ARBORATUM

Botanical research centre

Academic | Architectural Design | Summer 2019

Situated at the core of Kochi which is surrounded by the ocean on all sides, the site has very rich soil allowing plants to be nourished and ensure their wellbeing, making it perfect for establishing a botanical research center. It is not an alien concept of growing different species of plants for the residents of Kochi - farming comes naturally to them as it is one of their primary sources of income including fishing and tourism.

K O C H I
I N D I A
9°55'52.4388"N 76°16'2.2908"E

Before starting the design process, in-depth research was done for the needs of the people living in Kochi. Taking into account the richness of the site, it was very essential to design something that would add value to the promising land. Carving a part of the land for plantation area, which would evolve to become a forest, would provide for a better environment and ensuring a balance of grey and greens. The green house in the center helps the plants that need to be grown in special conditions and taken special care of. The green house is designed as a dome structure allowing for greater heat trapping effect giving the plants an optimum condition to grow in. The pond provided in front of the hostel and the guest house helps cool down the air that enters the built structure and eventually bringing down the temperature hence eliminating the need for external cooling systems.

Master/Roof plan
Second floor plan
1.Library
12.Classroom
13.lab
14.Students room
15.Seating/Exhibition space
First floor plan
1. Auditorium
2. Cafeteria
3. Kitchen
4. Exhibition
5. Admin office
6. Waiting room
7. Conference room
8. Guest rooms
9.Indoor play area
10.Greenhouse
Master/Roof plan
Master/Roof plan
Section