LaCONES (Laboratory for the Conservation of Endangered Species)

Photographs courtesy of Shirish Beri & Associates.

This unique laboratory set up is a joint venture between the Central Zoo Authority, New Delhi, Department of Biotechnology, Government of India, New Delhi, C.C.M.B., Hyderabad and the A.P. department of forestry.

Besides basic research activities, it would have cages and exercise areas for the concerned endangered species along with in vitro fertilization facilities for them.

Photographs courtesy of Shirish Beri & Associates.

The site of approximate four acres had a very beautiful cluster of large rocks and boulders along the edge of this property. Realizing the immense design potential of these wonderful rocks, I requested the clients to acquire more land on the other side of these rocks in exchange for some of our land on the south side. It was very nice of my clients to agree with me and oblige me as well as the project with the additional land.

Photographs courtesy of Shirish Beri & Associates.

In doing so, these rocks became the focal, central arrival space with beautiful stepped landscaping.

The function of this complex prompted me to think of this building as a non building. An obliterated facade that does not create a very strong visual image of a man made building.

Photographs courtesy of Shirish Beri & Associates.

This is achieved by giving maximum facade space and importance to the arrival space with the 5 to 11 m tall rocks. An organically designed structural glazing forms a backdrop to this arrival space. The reflections of the rocks, the sky and the landscaping in this glazing further contribute to the creation of a non-facade.

The rest of the building character with the broken masonry walls is such that it further enhances the organic, non conventional ambience.

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