The architecture of an urban Indian bazaar works on the scheme of a mélange. It appears to serve as the unifying theme for these programmes. Thereby introducing a kind of ride-through space and experiences that are controlled and enhanced through architectural forms and materiality.
Editor’s Note: “With an organic design language and contemporary interpretation of traditional architectural elements, Awadh Shilpgram offers an array of craft shops. Taking inspiration from the bazaars of Lucknow the design takes one on a journey of unforgettable experience. The intricate jali work, chikan kari inspired motifs and the grand arches evoke a sense of grandiosity.” ~Simran Khare
This Community Centre Emulates The Vibrancy Of The Indian Bazaar | Studio Archohm
The visual mélange produces an architectural scenario for the activity of leisure and pleasure, an indulgence in shopping, as well as the feeling of partaking in actions related to craft and culture. It creates an urban scope that inserts itself within a different reality, like in an amusement park, a bubble of reality within the everyday reality of the city outside.
During the design process, the layout of the twenty-acre Awadh Shilpgram evolved organically from the commercial, cultural, social, and leisurely interactions of people.
An elliptical form enables smooth corner-free circulation; it narrows down while spiralling inward and emulates the density and vibrancy of the Indian Bazaar of Lucknow of the yesteryear; the bazaars with the streets that got progressively narrower.
The built environment is an interpretative collage, a gesture saluting the unique traditional architecture of the Roomi Darwaza and the Imambaras.
Adequate daylighting and proper air circulation through cross ventilation further add to the comfort of the comfort of the design. A contemporary interpretation of traditional elements of arches and jaalis has realised its articulation.
Avadh Shilpgram offers nearly two-hundred craft shops, some of which are air conditioned. It also features craft courts, a dormitory hostel, an auditorium, and a food court with stalls serving cuisine from different states. Thus catering generously to visitors and artisans.
The arch, being an important element of the architecture of the city of Lucknow, is introduced as a skin to the inner faces of the buildings. It undergoes a contemporary-style’make-over’ while still allowing continuous access beneath it.
The architects arrange an independent structure to appear integrated. Each arch allows entry into the corridor at the ground-floor level.
The zigzag form of jaali arches is derived by modifying the basic lines of traditional Mughal arches, from which one can pass through the corridors. The double-height nature lets one experience the grand feeling of arches, like in the Buland Darwaza at Agra.
The steel structure is clad with red agra sand stone in a Jaali pattern, with motifs inspired by the renowned Lucknowi embroidery craft called ‘Chikan kari’.
The unique concept, along with the form, scale, materials, and elements that render the architecture, give an iconic building to the city of Nawabs and the people of Lucknow.
Fact File
Designed by: Studio Archohm
Project Type: Commercial Building
Project Name: Awadh Shilpgram
Location: Lucknow
Year Built: 2016
Project Size: 320592 Sq.ft
Principal Architect: Ar. Sourabh Gupta
Team Design Credits: Suboor Ahmad, Jeevan Das & Dhanbeer Rawat
Photograph Courtesy: Andre J Fanthome
Consultants for the Project: Architect In Charge: Sourabh Gupta / Structural: Lkt Engineering Consultants Ltd. / Civil: Avas Evam Vikas Parishad / Landscape: Bios Ecology And Art Landscape Architecture Plumbing: Techno Engineering Consultants / PMC: Avas Evam Vikas Parishad / Client: Avas Evam Vikas Parishad Project Management Consultancy: Avas Evam Vikas Parishad
The Firm’s Website Link: Studio Archohm
Firm’s Instagram Link: Studio Archohm
Firm’s Facebook Link: Studio Archohm
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