The existing outhouse structure is transformed into an exhibition space. It is a space where one can host exhibitions, design workshops, fashion pop-up shows, and Sunday brunches. At the same time, it also serves as an office.
Editor’s Note: “This repurposed old building in Kolkata with a rectangular facade, central entrance, lush gardens and alluring arches enchants one into the vintage colonial architectural era. The fusion of tradition and modernity reflects the rich architectural legacy of Kolkata. This structure acts as an exhibition space as well as a space for design workshops, pop-up fashion shows, and many more.” ~Simran Khare
The Existing Outhouse Structure Is Transformed Into An Exhibition Space | Square
The vision behind developing this experience centre was to capture the vibe of the target demographic, comprising a sophisticated, well-travelled, and urban generation. The design reflects international standards of design, tone, and fashion in the heart of the city.
The idea was to blend the rich heritage of the past with the contemporary lifestyle of millennials. Although there is often a perceived gap between generations and preferences, Indian societies are an extension of traditions that can adapt to the present world. In terms of architecture, the theme revolves around reinventing and reusing spaces.
It is the combination of a century-old colonial building, lush greenery, and a modern minimalist vibe—a unique fusion of tradition and modernity—that always appeals to us.
The old structure comes with its challenges. It was a dilapidated structure with major concerns regarding dampness and seepage.
We aimed to retain the existing character, which meant avoiding cladding and rework the plaster finishing, cornices, and moldings.
The building requires air-conditioning. We also had to provide glazing while ensuring it did not interfere with the overall facade.
We wanted to retain the exterior flavor of the building and keep the facade, stripped the plasters, and preserved the old doors and windows.
The existing rooms become galleries, waiting lobbies, and meeting rooms and utilized the veranda for informal seating and an open café.
As modern interventions, we introduced bright Italian red marble in the lobby and a metal mesh portico at the entrance.
We selected an old, dilapidated outhouse that was on the brink of demolition. The structure was preserved, its usage was altered, and a modern flavor was added, completely transforming the appearance and atmosphere of the building and its surroundings.
It is now not only as the sales office but also for other events and activities that highlight the rich cultural and architectural legacy of Kolkata.
The renovated outhouse provides a framework for revamping many such beautiful structures that adorn the city without incurring excessive cost and effort..
Fact File
Designed by: Square
Project Type: Commercial Architecture Design
Project Name: Niavara Experience Centre
Location: Kolkata
Year Built: 2023
Built-up Area: 3229 Sq.ft
Principal Architects: Ranit Maiti & Subhrajit Gmitra
Team Design Credits: Vasudha Chandel & Tanisha Sengupta
Project Lead: Bidisha Kar
Photograph Courtesy: studio suryan//dang
Products / Materials / Vendors: TOILET FIXTURE – KOHLER / FURNITURE – GULMOHAR LANE, THE HOUSE OF THINGS, OBJECTRY / RUGS/CARPETS – JAIPUR RUG
Firm’s Website link: Square
Firm’s Instagram link: Square
Firm’s Facebook Link: Square
For Similar Projects>>079 Stories Centre for Arts | Vastu Shilpa Consultants
Layers don’t just sit here; they breathe, shift, and whisper through light. The Screen, set in the sun-drenched fabric of Solapur, Maharashtra, isn’t trying to scream luxury. It doesn’t need to. It moves quieter than that, more composed, more intentional, like a pause button carved into the chaos of the city. Spread across 4,125 sq. […]
This project is located in Ben Tre, Vietnam, and was completed in 2021. With a total area of 430m2, the project set within concrete vaults includes 3 bedrooms and one living room, each with a view of the nearby river. Concrete Vaults Form The Main Identity Of This Vietnamese Home | VTN Architects The ground […]
We conceive EMA not as a conventional architectural object, but as a living continuum of memory, ecology, and craft. Located in Malappuram, Kerala, the 1,700 sq. ft. residence, designed with thermal comfort draws from vernacular wisdom and the philosophy of the Kaavu—the sacred grove—where humans, nature, and other living beings coexist without hierarchy. Within this […]
Set within the lush landscapes of Bharanikavu in Kollam, Arcade – a single storey residence that blends tropical modern architecture with colonial and traditional elements. Designed for a businessman, his wife (a teacher) and their two daughters, this house showcases a shared interest for elegance rooted in familiarity. This Single Storey Home Sits Amidst Lush […]
Noah’s Ark is a contemporary residence designed as a calm and welcoming home with a clear planning. The client’s brief was to create a home that felt simple, warm, and timeless without becoming overly minimal or impersonal. Noah’s Ark responds by blending clear planning, honest materials, and personal elements, resulting in a house that is […]
Located in HMT Layout, Bangalore, Isha_Srinidhi Nilaya stands as a multi-generational home designed on a compact 60×40 ft (2400 sq. ft) East facing plot, with a total built-up area of 8000 sq. ft. East Facing a lush public park, the residence responds to its urban setting through a layered design that balances privacy with a […]
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 […]
Timeless architectural features, such as courtyards, are always associated with bringing the naturally public forms to the world’s heart, building the most peaceful, secluded outdoor areas. These outdoor spaces maximize the living experience with their private space feature, which gives one the option for leisurely relaxation, recreation, or gardening. Furthermore, it has also been a […]
Architecture font choices go beyond style—they shape how your work is perceived. From portfolios to presentations, the right architecture font instantly communicates clarity, precision, and personality. As architects, we design not just with space but with every detail, including typography. Selecting a strong architecture font shows your commitment to visual storytelling and design consistency. In […]
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 […]