Arcot Plaza: A Sustainable Business Center

Creating a Sustainable and Affordable Commercial Space

Arcot Plaza was conceived with the goal of creating an iconic building on a limited budget. The design team, led by Vigneswar V S, focused on user comfort and the sustainable use of natural resources. The result is a sustainable business center that not only meets the needs of its users but also minimizes its impact on the environment.

One of the key features of Arcot Plaza is its emphasis on natural light without glare. The office spaces are designed to maximize natural light while minimizing heat gain. The building's facade incorporates solar-rated glass with poly-carbonate fins on stainless steel mullions. This innovative design allows for diffused light during summer months and cuts glare from the bright sky, providing a comfortable working environment for the occupants.

In addition to its climate-responsive design, Arcot Plaza also incorporates various green features. The building is equipped with solar PV electric panels, allowing for the generation of clean energy. Greywater recycling systems reduce the building's reliance on municipal water, while natural lighting and ventilation systems further enhance its sustainability. The HVAC system utilizes VRV technology with a green rating, ensuring energy efficiency throughout the building.

Arcot Plaza stands out not only for its sustainable features but also for its affordability. Despite being a world-class commercial space, the project achieved maximum revenue potential and set a new standard for rent per square foot in the micro-market. Additionally, the design reduced energy usage by 15%, resulting in lower life-cycle costs and a sustainable model for commercial buildings.

The design team, including Principal Architect V.S. Vigneswar and Structural Engineer J. Sriramulu, overcame various challenges during the project. One of the notable challenges was designing an innovative low-cost commercial facade that could provide constant daylight for offices without glare. The team successfully achieved this by incorporating triangulated translucent poly-carbonate fins, which cut direct sunlight and provide diffused light during summer months.

Arcot Plaza is a testament to the power of sustainable design and innovation. By prioritizing user comfort, energy efficiency, and affordability, Vigneswar V S and his team have created a commercial space that not only meets the needs of its users but also contributes to a more sustainable future.

Image Credits: Architecture plus Value

Awards and Accolades: Arcot Plaza was awarded the Bronze A' Design Award in the Architecture, Building, and Structure Design category in 2018. This prestigious award recognizes designs that demonstrate creativity, resourcefulness, and a commitment to improving quality of life. Arcot Plaza's innovative approach to sustainable design sets it apart as a groundbreaking project in the industry.