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Issue VI | October 2014
Facade and Fenestration News for India
Forms, Facades and Fenestrations: The Way Forward
New Emerging Expressions
Prof. Krishna Rao Jaisim
Facatecture (Façade+Architecture)
NürnbergMesse India Pvt. Ltd.
Syed Adil Pasha
Project: Hotel Kempinski Ruchika Grover
German House, 2, Nyaya Marg, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi 110 021, India Tel.: +91-11-47168888 / Fax: +91-11-26118664 / Website: www.nm-india.com Contact : Ms. Rucheeka Chhugani / E-mail: rucheeka.chhugani@nm-india.com
An Article by JP Agrawal
Project: Hamsa Residence
Biome Environmental
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Message
Contents
In recent years, the façade and fenestration industry in India has evolved and progressed considerably. What many had thought to be a passing trend at the time, has been integrated into the entire process from design to execution. fensterbau/frontale india has further taken this trend forward and united people from various fields of façade engineering and architecture to come together, on a common platform, network and plan the way forward for both the immediate and the distant future. The current FFI Tabloid – Forms, Fenestrations and Facades – The Way Forward, is an insight into this future of the industry. Delving into the current trends & innovation, it highlights the core reasons for experimenting with varied materials like wood, glass, adobe, brick and steel to generate unique and sustainable ideas for building facades. In India especially, where resources are scarce and demands manifold, we need such inventive ideas to pave the way for a better tomorrow. fensterbau/frontale india has emerged as the meeting place for all industry pioneers. It has developed into an effective forum for all stakeholders to discuss, debate and showcase new cutting edge technologies and solutions. The next edition of fensterbau/frontale india will take place in Bangalore from the 26th-28th February and it gives me immense pleasure to invite you all to participate and witness the quantum growth of the window, door and façade industry. Also ‘be the change’ for the future – a paradigm shift from building facades to building skins, from fixed to adaptive and from ‘intelligent’ to ‘smart’ systems.
Ruchir Panwar
Director RSP Design Consultant’s INDIA Pvt. Ltd.
Forms, Fenestration & Facades : New Emerging Expressions - Prof. Krishna Rao Jaisim
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Facatecture (Façade+Architecture) - Syed Adil Pasha
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Modular Design of Windows & Facades - ift Rosenheim
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Hotel Kempinski - Ruchika Grover
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Forms, Fenestration & Facades - JP Agrawal
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Forms, Fenestration & Facades - Shabnam Gupta
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Hamsa Residence, Bangalore - Biome Environmental
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Even Buildings Need to Dress-Up for the Occasion - An advertorial by Wienerberger
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Issue VI | October 2014 | Page 3
Forms, Fenestration & Facade
- Prof. Krishna Rao Jaisim
New Emerging Expressions The future holds for the bold and the inventive, a whole new phase - but the discovery of a grammar, even in this scenario will be based on certain fundamental values that cannot be ignored. Initially one can have chaos, or look alike born of marketing of hi-tech approaches. (The present scenario of software companies and the structural glazing is one example). The gibberish is more likely to be prevalent than the meaningful. Like I said in that story, the convenience and speed is going to be the initial winner. Like instant interior designs, there will be instant space planning and exterior design formats. Easy to identify, cost and approve.
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lobalisation, information, revolution, accessibility and tomorrow digital Architecture are a few of the factors that have significant influence on things to be, in the not too far future. We are talking of the middle of the present Millennium. Even as we closed the last century, architecture had made very visible steps, although mired by tradition and culture. These words are taking on a new meaning. Looking at things with a perspective, which was never comprehended before, throws most known thoughts out of gear. There are no gears any more. You think of something, the reliability of it is so possible that values need to be redefined.
the new life-styles could no longer play with the age old methodology. And not knowing what to do, they either imitated it or fantasized or got lost into a look alike typological statistical approach. The best efforts were in the fantasies of the later period; the few who attempted to identify a language or a grammar were so insignificant that the tide simply swept them aside. The individual artist could no longer play for the masses, all the time at different places at the same time. Technology took over the Tape recorder replaced the artist and the artisan. It seemed to make sense.
One must realize that information is not knowledge, one tends to get away, today the computer world is filled with information, and this trend is bucketed on to the Architectural profession in terms of million choices of the same thing coloured differently. The intrinsic difference in values is not there. Surface values alone differ. This imagery cannot last long in meaningful design processes. Of course, there will always be a big market for it. But one cannot call it architecture. Architecture, as I have always believed is not for the masses. Buildings like grains of sand are not diamonds. All are not architecture. The architectural realization is challenged not just by new technologies, but a whole new life pattern and style. The solutions which will lead to answers shall take a process; time may no longer be the issue as we have understood it. Space could again become a virtual challenge to the explorer.
Suddenly, the end of the last millennium and the beginning of a new one seemed to have as if on order created a whole new scenario. The information age scattered their previous attempts. The Industrial revolution appears child play in comparison.
2030 plus - what will it see- The New Expression in the DIGITAL WORLD.
`The appropriate technology, the affordable technology and the alternate technology, which were making a social impact, suddenly, are bombed out of reckoning. The few of us who think there is a future in this, are idealistic, and in a manner of speaking nostalgic to our own values.
Krishna Rao Jaisim is a name to be reckoned with in the field of Architecture. He is an Architect, Professor, and Patron all in one. Born in 1944, Prof. Jaisim studied Architecture at the Madras School of Architecture and graduated in 1966. His thoughts, ideas, and convictions draw inspiration from the timeless novel The Fountainhead by Ayn Rand. The compelling philosophy of Rand’s writings compounded with the teachings and encouragement of Ms Sheila Tribe at the Madras School of Architecture shaped Jaisim’s inimitable approach and attitude to his calling. Other sources of inspiration from the star-studded constellation that is Architecture include Mies van der Rohe, Buckminster Fuller and Geoffrey Bawa. Ultimately, he formed his firm JAISIM-FOUNTAINHEAD in 1970.
About the author
In over four decades, Jaisim-Fountainhead has designed spaces in every area of human life. With several award-winning designs to the firm’s and Prof. Jaisim’s credit, the kaleidoscope of work includes stadia, resorts, homes, educational institutions, commercial spaces and much, much more.
Architecture, which was just beginning to discover itself after immense and long struggle, once again stumbles in the wake of new technology and processes; unknown and unheard. We had a measure (almost had) in the Classic period, with the limited elements and technology, things began to be identified according to their merits etc.; and a significant grammar was born, identified and played with. This was true with all civilizations and cultures.
Prof. Ar. Jaisim has authored and presented over 150 papers and made over 1500 presentations. He is published worldwide and recognised at a variety of national and international architectural and engineering forums.
Post-industrial period saw a destruction of the above. The new inventions and technologies together with www.frontale-india.com
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Facatecture (Façade+Architecture)
- Syed Adil Pasha
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nology and a vocabulary meaningful to users is tremen- materials. Transformation and change is part of any art. But history and the buildings connect us from past to uilding envelops have gone through tremendous dously problematic. the present and lead us to the future. There was imitachange from the past to the present. Style of buildings Façade character of one of our recently completed Sales tion in facade design, but now there is improvement and evolved with major shifts in types of buildings, usage Centre projects in Delhi NCR is governed by the need there is innovation. of materials, lifestyle, political system and administraof the building to be a magnet from far distances as well tive systems etc. Major innovation happened in building materials, software and other aids changed the way to cater to the requirements of the end user comfortably, an architect could perceive a complete built form re- keeping in mind sustainability. Therefore, the design insulting in unique, independent facades, irrespective of cludes an external skin to this building with an archithe building location. Many facades have evolved ei- tectural fabric of the building which not only cuts down ther with glass or steel, irrespective of whether it suits heat in-take but also makes it stand-out visually. the local climatic conditions or not. Modern materials and technology have always given lot of scope for experimentation. Modernization has given a right path to the building solutions, which has also been appreciated and followed by many architects and builders of the modern era. The first impression of a building is achieved through its facade, irrespective of the function or how the internal spaces are designed or conceived. Facade plays a major role in any building. Design of a facade depends on various factors, ranging from social, economical, geographical, availability of materials, technology etc., to the architect’s concepts of visualization. About the author Nostri Architects was founded in 2010 by the founding partners and internationally experienced duo Mr. Kevin Coulter, AIA (Executive Principal) and Mr. Syed Adil Pasha, COA (Principal). Our boutique project in Delhi NCR cried out aloud to make it stand out in the clutter of a busy shopping district, south extension. The aggressive, in your face deThe word facade is derived from the French language, sign philosophy helped us to achieve the same with the meaning face. A facade is quite literally, the face of a help of interesting cladding materials, which were used building. It is usually thought of as the side of a build- for the very first time in India on any façade. ing that is located along a street, and having some special architectural treatment or expression. Designing A commercial skyscraper in the heart of Noida, nevfacades is one of the most delicate problems in contem- er had issues of being noticed due to its location and porary architecture. The facade is the changing zone par height. The key was to have a timeless façade, easy to excellence within which the structural elements of tech- maintain and construct. The design included use of nology meld into refined details of art. These, togeth- double glass façade and a media mesh, in order to create er constitute architecture. The facade is also an interface a dynamic and visually appealing building. or link between two faces. It reflects the evolution of the plan for private interior side and it is considered to be Lastly! Development of new facade solutions which can an expression of the plan to the public. Very strong ten- respond to the needs of occupants of new, refurbished sions defined spatially, temporally, and architecturally and sustainable is therefore the key area of development. are generated and constantly renewed by interior and The journey continues and unimaginable facades could exterior forces. Resolving these forces architecturally be seen in near future. Invention of new materials and and artistically through building design. Modern tech- technologies, might lead us to better or worst usage of www.frontale-india.com
A graduate from Mumbai University Adil has been heading operations for Aedas India from 2008 till 2010. With over 12 years of work experience, he went on to work with world renowned architect, Hafeez Contractor in Mumbai for couple of years handling a variety of Architectural Projects. Mr. Pasha has also been a part of Spazzio Design Architecture Pvt. Ltd. for four years. Apart from other roles his key projects included Design ,Development and Execution of Vatika Towers, Gurgaon, Design and Development of S.P. Infocity Gurgaon, Design and Execution of Interiors for Dupont Corporate Office Gurgaon etc.
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Issue VI | October 2014 | Page 5
Modular Design of Windows & Facades Windows for any purpose – accomplished design of plastic, aluminium and wood windows using the modular system 1 Introduction What is modular construction? Imagine that your customer creates a window of his choice playfully, e.g. on the computer or from the catalogue using predefined assemblies and you are in a position to implement his desire promptly without incurring high development costs. This is modular construction! Modularity is nothing other than distributing a whole in parts, which are designated as modules, building elements or components and interact via defined interfaces. The various components are used to create exactly the whole entity that the customer desires! This is becoming increasingly important in today’s times, since the requirements of the products are increasing in terms of diversity and uniqueness: Windows and facades, for example, should be: • Safe, • Comfortable / cosy, • Barrier-free / easy to use by the elderly, • Energy-conserving / energy-gaining, • Sustainable, • Durable and low-maintenance, • Intelligent and self-regulating and they should have • An attractive and appealing look and feel. All this should still be possible at a price that is not much higher than that of one of the customary standard windows of today, and the quality should be such that it enables a long period of utilisation. This, of course, also includes a maintenance-friendly construction that is easy to repair and which permits the replacement of defective modules. It would be best, of course, if the product is also future-oriented. This means that the product can be made compatible with the state-of-theart technology by retrofitting and keeping an eye on the wallet, and that it can be adapted to be made contemporary and suit the taste, or that it can be supplemented with new features.
• Standardisation ▶ national, Europe- or worldwide compatibility
- ift Rosenheim
• Windows – insulating glass units – fittings (DK, PSK, swing, HS, …) – sealants – window fans – drives – shutters (roller shutters, wing shutters, ...) – window sills –…
• Doors – insulating glass units • Industry standards – fittings (locks, hinges) ▶ Exchange of modules of different manufacturers – sealants – thresholds • Manufacturer/System standards – door closing devices (upper door closer, spring clips ▶ Compatibility within the system …) – drives An aspect that needs to be considered is that any modi- – … fications or changes in the modules do not affect or have an impact on other modules. In this context, you speak • Curtain walls of local consistency of the module in case of changes or – windows modifications. – doors – insulating glass units If you pay heed to these principles, you can offer your – sealants customers a wide range of products with low develop- – shutters (half drawn curtains, sunshade blinds, …) ment costs for each individual product at reasonable – ventilation equipment production costs with the help of standardising the – building services modules modules. It goes without saying that this happens with – … short delivery lead times and a large number of variants. • Supporting structure (wall) – wall bricks (Modular Coordination in Building Construction, DIN 4172) – window openings in Northern America (standard sizes)
Fig. 2 Windows in modular design
3 Advantages of modular constructions • Diversity of variants • Costs – series production – saving of time/construction time – prefabrication in the factory • Design complexity
Standards have emerged in all these modules / assemblies. These are primarily industry standards that have been developed and established by the supplier industry. Thus, there are no issues in selecting windows or door grips or handles based on design, material or quality and to replace them with others. Hardware fittings, too, of one type of opening may be replaced relatively easily with one another. Nobody asks whether the insulating glass units of one manufacturer may be replaced with those of another to improve protection against burglar intrusion or the sound or thermal insulation. It is understood, however, that there are limits to compatibility and that not every module can be used in every combination. Another problem with the modules prevalent today is that of consistency. Often, there are impacts on other characteristics that are not desired. For example, the large weight of the glass in tripe-layer insulating glass units available today cannot be withstood by every hardware fitting.
• Recycling – The prerequisite for sustainable construction is modular construction, since only those products that are built in a modular fashion may subsequently again be separated from one another purely by type and recycled or disposed. • Quality – controlled quality from the manufacturing business (no production at site) – tested and proven modules (no prototypes) Fig. 1 Modular system (© GiZGRAPHICS, Fotolia.com)
2 Principles
4 Modules and interfaces popular in window construction
To be able to meet all these aspects, you need to create certain boundary conditions and standards. Interfaces form a core subject here. It is only if the interfaces are clearly defined that modules may be exchanged and added easily. The means and resources that are used for this purpose are well known:
However, it is not as if you have to start from scratch in window construction when you contemplate over Fig. 3 Wide range of variants with a module system for modular construction. Even at present, we are already the window of your dreams using a number of modules that are standardised in some way. The following modules may be mentioned by way of examples:
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5 Where is the need for development?
be achieved with the help of standards, industry standards or manufacturer / system standards.
Modern windows, doors and facades are being perceived increasingly as a part of the entire building shell or, in fact, replace them partially (facades). Sometimes, windows and facades are being deployed today as active building elements for controlling the room climate and need to be integrated in the building management system (BMS). Control parameters or specific interfaces are often not available. Compact technological modules that may be integrated easily in windows, doors and facades are barely available and there is no space provided to accommodate them. In most cases, retrofitting technological modules is not possible without considerable construction-related cost and effort. Standards need to be created that facilitate decentralised ventilation or heating technology, or power, telephone, TV and network interfaces to be supplemented or expanded. The sensors, too, may be integrated into the technological module so that every room may be controlled depending on its occupancy and room climate. The supporting structure (wall) too, is an interface that is not adequately defined. In the housing industry, the service life of a building is considered to be about 90 years. However, the windows and doors are replaced every 30 years. Thus, the window / door modules need to be replaced twice. The planning and construction for this purpose is still being done separately for each case. This, in fact, then leads to the desired result in most cases, however, with considerable dirt and effort for the proper connection to the building structure. This can be solved more easily and quickly with appropriate standardisation. The freely selectable combination of modules for designing the window desired is still Utopia. The separation of functions, such as, for example, thermal insulation and design has not yet been comprehended consistently.
4 Ideally, the modules offer local consistency. This means, the modules do not influence each other. 5 Advantages of modular constructions: • diversity of variants • costs • design complexity • easy recycling • quality through proven modules • Modularity opposes the continuously increasing complexity 6 Need for development • Interfaces to Building Management Systems (BMS) • Integration of interfaces in the construction elements • Space for technological modules in the construction elements • Integration of sensors in the construction elements • Ensured local consistency through the consequent separation of functions • Definition and simplification of the interface of connection to the building structure 7 Objective • Product modules which may be combined freely according to the customers‘ wishes and financial options • Simple installation and easy exchange at the end of their life cycle • Simple retro-fitting, maintenance, and servicing during the period of utilisation About the author
As a matter of fact, relatively free choices can be made in certain areas, such as the colour, but even with the selection of different materials on the room side or replaceable and scalable thermal and weather protection coatings on the exterior, most window systems start faltering. It should be possible to upgrade appropriate measures in line with the financial budget and options of the building owner.
Prof. Ulrich Sieberath is the director of ift Rosenheim and engaged in the window, facade and glass industry for 30 years. He provides his comprehensive experience and professional knowledge to a large number of technical panels and expert committees as well as in his capacity as an assessor, expert lecturer, author and faculty member both nationally and internationally
Feb 26th - 28th, 2015 Bangalore, India Bangalore International Exhibition Center
ffi@nm-india.com +91-11-4716-8828
Fig. 4 Integration of technical modules as a driving factor High- Qua lity German En g i n e e re d
6 Summary Building owners opt for unique products. In order to be able to respond promptly and in a cost-effective manner to the customers with proven product quality, construction elements of modular design are needed that can also undergo advanced development with the help of the financial options and budget of the building owners. Interfaces with defined specifications are necessary for this purpose. This may be done with the help of manufacturer’s, system, industrial or normative standards. While developing the modules, what needs to be observed and followed is that they affect one another as less as possible in order to facilitate freedom of replacing one with another. In order to integrate the modules in the building components, space must be provided for the building control system in or at windows, doors and facades. The interface of connection to the building structure (wall) should also be included in the considerations and deliberations. Useful information in brief
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Modular construction – everything but monotonous! 1 Customers desire individual products at an attractive price with proven product quality. Needless to say they should be low-maintenance and easy to repair. Ideally they are future-oriented and can be retro-fitted. 2 Modular constructions enable the individual adaption according to the customers’ requirements and financial options.
profine India Window Technology Pvt. Ltd. 501, 5th Floor, Kailash Building, 26, K. G. Marg, New Delhi - 110001, India Office Number: +91 11 42368600 E-Mail: info.india@profine-group.com www.koemmerling.co.in
KÖ M M E R L I N G – T H E P R E F E R R E D C H O I C E O F A R C H I T E C T S A N D B U I L D E R S.
3 To integrate the modules, defined interfaces are necessary. The specification can www.frontale-india.com
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Issue VI | October 2014 | Page 7
Hotel Kempinski, New Delhi - Ruchika Grover, Odyssey: Stone Architecture & Design
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or one of the most prestigious and sprawling hotels in New Delhi, Odyssey was involved in the design and execution of the installations for Water Features, Hardscape, Facade and Sculptures. HARDSCAPE AND WATER FEATURES: The scope included the design and construction of 22 water bodies and 2 swimming pools spread across the two towers of the Hotel. The material palette primarily consisted of Black Galaxy, Irish Brown, Black Granite, Dark Grey Granite, Travertine and Gwalior White. The water bodies ranged from reflective, overflow and the cascading variety and were clad with 50 mm/100 mm thick curved coping in various profiles.
FACADE: The twin towers of the hotel building are designed to be clad with a combination of Irish Brown, Bianco Marfil and Gwalior White in 30 mm thick stone. Odyssey processed the stone into specific sizes and installed 4500 SQM of stone in less than 4 months. The canopies at both entrances were clad on all sides, using the overhand technique with 30 mm thick Irish Brown Marble.
SCULPTURES: A total of 105 sculptures were supplied, which included 39 lotus fire bowls carved from solid black granite blocks (600 x 600 x 600mm, 500 x 500 x 500mm, 450 x 450 x 450mm) and polished by hand. Each fire bowl weighed between 400-750 Kg, while some fire bowls were hollowed to permit fire to pass through. The artwork also included stackable block sculptures made of a combination of Black Granite and Semi-Precious Stones including African Carnelian, Grey Agate, Red Onyx, Indian Agate and Lapiz Lazulli. These solid blocks were pre-polished from all sides and stacked on top of one another to create a monolithic structure of up to 2100 mm in height.
The swimming pools were designed with solid skeletal fish sculptures that appear to be floating on water. These were carved from solid dark grey granite and overlaid with Lapis Lazulli. The project was an opportunity to demonstrate the Odyssey expertise in innovation with stone, and was demonstrated through art installations and the landscape. About the author Ruchika Grover is the Director of Odyssey: Stone Architecture & Design, a Stone Value Addition Unit that strives to lead the way in using natural stone as an architectural and a design element. Odyssey was founded in 2006, when NATCO Exports launched it as its domestic arm, positioned to undertake Turnkey Projects of Stone Supply and Fixing, offering services such as Exterior and Interior Stone Flooring Installation, Exterior Dry Cladding and Stone Restoration Services, made-to-order products. Ruchika’s USP is stone design and she loves to reinvent traditional stonework. She set about chiseling, hammering & carving-all with a view to create something newand she is currently partnering with Architects, Designers, Contractors and Decorators for large Residential, Hospitality and Commercial projects across the world. In order to take innovation in stone design to the next level, and optimize the versatility of stone as a material, Ruchika has developed several collections of Wall Surfaces and Jaalis (Breathing Surfaces).
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Forms, Fenestration & Facade B
uildings can be defined as the end product generated while addressing the issue of human habitation. A human habitat does not merely mean the putting together of walls and roof. An essentially important role to play is that of fenestrations.
Brick jaali facade by Lauri Baker Every built form has its own unique character which is determined by its purpose, user type, surrounding climatic conditions, and many other factors. Fenestrations have a strategic role to play in any building while addressing important issues related to natural light, air ventilation and temperature control. It has a strong relevance to its surroundings and users. For example, the famous glass house designed by Ludwig Mies Van Der Rohe is designed for a specific climate type. The same certainly cannot draw its relevance to the tropical type of climate. A building being designed in Delhi has to address the climatic conditions of that place. But somewhere, we can all see that modern architecture has started to become a product of our whims. Are we not responsible while we draw another building on the canvas of the modern facade? Are we not more answerable to the users than the aspirations of the self? At the same time, there are other built forms with such functionality where fenestration is not so important. There are buildings that have been erected with purposes other than primarily human habitation. To name a few, we have the the Taj Mahal, the Matrimandir, the Sydney Opera House, etc. The Matrimandir was designed in a manner to display perfection, accommodating a meditation hall without the need for an external view. Such monuments that are created to stand out, have the liberty to innovate a form, fenestration and facade to the notions of the creator. Auditoriums, art galleries and churches can explore the possibilities of any abstract form and are free to adopt any fenestration style as they are not meant to serve human habitation in its basic nature.
Matrimandir
- JP Agrawal
But housings which sum up approximately 90% of the total building industry, must be designed to cater to the comfort of human beings. Any housing must facilitate the entry of natural glare free light, air ventilation and help maintain an ambient temperature without the need to depend on mechanical means. As humans, we wish to be connected to nature but at the same time be protected from the harsh effects of it. Fenestrations and facades need to be designed keeping in mind these important factors. We do not bat an eyelid while deciding to use high specification glass on the facade. In doing this, are we acting responsibly? Glass is itself generated using a lot of chemicals. The question that we should ask ourselves is - Can modern design innovate something Glass house by Mies Van Der Rohe that would substantially reduce the cost of mechanical ventilation? Are we consciously working on that aspect While we innovate, we have to be conscious whether it is fulfilling the purpose or not. There is no point trying even a little bit? The answer is ‘No’. to create something new just for the sake of it. Unfortunately, we cannot boast of research and development in the design and intent of built forms. Municipal bye-laws are drafted and adhered to without questioning the basis of any rule. There is immense scope for correction and improvisation in the manner we conceive today’s buildings. The entire architecture fraternity is answerable towards this. We have talked about open spaces, traffic and other things, but we have never addressed the issue of fenestration, facade and temperature control. The time has come that we evolve methods, open our eyes and learn from existing examples.
Canilevered balconies in a multistoreyed building in Milan During older times, we have seen bungalows designed with 6 feet cantilevered balconies all around. This was consciously done to create covered and semi-covered areas in and around the building by which the temperature was reduced by almost 4 degrees. By adopting similar methodologies, we can bring down the ambient temperature to 30 degrees which can eliminate the need for air-conditioning inside the building. The Sydney Opera House In the context of modern architecture, why is the functional aspect being overlooked? Are we focused enough towards trying to address the issues of natural light and air ventilation? If our buildings are not functional, they will remain limited to pieces of art.
IIM Ahmedabad by Louis Kahn
I firmly believe in and hear my thoughts and concerns echo in the words of Louis Sullivan - A structure must exhibit the three qualities of firmitas, utilitas, venustas, that is, it must be solid, useful and beautiful.
The IIM Ahmedabad designed by Louis I Kahn makes use of an apron like external skin with strong archi- About the author tectural character, whereas, the fenestrations on the internal skin have been planned as per the functional spaces. Let’s talk about designs by architects like Charles Correa and Sanjay Mohe who have made use of umbrella like structures which act as a canopy to the building, thereby making it easier to bring the temperature and lighting in control. Architect Lauri Baker’s brick jaalis are the perfect example of fenestration design suited to the hot and dry type of climate. By means of brick jaalis, he has created a different yet useful architectural character. Based on the ‘Venturi effect’, the hot air outside is substantially cooled down while passing through the jaalis into the building.
While we innovate, we have to be conscious whether it is fulfilling the purpose or not. www.frontale-india.com
Practicing as an Architect under the banner of ‘Agrawal & Agrawal’ since 1988, with establishments at Kolkata & Baroda, by now earned the recognition and a high repute as a leading architectural practice of the state.
The firm has designed the first software park of West Bengal, “INFINITY”. Other landmarks includes Forum, Techno polis, Millennium City, Infinity Benchmark, Silver Spring etc. Altogether by now completed about Three hundred projects in twelve states of the country.
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Issue VI | October 2014 | Page 9
Forms, Fenestration & Facade
- Shabnam Gupta
JAU Experimental Houses in Japan: Classics14
Form, facades and fenestration are the fundamental ele- pear extremely dynamic is the fact that the top segment ments of architecture and interior designing. is rotated ninety degree with respect to the bottom-most segment. Here the ingenuity of the form supersedes othForm for me describes the relationship between the sol- er architectural elements like the façade and fenestraids in a building like the walls, ground & ceiling that tion. The openings are regular open able windows givTurning-Torso-PERI-01 surrounds the passage which takes you to different ar- ing the façade a uniform appearance. eas and the empty space with which those solids form. About the author Forms can be used in every aspect and every detail of design. It is the most flexible design element. They all influence one another and are like a part of each other.
Shabnam Gupta completed her Interior Design Diploma (IDD) from L.S. Raheja School of Architecture in the year 1994.
It is how you make use of them to fit into your design seamlessly without hampering the needs of your clients.
Having worked under various architects and designers, including a short stint in a film production house, she started her own firm, The Orange Lane in the year 2003.
Facades: Façade is the face value of any structure. I think the façade of a structure should always reflect the interior space. A lot of things can liven up the façade depending on residential or commercial space. A very strong element is adding some amount of green on the façade. Fenestration defines both outside appearance and interior atmosphere of a building. The arrangement of widows and other openings in a structure or a space defines the area, in terms of how bright the area needs to be.
Shabnam started her first furniture retail store Peacock Life in Mumbai in 2010, and a second store in Pune in 2013. Peacock Life is already in talks to open more stores around the world.
Over the years, the purely architecture terms – ‘Forms, Fenestration and Façade’ have evolved with the innovation and transformation in materials, technology and 4torso also the requirement of the people. An interesting example of this would be the infamous ‘Thin Shell House’ built by Japanese architect Kotaro Ide in 2008. The form is inspired from the flowing lines of a conch shell and reinforced formed concrete helps achieve that elliptical form.
The design firm has worked on various projects across the country varying from residential, farm houses, corporate, bars and restaurants. Her clients range from celebrities in the movie and TV business to corporate honchos, hoteliers and business men alike. Her firm, The Orange Lane has been growing consistently with the motto Change is the only thing constant.
The house is set within a densely wooded lot in one of the Japanese prefectures. Thus, an important part of the brief was to be able to optimize the abundance of nature. This was achieved by puncturing the elliptical form to give courtyards within the house along with full height glass facades allowing for expansive views into the surrounding woods. Another architect well known for creating forms that showcase the structural intellect is the Spanish architect Santiago Caltrava. Inspired from a sculpture called the Twisting Torso, which is a white marble piece based on the form of a twisting human being, the HSB Turning Torso is a residential skyscraper in Sweden. The form emulates and reflects the twisting nature of the human spine in that position, such that it forms the supporting structure of the building. What makes the building ap- 5torso www.frontale-india.com
Page 10 | October 2014 | Issue VI
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Hamsa Residence, Bangalore
- Biome Environmental
Unit 2 Level 1, Hamsa’s Dance (practice) floor/living room- shot from the entrance. Also shows the stairs to the mezzanine. Powder room (glass wall) is seen behind the stairs
Street view - north western corner
Design Architects
Biome Environmental (P) Ltd.
Project architect
Sharath R Nayak
Design Team
Sharath Nayak, Chitra Vishwanath
Structural engineer
Ravindranath B.V
Client
Hamsa Moily
Building contractor
Narayan M.C.
Location
R.T.Nagar, Bangalore
Site area
140 sqm
Building area
172 sqm
Building height
10. 37 m
Design Phase
Feb 2007 to Dec 2007
Construction Phase Jan 2008 to Oct 2010
and execution in the case revels that of constant inno- Balcony in the front (north) facade vation. About the author busy urban context, a small site just 119 square meters, and a brief requiring multipurpose studio spacChitra Vishwanath, Managing Director es for brother and sister required that the building be tall. Since building with earth was the preferred choice Qualification: due to lack of any open space near the site to manufac- Nigerian National Diploma; ture CEBs, it was preferred to go in for rammed earth -Architecture, Centre for environmental construction method. The earth was sourced from anplanning and technology, Ahmedabad, other site where a large basement was excavated and exIndia. tra soil was available. In aesthetic sense, the rammed earth walls strike the eye at first and then the horizontal layers, shades and hue lend a repose. The palette for this Sharath Nayak, Senior Architect house is of the most basic materials used- exposed conSince 2000 crete, rammed earth, wood and glass. The house is realQualification: ly a box which includes the good views and discards the - B.Arch, Manipal Institute of Technolourban eye sores with strategic location of openings and gy, Mangalore University, India. mix match of frosted and clear glass. The double upper - 30 credits, M. Arch, Chur Institute of mezzanine is almost a revelation as one walks around Architecture, Chur, Switzerland the house. This home is different on the count of technique and material use, the context and surrounding of Staircase detail- pine wood from packaging crates used for railing the building and also the scale. The process of design
A
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Issue VI | October 2014 | Page 11
Even Buildings Need to Dress-Up for the Occasion
Atlantic Terminal, USA Some of the key features include: • A clever water run – off system avoids the accumulation of dirt • The ceramic colours remain constant and strong even when exposed to tough weather conditions and pollution • The façade is acknowledged to be particularly fire resistant • The joint profile of the façade protects against lateral shifts of the façade tiles, the penetration of rain water and impact of the wind • The Argeton Facade has created a union between natural tradition and state of the art technology. A building’s identity is to a great extent represented through its external appearance, often the architect’s creative best is represented primarily through the façade design that he or she envisioned for the building.
ceramic has a high heat buffering capacity. The effect is as if the house were sheathed in a continuous second skin. This minimizes heat loss in winter and prevents overheating during summer.
Needless to say, the building’s façade can go a long In addition, thick layers of insulating material can be way in capturing the mind space of people viewing the inserted between the load-bearing structure and the building from any direction and from any distance. ceramic facade. This facilitates meeting the strictest U-value requirements for vertical walls. In today’s world of technology and engineering advancement, the facade of buildings have found a unique place Also thanks to their mass, clay tiles have good acoustic in terms of priority when it comes to construction…the insulating properties. For example, they ensure excellent mere beauty is not the only contributing factor that a sound proofing in the event of hail. façade can make towards construction of the building, but also various other factors that can help this single Wienerberger’s Argeton Clay Facades was developed element play a crucial role in the construction or post initially as a back ventilated façade cladding in the General Specifications include: construction stage. The façade, in a way, can be seen as beginning of 1980s. The aim was to create timeless Thickness of tile: 30 & 35mm +/- 1.5mm a sort of “interface” between the inner and outer envi- modern facades with unmistakable character of clay as Max. Length: 1,500mm / Max. Height: 500mm ronment. a natural product. Argeton is available in a range of sections and profiles: Terzo - Deep groove / Lineo - Shallow groove By definition, good architecture implies an unending Danza - Bevelled / Flute - Castellated creative quest for new applications. The use of clay for Argelite - Single skin facade cladding is perfectly attuned to this philosophy. Clay facade tiles have already been used for protecting Tiles maybe laid in both a horizontal and vertical format. dormer windows, gables ends and blind facades. But The colour palette of 13 shades reflects contemporary they also offer major technical and architectural advannuances in façade design. tages as facade cladding. Sophisticated firing processes and selected clays are Facade and curtain wall systems are of paramount imkey constituents in the production of the natural fired portance when considering issues of green building and colours. Their outstanding feature is their quality and sustainable design. It becomes imperative for a building weather resistance. construction specialist to understand the importance Strassburg European Parliament Building with of improving the performance and sustainability of Argeton Façade Tiles the building envelope, and commit oneself to support Argeton Facades have created a union between natural sustainable design efforts. Today, almost 30 years later, the name Argeton stands tradition and state of the art technology. for quality, aesthetics and creativity…the success story Many proponents of high-performance, green design is based on a systematic, product development, service The Tiles have been manufactured in a roller kiln certainly believe that it is high time to move away from conceived especially for this purpose, with the extruded oriented sales and quality assurance by Wienerberger. the conventional all-glass building. From Shanghai to Argeton Facades enhances new and modern buildings façade tiles being fires in extremely high temperatures, Las Vegas, Dubai to Frankfurt, highly glazed façades and lends refurbished properties a very contemporary individually and carefully Co-ordinated on their respechave been in the vanguard of high-rise, high-design character. The façade can be comfortably used in com- tive shades. buildings for the past half-century. Some of the world’s bination with Steele, glass or wood, depending on the most prominent “green” skyscrapers are looking at building’s design and can beautifully weave itself with Its appeal when combined with steel, glass or wood, greener options to envelope their buildings. The high lies subtlety, symmetry, natural elegance and timeless the overall architectural scheme. environmental cost to ‘all that glitters’ leads to increased perfection, making this the ultimate finish for modern energy consumption. Until new glazing technologies The core element being clay, Argeton’s beauty can be buildings and refurbishments. Compelling harmony make technical solutions more affordable, many experts everlasting with minimal environmental impact and nil is even achievable in locations with sensitive planning suggest that we should collectively end our infatuation comprise on aesthetics, retaining the Architect’s original issues like being adjacent to historical structures. with heavily glazed, all-glass buildings and look for vision for generations…An innovative drainage concept more environmental friendly materials like “Clay” as resist staining; the façade plates are colour fast and will Wienerberger operates in India since 2006 and has façade options. not deteriorate even when faced with adverse weather already completed several prestigious projects with conditions. The Argeton process is internationally Argeton across the country. A correctly executed facade cladding, with clay façade acknowledged as the pioneer of dual skinned extruded For more info visit: www.wienerberger.in or tiles, is an excellent heat insulator. Thanks to its mass, e-mail us at: marketing@wienerberger.in clay technology for rainscreens. www.frontale-india.com