Embassy of Finland in New Delhi Renovation | ALA Architects

Posted On February 28 2020 Total Post Views :- 1075

After a lengthy delay, the project was commissioned in 1980 and redesigned based on the original concept. The Embassy finally opened in 1986 with the large single expanse of the roof of the 1960’s design broken up into six separate lateral buildings around a central garden area. The sculptural roofs – the most significant architectural feature of the embassy compound – resemble the forms of the snowy Lake Kitkajärvi near Kuusamo, Northern Finland.

ALA Architects was commissioned in 2013 to design the renovation of this mythical masterpiece of Finnish modernism. The 2nd-phase renovation project that took just over five years to complete has brought the ingenious building complex back to its original glory. The first phase consisted of the transformation of one staff apartment building and the construction of one new gatehouse. The second phase comprised the renovations of the chancery, the ambassador’s residence, the technical center, sauna, two more residential buildings, the pool and one old gatehouse, and the construction of one new gatehouse and a gazebo with a small gym.

The aims of the project were to restore the original spirit of the design and repair the misguided maintenance efforts both indoors and outdoors, to revamp the existing reception and office facilities, and to improve the occupational well-being and living conditions of the staff members, the overall safety, as well as the energy efficiency and functionality of the buildings, also taking into account the harsh climate conditions and the air pollution in the area. The most notable changes to the original design are the transformation of one staff apartment building containing several small apartments into contemporary office facilities and a few larger apartments, and the demolition of a wall separating one of the buildings from the rest of the complex to better follow the Pietiläs’ idea about a united spatial mass. The addition of two new gatehouses outside the compound wall is the change that is the most visible from the street.

This solution was chosen to create a discreet but clearly independent architectural addition upon arrival and to not interfere with the original architecture of the compound. The original interior design is by the Finnish interior architect Antti Nurmesniemi. Nurmesniemi’s commission also included custom furniture, lighting fixtures, and large woolen area rugs, as well as the further development of Reima Pietilä’s sketches for fixed furnishings. Most of the other furniture was selected from the Finnish furniture manufacturer Artek’s catalog. The original design also includes a large ceramic indoor bas-relief and water feature titled “Spring in the North” by the Finnish ceramic artist Rut Bryk. In the renovation project, the original wardrobes and the sauna furniture were repaired and the existing original loose furniture reupholstered and treated to reflect their original design.

Photos from the 1980s were used to specify the correct colors and materials in the refurbished and new furniture, textiles, and rugs. The spaces used for representation were carefully restored including their furniture, whereas the spaces with modified uses gained a new layer of contemporary furniture. The original landscape design is by the Pietiläs’ longtime collaborator, the Finnish landscape architect Maj-Lis Rosenbröijer. As part of the renovation project, the somewhat dilapidated yard areas were thoroughly refurbished following Rosenbröijer’s original idea. Some climate-specific updates were made to the plant selection and slight safety-requirement-based improvements to the paths crossing the compound. The installation of new irrigation and stormwater management systems required some gradient changes.

Project Info:
Architects: ALA Architects
Location: New Delhi, India
Area: 4437.0 m²
Year: 2018
Photographs: Tuomas Uusheimo
Manufacturers: Artek, Grohe, Hindware, Hafele, Isku, Kohler, Legrand, Nikari, Koolmat, Robert McNeel & Associates, Adobe, Autodesk, NITCO TILES, Microsoft
Project Name: Embassy of Finland in New Delhi Renovation

Source: Arch2O

This Home Creates a Harmonious Design for Three Generations | Chaware and Associates

Our design aims to create a harmonious living space for three generations, blending modern functionality with the timeless beauty of nature. With a focus on interactive spaces and ample natural light, it seamlessly integrates the needs of each generation while fostering connectivity and a sense of belonging. Additionally, the incorporation of a landscape court for […]

This 4500 sq ft Home Stands as a Testament to Modern Design Principles | Design-Edge Studio

Nestled within the bustling cityscape of Indore, this 4500 sq ft home stands as a testament to modern architectural and minimalist design principles. Designed to harmonise with its urban surroundings while offering serene living spaces, this project embodies a seamless blend of functionality and aesthetic appeal. Emphasises simplicity and clean lines. The exterior design of […]

20 Indian Kitchen with Window Design: Practical yet Presentable

With the changing trends in home, a kitchen with window design has stayed a paramount feature of Indian kitchens for its functionality as well as aesthetic purposes. Kitchen is the heart of Indian homes. It’s the most dynamic space in any Indian household— where traditions are passed down, flavors are crafted, and many stories are […]

20 Breakfast Counter Designs: Amazing Indian Kitchen Choices

How many of you have the time to enjoy a family meal instead of an individualized quick bite? Breakfast counter designs in India exemplify societal changes, new culinary preferences, and cultural dynamics. With hectic lifestyles and changing work patterns, breakfast has shifted from a family-oriented meal to a functional individual affair. A large wooden table […]

This North Facing House is in Sync with the Vastu Purusha Mandala | Hitesh Mistry and Associates

This north facing house project in Ahmedabad, India, by Hitesh Mistry & Associates, was designed with the main prerequisite of the client, which was to follow all vastu directions. Each placement of space in the planning of the house is in sync with the plan of the Vastu purusha mandala. Editor’s Note: “Embracing the principles […]

20 Captivating Wall Color Combinations For Your Living Room

Choosing the perfect wall color combination for your living room can be a game-changer. It sets the tone, reflects your style, and makes your space feel uniquely yours. The right hues can transform a dull room into a vibrant oasis or a chaotic space into a serene retreat. Wall colors can create moods, influence emotions, […]

This Garden House Design Soaks in Natural Sunlight and Ventilation | Studio Synergy

The exterior of the garden house design was planned to allow ample natural sunlight and ventilation throughout. The design of the exterior ensures that the balconies, parking areas, and shades provide not only functional but also aesthetic benefits. Editor’s Note: “The neat, straight lines and horizontal projections of this Ankleshwar residence imbue it with a […]

The Goal of this Riverbank House is to Harmonize with their Surroundings | Studio DesignSeed

This 2 lakh sqft farmland on the edge of the Mahi river in Vadodara embodies a melodic blend of functionality and aesthetics. A couple with a keen interest in farming owns the riverbank house. The property features an extensive array of plantations, including guava, teak, castor oil, and dragon fruit. Editor’s Note: “Blending functionality with aesthetics, […]

Modern Dressing Table Designs for Bedroom: 15 Indian Style

Relating to the contemporary is fashion, and adopting that popular style is a trend. Modern dressing table designs for bedrooms seem to be a popular trend, adding glam to fashion. Did you know that some objects are gender-based? Yes, a vanity box, known as an airtight box, contains cosmetics and toiletries for women. Historically, the […]

This Vastu House Design Promotes Harmony and Balance | DHARM ARCHITECTS

The primary objective for this Vastu house design was to adhere strictly to the principles while creating a spacious and low-maintenance living environment. Thus, we designed a home that promotes harmony and balance. Thus ensuring each element contributes positively to the occupants’ well-being. Editor’s Note: “Commanding the streets of Surat, this residence captivates with its […]