The Science Museum in Rajkot integrates technology into the fabric of societal development resonates universally. The intersection of scientific innovation and socio-economic progress is a global pursuit, and as nations strive for holistic development, using science and technology as catalysts for change becomes a shared ambition.
Editor’s Note: “This radially designed Science Museum in Rajkot seamlessly integrates technology into the societal fabric, embodying the continuum of life inspired by local cultures. The museum’s form reflects this ongoing journey, while the central void, with its expansive area, creates a captivating play of light and shadow throughout the day. This museum is not just a celebration of technology but also a vibrant public space, inviting and engaging visitors in a dynamic environment.” ~Simran Khare
Science Museum in Rajkot Integrates Technology Into The Societal Fabric | INI Design Studio
To this end, the Gujarat Council on Science and Technology (GUJCOST) was set up in 1986, in the progressive Indian state with a commitment to addressing regional challenges that align with the broader international narrative emphasizing the universal importance of scientific attitudes and awareness as a catalyst for socio-economic advancements.
With a focus on addressing backwardness, rural unemployment, and poverty and emphasizing the importance of cultivating scientific attitudes in daily life, GUJCOST is establishing regional science centre and museum across Gujarat through public-private partnerships, underscoring the state’s dedication to leveraging knowledge and innovation for positive societal change and ushering in a future where science empowers communities and propels the country towards unprecedented socio-economic growth.
Designed by INI Design Studio, the Regional Science Centre in Rajkot, one of the major cities & an industrial hub of Gujarat, is a unique addition to the cityscape. Thus blending architectural ingenuity with regional influences and a clear programmatic vision.
Inspired by the local cultural tapestry, the design draws parallels to an annual religious fair. Thus it is situated on an elevated mound within a picturesque picnic spot.
Moreover, evolving through multiple design stages, the center’s form symbolizes the continuum of life, with a sacred central space representing the void of pure potential from which all creation emanates.
Segmentation of the structure creates a metaphorical embrace of infinity, reflecting boundless possibilities.
The central plaza, akin to a marquee, serves as a vibrant public space hosting events and cafes, accessible through buffer passages.
Moreover, the tensile canopy ethereally transforms the void into a celestial tapestry through which sunlight casts intricate patterns of light and shadow upon the ground, like cosmic constellations mapping the journey of the universe.
Radially projected walls in a dial formation create a pyramid-like structure, forming courts with theme-based open-air exhibits.
Additionally, offering interactive exhibits, workshops, and demonstrations, the Centre invites families, schools, and groups to embrace the wonders of science in an enjoyable and accessible way, enriching the cultural and educational fabric of the city and its surroundings.
Galleries on the ground floor house interactive exhibits, providing a platform for exploration of various scientific aspects.
Moving further, the mezzanine spaces overlooking the galleries serve as workshops and science outreach areas.
Exploration of various aspects of science, such as machine engineering, robotics, life sciences, and the local ceramic industry, is facilitated.
Amenities like VR Zone, Sound Park, Flight Simulator, and workshops, provide a versatile space for engaging events.
Moreover, the design fosters easy navigation with open-air spaces for exploration, contemplation, discussion, and relaxation.
Thus, to overcome the challenges posed by the local terrain, the design minimizes excavation and blasting.
However, sustainable strategies include vertical fins, tensile canopies, and cross ventilation to address the hot climate of Rajkot.
Passive and active interventions enhance energy efficiency, with rainwater harvesting and recycled materials minimizing environmental impact, in line with the region’s ethos.
Fact File
Designed by: INI Design Studio
Project Type: Science Centre
Project Name: Regional Science Centre at Rajkot
Year Built: June 2022
Location: Rajkot, Gujarat, India
Built Area: 85000 Sq.ft
Principal Architect: Rakhi Rupani
Photograph Courtesy: The Space Tracing Company
Project Mentor: Jayesh Hariyani & Adi Mistri
Project Architect: Bhargav A Bhavsar
Sr. Designer: Dharmesh Gangani
Project Director: Parth Joshi
Consultants for the Project: Interior Designer: INI Design Studio / Landscape Consultant: INI Design Studio / Construction Company: Cube Construction Engineering Ltd. / Structural Consultant: DUCON Consultants Pvt. Ltd. / Plumbing Consultant: INI Infrastructure & Engineering / Lighting Design: INI Infrastructure & Engineering / HVAC Consultant: INI Infrastructure & Engineering / Exhibit Design: Lemon Design / Electrical Consultant: INI Infrastructure & Engineering / AV / IT / Acoustic: INI Infrastructure & Engineering
Firm’s Website Link: INI Design Studio
Firm’s Instagram Link: INI Design Studio
Firm’s Facebook Link: INI Design Studio
For Similar Project >>> Goal of The Regional Science Center is to Bring Science to People’s Doorstep
“Viraam,” a 4000 sq ft house design that embodies its literal translation: “a pause.” The vision is to create a sanctuary for relaxation, introspection, and to escape from the constant demands of daily life – an urban void for personal retreat. Editor’s Note: “Viraam is not just a house, it’s a pause. A place to […]
The facade of this Indian contemporary house design strikes a careful balance between solids and voids, with sculpted forms that reveal the inner workings of the space. The design plays with light and shadow, creating visual depth and intrigue from the exterior. The form resembles a cuboid that has been scooped out, while the outer […]
This 5 storey building takes inspiration from ancient haveli architecture. “Hailing from north India, the family held deep nostalgia for haveli, large residences with communal courtyards called chowks, projecting balconies called jharokhas and intricate brick or stone lattice screens called jaalis, vernacular to many western and northern regions of India,” said SJK Architects partner Vaishali […]
Set in the serene landscape of Nashik, the Dabholkar Residence by GDA is a home, embracing stone clad walls. Here, tradition and contemporary design exist in harmony. Designed to reflect the family’s deep connection to tradition and art while embracing the style of contemporary living, it is a space where architectural details, heritage furniture, artwork […]
This remodelling project aimed to revitalise a load-bearing house while respecting its original integrity and adapting it to contemporary needs. The design approach prioritised minimal structural intervention, allowing the existing framework to guide spatial reconfiguration. Careful consideration was given to preserving the load-bearing walls, which formed the backbone of the original construction. Openings were strategically […]
Redefining Indian temple architecture, the relocation of the existing shrine due to a new residential project presented an opportunity to design a space that seamlessly integrates tradition with contemporary needs. The given 400 sq. ft. site was envisioned not merely as a shrine to Lord Datta, a local deity, but as a vibrant community space, […]
Nestled within a 30×40 ft plot is the compact house design in Banashankari 6th Stage, Bengaluru. This residence for the Ellappans, reimagines traditional Indian living in a contemporary, spatially dynamic form. Designed for a family of three- Mr. Ellappan, his wife, and their teenage son- the house expresses a deep connection to vernacular roots while […]
This multi generational home is a testament to the ability of the design practice to blend aesthetic appeal with practical functionality. Keeping environmental sustainability and the welfare of the community at the forefront, Bhowal designed a home that was truly ahead of its time. His visionary approach and the Design Consortium’s expertise in providing a […]
The Indian farmhouse accommodation goes on to capitalize on a mature evolutionary synthesis of ancestral aesthetics and contemporary features. With this, the outside and the inside of farmhouses became places of comfort with nature. In this blog, we delve into 15 incredible farmhouse designs that entail a harmonious blending. While they exhibit different spaces in […]
Pillar design is a cornerstone of architectural elegance, seamlessly blending structural support with aesthetic appeal. Our blog, “50 Best Pillar Design Inspirations,” celebrates this essential element, showcasing a variety of styles from classical Doric and Ionic to contemporary and avant-garde innovations. Whether you’re an architect, interior designer, or a design enthusiast, these pillar design inspirations […]