Thesis Report Capitol Complex Andhra Pradesh Navpreet Singh Dua 2010ARA120 BArch 2015 ooList of Contents A Recommendation B. Undertaking e Acknowledgement 4 ‘Synopsis a1. Abstract £2 Project Brief 13 Validity 14 Aims & Objectives £5 Broad Requirements 16 Methodology LF Site Brief 2. Literature Studies 21 Architecture & Politics 22 Architecture of Democracy 23 Parliamentary Chambers 24 Urban Public Space 3. Library Case Studies 3a National Assembly Building, Dhaka 32 Maharashtra Legislative Assembly, Mumbai 4 Live Case Studies 41 Madhya Pradesh Vidhan Bhavan, Bhopal 42 Capitol Complex, Chandigarh 5. ‘Comparative Analysis 6. Site Analysis 2 Area Programme 8. Design Criteria 9. Bibliography N uw 12 3 14 14 15 v7 19 20 at 25 27 35 39 53 6 70 B 76Recommendation I hereby recommend that the thesis entitled "Capitol Complex, Andhra Pradesh’ is sub- mitted by Navpreet Singh Dua (2010ARA120), a student of B. Arch, Final Year, GNDU Amritsar, under my guidance be accepted in partial fulfillment for the five year degree program of Bachelor of Architecture. This submission is his original work and may be accepted of five year Bachelor of Architecture program. Ar Nitin Batra Dr Sandeep Dua Ar Amanpreet Singh Ar Pinto Emerson Ar Pinto Emerson Ar Rawal Singh Aulakh ‘Ar Rachanpuneet Singh Thesis panel Head of Department Thesis CoordinatorUndertaking Subject: Undertaking regarding authenticity/originality of B. Arch. Thesis (Jan2015- May2015). This is for your kind information that, | Navpreet Singh Dua, have worked on the project ‘Capitol Complex, Andhra Pradesh’. The work submitted by me is my original work and has not been copied from anywhere at any stage of my thesis. If any time (evenatter | pass out from the department), my work is found to be copied, lam ready to face consequences as per the university rules. Sincerely, Navpreet Singh Dua Roll. No. 2010ARA120 B. Arch, Sth Year Department of Architecture Guru Nanak Dev University Amritsar. Dated: May 18, 2015Acknowledgement lam grateful to my thesis panel Ar. Nitin Batra, Ar. Pinto Emerson, Ar. Rawal Singh Aulakh & Ar. Rachanpuneet Singh for their guidance throughout my thesis. Their vast knowledge and experience on the subject gave me valuable and guiding comment at each and every step of my work & helping me through the thesis and making avail- able all the resources of the department. Navpreet Singh DuaSynopsis Abstract India is now recognised as the largest democ- racy of the world, and a functioning demo- cratic system requires efficient spaces to run its institutions. From the ancient roman Pnyx in Athens to Washington's Capitol Hill, these spaces have traditionally been designed as iconic structures and often as symbols of larger political ideas. Hence political leaders have long used physical environment as a Crunatgurntn abuse) means to project power and prestige. But Photo. The Gurdon more than that, these government buildings are representative of aspirations and identity of its people as seen in the three legislative assemblies built after independence: The Vidhan Soudha (Bangalore), The Capitol Complex (Chandigarh) and Vidhan Bhawan (Bhopal). These projects have given unique freedom to their architects hence we find buildings such as the National Congress Building and Ministry of External Relations Building in Brasillia by Oscar Nemeyer, which National Congress Building, project national political ideologies through Brasilia (Oscar Nemeyer) his striking trademark style. Eneteisa What is a Capitol Capitol is often confused with the word Capital, but they bear different meaning. Capitol usually refers to the building that houses the government's lawmakers. Throughout history of democracy, the Capitol ‘Complex has usually been the most important group of buildings of the capital city. This is apparent if we look at prominent buildings of legislature constructed throughout history and how the planners have given extreme importance to their location within the city. In a modern democracy, the capitol complex houses its most important institutions: Legislature, Administration and Judiciary. It typically contains following buildings: 1. The Legislative Assembly 2. The Secretariat 3. The High Court Albert Speer's Berlin Capitol Complex 2 planned under Adolf Hitler (unbuilt) Additionally, it may also contain the gover- Photo: Wikipedia nor'sresidence.synopsis Instruments Of Democracy Legislative + Makes voices Heard + Opportunity to speak, propose, be heard and be represented + TheCouncilChamber —_ Executive + The Eyes + Gets things done Judicial + Public works + Scales of Justice + Public Welfare + Keep order + Symbolic figurehead, + Arbitrate leadership + Ensure Justice + Courtrooms, Judge's Chamber. Offices Project Brief Due to an internal conflict that lasted more than four decades, the State of Andhra Pradesh split into two separate states on 2nd June 2014. Hyderabad will act as the joint capital of two states for a period of 10 years, after which it will become the capital of Telangana Hence the Andhra Pradesh government has started decided to build a new capitalcity in Guntur district near the city of Vijayawada. The design problem comprises of design and conception of Capitol Complex for the new city, which shall include the Legislative Assembly Building, The High Court and The Secretariat. Legislative Assembly Building, Hyderabad + Mayor and Staff edifices + Executive Department Representative New state boundaries after reorganisation The High Court Building, Hyderabad Photo: WikipediaSynopsis Validity The new capital city will be 12 km North-West of Vijayawada city. It would comprise of 31 villages from 3 mandals: Thullur, Mangalgiri and Tadepalle.* The master planning of the Capital City has been assigned to two Singapore based firms, Surbana International and Jurong International. “Both these firms have worldclass experience in developing designs for infrastructure ona large-scale. The understanding is onlyfor preparing the master plan, thedevelopment part is left to the Ap government, The master plan is to be developed in three stages. In the first phase, which will continue till February, the vision of the region will be mapped. In the second stage, the framework for the detailed master plan will be conceived by mid- April. And by July end, the detailed master plan pertaining to 8 sq km of the capital region will be ready. While the master plan by the two Singapore firms will cover up to ® sq km, a committee of representatives from Singapore, AP, Japan will be formed during the third stage where inputs will be taken from Japan to attract investments into the capital zone. There will be detailed master plans for each level covering the entire 7,375 km of the Capital Region Development Authority (CRDA).* The Times Of India, Hyderabad Edition 25th Nov 2014 Page 1 AP capital to give Capitol Hill a run for its money “TWwes News Network Byeterabatinagtandpien SWANKY PLAN that promises to give Wash- Sew’ camp offee-cum- ington’sfamed Capitol Hilla | residence of chief minister mney, the eamp | js proposed to be built along residence of | tine banks of river Krishna ‘Andhra Pradesh chief min- | tqwards Vijayawada, while isterisbeingproposetelong | the Secretariat, Assembly, the banks of river Krishna | Raj Bhavan and High Court towards Vijayawada, with | vill come up on the opposite assembly; | side in Guntur district Raj Bhavan and high eourt = to come up on the opposite | The capital city would be side in Guntur district Ultra-modern with silane ‘These are the salient fea- roads and huge parks tu ane arta shared anced stageandslatedtobe | be grendlose granite-domec Vanced stageandslated tobe | beagrane finalized afters team of ex [Structure perts from Singapore visits | jpNaidu wants to lay the thecapital region inthefirst_ | foundation stone for the ‘wok of Docember capital city on Ugadi next ‘As per the blueprint, | year which reflects the vision of CM NaraChandrababu Nai- ever, Naidu told them that Gui, the capital eity would be when there Is teemology to wtramodern with sixlane — create islands and tall struc roads. Comprising several tures in the middle of the huge parks and fountatns, it sea, the sandy soll should will be the one of the green- not pose a problem for con est cities in India, whose structing skyscrapers. Ac hallmark will boa beautiful cordingly, the 44.storey sky- garden spread xcross 4 20- mode) for the km stretch between thecapi- complex tl and Prakasam Barrage, said. sources privy to the blue: Sourees told TOL a team, print said of engineers has visited the ‘The AP assembly will be capital region and studied a grandiose granitedomed — thequalityof thesoil. structure that isexpected to “Naidn wants to lay the atiract visitorsfromallover foundations stone for the thoworid, capital elty on Ugadi day Sources said il was on 2015, the Telugu New Year Naidu's insistence that the Daywhfehfallson Marchal. bineprint has proposed a 44 The idea is to mars that day storey secretariat complex. as the beginning of a new “Singapore engineers had chapler in the history of the conveyed to the CM that the ‘Telugu poopie.” the source sub-surface soil in the capi- said. tal area region is sandy not ltforskyscrapers. How- No assurance on package: PS 3“ Synopsis Aim Aim of the project is to explore the idea of Capitol Complex as the center of the community in the new Capital city of Andhra Pradesh. The complex shall feel a part of the community and not remain static & isolated like most capitol buildings around the world. Capitol Complex as an institute of democracy shall encourage interaction among the community and promote public gathering. Architecture that meets the people. Objectives: Following are the primary objectives for the Project: 1. Planning + To plan open public spaces in the complexes which can become a centre for Community interaction and encourage public gathering. + While at the same time, providing security to the users through intelligent design and planning. 2. Design and Architectural Expression + To design structures that reflect the culture of the people and can become their identity. + To design structures with contemporary expression but taking inspirations from the rich architectural history of the region. + Todesign a series of spaces within the buildings that promote interaction among users at different levels and help employ play of natural light within the buildings. 3. Sustainability + Todesign structures that are climate responsive andare energy efficient. + To design structures using local materials (such as limestone) that can hold against weathering for several decades and help the buildings blend well with the natural environment. Scope of Project The project shall comprise of layout & master planning of the entire Capitol Complex at approx. 200 acre site and detailed building design of the Legislative Assembly & The Secretariat. Broad Requirements + Lower House Assembly chamber + Library + Upper house Assembly Chamber + Exhibhition Gallery + Administrative Areas + VIP Dining + Office space for ministers + Auditorium + Lobbies/Lounge + Meeting Rooms + Press rooms + Banquet Hall + Publicareas + Fitness Center + Member'srecreation Halls + Kitchen Areas + Canteens + Debating ChamberSynopsis The Secretariat Building shall comprise of the Office spaces for the following 31 departments of Andhra Pradesh Government: + Agriculture& Co-operation Department + Animal Husbandry, Dairy Development & Fisheries Department + Backward Classes Welfare Department + Consumer Affairs, Food & Civil Supplies Department + Education Department + Energy Department + Environment, Forest & Technology Department + Finance Department + Finance (Works & Project) Department + General Administration Department + Health, Medical & Family Welfare Department + Home Department + Housing Department + Industries & Commerce Department + Information Technology & Communication Department + Infrastructure & Investment Department + Irrigation & Command Area Development (Irrigation wing) Department Irrigation & Command Area (Projects Wing) Department Labour, Employment, Training & Factories Department Law Department Minorities Welfare Department Municipal Administration & Urban Development Department Panchayati Raj and Rural Development Department Planni 1g Department Public Enterprises Department Rain Shadow Areas Development Department Revenue Department Social Welfare Department Transport, Roads & Buildings Department Women Development, Child Welfare & Disables Welfare Department Youth Advancement, Tourism & Culture Department Additionally, the Building shall comprise of Secretariat Administration, Canteens and Library. Methodology The following schemes shall be adopted to evolve the Project: 1. Theoretical Background Understanding of Capitol Complex and their relationship with the capital cities. Study of Capitol Campuses of major Capital Cities of the World. Study of recent Capitol Complex designs in India. Study of various techniques to achieve sustainable design solutions in Indian context. 616 synopsis 2, Identification of Problem & Analysis ‘To be familiar with the major challenges in the problem. To study the major cultural and climatic context of the region. To be familiar with the major requirements for the government from the new Capitol Complex. 3.Data Collection + To carry out case studies of similar projects built in India after independence. To carry out detailed library study to know the basic standards of each kind of required spaces to be designed. + To carry outa visual and physical survey of the site and its surroundings. To know the soil bearing capacity, underground water table, vegetation, site topography, water bodies etc. To collect information about the site from government records, documents and satellite imagery. + Tocarry outa detailed study of Building Bye-laws of the area, and requirements of Building Design clearance from various authorities in the region. + To collect climatic and meteorogical data about the area and know the various natural disasters the regions proneto. 4. Data Analysis + Defining the functions and framing out the detailed requirements of the buildings with areas required + Defining the correlation of different functions within the building. + Analysing the site conditions to decide suitable orientation, entrance and landscaping required. + Toanalyse the local climatic conditions and decide suitable orientation for the buildings. 5, Design Process + Formulate a conceptual design that meets the requirements. + Refinement and detailing of the design. Scape af Design ‘ims & Literature Objectives Studies 4 = Dotailsof _. Data is + Concept —» Preliminary __| Final heres the Project —* Collection * A*#¥ Concept — Design Design L case Site Bret oan lequirements. Live Case Studies 1.Capitol Complex, Chandigarh 2. Vidhan Sabha, Bhopal Literature Case Studies 1. National Assembly Building, Dhaka, Bangladesh 3, Maharashtra Legislative Assembly, MumbaiSynopsis Site The site selected for the Capitol Complex is a riverfront site located in the region allocated for the construction of the new capital city in Guntur District. The Site will act as the end of a vista created perpendicularly with the city Total Site areais approx.290 acres. Vijayawada, India ea ign the Capitol Compleat ee pers omer18 Literature Studies 1. Architecture and Politics 14. Scale in Context 1.2. Formal Shape & Expression 2. Architecture of Democracy 3. Parliamentary Chambers 3.1, Composition of the Assembly Building 3.2, Assembly Hall Design 3.3. The Assembly Hall 4. Urban Public SpaceArchitecture & Politics Architecture and Politics Politics Itself is a pure beauty that had played the momentous role to bring the civilization to this instant. It is about power, of gover- nance and authority for the goodness of the mankind. But often the practice of politics turns the player's intentions into obsession. The insatiability of this obsessive desire of power often breaks the rules of the game. Its breaks the very basic rule of sanity and ethical imperative, thus erase the memory of ground values of goodness. One breaking of the rule multiplies the breaking itself; chaotically. It is of no surprise that politicians believe in an ideology and attempts to express it through material matters and Architecture is not immune either. But itis indeed a mesmerizing wonder how politicians often seize everyinch of time and space with the idiosyncrasy of accentuation and the dogmatic glorification of a personality or an ideology beyond the limit of its own ground. This greed explodes its boundary of its own state buildings and spill into the public spaces. Starts from the forefront of the state palace with an ostenta- tious effigy, advance through the road, the boulevards, to the open space into the so called public building and even inside the private realm of a Home. It is important to note that though politics and architecture are each justifiable according to its intrinsic set of criteria, the opposition between warring architectural views nowadays, is one which is fought less on artistic grounds and more on political grounds. This exploration is about how and why architecture is manifested to sing political ideologies and power. Scale in Context Scale is the most basic way of expressing the most fundamental meanings like power or weakness. Through scale, buildings show the hierarchy of importance in context. + Size (In Volume and Space}: Larger the size means Larger the Power + Height: Taller the Object means higher the Authority + Weight: More Weight (Heavy) means more Stability and Domination + Compatibility with surrounding: More Contrast means more the Detachment & Peculiarity Formal Shape and Expression Formal shape and formal language in build- ings transform these fundamental meanings of scale to a higher level of expression, like a monumental neo-classical, totalitarian building trying to pass itself off as a continua- tion ofan ancient value. + Symbolic Representation: More Ornamentation means more it gets idealized + Transparency and Visibility: More Opaque means more Mysterious + Complexity: More Abstract means less Clear + Spatial organization: Spatial organization is used to censor the existing social struc~ tures + Accessibility and Invitation: Definite accessmeans more Segregation + Complexity: More complex means more Security + Flow: Formal flow means more Control20 Literature Studies Architecture Of Democracy History shows that asa nation progresses and accumulates wealth, its civic structures are rendered in pompous, almost authoritarian style- Grand landscaped gardens, high walls and deep setbacks. Currently in India, there are many un-democratically designed public architecture that spots palace-like characteristics. These buildings are intimidating, the scale and archi- tecturalstyle can have an undesirable impact on the citizens and the leaders. Winston Churchill once said,’We shape our buildings, thereafter they shape us.” Architects need to realise the importance of democratic spatial relationship before the public loses touch with their city or architecture, in turn creates a society that does not come together and not worth caring; an indisposable society.Parliamentary Chambers Parliamentary Chambers In any democratic setup, the Legislature can be a Unicameral or a Bicameral setup. In a unicameral system, thereis just one legislative oF parliamentary chamber (usually called the Lower House), whereas is a bicameral system, the legislature of the government will func- tion through two parliamentary chambers, The Legislative Assembly and the Legislative Council (the Lower and Upper house respec- tively) Composition of the Assembly Building ‘An Assembly Building contains all the neces- sary spaces for a legislature to function properly nd house all its staff and members. 1. Legislative Assembly (Vidhan Sabha) Numbers of Seats depends on state popula- tion. Members of legislative assembly are chosen directly by the people on the basis of adult franchise from territorial constituencies inthestate. ItsTenure The normal tenure of the legislative assembly of every state is of 5 years but it may be dis- solved earlier by the Governor. 2. Speaker & Deputy Speaker Speaker is the chief president officer of the legislative assembly of a state. He is chosen among the ruling party members. The assembly elects its Deputy Speaker also from its own members among opposition party. Functions It has the cardinal functions of legislation overseeing of administration, passing of budget and ventilation of public grievance. Speaker is the custodian of the dignity of the house and an impartial arbitration in its proceedings. 3. Legislative Council This is the Upper House in states with bicam- Lok Sabha in session at New Delhi eral system of governance. The legislative council of each state selects its chairman from among its own members. Theoretically the powers of the Legislative Council are equal with the Assembly; in reality, the ‘Councilis the weaker partner. ‘Ordinary bills can originate in any chamber of the legislature. A bill must be passed by both chambers, and receive the assent of the state's Governor, before it becomes law as an ‘Act. The Governor may give his assent or return the bill back to legislature with his ‘observations. As of 2014, Seven (out of twenty-nine) states have a Legislative Council: Andhra Pradesh, Bihar, J&K, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Telanganaand Uttar Pradesh. 4. Legislative Assembly (Vidhan Sabha Chamber) This is the lower house in legislature. The Karnataka Legislative Assembly in session at Bangalore2 Literature Studies most important function of the Legislative Assembly is to act as the highest law making organ of the state. In unicameral state Legislatures all bills on subjects in the state list are initiated and passed by this House before transmission to the Governor for his assent The chair of the Speaker is placed conspicu- ously at the center. In the pit of the chamber just below the Speakers chair is the table of the Secretary General of the house. In front of him is placed a large table, which is the table of the house on which papers are formally laid by ministers, officers of the house and the official sit at this table. A seat is allotted in the chamber to each elected member Vidhan Sabha, The seats on the right hand side of speaker belongs to ruling party and that on the left side belongs tothe opposition party members. Ruling Party leader (Chief Minister) occupies the firstrow seat on the right side. The deputy speaker occupies the first row seat on the left side. 5. Library Its primary object is to keep members of Vidhan Bhavan well informed of the day-to- day developments in India and abroad, by maintaining an up-to-date and well equipped library backed by prompt and efficient research and reference services. It provides research & reference material on legislative measures and a variety of other subjects coming up before the house - Parliament House, New Delhi Photo® Publicinterestfoundation Vidhan Sabha so as to enable members to participate efficiently in the debates of their respective house. 6. Press& Public Relation Wing This wing maintains relation with the press and various Government publicity organiza~ tion and communications media. It also handles all matters concerning the press gallery of the Vidhan Sabha including issue of press gallery passes and provision of facilities to the correspondents covering- When the Vidhan Sabha is in session, important news items are displayed on boards, outside the library, 7. Visitor's Galleries There are two galleries on either side of the speaker dais, The one on the left side are for the VIP members and other on the right side isreserved for the bureaucrats. The press galleryis situated on the first floor. The public gallery (gents & ladies) is on the first floor. 8. Committees (1) Ad-hoc Committees and (2.) Standing Committees Ad-hoc committees are appointed for a specific purpose and they cease to exist, until they finish the task assigned to them and submit a report. Standing committees are those who run through the year like committee on estimate. Gujrat Legislative Assembly in Gandhinagar Photo: GandhiportalParliamentary Chambers Assembly Hall Design The Parliament is not just a building, it is a scene of order and disorder, drama and inac- tion, place of heated exchanges, a place of outburst of emotions. Within the four walls of the Assembly area, it defines a nation’s history and political state. For more than 2500 years, people have assembled to participate in and observe democ- racy. The environment in which democratic debates take place can be seen asa physical expression of mankind's relationship with the ideas of democracy. Public participation on democracy in architecture is an idea evolved from Ancient Rome. Since this is not the case today, public spaces as a place to foster democracy have ceased to matter, and this, has reduces these civic structures as nothing more than ornaments. Treraciaag oat Cr aor sey le Fas ogee Tce any Cheri | INTERACTIVESPACES Symbolise democracy by encouraging participation in the democratic process facilitated by the creation of an open and publicly welcoming building. SPATIAL QUALITIES ‘Ackey part of the process of achieving a more interactive public architecture is in arousing curiosity in a building, most notably through contrast - of light & shade, hard & soft, new & old, Transparent & Opaque CONTEXT The building should reflect a dialogue between the landscape and surrounding context, it sits gently on the site rather than Imposing it asa harsh monument. URBAN The art of interaction to dissolve the bound- aries between buildings and the street, the assembly building that is accessible by the public, it symbolises democracy by encourag- ing public participation in the democratic process. SPATIAL EXPERIENCE The Palace of Assembly uses circulation routes as a kind of a narrative journey, It provides spatial experience through a series of views 22 Literature Studies The Assembly Hall ‘Assembly hall includes debating chamber and other supporting spaces. These spaces are very important as it is in these places where people's representative debate, decide discuss and deliver legislation While designing assembly hall, following considerations should be taken Shape of the Hall Different types of shapes are used to perform conventions, meeting or conferences. Generally, square , rectangu- lar, fan shaped , hexagonal shaped , oval shaped , circular shaped plans are used. For large assembly purpose, circular or oval plan is recommended mainly for assembly purpose . since the stage requirement is very less and need of visibility of stage from every corner. In different countries, shape of assembly hall is taken akin to type of parliamentary politics practised in that particular nation. For exam- ple in west minster model of governance where there is strong opposition in debate between two major parties , the rectangular shapes and opposite seating layouts are preferred. Simitarly in consensus based inclusive democracy the circular or oval shape of halls are preferred for more collaborative effort. From visibility and greater accommodation point of view, circu- lar shapes is most appropriate .with circular shapes , there will be two alternates to the inner seating layouts namely semi oval or semi-circular, the appropriate shape can be chosen. Space requirements: From various studies and their inferences, the area standards have beenascertained andit has been found that: Area of 1.5 - 1.6 sq.m per user is adopted in the assembly hall Area of 0.05-1.2 sq.m per user is generally adopted in the general seating gallery depending upon the type of user and require- ment of space a) Opposite Arrangement Generally countries with parliamentary systems like united kingdom have this kind of UN General Assembly, New York Photo: Wikipedia seating arrangement . This type of arrange- ment encourages face to face debate However this type of arrangement also likely to bring unnecessary opposing nature among the parliamentarians. b) U-Shaped Arrangement This type of arrangement encourages face to face debate but less opposing in nature than that of opposite seating arrangement. It is reformed type of opposite seating type which is more interactive in nature. Commonwealth countries like Australia have this kind of seating arrangements, House of Representative, Canberra, Australia Photo! aph govauUrban Public Space c) Concentric Arrangement Seating arrangement is concentric and thus is more interactive with greater visibility. Moreover this type of arrangement is found to be more cordial and less opposing . Such types of seating arrangements are found in Scandinavian countries where parliamentary politics is mostly consensus based. Urban Public Space “Public spaces are a mirror of social values, customs and culture and area reflection of the interaction between physical, social, political and economic realities. They symbolize the larger society or culture in which they exist Public spaces acquire meaning for people through the different functions activities and roles in people's life. In these spaces people are able to exchange information, communi- cate local news and also provide a context for political behaviour. Public spaces encourage social exchange, the formation and continua- tion of social groups and enable the transmis- sion and exchange of important public mes- sages. When public spaces and public life are missing in a community, residents become isolated from each other and are less likely to offer mutual help and support’. Public spaces have been developed by differ- ent societies since ancient times. From Roman forums and Greek agoras to the Bazaars of India, they all have been important public spaces for centuries. Every community needs a symbol of its existence, a centre on which to Recreated image of Roman Forum Photo: usted 1 Marcia, Cre Cooper Fane; Cols espe Pc: Design Glens ky Uden Open Sac n Wiey om 888) Grand National Assembly of Turkey, Ankara Photo: alpawaba com focus life. Public spaces can be such a symbol and pulse of the city. They form nodes or focal points, symbolizing shared identity and culture, Acity is made up of many urban spaces. Public spaces are among the most important of these. These are tangible spaces with some intangible qualities where friends and strang- ers alike can come together, communicate, recreate, transact business, work, stroll, relax, sit, or just enjoy the sights and sounds of each other. Over the ages, the nature of public spaces and people's preference for one kind over another has changed. Urban public spaces are living organisms, which respond to the varying socio-economic conditions and cultural patterns of cities. The meanings of public spaces have varied with time, culture and context. Public spaces, their origin and how they have evolved over time are influenced by physical, cultural and political factors. The physical factors are climate and topography. Cultural factors are ~ social public life: catering to the urge to meet, interact and socialize: func- tional public life: catering to people’s every- day needs like buying groceries etc.; symbolic public life: catering to the need of people to feela sense of belonging and being a part ofa larger group. Besides the above three, tech- nology and economics are two other factors influencing public spaces. Technology determines what can be accomplished by a society in terms of the construction of a physical setting. In addition electronic devices like the personal computer and the television are changing the way the middle classes live26 and work and the balance between private and public life. Modern technology like computers, telephones and fax machines is allowing people to work at home in isolation. Likewise television provides entertainment for the family in the comfort and security of their home. According to Carl, “Itisimpossible to understand public life and space without recognizing their political nature. Hence public life is one of the most democratic rights. A public life has the potential of bring- ing diverse groups together so that they learn from each other, perhaps the richest quality of a multi-class, multicultural, heterogeneous society” According to Carl & Francis, “Three critical human dimensions should guide the process of design and management of public space: the users’ essential needs, their spatial rights, and the meanings they seek". A space usually becomes meaningful when it truly meets people's needs. On the other hand a monumental public space not catering to people's basic needs and contriving a mean- ing does not facilitate any connections. Ensuring basic needs and rights of users in a public space creates the fundamental level of civility that prepares the way for the expres- sion of cultural meanings". Meanings change as spaces and functions change. For a space to have a deeper and long lasting meaning it needs to be "richly embedded in its context’. The site's natural setting is its primary con- text. The history of the site and the region forms a secondary context, which can lend a site deep meaning. According to the authors ‘of Public Space the “most difficult, least developed, and potentially most rewarding would be the development of qualities and associative meanings that are special to our ‘own time and place and the experience of our emerging culture”. Also the democratic management of a space goes a long way in making people feel a sense of belonging, ‘ownership and pride in a space, and thus forging a connection it. Meaningful elements and events in public spaces should be introduced to retain users’ interest “and commitment to the place, qualities that are the foundation of meaning. Piazza San Marco, Venice, Italy Photo: flmapia.com Chandni Chowk, Old Dethi Photo: taimaheltripindia.com Times Square, New York, on New Year's eve Connaught Place, New Dethi Photo: sodolhi:comCase Study National Assembly Building Dhaka Louis | Kahn Selection Criteria + Building with Modernist expression but inspired from local styles and context + Exemplary integration of public spaces with democratic institutions General Introduction Originally meant to function as the Assembly for second capital of Pakistan, it became Bangladesh's National Legislative Assembly when it became an independent country in 1971. Louis Kahn began his work on the project in 1962, but the structure was completed only in 1983. Connected by the green lawns and plazas, the 155 feet high white concrete building floats ona lake on a site of 215 acres. Contrasting the low red brick buildings within the complex, the Parliament building in Sher-e-Bangla Nagar is, an Architectural monument of the modern times. Site and Climate The urban site is of an oblong shape of 840 acres, located 7 miles north of Dhaka city centre, and itis a low-lying, flat plain. oriented North-South. The climate of the region is warm and humid, characterised by high temperatures during summer, high humidity, heavy rainfall during the Monsoon, and a short but pleasant winter. Due to heavy rainfall, the growth of vegetation is intense. View of North entrance of the building from the public park. Phote: Aga Khan Foundation Minister's hostels set apart from the Assembly building by artificial lake. Photo: Aga Khan Feundation aCase Study Architect's Brief The programme originally called for a National Assembly building, and three hostels to provide living accommodation for the members of the National Assembly during the alternate sessions which were to be held in Dhaka. The hostels were intended for Ministers of the Government and Secretaries of departments. The programme also included an individual residence for the President, for the Speaker of the Assembly and for the Deputy Speaker; and a building for the administrative work of the National Secretariat. The programme called for an Assembly chamber seating 250-300 Assembly members; galleries accommodating 500 visitors and 80-100 press; 2 political party meeting rooms of 60-75 seats each, and a third of 150 seats; a prayer hall; a post office; a commercial bank; a library: a courtesy office for the President; offices and a reception hall for the speaker; offices 28 for ministers, secretaries, and other personnel; and a restaurant and lounge fac Evolution of Design Concepts a) The Master Plan + In developing the master plan, 1962- 1964, Kahn conceived the capital as poles on a north-south axis. He called them “The Citadel of the Assembly” and ‘The Citadel of the Institutions”. + The Assembly Group: The Citadel of Assembly, comprising the National Assembly, the supreme Court, and the various accommodations for the ministers, secretaries, and parliament members, has particular significance in relation to the whole complex and is placed in a vast setting of gardens and lakes to emphasize its importance. + The National Assembly building dominates the Assembly group, and the entire capital, as well, by its volume, use — of materials, and location Low tise residences of red brick flan king the Assembly lead the eye towards the focal point - the building itself, a dominant mass of finished concrete and white marble strips. An artificial lake unites the individual buildings with in the group as well as determining their location and defining boundaries . The mosque emphasizes the southern entrance to the Assembly. Between the two zones, a public park is placed that is daily used by the general public and for celebration of public events. The parkis attached to the North building entrance through the Presidential Square.National Assembly, Dhaka @ theciadetotassemby @ Lake @ Tre Assembly Busing @ Hostels for Ministers @ Presidoria square © Hosta for Secretaries © Pubic Pak @ Besidences for Assembly Staff I b) Response to Climate + The local conditions of prevailing breezes, and rain and wind storms led Kahn to impose two conditions on his designs: orientation to northwest/ southwest breezes to obtain natural ventilation through any dwelling unit, and shelter for any window or door opening. + Kahn designed a “double-layered building”. The outer building protects the inner one; this external skin shields the habitable interior spaces. + This attitude lent Khan's geometry of circles and triangles a freedom of external surfacing. + The triangles and circles do not hide the real facade : the real skin manages to peep through huge cuts on extended walls. Protective Outer concrete skin as a means of architectural expression Photo: Aga Khan Feundation30 Case Study c) Internal Spatial Organisation + The interior of the Assembly Building is divided into three zones - 1. The central zone is the area of the Assembly. 2. The middle zone provides inner circulation, ties together the galleries of the people and the press, and provides access to committee rooms and the Library. 3. The outer zone is the area of the offices, and party rooms, lounges, tea rooms and a restaurant, the garden entrance and the entrance of the mosque. + The floor levels of the offices have been arranged to give privacy of movement to the Speaker and the Members of the Assembly. @ centratzone @ Miasio Zone wy © owner “oe a + The Middle zone of the Assembly building is composed of 8 Light and Air courts which provide diffused natural light and ventilation to all interior spaces and which are the fresh airintake source for the air-conditioning system. + The Outer Zone is protected from glare, rain and sun by deep garden porches which harbour the outer zone windows. d) Project Components + National Assembly Block . Assembly Chamber Block - West Wing Block North West Block «Garden entrance/North Block North East Block East Wing Block South East Block - Plaza Entrance/South Block © ONanerune |. South west Block + South Plaza 1. The open plaza with steps and ramps directly linked with a bridge to the main Assembly building 2. Entrance gates 3. Loop Driveway 4, Main Mechanical Plant Room underneath the Plaza 5. Carparking hall underneath the Plaza 6. Telephone exchange 7.PWD maintenance Engineer's offices 8. Equipment stores 9. Allied facilities + Presidential Square It contains marble steps, gallery and open pavement, ground floor partly open + EastHostels 9 Blocks of Hostels + West Residential 5 blocks of dwellings.e) The Assembly Chamber + The Assembly Chamber, 100 feet high, is an amphitheatre of 300 individual seats arranged in pairs + A ring of seats on the periphery is provided to accommodate joint sessions. of the three Legislative Assemblies. To the right of the Speaker is the President's box, to the left is the Speaker's box, and, flanking them, is the Distinguished Visitors’ Gallery and the Gallery for High Officials. + The Assembly Chamber is surrounded by and connected to spaces shaped to the special needs of the various functions that supportits work. The Assembly is a cylindrical form derived from the idea of a hollow concrete column with perforated walls. The "column" is also used as a light- regulating structural member throughout the complex The column is in effect octagonal in shape and there are 8 sectors on the eight sides of the octagon; and against 8 sectors there 8 outer blocks. The 9 blocks (including the central assembly block) interconnect only at levels 1 and 3. The outer blocks are interconnected at even levels while the central block is connected with the Western and Eastern Blocks atodd levels. Above: North-South Section Below: The Assembly chamber Source: Aga Khan Foundation 3Bu Case Study f) Design Failures + The building is an introspective building and once inside, the user is not aware of the outside. Due to the lack of outside view, Assembly staff complains that they feel uncomfortable after day's work. + The complexity of the walkways make orientation difficult. + The reverberation time inside the Assembly Chamber is extremely long, mostly due to the shape of the chamber and lack of absorbing surfaces. + There is a combination of diffused natural and artificial light in the building. g) Architectural Character + Kahn has managed to give the building a Monumental character, which gives it prominence in the whole complex + Public space in the form of Park and Plaza has been successfully created such that it can be enjoyed by the general public. + The building is rendered in a modernist expression but relates to the elements in Istamic Architecture. + Landscape and water elements have been used taking inspiration from the Above: Park and Plaza designed as Urban Public Space Right: Play of light and shade inside the building Source: Aga Khen Foundation The amount of natural light is not sufficient in the work environments and artificial light levels have to be varied several times during the day. There is a lack of natural ventilation inside the building. The building cannot sustain heavy wind driven rainfall as many of its spaces become waterlogged. Timber used for windows did not weather and warped; had to replaced with aluminium, Islamic Architecture. Also, water features are not visible from a distant hence the onlooker is drawn closer to the building to enjoy the water. The building is rendered in exposed cement concrete with inlaid marble strips, which conceal construction Joints and form drip mouldings on the exterior surface. Openings of geometrical shape have been created to give the building a sculptural expression which is responsive to lightand shade.Case Study Maharashtra Legislative Assembly Mumbai Selection Criteria + Similarand recent example of Legislative Assembly in an Urban Context in India. General Introduction The State Assembly in Mumbai was built in 1981 to house the summer sessions of the Maharashtra Assembly, while winter sessions continue to be housed in the old Assembly Building in Nagpur. This recent Legislative Assembly building is located in the midst of imposing skyscrapers at Nariman Point. The main Secretariat Building falls across the Madam Cama Road; since there is no direct contact between the two government buildings, it is difficult to access one building from the other. Site and Climate The present council hall stands on plot no. 241, 242 & 243 of Back Bay Reclamation no. 3. Total area of all plots is 12,925sqm. Plots 241 & 242 originally belonged to the Reserve Bank, but were later surrendered to the Maharashtra Government. The climate of the region is tropical wet and dry climate. Mumbai's climate can be best described as moderately hot with high level of humidity. Its coastal nature and tropical location ensures temperatures won't fluctuate much throughout the year. The mean average is 27.2 °C and average precipitation is 242.2 cm (95.35 inches) Aerial view of Assembly Building from South Photo: wwondertulmumbai.com Satellite Imagery showing the location of Vidhan Sabha, Secretariat and Gateway of India Imagery: Google Earth 3536 Case Study Planning Approach Concept + The entire complex comprises two units, one unit consisting of three Halls for the Assembly, Council and Central Hall for the joint session of both houses and the other unit comprising of the Legislative Secretariat + The three halls have been coupled in one single mass one over the other, having folded plate wall on its exterior and a dome on top. This is set against a backdrop of twenty-one storeyed Tower Block which accommodate the offices of the Legislative Secretariatand the Library. + The dome set on top of this arrangement is, of folded petal arrangement. Above the dome is cylinderical base for Ashoka Stambha. + Introducing glazing between the folded plates derives light in the top potion of the building Below: Section through the Building Opposite: Ground Floor Plan Source: lokzotte.com [1] Combined Hatt 1 couneit Hatt [1] Assembty Halt I tower Block Top: Layout Plan showing Assembly and main Secretariat, Below: West entrance of Assembly Building ‘Source: lokzatta com Functional Arrangement Functionally, the components of the building are: 1. Basement It accommodates parking space for 66 cars, air-conditioning plant, water supply arrangement, pumps, electric-sub station, panel room etc. Area 10,558 sqm. Height of basement floor: 7.3m. 2. Ancillary Building This surrounds the central circular zone on three floors. It is semicircular in plan bounded by the tower block on one side and the circular halls within. It mainly accommodates the Minister's chambers, Business Advisory Committee and has two main entrances. 3.Central Circular zone This consists of a six storey structure with three Assembly hall on the ground floor,State Assembly, Maharashtra Council Hall on the second floor and the Combined Hall on the fourth floor. The roof ‘over the central hall is dome with cranked slab forming a petal dome over a part area. Height:50m. 4. Legislative Assembly Hall It is circular in shape, having a diameter of 30m and accommodating 304 members (seating + desk arrangements). The 5.33m cantilever gallery provides seating for 398 visitors. 5. Legislative Council Hall It is a circular hall having diameter of 21m, and can accommodate 130 members with desk and seating arrangements. The 8.2m cantilevered gallery provides seating for 210 visitors. 6. Combined Hall A circular hall of 31m diameter, provides seating for 400 visitors. The hall is used for joint sessions of both houses of legislature, and international conferences. 7.Tower Block It is a 21 storey building, housing functions like the Minister's offices, various committee rooms, M.L.A and M.L.C lounges, railway and airline booking offices, various offices of legislative secretariat (around 600 staff), canteens, library, reading roomsetc. [Bh Assembly Halt, IM Speaker's Chambers [Bi Ministers’ chambers [J] Assembly Lobby [1] cM chambers [Bl Assembly secretariat I opp. chamber 7Inferences * Being cited in an urban landscape, the building is extremely accessible from the outer street which is used by the general public everyday. However, the complex design hasn't included any spaces for the public to use and enjoy. + Due to the restriction of space, all functions of the Assembly have been accommodated in a vertical setup. This has led to heavy reliance towards mechanical modes of circulation, such as elevators. + The building relies heavily on mechanical modes of lighting and air conditioning, as most of the areas inside the building do not receive any naturallight. + The outer folded plate facade is strikingly distinctive from the rest of the structures of the area, and it gives a recognisable character. Top: Fourth Floor Plan Right: View of Assembly building from the entrance gate Below: Aerial View of Nariman poet LD Combined Halt Source: lotsatta.com BB ubraryCase Study Madhya Pradesh Vidhan Bhavan Bhopal Charles Correa Selection Criteria + Building with contemporary architectural expression inspired from native styles. + Use of courtyards to create introvert spaces with efficient climatic performance. General Introduction Vidhan Bhavan is a new state assembly for the Madhya Pradesh government in the capital city of Bhopal. It replaces the former building (Minto Hall) which is nearby and was initially built during the colonial period as a guest house for the viceroy of India when he visited thecity. Location and Climate The Legislative Assembly is located on the Arera Hills of Bhopal. The Hill is flanked by a large lake on one side and greenery on the other. Vidhan Bhavan is located on the crest of the Hill, which drops sharply to the lake side, but gently to the green zone where the main road passes. It has a panoramic view to th.e lake but an obscured one to the green area of the city. Itis also better seen from the lake side rather than from the other side. There are three seasons in the State of Madhya Pradesh: Hot season (April-June): High 47°C, weather dry & dusty. Cooler inthe evening Wet season (July-September): Monsoon period with high humidity. Cool season (October- March): Low 20 weather is mild but the airis cool. oF TS an Top: Looking towards Legislator’s ‘entrance from Mantralay Road Below: Location of Arera Hills ‘Aga Khan Foundation 3940 Case Study Site Layout a) Approach + The Vidhan Bhavan is approached through a 60 feet wide road, i.e. Arera Road which leads to the three main entrance gates for VIP's, general public and Legislators. b) Circulation + Once inside the complex through the outer gates, different user groups enter the building through differently entrances. + The South-Esat entrance is reserved for Members and VIP's, as the Assembly chambers are nearest. + The Legislators and staff members enter from the North-West. + The CM enters from a private entrance towards the West. + The Speaker enters from the South-West, andenters directly to his chambers. Open To Sky Rose Garden a) Parking A Above: Satellite imagery showing various entrances to the complex for different user groups Imagery: Google Earth Below: Illustration showing different components of site and designated Bullding ‘entrances for different user groups Source: Aga Khan Foundation Legend Pm Legislators/Staff => Services —P Public —> cateteria —> speaker —> vipyMembers Chief Minister Parking B sheunty offices ‘Arera RoadConcept and Form* + The plan form has been inspired from the Navagraha Mandala concept: the cosmic organisation of functions, sequences and spaces within the ancient Hindu conception of theuniv-erse. + The plan consists of a series of spaces within spaces, divided into a pattern of nine compartments, which focus around a centre which represents nothingness. + On two perpendicular axis, emanating from central courtyard, are the admin-istrative offices. The remaining four corners are occupied by the specialised functions: The Vidhan Parishad (Upper Housel, the Vidhan Sabha (Lower House), the auditorium and the Library. + Other features are inspired from various sources, such as the dome roof of the Vidhan Sabha hall inspired from the Sanchi Stupa, or the series of steps in the ‘Court of the People’ inspired from the bathing ghats + The form of the plan building was designed to bea circle, as the approach roads winds as it moves towards the building. As the buildings is placed on one of the highest points in the city, this enabled the building to project a progressive elevation, equally visible from all Clockwise: 1. Illustration showing different divisions of the plan based on Mandala. 2. The Sanchi Stupa 3, Steps of the Public Court inspired from bathing ghats of medieval times. 4. View of Vidhan Bhavan from across the city. Circular form ensures itis visible from all sides. Source: Aga Khan Foundation, Wikipediaa Case Study Zoning and Layout The plan is divided into nine zones as per the mandala concept. They are explained as follows: Zone-1 + This is the main entry foyer for the Members and VIP's, approached through the north-west entrance of the building. + The foyer is flanked by Vidhan Sabha and Vidhan Parishad halls on both sides, to provide rapid access to the members during session days + Ata lower level, a dispensary has been placed which is only accessible from the outer road. Zone-2 + This zone contains the Vidhan Bhavan and ancillary areas suchas the Minister Inform- ation center. + This zone also houses the offices of Principle Secretary, Speaker and Deputy Speaker. Zone-3 + This zone forms the main entrance for the general public. It contains a large courtyard with series of steps for sitting, as well as artwork by local artists that portrays the culture of thestate. + From here, visitors can be allowed to fo to the auditorium, or any of the houses via a series of ramps to the upper balconies. Zone-4 + This zone contains a multipurpose auditorium that is used to host a wide variety of events. Vidhan Parishad 5 i Miners Logitors ‘inces teyer 4 Be Aetna Auditorium J) Bhavan S2) courtot the People [Hl opentosky 3 Zone-5 + This zone contains an introvert system of office spaces that are G+1 high and designed arounda courtyard. + The office spaces are divided between the ministers and the legislative staff. + This zone also houses the main cafeteria for the legislative secretariat staff and one separate dining hall for ministers and VIP's, Zone-6 + This zone houses several floors of library and spaces for library staff. It also houses the research section. Zone-7 + This zone contains a series of office spaces for the ministers and the legislative secretariat, arranged around a courtyard. + This courtyard is one level below the courtyard A, as the site contours down towards this partof the building. + This zone contains a group of several offices that are used by the chief minister andhis cabinet.State Assembly, Madhya Pradesh Legend @ Putt Emrance © court ofthe People © contrat Hat © counyara a © Levisators entrance Niristers offices @ Livery @ cabinet Room © couryarda @ Vieran Parishad (upper house) ® Levisators Foyer ® Victan Sabha tower house! © wPentrance @ Rettecting poot @ husitorum © terrace Below: Ground Floor plan Opposite: Schematic Roof plan showing nine zones of the Vidhan Bhawan building; Southwest elevation looking towards Auditorium, Public entrance and Vidhan Sabha hall. Source: Aga than Foundation [Bi Landscaping “344 Case Study Zone-8 + This zone contains the Vidhan Parishad, or the upper house and ancillary spaces. + Several other important spaces such as opposition party offices, offices of dy secretaries ete can be found in this zone. + Atthe lower level, all airconditioning plants Clockwise: 1, Partial model view showing Court of the People, Central Hall and Vidhan Sabha 2. Northwest-Southeast section through Auditorium & Court of the People 3. Southwest-Northeast Section through Vidhan, Sabha & Vidhan Parishad halls 4, Southeast-Northwest Section through legislators’ foyer, Central hall & Courtyard A 5, Northeast-Southwest section through Courtyard B, Central Hall & Public entrance [ andelectrical control rooms are placed. Zone-9 This zone contains the central hall which actsasthelink between all the sectors. Italso has several adjoining spaces such as the post office, ATM and press rooms.State Assembly, Madhya Pradesh Circulation + After different user groups enter the building via different entrance gates, for security and privacy reasons, their Movement pattern is defined differently. + For the legislators and members, the movement is always at the edge of the courtyards, around which their offices are placed. The legislator’s foyer at the south- east end of the building is used to enter the two halls on the lower levels. + The Courtyard A at the north-west end of the building is used to access the offices aroundit, and similar scenario can be found in the Courtyard 8. This forms an interesting arrangement such that the path leading to the office spaces is delightful in its own regard. The movement pattern for the general public originates from the Court of the people, which is connected to a series of ramps and stairs that can be used to access the balconies overlooking the three halls. The central hall forms the key in conne- cting the other eight compartments of the building. Chief Minister's office chambers, which also contains offices and retiring rooms for his staff, are secluded from the rest of the office spaces for security reasons TH Members/statt LD chiet minister Bi puptic 48Case Study Building Components Courtyards + The building contains two courtyards around which major office spaces of the complex are arranged. This has been insp- ired from the nineteenth century indian homes that were designed along a court- yard for climatic reasons. + The courtyards significantly help reduce the overall internal temperature of the complex as it facilitates very efficient natural ventilation along bothits axis. + Courtyards also function as spaces that enhance the overall aesthetic appeal of the areas around the office spaces and of theentire building itself. + The courtyard A is one level above the courtyard B (partially covered) as the site is. contoured towards that reason and floor levels have been designed accordingly. Clockwise: 1, Roof Plan showing location of Courtyards inside the building 2, Southeast-Northwest Section showing natural ventilation through legislators’ foyer, Central hall & Courtyard A 3. Northeast-Southwest section showing natural ventilation through Courtyard B, Central Hall & Public entrance 4. Photograph looking upon Courtyard B with offices on three floors around it Source: Aga Khan Foundation. Wikipedia,Anticlockwise: 1. Ground Floor plan showing the location of Central Hall 2. Photograph showing drop-panel slab supported on four columns inside the central hall 3. Public seating space inside the central hall 4. Drop panel makes way for natural light to enter from the four edges and through the centre as well. Source: Aga Khan Foundetion, Wikipedia Central Hall The central hall forms the key component inside the building asit links all other zones of the building The position of the central hall is essential to the concept of mandala, in which the centre of the cosmological arrangement of spaces is an empty space that connects everything The hall bears a drop panel slab supported on four columns, which makes way for natural light on all four edges and in the centreas well. The hall has four stairways leading up/down to the adjoining zones, as well as. tworamp systems. Permanent seating furniture has been designed along the corners and the centre of the hall. The details of the structure are as follows: Type- RCC M-250 Size - 29.4mx29.4m Thickness - 250mm. Dia of columns - 1100mm48 Case Study Vidhan Sabha Chamber + The Vidhan Sabha hall is located at the south end of the building and the members access it from the Legislator’s foyer. + The Assembly hall is a hall of circular diameter of 31m (area: 754sqm) which can house 366 members in its lower seating spaces. + The seating arrangement for the members is a U-shaped arrangement, which provides greater interaction between them. Since the Assembly is presided over by the speaker, his seat is the most prominent in the house. The deputy speaker has his seat right in front of him. Behind him are the seats for the VIP’s and administrative officers who attend the assembly session, in addition to guests invited by the speaker. + Before entering the assembly chamber itself, the members enter a circular lobby Top to Bottom: 1. Key plan showing location of Vidhan Sabha and Vidhan Parishad halls 2. Vidhan Sabha hall as seen from the centre aisle 3. Visitors’ galleries in the Vidhan Sabha halt Source: Aga Khan Foundation space that is designed all around the chamber. This lobby is used by the members to access the door thats closest to their seat in the chamber. It also doubles up as relaxation and informal discussion space for the members during the session days. + The area also houses the information and post center, which the members use to collect their research material for the debatesinside the chamber. + Behind the chambers, office spaces for the Speaker are placed, which include his private conference hall, retiring rooms, catering rooms and office spaces for his staff. + The visitors’ galleries, which can be accessed from the Court of the People (or from the lower corridors near the Speaker's office), contain the following seating capacities: Speaker's Gallery: 74 seats Officers’ Gallery: 74 seats Other Galleries: 8x60State Assembly, Madhya Pradesh VIP Gallery: 120 seats Women's Gallery: 60 seats Men’sGallery: 200 seats Press Gallery: 120 seats + The dome is an RCC shell structure that is 14m high from the assembly floor. It is 180-90mm thick. + The chamber has carefully designed acaoustic properties, wherein reverberation times are greater when sound sourceis near the speaker's seat. Vidhan Parishad Chamber + The Vidhan Parishad chamber has been provided on the other side of the legislative foyer; it is a182sqm hall that can accommodate 125 persons. + Since Madhya Pradesh does not have a bicameral legislature system, the hall is currently used asa large conference hall + The roof of the Vidhan Parishad is an inclined pyramid constructed out of steel space frames. Combined Hall Originally designed to be the combined hall for holding joint sessions of both houses, it is presently used asan auditorium It contains upper galleries that can be accessed by a series of ramps from the Courtof the People This is a 2600sqm hall that can accomm- ‘date 700 persons. Its roof is designed as a warped slab of 90mm average thickness. Top to Bottom: 1. Combined Hall/Auditorium 2. Speaker's private conference room 3, southwest-northeast section through Vidhan Sabha and Vidhan Parishad chambers Source: Aga Khan Foundation Viana Parishad 4950 State Assembly, Madhya Pradesh Architectural Character Shape & Size The overall shape and size of the building reflects the architect's concern for humanis- tic values in the context of a seat of authority & power. Rather than trying to glorify the political power center as an awe-inspiring monumental building, the architect designed the complex in the model of a heart of the city. Entrances Access to the building is through three strikingly different entrances that punctuate the circle plan at 90 degree intervals; a door surrounded by grillework for the assembly members, a bold blue and white white striped VIP entrance and a public entrance that penetrates deep into the circle via the Court of the People. Plan The plan is devised in an a series of ‘Gardens within gardens’, A series of courtyards and open spaces that are connected to each other, in a way inspired from the ancient Islamic architectural styles, and very much as courtyards were used in Indian homes of the nineteenth century. Path Space Relationship The path leading to the spaces has been designed that it enables the user to experi- ence the complexity of the spaces in all its dimensions. For example, the path to the office spaces is around courtyards; and path leading to the visitor's galleries of the Assembly chambers are through winding ramps from the Court of the People- pretty Top to Bottom: 1. View of the Vidhan Bhavan from across the city. 2. Public entrance gates leading up to the Court of the People 3. The seating steps in the Court of the People with murals & Paintings on the walls Source: Age Khan Foundation much like the ritual circumam-bulatory pradakshina around the Sanchi Stupa. Cultural References Throughout the building, several references to the history and culture of the region have been used - the dome of the Vidhan Sabha from the Sanchi Stupa, the circular plan to the Parliament Building in New Delhi, the seating steps in the Court of the People to the bath- ing ghats, the reflecting pool in the shape of the state boundary, the use of localred stone, handmade ceramic tiles & paint used to make contemporary murals & sculptures that reflect the arts of Madhya Pradesh,Case Study Construction & Materials” 1. Foundations + Cast-in situ reinforced cement concrete foundation 2. Principle Structural Members + Cast~ RCC frame structure a) Slabsand Beams b) Domes ©) Shell roof d) Flat slabs 3. Infill + 115mm thkand 230mm thk Brick walls 4. Rendering of Facades/Exterior Finishes + Partly 50 mm thk Dholpur sandstone clodding and partly Polyurethane paint on rough cast plaster with blue hand made ceramic tiles border. Cafeteria, security cabins and boundary walls are finished in localredstone. Left: Exteriors rendered partly in Dholpur Stone and partly in Polyurethane paint on rough cast plaster Right: View of Legislative foyer with White Indian Marble flooring with granite and coloured marble inlay. Phote: Aga Khan Foundation 5. Floors a) Interiors - White Indian Marble with patternsin granite and coloured marble. b) Terraces - Red Sandstone ¢) Kund - Local redstone 6.Ceilings a) Interiors - Mostly false cieling in Gypsum, Board, but some areas have just Neeru finished cement plaster on the R.C.C. slab. b) Semi-open spaces - Partly false cieling in cement particle board, rest have Neeru finished cementplaster onthe R.C.C. slab. 7. Roofing a) R.C. C. slob with fibre glass skylights. Brick bat cobaisused asinsulation b) Transparent polycarbonate sheets in steel frame to partly cover the courtyards. st82 Case Study Inferences Since some of the Minister's offices are far away from the assembly chamber. During session hours when voting timeis declared, sometimes the ministers are not able to reach the assembly chamber in time due to the large distance, and the voting proce- dure continues without them. Similarly, canteen areas are located far away from the assembly chambers. this becomes problematic in session days, when members continue to debate for long hours and no lunch time is allotted. Hence, the catering space should be adjoining the assembly chambers for maximum convenience and efficient working of the Assembly proceedings. The offices for the ministers and the legislative secretariat are difficult to distinguish as they are not located in distinct zones but are intermingled with each other, Same is the case with major and miner committee rooms. The dome causes more reverberation at some points within the assembly chamber than the rest. Also, there is no provision for natural light inside the chamber and hence thereis heavy reliance on artificial lighting. Because of the expanded plan form, the need for security personnel rises many fold, so as to maintain control over several access points into the building. This is evident from the fact that about 100 secu- rity personnel are on active duty at any given day, about three times more than the security personnel in Chandigarh Legislative Assembly. The most important person in the Legislative Assembly building is the Speaker; but the speaker has not been given an appropriate entry foyer or carentry.Case Study Capitol Complex Chandigarh Le Corbusier Selection Criteria + Similar building by one of the masters of modernist Architecture. + Striking shapes and forms that have becomea symbol for the city and the state. + Exemplary Capitol Complex planning that houses democratic institutions of the state. General Introduction After the partition of India and Pakistan in 1947, Punjab lost its previous capital Lahore. Building of a new capital city, later named as Chandigarh, was called upon by the then prime minister of India Jawahar Lal Nehru Architect Le Corbusier (along with some associate architects) was called upon to dothe master-planning of the city, and to design its major buildings. In his brief, Nehru called for"a new town, symbolic of freedom of In unfettered by the traditions of the past..... an expressions of the nation’s faith in the future”. So it was almost certain that the city’s buildings will bear no resemblance to the historic architecture, but a new direction for the architecture of the region and nation in general Corbusier designed the Capitol Complex as the focal point of the city, and distinctively different from the Lutyen’s capitol at New Dethi, as it embodied the colonial ideologies. The importance of the complex was additionally substantiated as it was to provide employment to approx. 18,000 people. Out of the three capitol buildings, the legislative assembly building is perhaps the most significant, with its hyperbolic shell and thegiant portico. Top to bottom: 1. Palace of Assemby 2. High Court 3. The Open Hand monument Sources: brynmawr edu, Wikipedta 8354 Case Study Location The selected site for the city of Chandigarh was a sub-mountaneous region 260 km north of Delhi. The site was suitable for its fairly central location in the state, proximity to the national capital, availability of sufficient water and its ideal gradient for natural drainage. With the shivalik hills in the background, the site provided great potential for imaginative landscaping and offered magnificent views. The city's altitude varies between 304.8m to 365.76mabovethesea level The Capitol Complex is located at the north- eastern end of the city, and is accessed by the Jan Marg (People’s Avenue) from the city centre. The site of the complex is very near to the artificial Sukhna Lake, which has been used to keep the microclimate under control and also to enhance the scenic beauty of the architecture. The lowline shivalik hills form the backdrop of the site, which was one of the primary reasons of choosing the site. Cimate Cahndigarh's climate is characterised by extreme hot and extreme cold conditions Annual temperatures in Punjab range from 1 °C to 46 °C (min/max), but can reach 49 °C in summer and 0 °C in winter. The area lies near the foothills of the Himalayas, so it receives heavy rainfall, whereas other areas of Punjab lying to the south and west receives less rainfall and experiences higher temperatures. Average annual rainfall ranges between 960 mm in the sub-mountain region and 460 mm. inthe plains. The area has three seasons: Summer (April to June), when temperature typically rise as high as 100 Fahrenheit. Monsoon season (July to September), when the majority of rainfall occurs. Winter (December to February), when temperatures typically fall aslowas 0°C. CHANDIGARH CLIMATE Berrian CHANDIGARH RAINFALL LPO OO LLL EE