Institute of Development Studies Kolkata

The Institute of Development Studies (IDSK) was an opportunity to showcase how an Institutional building could responsibly relate to the environment while at the same time create usable, comfortable spaces for daily use. Located in a corner plot in a high-value institutional zone near City Centre, Salt Lake city - the plot was ideally located to command very high visibility as well as ample light and ventilation. The courtyard was located at the core and served multiple purposes - a central spatial pivot for organisation of spaces, a natural light well and also a ventilation shaft that took advantage of the stack effect. The circulation core (staircase, elevators) and the service core were also located abutting the courtyard. This created a central zone of service and circulation - all leftover built up area on each floor could then be used to house the multiple activities and functions of the institute.

The building façade was detailed in two materials - plastered walls creating the backdrop for brick panel walls and screens that worked to create contrast and highlights. A large semi-circular window created a sense of dynamism and brought in light to the stairwell. A terrace café and garden was carved out in the front of the building that commanded premium natural light, ventilation and views. The project thus manifested the ethos of IDSK in the built environment - a space that is contextual to the surroundings, careful of the environment and comfortable for everyday functioning.

Location: Salt Lake City, Kolkata
Client: Institute of Development Studies, Kolkata
Year: 2010