Redefining Structural Forms

By Marina Correa

Photography: Courtesy the architect

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Possessing a dynamic visual vocabulary consisting of clean straight lines, a minimalist palette and a soothing neutral backdrop, Matrubhumi Television Studio, based at Trivandrum makes for an interesting case study…

The brief was to retrofit the building that already housed the client’s printing facility with a number of requirements: an open broadcast studio, a sequestered regional studio, a large audience studio, front-and-back-end staff working areas, cafeteria, conference facilities and ancillary services.

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No doubt a tall order, Malik Architecture followed a methodological approach in executing these functions. For instance, the insufficient height for an enclosed audience studio was to be separated from the offices, but efficiently linked to services and circulation; and a large audience holding area. This was achieved by modifying the roof profile at the front of the building to accommodate the additional height requirements.

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Similarly, a retrofitted skin of corrugated metal and translucent polycarbonate was fitted onto the building, and the existing services in the front were relocated to the rear to free up valuable space for a landscaped entrance, thereby annihilating the old dilapidated look of the façade.

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Another challenge the firm faced came in the form of a tall central ground floor volume flanked by very shallow floors on either side. The solution: Stripping the tall central volume of all non-structural elements and locating the primary open studio at the far end of this space; and placing critical staff working areas in the foreground, within a hexagonal network.

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In terms of lighting, suspended light fixtures above the workstations mirroring their hexagonal profile, ceiling flushed channel lights and neon backlit monogram; in addition to lightweight translucent partitions like Danpalon and clear glass cubicles ensure a well-lit and cheery atmosphere.

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Polished kota stone, honed black granite and carpets define various flooring options, while spaces come alive through relevant graphics in corridors and waiting area – adding an element of surprise for a first-time visitor.

The project is thus a telling statement of how much can be achieved if structure and form are given their due importance.