The project is located near Benz Circle, the busiest junction in Vijayawada on
the road leading to the airport and one of the most expensive commercial and
residential locations in Andhra.
The neighborhood was characterized by diverse retail and commercial options.
Existing buildings typically were with multiple storefronts or large showrooms
on the ground and first floors with office spaces on the upper floors.
The brief from the Client was straightforward. Considering the location, the
proposed structure was meant to be leased/rented out and had to have an
open plan that would cater to multiple business interests and varied
customers. It was to stand-out among the clutter of typical buildings.
The challenge was to deliver something exotic and cater to a budget, keeping
in mind the dynamics and sensibilities of the locale and locals whilst mindful of
the extreme hot weather.
The western façade is adorned with custom angled panels of HPL [mimicking
marine steel] forming the outer skin to regulate heat and allow for adequate
light.
With the functional aspect taken care of, the panels were further tweaked to
cater to the form.
The design intent was to establish an object of intrigue for all passers-by to
compel a second look. Multiple iterations established the current pattern
wherein the solid appearance from a distance breaks apart into multiple
individual linear elements as one approaches the building.
This articulation rhythmically changes as the eye travels from one end to the
other along the western façade.
The south face that peeks into a by-lane that connects to the main road is
adorned by an imposing clay ‘jaali’ installation that envelopes the internal main
stairway running up all 5 floors of the building. This angular wall incorporates
an interesting Edan jaali that appeals to the senses externally as well as to
those using the stairs.
Commonly available elements used thoughtfully add to the elegance which
would only age gracefully.