• Project: Nokha Village Community Centre, Rajasthan
• Architects:?Sanjay Puri Architects
• Principal Architect:?Sanjay Puri
• Area: 1208 m?
• Year of Completion:?2024
• Photography: Vinay Panjwani

In?the diverse mosaic of India’s architectural wonders, some creations defy expectations and inspire wonder.?From temples perched atop towering mountains to those seemingly suspended by floating pillars, from Mausoleums surrounded by a moat to ones that flaunt acres of gardens in its compound, each structure tells a tale of ingenuity and imagination. Among these marvels emerges the Nokha Village Community Centre, a vision realized by Sanjay Puri Architects in the heart of Rajasthan. Like an oasis in the desert, it beckons with its captivating design and promises to be a beacon of hope for the surrounding communities. Located amidst 144 small villages in the Nokha district, this architectural marvel, envisioned by Sanjay Puri Architects, transcends mere aesthetics, serving as a testament to sustainable design and the power of collective endeavour.

At its core, the community centre is more than just a structure; it embodies a collective vision to honour the legacy of Padmaramji Kularia while addressing the pressing needs of the surrounding villages. The brief was clear?to create a memorial that would also serve as a hub for community engagement and development initiatives. What emerged from this directive is a masterpiece that seamlessly integrates with its surroundings while offering a myriad of functional spaces designed to uplift and empower.

The design narrative unfolds with a sweeping curvilinear volume that elegantly embraces the site, creating a dynamic interplay of space and form. But beyond its aesthetic allure, this architectural choice serves a crucial function?it opens up to a north-facing courtyard, the beating heart of the community centre. Here, amidst the tranquil oasis of greenery, residents find respite from the harsh desert climate, coming together for gatherings, performances, and social interactions.?

Spanning a modest 9,000 square feet, the centre ingeniously maximizes its footprint by introducing a rooftop garden- a verdant sanctuary that offers panoramic views of the surrounding desert landscape.?This inclined garden, with its two varying slopes, serves?not only?as a recreational space?but also as?a platform for connecting with nature, inviting the community to forge deeper bonds with their environment.

The architectural ingenuity doesn’t stop there. The ovoid library, adorned with natural sandstone screens inspired by traditional Rajasthani architecture, emerges as a symbol of knowledge and enlightenment. Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, these screens not only reduce heat gain but also create captivating shadow patterns that evolve throughout the day?a testament to the marriage of tradition and innovation. Within the confines of the library lies a treasure trove of learning?a digital repository that caters to the educational needs of village schools lacking their library facilities. Here, children can explore the vast expanse of knowledge, transcending the limitations imposed by their geographical boundaries.

However, the community centre’s impact extends far beyond its physical confines. It catalyzes sustainable development, harnessing local resources and engaging with skilled?craftsmen?to bring its vision to life. The regionally sourced sandstone and lime plaster finishes, meticulously crafted by local artisans, pay homage to the rich heritage of Rajasthan while ensuring environmental sustainability.

Moreover, the centre’s design is inherently responsive to the challenges?posed by?the desert climate. The southern side is enveloped in a grass-covered earth berm- a natural barrier against heat gain, while rainwater harvesting and water recycling initiatives underscore its commitment to environmental stewardship.

As Sanjay Puri Architects aptly puts it, “The use of traditional crafts and materials from its location, as well as the planning of an open courtyard sheltered from the southern side, imbibe from the heritage of the region and make the design responsive to the desert climate.” Indeed, every element of the community centre reflects a deep understanding of its context and a dedication to serving the?needs of the community.

But perhaps the most remarkable aspect of the Nokha Village Community Centre lies in its transformative potential. Beyond its physical infrastructure, it embodies a spirit of resilience and collective action?a rallying point for community-driven initiatives aimed at fostering sustainable development and social cohesion.

Since its inception in 1992, Sanjay Puri Architects, led by the visionary duo of Sanjay and Nina Puri, has forged a global legacy for its climate-responsive designs across various sectors, from housing and education to culture and commerce. Their pioneering designs have consistently captivated architecture enthusiasts worldwide, setting new standards for innovation and sustainability. In a world where urbanization often eclipses the plight of rural communities, the Nokha Village Community Centre stands as a beacon of hope- a testament to how architecture can be an expression of the geography, culture, and sociology of a place. ?