Berlin-based German architects Gerkan, Marg und Partner has won international tender for undertaking Tamil Nadu's legislative assembly building in the port city of Chennai. Unlike the present office of political power - Fort St George, a 17th century building - the new assembly complex will blend classic Tamil traditions with urban aesthetics.
When bids were invited last year, about 25 architects had evinced interest. Nine were shortlisted, and of these, three submitted designs. A five-member evaluation committee, which included architects, chose the design of GMP, ahead of Chennai's Burt, Hill & CRN Rao. A GMP team is expected in the city soon to finalise the design. The planning contract has already been awarded.
The state assembly building, with gross floor area of about 160,000 sq. metres, is due to be completed by 2010, and will house all institutional functions. The geometry of the structure is derived from the traditional, round chakra (mandala) motif, consisting of circles of various sizes inscribed in 36 isosceles triangles. With its highly visible glass dome over the assembly hall, the design also echoes the features of Dravidian temple complexes.
There will be an inner courtyard with five round courts creating public, semi-public and secure areas. A spacious citizens' forum on the south side will have the largest circle in the mandala. The three other round courtyards will house assembly hall, legislative assembly chamber and convention hall.