Play in Geometry, 72 Screens

By Nitika Agarwal

Photography: Courtesy Sanjay Puri Architects

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A corporate headquarters in Jaipur, designed by architect Sanjay Puri brings into play an intriguing pattern of ‘72’ angular frames of Glass Reinforced Concrete (GRC) screens or perforated jalis wrapped around work spaces across five floors above ground level.

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The design reveals extensive research and implementation in the construction of GRC screens that are supported by a steel framework, evidently lending a unique aesthetic to the overall design. The architecture attempts to recognize the age-old principle of jalis that were crafted in response to screen the indoors and most importantly, filter the blazing sun in arid regions like Rajasthan. 

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The texture and composition of concrete screens reflects gorgeous patterns of light and shade along various spaces in the interior and the design clearly acknowledges the significance of natural light in everyday living and working. The experience of being within a place develops not from the physical attributes alone, but from its coherence with the sense, texture and feel of the entire space, which is immensely enhanced by natural light.

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On a small plot of 1075 sqm, the building spreads across approximately 325sqm on each level. The interiors feel reasonably spacious with transparent walls on all four sides and the service core ingeniously sits along the southern side; effectively reducing heat gain within the building. The concrete screens projected out by approximately 1-1.5m from the building line create an external space on all sides at each level for natural vegetation to flourish and further insulate the spaces inside. 

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The entire structural system including the columns inside are expressed and exposed to be a part of the space itself. Besides, they also appear to narrate the science and technique of the building’s construction.

The building rises up like a faint cuboid amongst the unassuming dense urban fabric of the city, attracting even the most casual onlookers. Undeniably, yet another striking building by Sanjay Puri,  principally similar to his Chrome hospitality design at Kolkata; this time amidst typical residences, may perhaps trigger and argue its bearing on the existing neighbourhood.