War Museum

Patterns in Architecture

The architecture of buildings has similar effect on our senses as the architecture of nature; we resonate at cellular and conscious levels with our environment. Just as nature has designed us all using patterns and ratios, we have designed the Museum using geometry and repetition.

Human mind associates with Patterns. They give subtle soft background for focal points, where one can experiment with bold ideas in guise of a regular meshing. The idea is to provide comforting background for absorbing sentiments of the War Museum. We propose to use geometric patterns and rhythmic repetitions in entire project, intertwining form, space and user. A strong pattern guideline will ensure spectacular results and significant user experience.

Monumental Architecture

A Museum can be an ordinary conventional building for display, but to achieve higher and intense experiences for the National War Museum, overpowering enclosures are required.The building must imbibe awe in the Visitor and inspire him to be a part of it. The Monumental Form gives intensity and expression of Power associated with the National War Museum.

Transitional Architecture

The way to the Museum is a transition space from ordinary to extra-ordinary. The activity is a calm lengthy intent consideration and contemplation with oneself. With every step one sees the Museum from a different angle, taking time to absorb its magnanimous Form. Levitated Columns signify the Souls of Fighters. Walking through the Colonnades givesthe Visitor time to confront and meditate on sacrifice, death, bravery, glory, evil, transcendence.

Water In Architecture

Buildings on their own are static and lifeless; however elements like water, greenery and sunlight infuse life into them.The effects of water upon the human system are the results of the operation of its physical properties in conjunction with the vital forces.

We propose shallow water body before the Star Complex for Reflection and Meditative ambience. There are fountains for Sound of water at entrance Ashok Stambh for transition from road to Museum building. Water features near Open-Air-Theatre and Cafeteria recharges the visitors, securesthe sense of balance and relaxes them. The idea is to reap Psychological, Aesthetical and Cooling benefits of Water.

Landscape design

The landscape is axial extension of building blocks, it follows geometrical principles of symmetry and patterning.

Axis 1 – It connects lily pond at entrance with Precinct 1, penetrating through the central dome and open Portico at backside. It then passes through open air theatre connecting all spaces. The building and landscape are symmetrically designed on both sides of axis, making it intangible centreline.

Shaded and open pathways following the Form lead to auditorium and cafeteria.

Axis 2 – It begins when the visitor moves out from Precinct 1. It goes from exit space of Precinct 1 to the inside of Precinct 2. When one stands at exit of Precinct 1, he can absorb the beauty and magnitude of Precinct 2 from distance. The water body and colonnade completes the foreground required for Precinct 2. The reflection moves as one moves along the water body, providing kinetic imagery. Hedges of white roses are proposed on both sides of colonnade to symbolise peace, it is then followed by expansive lawns.

Landscape is designed to generate desired feelings at desired spots.

Disconnection from outside is achieved by the Sound of water and beautiful white Lily flowers at Entrance.

Base feeling of protection is aroused at the feet of guarding Ashok Stambh.

Still water is there for reflection and contemplation before Precinct 1.

Pathways at sharp angles symbolise conflict, their meeting at Precincts guides the vision to the Buildings.

Zigzag pathways back to Recreational zones emphasises Architecture.

Fountains near Open Air Theatre relaxes the Visitor, providing active interactive spaces.

Conclusion

The design of the National War Museum aims at creating an outstanding Landmark to represent Past, Present and Future of the Military of India. It also represents War, a subject civilians try to ignore and forget; hence we are using comforting elements like patterns, peace gardens and contemplative spaces to integrate War and Peace. The design meets spatial, demonstrative and psychological objectives pertaining to the subject.

We derived the Form and Spaces from Military awards and decorations. Decorations are awarded for extraordinary bravery and courage, as well as distinguished service during times of war and peace. The intention is to conceive the building with faith and pride equivalent to an Army man receiving award for gallantry and service.

War is an attitude, which exists not only for the periods of fighting but also for the periods of so called ‘peace’ when the Military prepares for War. The Indian National War Museum is not a representation of war but a tribute to men and women who endured tests of war. It answers the questions about sacrifice, bravery and glory of the Indian Military.