RSC Kottayam

Location

The proposed Regional Science Centre is situated in Kottayam, Kerala. The site encompasses a diverse range of environmental and climatic characteristics that influence its design and functionality.

Elevation

The site is positioned at an elevation of 3 meters above sea level. The contour elevation of the site varies significantly, ranging between 20 meters at the highest point and 0 meters at the lowest point.

Climate

Temperature

The average temperature in the region ranges from 20°C to 35°C.

Rainfall

The area experiences substantial rainfall, averaging 3200 mm annually.

Monsoon

The predominant monsoon season is the South West monsoon.

Macro Climate

The macro climate of the site is influenced by sea breezes from the Arabian Sea, which is approximately 25 km away from the site.

Micro Climate

The micro climate is further modified by the surrounding deciduous vegetation.

Soil Type

The soil type of the site is classified as alluvial, which is significant for determining foundation requirements and landscaping.

Vegetation

The area is characterized by tropical evergreen and deciduous vegetation, contributing to the site's natural landscape and environmental conditions.

Seismic Zone

The site is located in Seismic Zone 3, indicating a moderate level of seismic activity. This factor is crucial for the structural design and safety measures of the construction.

Accessibility

The site benefits from its proximity to the state highway, ensuring easy access by public transport. This location enhances connectivity and convenience for visitors.

Inspiration

The design of the Regional Science Centre draws significant inspiration from the traditional Kerala houseboat, known as "Kettuvalloms". This traditional vessel has evolved over time to address the specific climatic, aesthetic, and functional needs of the region. Its design principles have been adapted and integrated into the architecture of the Science Centre.

Form and Silhouette

The Science Centre features a distinctive silhouette that contrasts with the traditional sloping roofs commonly found in the region. Instead, the building incorporates vaulted roofs, echoing the traditional roof form of Kerala houseboats. This design choice creates a unique visual identity while maintaining a sense of connection to local architectural heritage.

Building Placement

Following an age-old tradition, the Science Centre is situated on the highest point of the site. This strategic placement is intended to highlight the grandeur and significance of the building. The elevated position also ensures that the Centre stands out as a prominent public facility in the landscape.

Main Entrance

The main entrance to the Regional Science Centre is situated on the North East side of the site. This placement ensures that visitors are greeted by a prominent and accessible entry point as they approach the Centre.

Public Parking

Public parking facilities have been proposed at the lowest level of the site, conveniently located adjacent to the main entrance. This arrangement provides easy access for visitors arriving by car.

Access Roads

The site is designed with two primary access roads:

Primary Road:

This road leads to the main entrance of the Science Centre and meanders through the science park, enhancing the visitor experience with a scenic approach.

Secondary Road:

This road provides access to a subsidiary entrance located at the South, serving the Auditorium and Activity Centre.

Science Park

The Science Park is integrated between the approach roads, aligning with the sloping contours of the site. This integration allows for a seamless transition from the access roads to the various features of the Science Centre.

Service Areas

The service areas, including loading and unloading zones for exhibit development and temporary exhibitions, are positioned at the rear side of the building. This layout ensures that service activities are efficiently managed without disrupting visitor experiences.

Overhead Tank

An overhead tank has been incorporated into the master plan to meet the water storage requirements of the area. This addition supports the building's operational needs and infrastructure.

Future Expansion

A large designated area has been allocated for future expansion of the Science Centre. This forward-thinking approach ensures that there is ample space for potential growth and additional facilities as the Centre evolves.

Main Building Zones

The functional layout of the Regional Science Centre is organized into distinct zones, each serving a specific purpose:

Main Exhibition Area:

This area comprises two exhibition halls on the ground floor and one on the first floor. These halls are designed to accommodate various interactive exhibits and are complemented by large decks for outdoor displays.

Visitors’ Activity Area:

This zone includes the children’s activity centre, adult training centre, and library. These facilities are connected through high and spacious atriums, facilitating easy access and movement between them.

Exhibit Development Laboratory and Office:

This area supports the creation and management of exhibits, equipped with necessary facilities for development and administrative tasks.

Outdoor Science Park:

Integrated into the site layout, this park provides an interactive environment for outdoor scientific activities and exhibits.

Building Structure

The Science Centre is designed with a focus on efficient circulation and spatial organization:

Public Spaces:

Located to the north of the building to maximize natural light and provide an inviting environment for visitors.

Circulation:

The building features a single circulation spine that connects the two entrance lobbies. This design includes high and spacious atriums that facilitate movement and access throughout the Centre.

Service Core:

The service core, containing staircases, lifts, and toilets, is strategically placed around both atriums to ensure easy access and functionality.

Exhibit Development Area

This area is serviced through a dedicated service deck located at the rear of the building. It includes loading and unloading zones to manage the logistics of exhibit development and temporary exhibitions effectively.

Access Points

The building’s entry and exit points are integrated through the outdoor science park. This design element enhances the overall visitor experience by providing a continuous and engaging transition between indoor and outdoor spaces.

Pedestrian Movement

Pedestrian movement begins from the public parking area, which is situated at the lowest level of the site. Visitors follow a designated path towards the Science Centre, allowing them to experience the site’s various features sequentially as they approach the building.

Access Roads

The site includes two primary access roads, each serving different functions:

Primary Road:

This road leads directly to the main entrance of the Science Centre. It meanders through the science park, enhancing the visitor experience with a scenic and engaging approach.

Secondary Road:

This road provides access to a subsidiary entrance located at the South of the site. It serves the Auditorium and Activity Centre, facilitating separate and efficient access to these areas.

Building Circulation

The Science Centre’s circulation system is designed to streamline visitor movement and optimize access to various functions:

Ground Floor:

Features connections to the Auditorium, 3D hall, computer room, and temporary exhibition hall. These areas are linked through lobbies and a central circulation spine, ensuring smooth flow and easy navigation.

First Floor:

The main exhibition hall on the first floor connects to the children’s activity centre, adult training centre, and library through the atriums. This layout supports efficient movement between different activity zones.

Access Points

Entry and exit points are strategically integrated through the outdoor science park, which enhances the overall visitor experience by providing a continuous flow between the indoor and outdoor areas of the Science Centre.