PRIDE
Jeoni Mandi, Agra
Community Centre
Sustainable design
Commercial Block
Public Toilet Complex
Envisioned to be self-sustaining, ecofriendly and technology-driven community spaces that are the pride of their local communities. Such a centre will be accessible to all strata of the community and will serve as a physical platform enabling community bonding, skill development, sports and recreation
APPROACH/
Pride Complex design combines contemporary and traditional local architecture through design elements and materials.
Design elements such as Permeable screens (Inspired from traditional jaalis), skylight, shading devices, indoor courtyard help in improving indoor environment quality through ventilation and daylight.
Using regional and low embodied carbon materials such as as kota stone, sandstone and flyash bricks helps to achieve environmental sustainability.
PLAZA/
The Plaza acts as the main spine of the complex connecting different blocks visually and physically connects the Community center and Retail block. This encourgaes interaction among people from all social and professional spectrum. Plaza also acts as the gathering space in times of main events spreading from multipurpose hall to amphitheater.
Mutually shaded by Community Centre and Retail Block at most times of the day and equipped with outdoor furniture such as benches, water feature, it plays a significant role as
1. Arrival point for pedestrians from Basti area.
2. Pedestrian entry to Retail Block
3. Entry to community center's specific functions such as Multipurpose Hall, Classrooms (through external staircase)
4.Orientation point for public gatherings in Amphitheatre
COMMUNITY CENTRE/
The Community Center's design is marked by careful planning, acknowledging that visitors might initially have a specific purpose but are inclined to linger in other areas due to the chance for spontaneous social interactions facilitated by the versatile spaces. The multipurpose layout of most areas not only enhances adaptability and overall efficiency but also establishes a welcoming atmosphere for a diverse range of users to derive daily value from these spaces.
The Learning Center spans two levels, serving as a dynamic space for engaging activities and gatherings. Its visibility from the plaza, coupled with separation by an indoor green courtyard, not only allows natural light to filter in but also maintains a visual connection with the vibrant life outside in the plaza. This space serves various functions, including a waiting area, library, co-working space, and a creche for children. Additionally, it serves as a pre-functional area during events in the auditorium (multipurpose hall). On the third level, it seamlessly connects classrooms, creating an open learning space.
The Indoor Sports Hall, a three-story multi-sports facility, features viewing decks at two levels for tournament or event audiences.
The Multipurpose Hall, a double-height space with a stackable auditorium seating system, offers flexibility as a rentable venue with a separate entry/exit from the Plaza. This makes it an ideal space for events catering to both community and non-community members.
Classrooms within the center, ranging from specialized areas like cooking and music rooms with soundproofing and dedicated services, to adaptable classrooms with multiple furniture layouts, cater to diverse groups and activities. Each space is thoughtfully designed to provide a conducive environment for various learning experiences.
SUSTAINABLE DESIGN/
Embracing a commitment to sustainable design, the Community Center incorporates innovative practices to minimize environmental impact and enhance overall well-being.
Alternate Construction Techniques: Utilizing Filler Slabs and Jack Arch Roofs as alternatives to traditional concrete slabs. Jack Arch Roofs are eco-friendly and cost-effective, contributing to optimal indoor thermal comfort. Filler Slabs, with air pockets formed by tile/clay pot contours, provide excellent thermal insulation, reducing the carbon footprint by 20%.
Materials: We prioritize regional and low embodied carbon materials like kota stone, sandstone, and flyash bricks, promoting environmental sustainability in every aspect of construction.
Green Trellises: Strategically placed in open corridors and on Community Center facades, green trellises play a vital role in regulating thermal comfort, fostering a harmonious blend of nature and architecture.
Stone Fins: Horizontal and vertical stone fins on windows act as shading devices against the sun, enhancing energy efficiency.
Terracotta Screens: Incorporating terracotta screens with patterns inspired by local architecture as parapets in corridors and on the Courtyard Facade allows natural light while facilitating ventilation, contributing to a healthier indoor environment.
Terrace Garden: The presence of a terrace garden in the Retail Food Court and Community Center not only enhances aesthetics but also improves air quality, promoting a greener and healthier community space.
Indoor Green Court: The Community Center's indoor green court welcomes ample daylight from above and the plaza side. Trees and greenery not only create a visually pleasing atmosphere but also regulate indoor temperatures, fostering a comfortable and eco-friendly environment.
Solar Panels: Integration of solar panels on rooftops and parking sheds is a proactive step towards reducing power demand and embracing renewable energy sources.
Eco-STP (Sewage Treatment Plant): Our Eco-STP converts the entire site's sewage into clear water, which is then reused for gardening and flush tanks in public toilets, exemplifying our commitment to responsible water management.
Stepped Roof Design: The stepped roof design of the Community Center allows for natural ventilation and abundant daylight, contributing to a sustainable and energy-efficient architectural solution.
COMMERCIAL BLOCK/
The placement of the two retail blocks on the site is carefully planned to optimize their impact.
The first block is strategically positioned at the entrance, enjoying full corner exposure on the main street. Meanwhile, the larger second retail block features an entrance lobby and multiple shop fronts that open up into the vibrant plaza.
Exterior corridors, overlooking the plaza, enhance visual connections, fostering social interaction and improving the overall shopping experience. The thoughtful layout allows abundant natural light to flood the spaces, creating a bright and welcoming ambiance.
Designed in harmony with the adjacent community center, these blocks incorporate sustainable features such as a terrace garden and exterior corridors covered with trellises. These elements not only maximize daylight but also regulate temperatures, reducing the need for electrical lighting during the daytime.
