architectureRED

AERONAUTICAL DEPARTMENT BLOCK

The brief for the project revolved around the need to create a building for the new department of Aeronautical Engineering for the University, apart from other departments. The design takes off from the conceptual vision of recreating a ‘hangar-like’ volume, which would define the buildings form and lend itself to the function it primarily houses.

A public plaza at the first floor level forms this ‘hangar’ and serves as an extension of the streetscape, linking the open spaces in front and behind the building. The plaza overlooks the aircraft hangar lab, with the aircraft becoming the focus of attention, within a double height volume with the plaza serving as a viewing gallery.

The massing is a juxtaposition of three distinct wings, with one bar projecting into the streetscape to craft a strong visual statement as well as creating an engaging connection with the rest of the campus.