INDIAN NATIONAL WAR MUSEUM International Competition - 2016

Design Firm : HORIZON DESIGN STUDIO

Project Location         New Delhi,

Design Team

Sunil Yadav ARB (UK) ‐          Msc Advanced Architecture, PG Dip International Planning & Sustainable Development

Anil Yadav:  COA (India) ‐ Bachelor of Architecture

Graphics:   Potsangbam Anandibala, Tina Sehgal

Design Concept

The design for the museum is based on intuitive and sympathetic approach to the context and nature of Central ( Luyten's) Delhi.

The design is influenced by the Delhi’s vivid history, glorious architectural heritage and its vibrant character.  The armed forces rich past, dating  back to millennia are assimilated into design by the proposed robust  materials( Dholpur Stone and white exposed concrete)  , colossal  volume and the symmetrical design approach of the building.

The proposed design constitutes “Two replicated linear concrete blocks connected by a smaller glass box sitting on a large platform / plinth facing India Gate”. The symmetrical volumes and semi-underground volume are juxtaposed in the vernacular architecture pattern of Delhi influenced by earlier Delhi rulers Mughals, Rajput’s and partially Indo-Saracenic influence.

The symmetrical layout, the singular design approach and the incorporated architecture elements (raised plinth, domes and column) makes it an Iconic building. The  design encourages the visitors at India gate, Central Vista, Copernicus Marg and Tilak Marg to flow into building through multiple levels & entries making is truly a public building offering  a mix of indoor & outdoor spaces.

The raised Plinth / terrace allows  the visitor to walk on all four side of the building at Upper ground level and also on the top floor making the building a intelligent functional space without any rear or front in essence.

The front façade is a huge entrance which is recessed into the largest volumetric space of the building. The massive atrium features a generous common public space;

The central atrium with multiple grand stairs connect various levels,  with centralised central core and flexible  exhibits spaces on either side minimize the long linear corridors resulting in less walking time to cover the same amount of area.

The design approach takes serious consideration into existing surrounding landscape, the proposed building and the India Gate and offers continuous visitor experience and engaging / outreaching to the community in particular.

Structure

Building will be achieved by concrete column as grid and walls cast in-situ. The dome will be metallic frame cladded with stone on western side. Stairs are concrete in-situ cladded with timber.

The proposed building is “Three symmetrical boxes assembled in regimental order on a Larger box semi buried in ground –signifying  the   innovation of “simplicity, aesthetic, historical, transparency yet mysterious, - and with aim of affirming the harmony between the natural and built, history & future, Men & Machine.