Program
Soundarya Decorators Pvt. Ltd. required a
10,000 square meter facility on the outskirts of Chennai. Environmental
appropriateness was an integral part of the brief. Eco aspects
considered include the reduction in consumption of energy through
passive solar design, water management and solid waste management.
Planning
The production area is conceived as a
series of sheds interspaced with open pockets of green ensuring natural
lighting and ventilation. Each shed measures 21.05 m x 60 m with the
longer axis in the East-West direction. The North and South faces have
larger overhangs with an open perimeter ensuring ventilation. The East
and West walls have bamboo framework and vegetation screens.
Construction system and details
The structure is comprised of form
finished concrete columns and a built up truss. Perimeter walls are made
of local stone slabs. The entire production facility has no windows,
door, perimeter walls, plastering or painting, in order to reduce
material use and maintenance.