Revolutionizing Urban Spaces: Firm Hall

Adaptive Re-use Architecture: A Commercially Successful Community Centre

The inspiration behind Firm Hall was the lack of quality community centres in third-world cities like Chennai. The architects identified an opportunity to merge commercial interests with community needs, resulting in a project that not only generates revenue for the developer but also serves the local neighbourhood. The project has become a landmark in Chennai, boasting a 90% occupancy rate since its opening and hosting a range of events from birthday parties to weddings and convocation ceremonies.

What sets Firm Hall apart is its innovative use of adaptive re-use architecture. The external periphery of the existing structure was preserved while the internal load-bearing walls were reconfigured to create a large event space on each floor. This approach ensured the project's environmental sustainability and cost-effectiveness. A metal staircase was introduced in the rear service area to provide vertical service access and also act as a secondary fire-exit.

The design of Firm Hall is characterized by two distinct masses - a high glossy white mass with intricate Jali or Screen patterns on the first floor, and a solid textured brown mass on the ground floor. The white mass is emphasized with back lighting, creating a striking visual effect at night. The terrace was converted into a semi-open party area with a light metal roof and a landscaped terrace, adding further value to the project.

The project was realized with the help of Swathi Kunimbedu and was completed within a span of five months, from December 2018 to April 2019. The design process involved extensive research on existing event spaces in the city and how to make the project a profitable commercial venture. The adaptive re-use approach posed additional challenges, but the team managed to retain the building to its best possible manner and convert it into an event venue.

Firm Hall has been recognized for its innovative design, winning the Silver A' Architecture, Building and Structure Design Award in 2020. The award is a testament to the project's outstanding expertise and innovation, showcasing a remarkable level of excellence and introducing positive feelings, amazement, and wonder. Firm Hall has truly become a case-study on developing sustainable and commercially successful community facilities.