This Temple of Steps is made out of Black Limestone Ziggurats in Nandyal | sP+a
sP+a, the mumbai-based firm led by sameep padora, has completed a temple for the residents of villages around the indian city of nandyal. the project comprises two shrines to balaji and varahaswamy in the form of black limestone ziggurats. meanwhile, the same material has been used for a separate structure that contains the priest’s quarters and a prasad counter for offerings. a tank, referred to as a ‘pushkarini’, surrounds the temple with a shallow body of water.
Visit : Sameep Padora & Associates ( sP+a )
as the project is located in a particularity dry region, the architects say that the ecological strategy for the project began with the importance of bringing groundwater to the site. ‘in the dry terrain of nandyal, the main concern was to provide a space which would marry the socio-cultural expectations of a temple with the ecological framework and dynamics of and around the site,’ explains sP+a. ‘the immediate context of cotton and chilli farms in the region were fed by a natural canal system which had dried up.’
therefore, water overflow from nearby limestone quarries was led to a low-lying recharge pit or ‘kund’. the design team then imagined the banks of this setting as a social space, similar to that of a traditional ‘ghat’ — a flight of steps leading down to a body of water. ‘this negotiation of land and water with steps is a significant part of india’s architectural heritage as is seen in the ghats of the ancient city of benaras (varanasi)’, the architects continue.
sP+a says that the planning of the balaji temple, also known as the ‘temple of steps’, was based on a 10th century design for the same deity in the city of tirupati, which includes the same shrines. the construction process uses locally available black limestone slabs to form the main body of the temple. meanwhile, soil and planting has been incorporated in the lower half of the structures to provide protection against heat.
Project Info:
name: balaji temple (temple of steps)client: JSWlocation: nandyal, andhra pradesh, indiaarea: 2.5 acresarchitects: sameep padora & associatesdesign team: sanjana purohit, vami sheth, aparna dhareshwar, kunal sharmamaterial: limestonephotography: edmund sumner
‘कुटीरम्’ in Sanskrit is a humble abode named after a cottage in Dandaka forest built by Lord Rama, Lakshmana, and Sita. It means “a house made of bamboo, leaves and straws.” Humble abode named after a cottage in Dandaka Forest built by Lord Rama | RSAA Studio Set in the dense old part of the […]
The majestic exterior of the house embraced the tenet of classical architecture, presenting a symmetrical facade that exuded an air of harmony. The task at hand was to create a dwelling fit for a family of four, along with their diligent support staff. The vision was to craft a residence in the classical style, drawing […]
A well-organized walk-in wardrobe design is important for maintaining an efficient and visually appealing storage space, especially in Indian homes. In India, where space is limited, a walk-in wardrobe allows for optimal space utilization and customization that allows for the proper arrangement of clothing and accessories, ensuring that every item has its designated place. A […]
As per the brief, The Community Centre is a memorial building for the client’s father, Padmaramji Kularia in Nokha, Rajasthan. The sweeping curvilinear volume rises up from the northeastern corner. The Community Centre Is A Memorial Building For The Client’s Father | Sanjay Puri Architects It further loops around the site and rises up on […]
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. The Existing Outhouse Structure Is Transformed Into An Exhibition Space | Square The vision behind developing this experience […]
Types of door handles play a pivotal role in both functionality and aesthetics, offering diverse options to complement various architectural styles and personal preferences. Understanding the plethora of choices can help in selecting the perfect door handle for any space. From traditional lever handles to modern electronic ones, the market boasts an array of designs […]
The clients expressed a desire for a house extension that seamlessly blends with a rejuvenated facade and boasts luxurious yet timeless interiors. Right from the start, their preference for a minimal and contemporary design was evident. Additionally, they emphasized the importance of redefining the utility of existing terraces in the overall project vision. The house […]
Baluster design plays a crucial role in architectural aesthetics, particularly in structures like staircases, balconies, and railings. These vertical supports not only provide structural integrity but also contribute significantly to the overall visual appeal of a building or space. Baluster design also vary widely, ranging from simple and utilitarian to intricate and ornate, reflecting different […]
Texture and Colour are powerful tools for creating a unique and functional space. They not only enhance the aesthetic appeal but also create an ambience that resonates with style and purpose. These textures and colours can be sleek and modern or rustic and inviting, allowing you to infuse your personality into the walls. They serve […]
The Design has a contemporary approach backed by a neutral material palette, bringing out the balance in the rhythm of the spaces, integrating the large garden space, that plugs into a L-shaped built-space. The residence site is a amalgamation of two 400 sq. yards plots, and thus composes to a almost square plot of 800 […]