The fusion of scientific advancement and socio-economic growth is a worldwide endeavour, as nations harness Science and Technology to foster holistic development. In 1986, Gujarat laid the foundation for this pursuit by establishing the Council of Science and Technology (GUJCOST) to tackle local challenges within a global framework. Committed to alleviating underdevelopment, rural unemployment, and poverty, GUJCOST is spearheading the establishment of community science centres across the state through collaborative efforts between the public and private sectors.
Project Name: Regional Science Centre at Bhuj
Studio Name: INI Design Studio
Project Location: Bhuj, Gujarat, India
Completion Year: August 2022
Gross Built Area (m2/ ft2): 5853 m2 / 63000 ft2
Client: Gujarat Council on Science and Technology
Photo Credits: Karan Gajjar / The Space Tracing Company
Project credits
Project Mentor : Jayesh Hariyani, Adi Mistry
Project Director: Rakhi Rupani, Saumil Mevada
Sr. Project Manager : Bhargav A Bhavsar
Project Architect : Ani Agarkar
Project Director (MEPF Eng.) : Parth Joshi
Interior Designer : INI Design Studio
Landscape Consultant : INI Design Studio
Construction Company : 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 : INI Infrastructure & Engineering
The objective is to “Bring Science to People’s Doorstep,” by creating state-of-the-art facilities that not only educate and engage but also seamlessly blend modernity with cultural heritage. This initiative embodies Gujarat’s progressive stance on science education and community involvement.
Located north of the prominent Bhujiyo Dungar hillock in the Kutch region of Gujarat state, the Regional Science Centre in Bhuj city is strategically positioned. It aligns along the North-South axis, serving as a pedestrian pathway that connects with the East-West axis, where the galleries are situated. Inspired by the nearby Smriti van, a memorial commemorating the lives lost in the massive 2001 earthquake, the design philosophy ingeniously intertwines elements of science and culture.
The Bhunga houses in this arid desert region are distinguished by their cylindrical shapes, constructed with mud plastered and bamboo frames, reflecting a lifestyle deeply entrenched in local culture. Evolving to withstand the climate and boasting time-tested structural resilience, these houses are ideally suited for the earthquake-prone desert terrain, often beset by sandstorms and cyclonic winds. Functioning on the principles of the Venturi effect and Bernoulli’s theorem on pressure differentials, Bhungas facilitate natural ventilation, allowing cool breezes to circulate within while deflecting strong winds around their curved walls, thus averting destabilization. Positioned closely together on raised platforms, they create shaded pathways between them, fostering ease of movement and enhancing the communal living experience.
Echoing the essence of traditional architecture, the exhibition galleries of the Centre are envisioned as cylindrical structures. Arranged around communal areas, they facilitate seamless transitions for visitors, offering a dynamic and interconnected exploration of the exhibits. With an elliptical floor plan, each of the six galleries rises to a height of six to eight meters, casting refreshing shadows. Intermittent niches carved out of the curved walls create landscaped spaces for outdoor exhibits and step-down courtyards. The dry-stone cladding system blends harmoniously with the local environment while reducing energy consumption. Emphasizing seismic resilience, economic viability influences exhibit design, functionality, and long-term financial strategies.
The Centre’s layout strategically organizes galleries dedicated to Space, Nanotechnology, Energy, and Marine Navigation along the east-west ‘science’ axis. Administration and library/workshop facilities, along with Nobel prize/Bonsai galleries and a central plaza courtyard, are aligned with the north-south ‘cultural’ axis. Enhancing the educational experience, technological features like a 5D theatre, interactive media installations, and application pods complement the edutainment approach.
Beyond mere aesthetics, the design embodies a fusion of traditional architectural principles, climate resilience techniques, and cultural significance. It not only honours the region’s heritage but also serves as a conduit between tradition and innovation in the realm of science and technology. Rooted in the rich heritage of Kutch, it provides an immersive and interactive environment that pushes the frontiers of scientific exploration, which symbolizes Gujarat’s dedication to making science more accessible to the public in a manner that is both engaging and culturally meaningful.
