Global Design Studio of Shilpa Architects

 

On this auspicious and festive week of Diwali, SHILPA ARCHITECTS PLANNERS DESIGNERS is proud to unveil its new iconic premises at Dr. VSI Estate, Chennai. The Global Design Studio of Shilpa Architects Planners Designers was awarded the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Platinum rating for New Construction by the Indian Green Building Council (IGBC). The award was formally presented at the Green Building Congress at Chennai Trade Center on 24 October 2013. The LEED Platinum certification is an endorsement of SHILPA’s design philosophies, and corporate responsibility goals. The eco-friendly office space includes benefits such as lower operating costs and a reduced carbon footprint.

As one of the first Platinum Rated Design Studios in Asia, Shilpa Architects designed its headquarters as a next generation workplace, bringing to life the organization’s commitment to reducing power consumption, open and collaborative work settings, natural lighting and geothermal air-conditioning. “Innovation and sustainability are at the core of Shilpa Architects’ culture and what our clients and people expect,” said Pavitra Sri Prakash, Design Director and Chief Planner at Shilpa Architects. “I am proud of all that we have achieved to make the studio a collaborative and modern work environment, as it stands to symbolize our approach to sustainable design-thinking around the globe.”

The building is split into multiple levels of studio space and a level each for client/vendor interaction and a Gallery. Conference rooms and open spaces are designed for initiatives to educate students, the general community and promote art. The staggering of floors gives the office spatial and visual connectivity. Vertical ducts rise in the “green shafts” through which the conditioned air is circulated into the work and interaction spaces. The building is a single volute with the staggered levels directing the circulating air through the entire building, till it is mechanically vented out at the top of the staircase headroom. The efficiency of the Air Conditioning System is enhanced by the heat recovery wheel. Carbon-di-oxide build up is minimized because most of the air is exhausted back to the ambient. Radiant slab and Geo thermal cooling are incorporated in the HVAC System design to reduce power and water consumption. Solar power generation and use of RO treated ground water for Air Conditioning are special features of the building’s engineering.

“A green building is one which uses less water, optimizes energy efficiency, conserves natural resources, generates less waste and provides healthier spaces for occupants, as compared to a conventional building.” IGBC Website

The Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Green Building Rating System is a nationally and internationally accepted benchmark for the design, construction and operation of high performance green buildings.
Wishing everyone a festive and holistically sustainable Diwali!