Introduction

Today, the intersection of scientific innovation and socio-economic progress is a global pursuit, as nations strive for holistic development, using Science and Technology as catalysts. The Gujarat Council on Science and Technology (GUJCOST) is establishing community science centres across the state, to usher in a future where science empowers communities and propels the country towards unprecedented socio-economic growth.

An ingenious integration of the built-form and landscape with the local context, along with well-defined programmatic objectives, is the USP of the design of Rajkot Regional Science Centre. The stark and imposing aesthetic of its brutalist architecture, rooted in the fundamental principles of Hindu philosophy, embodies a striking paradox that simultaneously intrigues and captivates.

Regional context incorporated in the Design Concept

Leveraging the opportunity presented by Ishwariya Lake’s natural catchment area, and the site’s character as a popular picnic spot, the Science Centre’s inclusive, accessible design promotes a sense of place. The built form emerges from the ground, and the site contours visually merge with building, taking away any element of intrusiveness.

Grounded in strong regional context, the design is inspired by the annual religious fair. Placed on a high mound within an undulating terrain, a popular local picnic spot, it evolved through six steps of concept development. The initial square block metamorphosed into a circle, symbolizing the continuum of life. At the heart of this lay a sacred central space, crafted to embody SHUNYA – the void of pure potential from which all creation emanates. This central void became the anchor, the nucleus that unified all segments of the project, each representing a unique facet of the infinite possibilities that life holds. Segmentation of the form created wedges, gracefully sloping up towards the heavens in a metaphorical embrace of infinity, an apt symbolism of ANANT, or the boundless.

The Design – Integrating Form, Function and the Landscape

The radial architectural form of the Centre aims to balance the relationship between the ground and sky, with a form where the built and the unbuilt merge seamlessly, becoming one with the surrounding. A marquee-like central plaza is crowned by a tensile fabric, creating an ethereal canopy that transforms the void into a celestial tapestry through which sunlight casts intricate patterns of light and shadow upon the ground below, like cosmic constellations mapping the journey of the universe. This vibrant public space is bound by radially projected stone masonry walls in a dial formation, creating a multifaceted pyramid-like structure, forming courts with theme-based open-air exhibits, & spaces for contemplation & dialogue. Galleries on the ground floor house interactive exhibits, while mezzanine spaces serve as workshops and science outreach areas.

Exploration of various aspects of science, such as machine engineering, robotics, life sciences, and the local ceramic industry, is facilitated. Amenities like VR Zone, Sound Park, Flight Simulator, and workshops, provide a versatile space for engaging events, within a design that fosters easy navigation. The design aims to pique visitors’ curiosity, while introducing them to the wonders of science and technology in a familiar setting, respecting the natural context of the site.

Strategies and Materials focused on Resource Efficiency and Longevity

As a public building with high anticipated footfall and a long lifespan, durable materials such as exposed concrete, stone and steel are used for the radial walls and structural elements, while the sculpturesque high-grade fabric crown over the central plaza provides a visually soft touch that counters the harder materials. Low-impact construction materials like stone, fly ash green concrete and recycled steel lower the carbon footprint. By following the existing undulations on the site, a minimum of cutting and filling has substantially reduced the environmental impact.

By incorporating open and semi open spaces within the built form, the overall building footprint on site is reduced. The region has always been water deficit, and a conscious effort has been made to preserve this precious resource. Also, the design has ensured a minimum of constructed volume, resulting in reduced generation of construction waste. Segregation of waste at site was encouraged to reuse or recycle materials, thereby avoiding waste being sent to landfills.

A deliberate emphasis on sustainability and green practices

Orienting built wall elements to allow natural light and ventilation, along with incorporating self-shaded courtyards to block excessive heat gain, reduces dependence on mechanical systems and promotes sustainability. Solar shading is employed on the East and West facades to eliminate direct solar radiation, minimizing heat gain and reducing the need for excessive cooling. Landscape and roof gardens are designed to clean, detain, and filter rainwater, helping to lower roof temperatures in warmer months. Rainwater is collected and reused for toilet flushing and irrigation of green roofs and landscape, reducing dependence on city water. Water-efficient plumbing fixtures reduce water consumption by over 5%. Courtyards, ventilated stone cladding rain-screen facade and openable windows provide insulation and fresh air for natural ventilation, reducing the need for mechanical ventilation and space cooling. Metal screens with low-emissivity glass allow visible sunlight while reflecting heat, reducing lighting and space cooling energy use. An efficient central cooling plant provides chilled water for space cooling. Daylight sensors automatically switch off lights when sufficient natural light is available. These strategies combine to create an environmentally-friendly building with reduced energy and water consumption thus contributing to the state’s net zero emission goals.