search
  • A University Gathering Area that Scripts a Powerful and Distinct Vision | Triple O Studio

    ‘The Orb’ stands by its intellectual values and is a stated gathering area for all things extraordinary, like its purpose.

    “In the beginning was a vast open space” – undefined, nondescript and ordinary, part of a playfield of the sprawling Kumaraguru College of Technology campus, in Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, India. Matched against this priceless asset were the lofty visions of the university gathering area – to not only reiterate and redefine its four-decade identity, but to motivate its variegated student community to self-propel itself to higher level of achievements. The baffling question before it was “how?”

    Editor’s Note: Although the design of the community gathering space, “The Orb,” is simple and minimalistic, the intended impact is awe-inspiring. The circular shape itself allows efficient circulation while creating more intimacy. Its lightweight form is limitless and is open to multiple activities. One can meander through the garden, becoming a focal point for the entire university. – Gopika Pramod

    A University Gathering Area that Scripts a Powerful and Distinct Vision | Triple O Studio

    The University imposed no limits on the proposal. It’s concept was simple. It had no design brief; no space requirements; no specific site, no budget. It was ambitious yet nebulous.

    The first step in the design process was to anchor the idea to a specific, immutable location in the master plan; in a manner that its position could never be undermined; nor it’s status ever be reduced. The existence of a prevailing but imperceptible axis served as the spark.

    The idea of a vista suggested itself. An iconic flag mast, visible from far and wide, and hosting the Indian Tricolor, was to become a fulcrum around which the rest of the campus would rotate. At 115’0” in height, the mast has a valid claim to be the tallest in the region.

    The national flag by its very presence exudes an aura of positive emotions in the onlooker. It was a sanctum marked for veneration. A subdued circular structure, 60’0” in diameter, encasing the mast, was an automatic choice; a subtle, porous and unassuming structure that offered an invitation from any direction.

    One part of the University’s grand vision of redefining itself was thus conceptualized.

    The second part of the University’s vision – to stimulate its student community – was to foster interactive usage; to create a welcoming, democratic and an encumbrance-free O.A.T space under the benign shadow of the sanctum; a sort of temple of activity through self-realization.

    The two spaces fused themselves into each other and took on the mystical form of a loop. An overall duality of usage was sought to be achieved. The smaller loop, the sanctum, represents the Nation through its Tricolor while the larger one, the O.A.T, represents a healthy democracy.

    An identical visual and architectural language was adopted for the larger loop, with gentle meandering ramps more or less guiding the visitors to a low podium.

    The permanent seating arrangement is calibrated to suit a variety of needs. Designed in two ergonomic levels of varying widths, it encourages varied configurations. The bookends of the seating have been soothingly tapered landscaped bed.

    The translucent tensile fabric roof was chosen symbolically as the wings of a bird in flight. While the flooring pattern in the sanctum is truly a work of craftsmanship, in the atrium it is more illusory.

    In fact, if the vision of intellectual stimulation were to be reduced to physical terms, then this arrangement has fulfilled that dream.

    The entire project celebrates subtlety and is marked by an architectural simplicity in the usage of its colors, textures, shapes and illumination. It almost reminds one of those famous lines from Tagore’s poem: “Where the mind is without fear and the head is held high; Where knowledge is free……..”

    Fact File

    Designed by: Triple O Studio

    Project Type: Institutional Buildings

    Project Name: The Orb – Flag Pavilion

    Location: Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu

    Year Built : 2022

    Built Up Area: 24756.99 Sq.ft

    Principal Architects: Ar. Tahaer Zoyab

    Team Design Credits: Anupriya Subbian, Ar. Tahaer Zoyab, Sarojini Gandhi & Vigneswaran

    Photograph Courtesy: triple o Pixel & Binsan Oommen Baby (Bob)

    Client: Kumaraguru College Of Technology, Coimbatore

    Structural Consultant: Duvo Engineering

    Landscape Consultant: Vanavarayan Institue Of Agriculture, Pollachi

    Contractor: Sujan Consortium

    Firm’s Website Link: Triple O Studio

    Firm’s Instagram Link: Triple O Studio

    Firm’s Facebook Link: Triple O Studio

    For Similar Projects >> A Vocational Training Institute in Aurangabad while Focusing on Improved Social Responsibility

    Marble House: 25 Classic Indian Marble Design Ideas

    Marble house designs in the Indian context constantly change and upgrade with time but never go out of style. Marble a timeless and versatile material, finds its application in various settings ranging from flooring to ornamentation. If you are looking for marble house ideas to add a touch of quality and luxury to your home, […]

    Read More

    Small Bathroom Layouts: How to Maximize Space and Style

    In small bathroom layouts, every square inch counts. Without a thoughtful plan, a small space can quickly become cluttered, making it feel even more cramped. The right bathroom layout not only enhances functionality in interiors but also creates a sense of openness. Think about it—how frustrating is it to move around a bathroom where the […]

    Read More

    TV Unit Design In Bedroom: 15 Stunning Ideas For Indian Homes

    Creating a TV unit design in bedroom requires the right balance of functionality, optimization, and aesthetics to enhance the space. Apart from cots and wardrobes, TV units in a bedroom play a pivotal role in captivating an individual’s attention. Keeping in mind, the design theme and concept of your home, the TV unit design in […]

    Read More

    An Indian Retreat Nestled Amidst The Vast Paddy Fields Exudes Quiet Grace and Rustic Elegance | UNBOX

    In the serene countryside of Vaiyampatti, an Indian retreat nestled amidst the vast expanse of paddy fields stands a humbly placed farmhouse exuding quiet grace and rustic elegance. It is a perfect setting, reminiscent of William Wordsworth’s “Solitary Reaper”. Editor’s Note: “Inspired by the timeless charm of Nalukettu architecture, this Trichy residence is enveloped by […]

    Read More

    The Interior Design of this House is Designed with Close Attention to Detail | Nirman Solutions

    Nestled in the serene locale of Banswara, Rajasthan, the exquisite interior design of this 6500 sq.ft. house epitomizes elegance and functionality, which the designer and now the house owners call is “sukoon.” Designed with meticulous attention to detail, this 3 BHK home seamlessly integrates a library, a rejuvenating jacuzzi, a modern gym, and an inviting […]

    Read More

    The Ekam Retreat Breathes Nature and Life into an Abandoned House | Ark Architecture Studio

    Ekam Retreat is a renovation project amidst the scenic terrains of Amboori, Trivandrum, Kerala. The project aimed at breathing new life and nature into an abandoned house. The walls of the house had significant damage and were left to the forces of nature. Editor’s Note: “The renovation of this residence in Trivandrum is a harmonious […]

    Read More

    20 MM Marble: The Industry Standard Globally

    20 MM marble has become the industry standard used by architects, designers, and builders alike, though there are many options for what material to use. It is not an accident that it is rapidly becoming the global number one. This thickness in marble provides special advantages, with 193 of the 195 countries using only 20 […]

    Read More

    This House in Amritsar Whispers the Grandeur of Indo-British Architecture | Studios PMB

    This 5,735 square-foot house in Amritsar whispers the timeless grandeur of Indo-British architecture with a quiet yet commanding elegance. The residence and its elegant and subdued design pays homage to a regal past, offering a subtle yet impactful narrative through its carefully curated interiors. The house in Amritsar essence captures the delicate balance between heritage […]

    Read More

    This Aesthetic House Design is of an NRI Family | Prashant Parmar Architect | Shayona Consultants

    Beautiful interiors blends with the aesthetic and functional house design, creating spaces that are visually appealing and comfortable. Featuring a harmonious colour palette, thoughtful lighting, a mix of textures and materials, and personalised touches. Elegant furniture arrangement and smart storage solutions further enhance the overall design, making each room both inviting and practical. Creating a […]

    Read More

    This Baroda House Brings Together Contemporary and Ethnic | JIHAN ASSOCIATES

    In this Baroda house project, we bring together a blend of two seemingly different styles – contemporary and ethnic – to create a unique and visually stunning space bathed in understated luxury. Interior design is all about creating spaces that reflect the individuality and style of the homeowner. The client Yashwant bhai Shah came to […]

    Read More
  • Sophisticated Living Spaces Entail this Apartment Design | Studio A+D

    Modernist Aesthetic prevails in this North India residence | Studio Vasaka