Transparence brings out the best architect 

Restructuring is constantly evolving. From purely functional buildings to artistic ones, the primary objective of architecture isn’t just a matter of shelter anymore. Today’s architects have to keep in mind comfort, purpose, and longevity to deliver a superlative design.

Recently, the grand finale of the eleventh edition of Transparence, India’s largest architectural design competition, organised by Saint-Gobain India Private Limited, was conducted in Chennai. The opportunity aims at showcasing student-talent from across the country and giving them a chance to be trained by the industry’s bigwigs.

As the site was in Delhi, a cosmopolitan city, we realised that the design had to be more than just a concrete block
Kunal Jain, student, School of Architecture, IPS Academy, Indore

Given the theme ‘Space in Motion’, teams had to design a Performing Arts Centre at Pragati Maidan, New Delhi The winners, Kunal Jain and Shivani Agarwal from the School of Architecture, IPS Academy, Indore were a class apart with their inclusive design that catered to all sections of the community. “As the site was in Delhi, a cosmopolitan city, we realised that the design had to be more than just a concrete block. Also, as the site has cultural and historical context and is surrounded by historically prominent structures, we designed it so as to maintain harmony with the structures, while adding elements of modern architecture,” says Kunal.

Over 200 teams from all over the country applied to be a part of this coveted competition. The trick was to built sustainable spaces that existed in harmony with the heritage structures in the area

This year’s edition received over 200 team entries, which were scrutinised by a panel of elite practising architects from across the country during the regional rounds. From there, eight national finalist teams battled it out for the coveted national award in front of a live jury.
The winners were awarded `75,000, along with other benefits like a stellar recommendation. “It is one of the biggest architectural competitions held in India and it garners a lot of recognition. Also, it adds value to one’s résumé,” says Kunal.