Project was awarded SMARTEX’ 24 Climate Challenge
Established in the year 1999, Studio Clay is a design firm specializing in architecture, interior and landscape design. Here’s the recently designed Canteen Block of Arihant Publications at Meerut which is a beauty worth appreciating. An architectural miracle raises a business canteen above the ordinary. By skillfully fusing environmentally responsible and climate effective architecture with culinary spaces, it redefines peace in the middle of the busy metropolis. The project was also awarded the SMARTEX’ 24 Climate Challenge Award.
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The site planning of the project has been done thoughtfully, keeping in mind the requirements of the location. The plinth of the canteen campus, all being right angles and all the left over space on the sides, have been cut off through a free staggering wall and used for planting. The north east area of the canteen site has been all used for gardens while the built mass is all on the south west edge of the site. The spatial planning was done as per specific Vaastu principles, which included the location of the built form at the extreme south end of the site.
The site was planned as per specific Vaastu principles
Multiple feature walls were placed in a planned manner around the site to hide the existing industrial area adjoining the site. Various courts with dense plantation and free-standing walls were created to obstruct the view of the production unit and also create a conducive microclimate. Large overhangs and large lawn space were planned for the congregation (helped in creating shadows over built mass) during corporate events and festive seasons.
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Materials Used
Exposed concrete surfaces were used in a contrasting manner against bright texture paints on the walls. This allowed the evolution of a distinctive and interesting facade. The floating steps interspersed with the terraced garden created a distinctive entry. Multiple GRC panels at various levels effectively hide the view of the industrial block from the seating area. A wide range of artwork was used as an element to provide continuity from the interiors to the outside landscape areas.These artworks sourced from various artist's show client's interest in diverse cultural heritage and diversity of our country.
Climate Features
The decision to avoid extensive mechanical air conditioning inside the structure led to the main facade being oriented towards the north. This reduced the harsh sun rays entering the building, thereby reducing the heat intake substantially and maintaining a cool climate inside. Plantations added on the first-floor terrace aided in reducing the evaporation rate of the waterbody. The placement of the two water bodies have been done in a manner to effectively direct the air convection cycle, which along with the openings at the lower level (large openable glasses) and internal courts bring in cool air inside the structure.
Curated with locally available materials
Each space has been designed beautifully that reflects functionality
Everything is planned keeping in mind the existing industrial area
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Fact File
Firm Name: Studio Clay
Project Name: Canteen Block, Arihant Publications
Project Location: Delhi-Roorkee Bypass, Meerut
Lead Designer: Ar. Asit B Gupta