Space Race Architects designs for the Gurdwara Nirmal Kutiya in Jalandhar is contemporary and sophisticated.
Curated by: Tanaya Pednekar
Photographs: Nakul Jain, courtesy Space Race Architects
The site
The Gurudwara is spread out on a 1.5 acre site which is located in Arjun Nagar, Jalandhar. This land was a graveyard previously which was discovered when skeleton pieces were found while digging the foundation.
The design intent
This contemporary Gurudwara features elements like cantilever slabs, linear blocks with travertine, vitrified tile cladding on the walls, a large glass for transparency at the exterior facade and a stunning dome. The arches designed here are evocative of old Gurdwara structures, albeit in a modern avatar. The interiors display chandeliers, painted arches at the rear wall, floral-patterned carpet floors, and shades of beige. The diffused sunlight from the eastern side adds a spiritual ambience with the interplay of light and shadow.
The highlights
There is a splendid fountain erected outside the main entrance directly aligned with the dome above. A water source is prevalent on both the ends of the sanctum to witness the Nishan Sahib’s (sacred symbol at the top of a flagpole) refraction and create a sensory vibration for the visitors. The free kitchen (for langar) incorporates three windows which invites everybody for a meal, irrespective of caste and colour.
Fact File
Project: Gurdwara Nirmal Kutiya
Location: Arjun Nagar, Jalandhar
Area: 7,209 sq m
Principal architect: Thakur Udayveer Singh
Design team: Ritika Singh and Pappal Suneja
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