Design Forum International

Deriving inspiration from Ikebana, Japanese art and style of flower arrangement this iconic building is the sales and marketing office with an attached sample flat for Novell Ikebana, Neemrana.

The conceptual blend of architecture + landscape, typically makes people think of a building which is located within specific surroundings. However, the design of the Experience center perfectly treats both as equally important.Since the built volume is sited on a highway, away from the concrete chaos, the location demanded an iconic building that integrates architecture and the surrounding landscape in a novel way.

DFI’s approach of bringing in order in geometry, reflects the connection between the sky, the man and the earth, in which diversity comes into play, manifesting itself in a mélange. The outcome has been this monumental building, with free-flowing curves. Taking inspiration from the disciplined art form, Ikebana, in which nature and humanity are brought together, the center is an expression of creativity and design. The building has been designed to provide the visitors an experience worth remembering. A fine integration of rhythm and form brings nature into this space and within this context, represents the preface of design philosophy adopted in the project.

Ikebana Experience Centre is developed as a curvilinear form: wrapped around, merged with and in resonance with the landscape. A form in which the outdoors gradually melt into the indoors, softened and aided by a languid pool and entry puddle. The building has a leaf shaped canopy, which is in sync with the geometry of the structure. The curvaceous roof forms are a tribute to the large tree canopies that provide shade in man-made landscapes. Transparency has been represented in terms of the glass façade and a clean steel structure that supports the building.

Sitting on a raised earth mound – 5 ft. elevated from the ground, a walkway ramps up to a welcoming reception and display area. The entrance is placed on the longer axis of this elliptical structure while seating and sales area are on the sides. The reception further leads to the display area, which showcases a model of the Novell Ikebana housing scheme.

Creatively expressing cohesiveness with nature, beauty and green spaces, enough attention has been given to landscape details.Emphasizing shape, line and form, the design process blends the softness of the nuances of nature with utilitarian goals of a functional building.