ARCHITECTURAL THESIS

SYNOPSIS

MOHAMED ILYAS
311319251072
MEASI ACADEMY OF ARCHITECTURE
1- FILM INSTITUTE

• Category:
Hypothetical

• Typology:
Institutional

• Scale of the Project:

500 students

• Client:
State
• Area & Location:
Chennai
With a rich history of Tamil cinema and a burgeoning Indian film industry, Chennai is a major hub for film production, post-
production, and distribution. But there are very few institutes in Tamil Nadu with state-of-the art facilities and infrastructure that can
also be an cultural icon. A film school in Chennai can harness the local film industry's resources and expertise to provide students
with hands-on experience and networking opportunities.

• Justification:
Tamil Film Industry (Kollywood) is one of the largest film industries in India. Tamil Nadu has produced many legendary actors and
technicians for the Indian film industry. To fulfil the dream of the film aspirants and to create more talented professionals in the film
industry. The film schools usually provide high opportunities for the aspirants to enter in to the film industry because many
television channels and production companies hire students from film schools as interns.
Understanding the need of formal training, as one must not bear spark for the respective art which may lead them to become
upcoming artists but also a proper course work guided by an institute is crucial.
This thesis aims to explore and envision the design of a contemporary Film Institute that transcends traditional boundaries,
fostering creativity, collaboration, and innovation within the dynamic realm of filmmaking. The project seeks to address the evolving
needs of the film industry, integrating cutting-edge technology, sustainable practices, and flexible spaces to inspire the next
generation of filmmakers.
• Thrust Areas:
Spatial Design for Cinematic Learning:
Explore how spatial design can enhance the learning experience in a film institute.
Consider the layout of classrooms, screening rooms, studios, and collaborative spaces.
Technology Integration:
Investigate how the latest audio-visual and filmmaking technologies can be integrated into the architecture.
Address the infrastructure and technical requirements of a modern film institute.
Film Production Spaces:
Focus on designing functional and innovative spaces for film production, including sound stages, editing suites, and
equipment storage.
Collaborative Environments:
Examine how the physical layout of the institute can encourage collaboration among students and faculty.
Consider shared spaces, communal areas, and interaction zones.
Cinematic Experience in Architecture:
Explore how architectural elements can evoke a cinematic experience for inhabitants and visitors.
Consider the use of lighting, materials, and spatial sequencing.
Sustainable Design:
Investigate ways to incorporate sustainable and environmentally friendly design principles into the film institute.
Address energy efficiency, renewable energy sources, and green building materials.
1.Case Studies:
Live:-
1. Film & Television Institute of India, Pune – Site area - 21 acres, Built-up area – 8 acres
The Film and Television Institute of India (FTII) was set up by the Government of India in 1960, in the premises of the
erstwhile Prabhat Studios in Pune. FTII is recognized as a center for excellence in audio visual media across the world and one of
the best film institutes in India. From its original five courses, FTII has grown to offer eleven full-time courses in various disciplines
of film and television as well as a host of short term courses.
2. Whistling Woods International, Mumbai – Site area – 5.5 acres, Built-up area – 3 acres
Whistling Woods International (WWI) is India’s premier institute of Film, Communication & Creative Arts. The primary campus
of WWI is located inside Mumbai’s Film city Complex and offers programs that vary from 1 to 4 years in duration catering to all
the major specializations of the Film, Communication and Creative Arts industry.

Net:-
1. Satyajit Ray Film & Television Institute, Kerala (Site area – 39 acres, Built-up area – 11 acres)
A film and television institute located in Kolkata, West Bengal, India. The institute provides higher and professional education and
technical expertise in the art and technique of film-making and television production.
2. London Film School, England (Site area – 5 acres, Built-up area – 1.4 acres)
London Film School (LFS) is a film school in London and is situated in a converted brewery in Covent Garden, London,
neighboring Soho, a hub of the UK film industry. The London Film School is built around a conservatoire model. Filmmaking is
taught on stages and in workshops rather than in classrooms, and the courses are structured around practical work.
3. USC School Of Cinematic Arts (Site area – 12 acres, Built-up area – 4.5 acres)
The University of Southern California School of Cinematic Arts (SCA) houses seven academic divisions: Film & Television Production;
Cinema & Media Studies; John C. Hench Division of Animation + Digital Arts; John Wells Division of Writing for Screen & Television;
Interactive Media & Games; Media Arts + Practice; Peter Stark Producing Program.
Literature:-
1. University Planning and Architecture: The Search for Perfection (2015) by Jonathan Coulson, Paul Roberts, Isabelle Taylor
This book is the definitive compendium of the prestigious sphere of campus design, envisaged as a tool to help institutional leaders
and designers to engage their campus’s full potential by revealing the narratives of the world’s most successful, time-honoured and
memorable university estates.
2. Recording Studio Design (2017) by Philip Newell
This book explains the key principles of successful studio design and construction using straightforward language and contains
detailed discussions about performing rooms, recording studios, and mobile studios.
3. Theatre Buildings: A Design Guide (2010) by Taylor & Francis
The book takes the reader through the whole process of planning and designing a theatre. It gives specific guidance on sightlines,
acoustics, stage engineering, lighting, sound and video, auditorium and stage formats.

• Space Requirements:

1. ADMINISTRATION 2. ACADEMIC SPACES Classrooms, Lecture halls, Staff rooms, Studios, Dark rooms, Multi-purpose halls.
3. RECREATIONAL SPACES Cafeteria, Open-Air Theatre. 4. PREVIEW THEATRE 5. LIBRARY 6. HOSTELS

Resource Persons:
Architecture: Ar. Manikandan, The Madras Design Works
Structural: Ar.Balasubramanian, The Madras Design Works
Services: Rahul K R (Acoustic Design Consultant), Symphony 440 Design Group
2- MUSEUM OF SOUTH INDIAN
ARCHITECTURE

• Category:
Hypothetical

• Typology:
Cultural

• Scale of the Project:

5 acres

• Client:
State Government
• Area & Location:
Chennai
Most of the ancient South Indian architectural history is significant in cities like Madurai & Thanjavur, but Chennai is an ideal
location. Chennai has a long history and is dotted with historical monuments that showcase various architectural styles. Chennai
attracts tourists from around the world, and a museum of architecture could become a significant attraction, adding to the city's
tourism appeal. Chennai is well-connected by air, rail, and road, making it easily accessible for both local and international visitors.
This accessibility is crucial for the success of a museum, as it allows a broader audience to visit and engage with the exhibits.

• Justification:
The proposal for instituting a Museum of Architecture has been under discussion for a few years. GREHA, a registered society,
working in the field of architecture, environmental design, and development of human habitat, took on the responsibility of
conceiving a Museum of Architecture, which will raise public awareness of this discipline, which affects our lives in significant ways
on a daily basis.
The architectural expression of the country is so vast and diverse is difficult to imagine as being housed in one building in a singular
location. It would be more appropriate to think of a network of locations in different parts of the subcontinent, with a common
agenda of providing inspiration about architecture to diverse publics, professionals and experts, trade and industry personnel, as
well as lay persons.
The proposed Museum of South Indian Architecture will be a part of this network of museums.
• Thrust Areas:

Cultural Context and Identity:

• Explore the unique cultural and historical aspects of South Indian architecture. Consider how the design can reflect and
celebrate the identity of the region.
• Investigate the role of architecture in preserving and showcasing cultural heritage, traditions, and craftsmanship
specific to South India.
Spatial Organization:
• Develop a thoughtful spatial organization that enhances the visitor experience. Consider the flow of spaces,
connectivity between different functions, and the overall circulation within the museum.
• Explore the use of courtyards, verandas, and other traditional architectural elements in South Indian design to create
engaging and functional spaces.
Exhibition Strategies:
• Devise innovative exhibition strategies to display the rich history and diversity of South Indian architecture. Consider
interactive exhibits, multimedia installations, and dynamic display methods to engage visitors.
• Incorporate flexible exhibition spaces that can accommodate changing exhibits and temporary displays.
Sustainability and Vernacular Design:
• Integrate sustainable design principles inspired by traditional South Indian architecture. Explore natural ventilation,
passive cooling techniques, and the use of local materials to create an environmentally friendly building.
• Investigate how vernacular design elements can be incorporated into the museum's architecture, blending modern
functionality with traditional aesthetics.
• Case Studies:
Live:-
1. The Museum of Art and Photography, Bangalore (Site area - 2 acres, Built-up area – 1 acre)
The Museum of Art and Photography (MAP) is a private art museum based in Bangalore, India that is a custodian to a collection of
Indian art, textiles, photography, craft, and design objects spanning from the twelfth century to the present. MAP opened its doors
to the public on 18th February, 2023 as a private art museum. The museum is located on Kasturba Road in Bengaluru. The designs
for the 44,000 square feet museum include five galleries, an auditorium, research library, classroom, restoration lab, storage, and
sculpture garden.
2. Government Museum & Art Gallery, Chandigarh (Site area – 8 acres, Built-up area – 5 acre)
This museum has the Chandigarh Architecture museum in its site also known as the City Museum is one of the three museum
buildings of the museum complex in sector 10. The objective of this museum was to house the documents and information about
the planning and design of the city of Chandigarh. This complex depicts the architectural advancements and planning that led to
the transformation of Chandigarh.
3. National Gallery Of Modern Art, Bangalore (Site area – 4 acres, built-up area – 1.6 acres)
National Gallery of Modern Art is an art gallery in Bangalore. It was inaugurated in the year 2009. It showcases modern Indian art
and houses paintings. Equipped with an auditorium, a public art reference library, a cafeteria, and a museum shop cum facilitati on
block, the NGMA Bengaluru looks ahead to becoming a hub of art activities and a major cultural center at Bengaluru.

Net:-
1. The Bihar Museum, Patna (Site area –13 acres built-up area – 6.2 acres)
The Bihar Museum is a “campus” - an interconnected landscape of buildings and exterior spaces that maintains a modest but
dynamic profile, in harmony with existing site conditions.
2. Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts, US (Site area – 32 acres, Built-up area – 11 acres)
The Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts (AMFA) is an art museum located in MacArthur Park, Little Rock, Arkansas. The museum
features a permanent collection of art along with occasional special exhibitions. Other parts include a research library and rooms for
several art education classes. It also includes a restaurant and a gift shop.
3. Chengdu Natural History Museum, China – (Site area – 35 acres, Built-up area – 12.3 acres)
The Chengdu Natural History Museum is a preeminent institution for science and culture, welcoming visitors from around the world
with expansive exhibits, public spaces, shops, a café, a cinema, state-of-the-art educational facilities, and a verdant landscape that
invites gathering and connection.

Literature:-
1. Reshaping Museum Spaces - Architecture, Design, Exhibitions (2005) by Routledge
The books explain about what kind of types the new museum spaces are required, and highlighting a range of possibilities for
creative museum design.

• Space Requirements:
1. ADMINISTRATION 2. EXHIBITION GALLERIES 3. MIXED-REALITY HALLS 4. LIBRARY WORKSHOPS
5. SEMINAR HALLS 6. RECREATIONAL SPACES 7. AUDITORIUM 8. SERVICES

Resource Persons:
Structural: Ar. Balasubramanian, The Madras Design Works
Services: Aashiq Ilahi (MEP Engineer), SKR – Building & Contracting LLC
3- MIXED-USE SKYSCRAPER

• Category:
Hypothetical

• Typology:
Commercial

• Scale of the Project:

10 acres

• Client:
State Government
• Area & Location:
Chennai
Chennai is experiencing rapid urbanization, and the demand for integrated living and working spaces is on the rise. A mixed-use
skyscraper can efficiently utilize limited urban space and cater to the diverse needs of the growing population. A well-designed
mixed-use skyscraper can become a landmark, contributing to the city's visual identity and attracting attention from residents a nd
visitors alike.

• Justification:
High-rise buildings have the ability to reduce urban sprawl. Many metropolitan cities like in India are experiencing immense
demographic expansion due to a rise in population and migration. Given the limited availability of land in urban areas, high-density
developments like mixed-use skyscrapers become increasingly relevant. They optimize land use efficiently, providing a vertical
solution for residential, commercial, and recreational purposes.
The Tamil Nadu government has plans to construct a commercial complex on a par with international standards on the 25.16 acre
of land in Pattinapakkam, Housing and Urban Development Minister S. Muthusamy told the Assembly on Wednesday.
• Thrust Areas:
• Sustainable Design:
• Investigate and implement sustainable design principles in the overall architecture of the skyscraper.
• Explore passive design strategies to enhance energy efficiency, such as natural ventilation, daylight harvesting, and
shading devices.
• Green Rating:
• To design a skyscraper on achieving high green building certifications, such as LEED, BREEAM, or Green Star, and
analyze the implications of incorporating these criteria into the design.
• Researching and implementing the use renewable energy sources like solar energy, geothermal energy.
• Kinetic Facade Technology:
• Research and integrate cutting-edge kinetic facade technologies that respond to environmental conditions, user
preferences, or energy needs.
• Consider the role of kinetic facades in optimizing daylighting, reducing solar heat gain, and enhancing visual aesthetics.
• Material Innovation:
• Investigate and implement sustainable and innovative materials in the construction of the skyscraper.
• Explore the life cycle analysis of materials to ensure a low environmental impact.

• Case Studies:
Live:-
1. World Trade center, Chennai (15 acres, Built-up area: 42 acres)
The Brigade World Trade Center, Chennai is a 28-storeyed commercial and residential center
in Chennai, India. Located at Perungudi, it was made operational in March 2020. The center consists of 170,000 square meters
(1,800,000 sq ft) of office space. The complex also includes a conference/exhibition center. The towers are IGBC LEED Platinum and
USGBC LEED Gold certified. The center is a member of the World Trade Center's Association (WTCA).
2. Kohinoor Square, Mumbai (Site area - 25 acres, Built-up area – 56 acres)
Kohinoor Square is situated in Dadar, a well-established and central location in Mumbai. Kohinoor Square is a 49-storeyed mixed-
use development that includes office spaces, commercial establishments, and other facilities. Displaying an unceasing
commitment to sustainability, Kohinoor Square has secured a Gold LEED rating and is 20% more energy efficient than most
conventional structures.

Net:-
1. Burj Khalifa, Dubai (Site area – 25.7 acres, Built-up area – 76 acres)
The Burj Khalifa[a] (known as the Burj Dubai prior to its inauguration) is a skyscraper in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. It is the world's
tallest building. With a total height of 829.8 m. Burj Khalifa was designed to be the centerpiece of a large-scale, mixed-use
development.
2. One Horizon Center, Gurgaon (Site area – 11 acres, Built-up area – 20.2 acres)
DLF Horizon Center at Golf Course Road, Sector 43, Gurgaon, India, is a 25 storied high-rise commercial building. Designed by
renowned architect Robert A.M. Stern Architects. The building is LEED Platinum rated for its eco-friendly design.

Literature:-
1. Skyscrapers: Structure and Design (2005) By Matthew Wells
This book looks at contemporary examples, from the perspective of both their architecture and their engineering. The author
explains the structural principles behind the creation of tall buildings and how they are designed to withstand earthquakes, high
winds, fire and terrorist attack.

• Space Requirements:
1. RETAIL SPACES 2. OFFICE SPACES 3. HOTEL ROOMS 4. RECREATIONAL SPACES 5. AMENITIES 6. SERVICES

Resource Persons:
Structural – Ar. Balasubramanian, The Madras Design Works
Services - Aashiq Ilahi (MEP Engineer), SKR – Building & Contracting LLC