Campus Commons

Residential · Bangalore· 2019
Role: Concept Design, Site Planning, Visualization
Status: Completed – Construction Drawings Delivered
Key Focus: Recreational, Cultural, and Health Infrastructure for Campus Life

Following my role as Junior Architect on the Green Valley Laboratory Building in Shanghai, I was entrusted with independently handling the Campus Commons building at Azim Premji University — a critical node in a cluster of institutional buildings.

The Commons was envisioned as a vibrant, multifunctional hub for students, faculty, and staff. My role spanned from design development through construction documentation, leading design coordination efforts and managing consultant input

Design Strategy

Design Intent & Features

The Campus Commons brings together diverse functions including:

  • Gymnasium and fitness spaces

  • Art and club activity zones

  • A fully integrated medical clinic

  • Event and recreation areas

The architectural strategy linked north and south blocks via a linear courtyard, with a triple-height plaza serving as a dramatic upper-level gathering and performance space.

Facade Strategy

  • East & West: Exposed concrete walls engraved with large-scale murals, doubling as heat-shielding monolithic staircases

  • North & South: Angled louvers for solar control and natural ventilation

  • Entry Plaza: Stepped plaza overlooking landscaped gardens to foster informal gathering and movement

My Contributions

  • Independently led the design development and detailing under principal architect

  • Designed the courtyard integration, plaza orientation, and circulation flow

  • Delivered a full set of construction drawings and coordination packages

  • Integrated MEP and structural systems with 8 consultant teams over 6+ months

  • Designed with sensitivity to climate, comfort, and material honesty (exposed concrete, louvers)

  • Prioritized multifunctional use and flexible spatial programming aligned with institutional needs

Reflection

This project allowed me to lead a complex institutional design from concept to execution. I learned how to create spaces that feel open, inclusive, and functional while coordinating deeply with consultants. The Campus Commons taught me to think like both a designer and a systems integrator — balancing aesthetics, performance, and community needs.

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