elliptical stone-clad galleries by ini design studio compose science center in india

INI Design Studio introduces Regional Science Center in Bhuj

The Regional Science Center in Bhuj, Gujarat, conceived by INI Design Studio, integrates traditional design principles with innovative strategies to promote socio-economic development through science and technology. Drawing from the region’s vernacular architecture, the Center incorporates cultural heritage, addressing challenges such as rural access to science education. Through the use of cylindrical galleries, locally sourced materials, and interactive exhibits, the design emphasizes inclusivity and community engagement. It prioritizes seismic resilience and operational sustainability, reflecting Gujarat’s holistic approach to development, aiming to make science more accessible and inclusive, even in remote and rural areas.

The establishment of community science centers across Gujarat by the Council of Science and Technology (GUJCOST) since 1986 aligns with the global pursuit of leveraging Science and Technology for comprehensive development. GUJCOST’s commitment to addressing regional challenges, mitigating backwardness, and fostering public-private partnerships is evident in its goal to ‘Bring Science to People’s Doorstep.’ The Regional Science Center in Bhuj, strategically located near Bhujiyo Dungar, integrates science, culture, and social interface, drawing from the local context and the Smriti Van memorial.

all images by Karan Gajjar / The Space Tracing Company

Tradition Meets Innovation in INI Design Studio’s project

The design philosophy followed by INI Design Studio is rooted in the traditional Bhunga houses of the Kutch region, characterized by mud-plastered, bamboo-framed cylindrical forms. Adapted to the climate and seismic conditions of the desert region, these structures influence the Center’s architecture, promoting easy airflow, diverting winds, and creating shaded spaces for community engagement. The exhibition galleries, designed as cylindrical envelopes clustered around common spaces, offer a dynamic journey through the exhibits, inspired by the traditional architecture’s fluid transition.

Elliptical in plan, the galleries rise elegantly, casting cooling shadows, while landscaped outdoor spaces and step-down courtyards integrate with the curved niches. The dry-clad system using locally available stone harmonizes with the regional context and optimizes seismic resilience. The programmatic arrangement aligns with east-west and north-south axes, focusing on themes like Space, Nanotechnology, Energy, and Marine Navigation. Technological aids such as a 5D theater, interactive media, and application pods complement the immersive edutainment approach, contributing to the long-term operational sustainability of the Center.

the Science Center seamlessly integrates into the landscape with a vernacular aesthetic

the Center is positioned north of Bhujiyo Dungar hillock, closely associated with the Smriti Van memorial

each of the six elliptical galleries rises six to eight meters, creating cooling shadows

the dry-clad system utilizes local stone, harmonizing with the regional context and minimizing cooling loads

clustered around shared spaces, the galleries provide a dynamic interconnected journey through the exhibits

the structure is inspired by the vernacular ‘bhunga’ houses, raised on platforms and positioned closely

the step-down courtyards serve as areas for repose, play, and reflection

landscaped spaces and step-down courtyards are crafted within the curved niches between the galleries

informative graphics, interactive exhibits, and text displays contribute to the immersive edutainment experience

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the galleries’ themes are focused on Space, Nanotechnology, Energy, and Marine Navigation among others

the Center brings science closer to the people in an engaging, culturally resonant, accessible manner

a 5D theater, interactive media, and application pods complement the immersive edutainment approach

project info:

name: Regional Science Center at Bhuj
architect: INI Design Studio | @inidesignstudio

design team: Jayesh Hariyani, Rakhi Rupani, Saumil Mevada, Bhargav A Bhavsar, Ani Agarkar

interior design: INI Design Studio

landscape design: INI Design Studio

construction: Cube Construction Engineering Ltd.

structural consultant: DUCON Consultants Pvt. Ltd.

plumbing consultant: INI Infrastructure & Engineering

lighting design: INI Infrastructure & Engineering

HVAC consultant: INI Infrastructure & Engineering

exhibit design: Lemon Design

electrical consultant: INI Infrastructure & Engineering

AV / IT / acoustic design: INI Infrastructure & Engineering

location: Bhuj, Gujarat, India

area: 5853 sqm

photography: Karan Gajjar / The Space Tracing Company

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edited by: christina vergopoulou | designboom