroundings. Galleries on the ground floor house interactive exhibits, providing a platform for exploration of various scientific aspects. Mezzanine spaces overlooking the galleries serve as workshops and science outreach areas. Exploration of various aspects of science, such as machine engineering, robotics, life sciences, and the local ceramic industry, is facilitated. Amenities like VR Zone, Sound Park, Flight Simulator, and workshops, provide a versatile space for engaging events. The design fosters easy navigation with open-air spaces for exploration, contemplation, discussion, and relaxation.
Overcoming challenges posed by the local terrain, the design minimizes excavation and blasting. Sustainable strategies include vertical fins, tensile canopies, and cross ventilation to address the hot climate of Rajkot. Passive and active interventions enhance energy efficiency, with rainwater harvesting and recycled materials minimizing environmental impact, in line with the region's ethos.
Site Area: 10 Acres
Gross Built Area: 7897 square meters
Client: Gujarat Council on Science and Technology
Program / Use / Building Function: Science Museum / Science Centre / Edutainment Center (Science Gallery)
Consultant:
Architecture Firm - INI Design Studio
Interior Designer - INI Design Studio
Landscape Consultant - INI Design Studio
Construction Company - Cube Construction Engineering Ltd.
Structural Consultant - DUCON Consultants Pvt. Ltd.
Plumbing Consultant - INI Infrastructure & Engineering
Lighting Design - INI Infrastructure & Engineering
HVAC Consultant - INI Infrastructure & Engineering
Exhibit Design - Lemon Design
Electrical Consultant - INI Infrastructure & Engineering
AV / IT / Acoustic - INI Infrastructure & Engineering
Jayesh Hariyani, Adi Mistri, Rakhi Rupani, Saumil Mevada, Dharmesh Gangani, Bhargav A Bhavsar, Parth Joshi
With a focus on addressing backwardness, rural unemployment, and poverty, and emphasizing the importance of cultivating scientific attitudes in daily life, GUJCOST is establishing community science centres across Gujarat through public-private partnerships, underscoring the state’s dedication to leveraging knowledge and innovation for positive societal change, and ushering in a future where science empowers communities and propels the country towards unprecedented socio-economic growth.
The Regional Science Centre in Rajkot, one of the major cities & an industrial hub of Gujarat, is a unique addition to the cityscape, blending architectural ingenuity with regional influences and a clear programmatic vision. Inspired by the local cultural tapestry, the design draws parallels to an annual religious fair, situated on an elevated mound within a picturesque picnic spot. Evolving through multiple design stages, the center's form symbolizes the continuum of life, with a sacred central space representing the void of pure potential from which all creation emanates. Segmentation of the structure creates a metaphorical embrace of infinity, reflecting boundless possibilities.
The central plaza, akin to a marquee, serves as a vibrant public space hosting events and cafes, accessible through buffer passages. The tensile canopy ethereally transforms the void into a celestial tapestry through which sunlight casts intricate patterns of light and shadow upon the ground, like cosmic constellations mapping the journey of the universe. Radially projected walls in a dial formation create a pyramid-like structure, forming courts with theme-based open-air exhibits. Offering interactive exhibits, workshops, and demonstrations, the Centre invites families, schools, and groups to embrace the wonders of science in an enjoyable and accessible way, enriching the cultural and educational fabric of the city and its surroundings. Galleries on the ground floor house interactive exhibits, providing a platform for exploration of various scientific aspects. Mezzanine spaces overlooking the galleries serve as workshops and science outreach areas. Exploration of various aspects of science, such as machine engineering, robotics, life sciences, and the local ceramic industry, is facilitated. Amenities like VR Zone, Sound Park, Flight Simulator, and workshops, provide a versatile space for engaging events. The design fosters easy navigation with open-air spaces for exploration, contemplation, discussion, and relaxation.
Overcoming challenges posed by the local terrain, the design minimizes excavation and blasting. Sustainable strategies include vertical fins, tensile canopies, and cross ventilation to address the hot climate of Rajkot. Passive and active interventions enhance energy efficiency, with rainwater harvesting and recycled materials minimizing environmental impact, in line with the region's ethos.
Site Area: 10 Acres
Gross Built Area: 7897 square meters
Client: Gujarat Council on Science and Technology
Program / Use / Building Function: Science Museum / Science Centre / Edutainment Center (Science Gallery)
Consultant:
Architecture Firm - INI Design Studio
Interior Designer - INI Design Studio
Landscape Consultant - INI Design Studio
Construction Company - Cube Construction Engineering Ltd.
Structural Consultant - DUCON Consultants Pvt. Ltd.
Plumbing Consultant - INI Infrastructure & Engineering
Lighting Design - INI Infrastructure & Engineering
HVAC Consultant - INI Infrastructure & Engineering
Exhibit Design - Lemon Design
Electrical Consultant - INI Infrastructure & Engineering
AV / IT / Acoustic - INI Infrastructure & Engineering
Jayesh Hariyani, Adi Mistri, Rakhi Rupani, Saumil Mevada, Dharmesh Gangani, Bhargav A Bhavsar, Parth Joshi
Screen 504
Screen 504 is a 21 storeyed apartment building with 78 apartments on a site of 3690 sqm located in Udaipur, Rajasthan, India, with a total constructed area of 20,000 sqm. At every level 4 apartments, each with 4 bedrooms & living spaces are planned in each quadrant to allow visibility & views of 2 adjacent sides of the surroundings with hills in the distance in all directions.
Traditional architecture in the region dating back to the 16th & 17th century have multiple examples of projected screened balcony spaces to combat the excessive heat of the summer months which can vary from 35° to 48°C, providing privacy simultaneously.
Taking a cue from this element of traditional architecture, a mix of screened decks & open deck spaces front each room of each apartment to mitigate heat gain & provide transitional spaces between the indoors & the outdoors.
Each apartment has 5 balcony spaces fronting the living room & the 4 bedrooms.
Some of these are open and some are screened with sliding screens which are perforated with a traditional pattern. The screened decks can be opened up partially. One of the decks in each apartment is 20 feet high. The residents have the option of using single height 10 feet high decks or 20 feet high decks which can be completely open, partially open or completely screened depending on the weather.
Based upon the clients brief and the governing rules , a total area of 20,000 sqm is permissible on the plot of 3,690 sqm. The height restriction of 70 m & the mandatory open spaces on all sides 14m necessitated a building block of 36m X 30m in plan with a height of 70m.
Within these restrictive parameters the apartments are designed with minimal internal circulation spaces and all rooms facing the external views facilitating natural light & ventilation throughout overlooking the hills.
Community spaces including a gym, swimming pool, community hall & games room are located at the ground level & the roof top terrace with a roof top garden. Parking areas are planned in a single basement.
The entire perimeter of balconies & the roof top terraces are collectively drained to a rain water harvesting tank. In addition water is recycled & reused for gardening. These measures serve to reduce the need of external water supply. All the internal walls are made of fly ash brick. Locally sourced sandstone is used for the perimeter walls of the site and within the landscaped spaces. The entire labor for the construction was sourced locally. All these factors render the building sustainable.
Screen 504 is designed contextual to the location & climate taking cues from the traditional architecture of the region creating an apartment building that is energy efficient & offers a variety of different outdoor spaces to all its residents.
-
Architect: Sanjay Puri Architects
Lead Architects: Mr. Sanjay Puri
Design Team: Prachi Pawar, Pratik Patel
Traditional architecture in the region dating back to the 16th & 17th century have multiple examples of projected screened balcony spaces to combat the excessive heat of the summer months which can vary from 35° to 48°C, providing privacy simultaneously.
Taking a cue from this element of traditional architecture, a mix of screened decks & open deck spaces front each room of each apartment to mitigate heat gain & provide transitional spaces between the indoors & the outdoors.
Each apartment has 5 balcony spaces fronting the living room & the 4 bedrooms.
Some of these are open and some are screened with sliding screens which are perforated with a traditional pattern. The screened decks can be opened up partially. One of the decks in each apartment is 20 feet high. The residents have the option of using single height 10 feet high decks or 20 feet high decks which can be completely open, partially open or completely screened depending on the weather.
Based upon the clients brief and the governing rules , a total area of 20,000 sqm is permissible on the plot of 3,690 sqm. The height restriction of 70 m & the mandatory open spaces on all sides 14m necessitated a building block of 36m X 30m in plan with a height of 70m.
Within these restrictive parameters the apartments are designed with minimal internal circulation spaces and all rooms facing the external views facilitating natural light & ventilation throughout overlooking the hills.
Community spaces including a gym, swimming pool, community hall & games room are located at the ground level & the roof top terrace with a roof top garden. Parking areas are planned in a single basement.
The entire perimeter of balconies & the roof top terraces are collectively drained to a rain water harvesting tank. In addition water is recycled & reused for gardening. These measures serve to reduce the need of external water supply. All the internal walls are made of fly ash brick. Locally sourced sandstone is used for the perimeter walls of the site and within the landscaped spaces. The entire labor for the construction was sourced locally. All these factors render the building sustainable.
Screen 504 is designed contextual to the location & climate taking cues from the traditional architecture of the region creating an apartment building that is energy efficient & offers a variety of different outdoor spaces to all its residents.
-
Architect: Sanjay Puri Architects
Lead Architects: Mr. Sanjay Puri
Design Team: Prachi Pawar, Pratik Patel
Seriema House
Seriema House is located in a bucolic refuge on the outskirts of Belo Horizonte. To access it, you must cross a mountain range, a journey that marks a transition. By leaving behind the noise of the city, visitors enter a serene environment, fully integrated with nature.
The site where the house was built reveals two distinct scenarios. On one side, a wide and open view of the mountains; on the other, a dense forest, full of trees. In this balance between expansive landscape and shaded refuge, the house fits in harmoniously. Seriemas, typical birds from the region, roam freely around the place and inspired the name of the residence.
More than a home, the house was designed as a space for pause. A place to read, rest, contemplate the landscape and share moments with friends. The resident's desire was to create an environment for meeting and reading, where architecture would dialogue with poetry.
In architecture, poetry is made with drawing, and the freer it is, the deeper it is. Here, the poetic line materializes in a winding wall, which divides the house into two worlds. On one side, the welcome space: bright, full of sounds, music and movement, with an open view of the mountains. On the other, the space for retreat: silent, introspective, immersed in the shadows of the forest, dedicated to rest and reading.
The materiality reinforces this connection with the landscape. The winding wall, covered in black stones, contrasts with the white stoned floor. The house is both a shelter and a living experience. A single material, the stones, defines its essence. Seriema House is time, river, mountain, cave. It is, above all, poetry.
Structure: Cálculo Concreto
Hydraulic; Electric: CA engenharia
Lighting Design: Iluminar
Construction: Techno
Windows and Glasses: Cinex
Cladding, Ceramics and Metals: Bel Lar
Stones: Art Pedras
Carpentry, Woodwork : Líder
Marblework: Mármores LTDA
Air conditioning: Grupo Orlando
Furniture: São Romão
Curtain: Ana Luisa Decorações
Authors: Carlos Maia, Debora Mendes, and Igor Macedo
Contributors: Bruno Bontempo, Bianca Carvalho, Bruna Maciel, Carolina Amaral, Saulo Saraiva, Sabrina Freitas
The site where the house was built reveals two distinct scenarios. On one side, a wide and open view of the mountains; on the other, a dense forest, full of trees. In this balance between expansive landscape and shaded refuge, the house fits in harmoniously. Seriemas, typical birds from the region, roam freely around the place and inspired the name of the residence.
More than a home, the house was designed as a space for pause. A place to read, rest, contemplate the landscape and share moments with friends. The resident's desire was to create an environment for meeting and reading, where architecture would dialogue with poetry.
In architecture, poetry is made with drawing, and the freer it is, the deeper it is. Here, the poetic line materializes in a winding wall, which divides the house into two worlds. On one side, the welcome space: bright, full of sounds, music and movement, with an open view of the mountains. On the other, the space for retreat: silent, introspective, immersed in the shadows of the forest, dedicated to rest and reading.
The materiality reinforces this connection with the landscape. The winding wall, covered in black stones, contrasts with the white stoned floor. The house is both a shelter and a living experience. A single material, the stones, defines its essence. Seriema House is time, river, mountain, cave. It is, above all, poetry.
Structure: Cálculo Concreto
Hydraulic; Electric: CA engenharia
Lighting Design: Iluminar
Construction: Techno
Windows and Glasses: Cinex
Cladding, Ceramics and Metals: Bel Lar
Stones: Art Pedras
Carpentry, Woodwork : Líder
Marblework: Mármores LTDA
Air conditioning: Grupo Orlando
Furniture: São Romão
Curtain: Ana Luisa Decorações
Authors: Carlos Maia, Debora Mendes, and Igor Macedo
Contributors: Bruno Bontempo, Bianca Carvalho, Bruna Maciel, Carolina Amaral, Saulo Saraiva, Sabrina Freitas
