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  • SAIL Center in Surat is a Sanctuary of Inner Growth and Integral Education | Studio Naqshbandi

    The SAIL Center in SuratGujarat, is a global hub dedicated to the teachings of Sri Aurobindo and The Mother, spanning over 1 hectare (2.5 acres) within the 47 hectare (120 acres) Earthspace campus. Developed by an Indian hotelier and disciple of the gurus, Earthspace includes AURO University, where integral education blends health, spirituality, science, and consciousness. The center serves as a sanctuary for introspection, contemplation, and inner growth. The Studio Naqshbandi was asked to design this project in 2010, and finally, the execution started in 2019 due to multiple changes in the location within the 120-acre campus, as well as prioritising of funding allotment by the management for the growing campus.

    Editor’s Note: “Surrounded by the goodness of exposed brick and concrete, Sail Center emerges as a reflection of inner self. Bridging the seen and the unseen, this space is where earth, air, and light converse with an enduring sense of purpose. Here, every detail speaks in a language close to the soul, offering resilience and grace.” ~ Anusha Sridhar

    SAIL Center in Surat is a Sanctuary of Inner Growth and Integral Education | Studio Naqshbandi

    sail center

    Concept 

    Using our studio’s expertise in creating natural landscapes to advantage, one of the first decisions was to convert the low-lying site to a rainwater catchment, creating a natural pond. Concurrently, it avoided an ecological disaster somewhere else to carry 60-70 truckloads of soil to the site.

    sail center

    sail center

    The 2950 sq mt Bio Pond is designed as a perennial self-maintaining water body, then overflows into this natural low-lying landscaped area to create a water body in the monsoon, attracting special birds and local water species.

    sail center

    sail center

    sail center

    Metaphorically, the water body defines the separation between the outer and inner world. The Bridge invites one to transcend this separation and enter a realm of peace and play of light and shadow.

    sail center

    sail center

    sail center

    Visitors traverse this entrance bridge and engage with the center’s carefully curated spaces, evoking exploration and inner discovery. The three courtyards within the building allow one access to nature, wind, and light throughout the center.

    sail center

    sail center

    sail center

    Key features include a Zen Garden, Sensorium Court, small meditation petal pods, and Dhyanshala, a meditative space floating above the bio-pond.

    sail center

    sail center

    sail center

    The four petal-shaped meditation chambers are inspired by the four attributes of The Mother, and the serene interiors reflect a spiritual ethos akin to Auroville’s spiritual center, Matrimandir.

    The Sensorium has several musical instruments that allow one to enter the world of sound and space. The Center thus lends itself to exploration with all five senses in a peaceful and serene ambience.

    Innovations and Constraints

    The design integrates nature’s five elements, creating sensory narratives with courtyards, bio-ponds, and a blend of exposed brick, concrete, and glass.

    Sustainable practices, including rainwater harvesting and landscaping with indigenous flora, ensure harmony with the low-lying site.

    Holding on to the original concept was a huge constraint. Over the 10 years of incubation, many changes and challenges emerged; yet, despite it all, the core vision remained intact.

    Redesigning the almost-finished structure from a half-underground to a fully above-ground form became necessary due to changes in the byelaws and the client’s constantly evolving brief. Despite these shifts, patience and ongoing negotiations helped overcome the challenges.

    Another major challenge was working from a long distance to achieve the level of detailing and finishing in architecture, interiors, and landscaping.

    Fact File

    Designed by: Studio Naqshbandi

    Project Type: Educational Architecture & Community Center Design

    Project Name: SAIL Center 

    Location: Surat, Gujarat, India

    Year Built: 2023

    Built-up Area: 30138.95 Sq.ft

    Principal Architect: Mona Doctor-Pingel

    Photograph Courtesy: Ishi Sitwala

    Team: Mona Doctor-Pingel, Ojas Vyas, Alma Anna Bakhlina, Roshita Sudhir, Mihir Desai

    Client: HP Rama – Auro University, Surat, India

    Structure: NPC Builders, Pondicherry

    Contractor: Bhoomi Constructions, Ahmedabad + M/S DH Patel, Surat

    Source: Archdaily

    Firm’s Website Link: Studio Naqshbandi

    Firm’s Instagram Link: Studio Naqshbandi

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