architect | Murali

An Architectural studio headquartered in Kittery, Maine, shared with us their proposal for the International Design Competition for a Marine Research Center in Bali, Indonesia. More images and architect’s description after the break.

The recent international design competition for a marine research center in bali, indonesia
gave firm solus4 an opportunity to study and architecturally interpret the structure of tsunami
waves. the competition, co-sponsored by arquitectum and universitas pelita harapan in indonesia,
sought to address the need for tsunami research and preparation in response to the devastation
caused by the 2004 indian ocean earthquake and tsunami.

the 2500 square meter marine research center would be located 150 meters off shore from the of
kuta beach. it is an imposing fluid structure that seamlessly adapts to its natural aquatic environment
and allows visitors and scientist to have a direct visual connection to the exterior. the program which
consists of research labs, bedrooms for scientist, seawater pool, aquatic garden library and an
auditorium would be distributed under and over the surface of the sea.

the solus4 design team sought to understand the wave dynamics and the resulting wave force patterns
that are generated as tsunami waves are created and radiate out from an epicenter. the wave forces,
when translated to linear patterns, inform the shapes that are integrated into the building form and result
in patterns that seem to be born of the sea. building forms are then used to respond to the programmatic
requirements of the facility for both on-board scientists and the interested visitor.

in keeping with the nature of the universal ocean, the project is intended to be wholly energy efficient.
large glass-based panels form the skin – both transparent and opaque as well as embedded PV cells.
the close in to shore location allows for tidal/current generators to serve the power requirements.
rainwater collection and seawater conversion systems take care of the domestic water requirements.
deeper source seawater is circulated through the skin for radiant cooling and temperature control of
the overall anthropomorphic shape.

the unique shapes and programmatic requirements would serve as an icon for scientific study
and tourism in this location.

solus4: marine research centre, bali

Swaminarayan Akshardham in New Delhi epitomises 10,000 years of Indian culture in all its breathtaking grandeur, beauty, wisdom and bliss. It brilliantly showcases the essence of India’s ancient architecture, traditions and timeless spiritual messages. The Akshardham experience is an enlightening journey through India’s glorious art, values and contributions for the progress, happiness and harmony of mankind.

The grand, ancient-styled Swaminarayan Akshardham complex was built in only five years through the blessings of HDH Pramukh Swami Maharaj of the Bochasanwasi Shri Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS) and the colossal devotional efforts of 11,000 artisans and BAPS volunteers. The complex was inaugurated on 6 November, 2005.

Akshardham means the eternal, divine abode of the supreme God, the abode of eternal values and virtues of Akshar as defined in the Vedas and Upanishads where divine bhakti, purity and peace forever pervades.

For the first time ever in the world witness the heritage of India in all its facets, insights and beauty at the Swaminarayan Akshardham through its mandir, exhibitions, verdant gardens and other attractions.

The genesis of Akshardham making lies in the wish expressed by Brahmaswarup Yogiji Maharaj in 1968, “A mandir be built on the banks of the Yamuna.” His wish was fulfilled through the efforts and divine blessings of his successor and present spiritual master of BAPS, HDH Pramukh Swami Maharaj.

What to see in Akshardham?

		Swaminarayan Akshardham reflects the essence and magnitude of India’s ancient architecture, traditions and timeless spirituality.
		Universal values for mankind presented through audio-animatronics and light and sound diorama presentations from the life of Bhagwan Swaminarayan.
		A giant screen film on an 85’ x 65’ screen that vividly portrays an 11-year-old child-yogi’s epic pilgrimage of India.
		A 12-minute fascinating boat-ride experience of 10,000 years of India’s glorious heritage. Learn about the discoveries and inventions of the rishi-scientists of India, see the world’s first university of Takshashila and sail through the caves of Ajanta-Ellora.
		An intriguing combination of a large stone step-well and a Vedic yagna kund with a colorful musical fountain that echoes Vedic sentiments and prayers.
		Sixty acres of lush lawns, gardens and exquisite bronze statues of India’s child gems, valorous warriors, national figures and great women personalities inspire visitors with values and national pride.