A Parametric Approach to Regional Architecture: Redefining Design in Kolkata

In the bustling urban fabric of Kolkata, a regional architectural project has emerged as a beacon of innovation, blending sustainability, technology, and aesthetics. The design prioritizes porosity and greenery to create a harmonious connection between the built environment and the natural world, while addressing site constraints and climatic challenges.

Designing with Porosity: A Symbol of Urban Art Absorption

The building's design reflects the principle of promoting interaction between art and the city. This concept is materialized through parametric design, employing custom scripts to create irregular geometric voids. These voids not only add a sculptural quality to the façade but also enhance environmental performance. By strategically placing these openings, the design shields internal spaces from Kolkata's intense south and south-west sunlight, reducing heat gain and ensuring thermal comfort for occupants.

Vertical Stacking: Maximizing Land Use

In response to limited site dimensions, the functions of the building are stacked vertically, making efficient use of the available land. Each level is carefully designed with recessed facades on the East side, incorporating green terraces that break the monotony of the verticality while fostering a sustainable and biophilic environment. These terraces also mitigate the urban heat island effect, enhancing microclimatic conditions within and around the building.

Greenspaces Elevated: Landscaped Courtyards

With minimal scope for ground-level greenery, the design integrates landscaped courtyards across different floors. These courtyards act as social and recreational spaces for building users, providing visual and physical connectivity to nature. By elevating green spaces, the design ensures that users across all levels experience the psychological and aesthetic benefits of greenery, making the building not just a space to work or live but an environment to thrive.

Sustainable Innovation: A Climatic Response

The building's dual strategy of incorporating porosity and recessed facades exemplifies a climate-responsive approach. The geometric voids provide controlled ventilation and shading, while the green terraces and courtyards reduce the building's carbon footprint and improve user well-being. Together, these features create a dynamic, environmentally conscious structure that embodies modern architectural practices.

Dynamic geometric voids create a seamless blend of form and function, ensuring aesthetic appeal and climate responsiveness

Sakshi Mathur