Introduction
“When innovation, sustainability, and creativity marry diligence and dedication, magic happens.”
Architect Oscar Concessao and Architect Ms. Ponni Concessao, husband and wife team are reputed architects who follow their Architectural firm- OCI Architect’s motto deliberately and whose careers have spanned for decades devoted to architecture, engineering, and Interior design.
Carrying out their maximum projects in Tamil Nadu with their impressive portfolio that spanned across many parts of the state, majorly including Chennai, Coimbatore, Pondicherry, Thanjavur, Navallur, Tiruttani, etc. Winning more than 131 National, State, and International awards for Architecture & Interior Design, they continue to make a mark with their contribution through their diverse projects built in Tamil Nadu. In their interview with Magzter, despite their rising fame & numerous awards, Oscar & Ponni Architects remains a design firm grounded in research, hungry for innovation, and driven by humanism as they were recently featured in the magazine in the March 2020 issue, Titled as the “The Oscars of Architecture!”
My Personal Experience at OCI Architects
Having been fortunate enough to personally gain experience at this International Architecture firm with Ponni ma’am & Oscar sir, my experience would help me clearly to put out my likability towards this firm & express my thoughts through some of OCI Architect’s projects and bring those points forward in this essay. I had been grateful for the opportunity given in gaining such a degree of exposure from their diversified projects while getting imparted with abundant field knowledge on various topics in architecture, design-process, client-work culture, project management, etc.
During my time at OCI Architects, as part of my Professional Trainee period and as a certified Architect during my M.Arch (Masters of Architecture) Post-graduate degree in 2019, my value quickly became apparent to the firm as I had already interned with OCI Architects for an entire year (2016-2017) during my B. Arch (Bachelors in Architecture) Undergraduate degree. Getting the chance to do my internship and getting involved in numerous National & International ongoing projects, proposals, and competition projects, was truly one of my most special experiences. Below are some photos of our team and my precious time with our dearest Ponni Ma’am.
Haven spent many months learning from both these architects, and even after completing my roles & duties there as an Intern first & then as a Junior Architect Trainee. I continue to have high regards for them as I write this essay, and hence present to you their best works, notions towards the state’s architecture, and more! “The Architect I like – OCI Architects.”
About OCI Architects
OCI Architects started their Architectural and Interior design practice in 1996, as they were all set to make an impact with their work; they set up their main office in Chetpet, Chennai. And then it was no looking back for this dynamic architect-duo! In terms of their varied typology in designs, OCI Architects are setting up a strong influential example to the young aspiring architects, while encouraging professionals to meet the level of Tamil Nadu’s Architectural needs. Reigning as one of the top Architects in the state and even the country too, scoring a century with their large list of awards and achieving laurels to their name, they are consistently in the limelight for their tremendous role in the field of Architecture & design.
Rethinking Tamil Nadu’s Architecture.
Over the years, OCI Architects built their practice in and around the state & country, designing versatile projects that continue to reshape the state’s architecture by offering their architectural services in projects such as heritage & conservation, green buildings, Universities, Engineering, and Medical Colleges, Information technology Parks, Biotech Parks, Nano Technology parks, townships, hospitals, apartments, Hotels, Resorts, Malls, Corporate offices, luxury Bungalows, Factories, SEZ, many Government, and State buildings.
Exploring mixed typologies in the state’s region, OCI Architects have been top-class when it comes to competing in the global market. Their philosophy opens to new possibilities in their project’s design resulting in meeting the client’s expectations and creating structures that enhance the beauty plus the functionality of the region. They practice personal involvement that operates on the model of a collaborative design studio environment with junior architects, interns, engineers, clients, staff, consultants, product manufacturers, and contractors.
Like any of the successful Architects out there, this architect duo too keeps adding many feathers to their cap, by playing many other roles like; a mediator between the client and general contractor, the designer of the project, the manager of the progress, counselor, visit as an external jury member to Architecture colleges and universities, etc.
A Design Approach with Multiple gears!
In an interview with MGS Architecture, Ar. Ponni states “The variance in style is because of the adherence to the client’s brief and context of the site which is unique from one project to another, especially when it comes to typologies. We do not have a cookie-cutter design and prefer experimenting in different styles and we constantly switch gears in designing buildings, which makes them unique.”
OCI Architects, who cater to over 15+ diverse, building typologies; have definitely set the standards for mastering it in each field with complete success through their design approach in the field of Architecture,. With their excellent work hitting right on the target, they sure do have acquired the art of nailing to switch gears from one typology to the other. With enough clarity about their practice & ground realities, let’s now see actually how all the “magic” happens (part of their motto) by elaborating on some of their renowned projects built in Tamil Nadu. Here I put light on some of their splendid architectural features and thought processes which are incorporated in their projects that call for attention to the readers.
Making it convenient to put out my points here, here is one of each of their best works of 5 predominant building typologies built in 5 different parts of Tamil Nadu. Appreciating their versatility in design and project features; let’s have a look at OCI Architect’s mass contribution to the state’s deep architectural connection.
Project/Typology 1- Mixed-use building & Luxury home
Raghavan complex at Chennai, Tamil Nadu
Concept
Raghavan complex, this residence-cum-commercial i.e. mixed-used building designed by Oscar & Ponni Architects is an accurate example of how traditional materials can be used on the exteriors and interiors to create a modern edifice. Situated in the busy TTK road in Chennai, the stately building with an award-winning designed residence above is a blend of contemporary Zen and organic architecture.
Materials
Opting for a principle of Zen and the stone temple of Karnak in Egypt, each stone member of the elevation is a 15 foot high 4-inch thick granite monolithic block. Giving a style quotient to the region, the granite blocks that are combined with natural wood fascia, steel, and glass allow forming an elegant symphony of contemporary architectural design.
Features
During an interview for Zingy Homes with Oscar & Ponni Architects, they mentioned the essence of facades that create the architectural identity of a place. Architect Ponni emphasizes that “The facade is a part of the urban fabric that builds up the city”. This example of the Raghvan building’s facade sure does contribute to the city’s outlook while having a huge visual impact on the community.
In an article issued in MGS Architecture of the award-winning residence designed above, Ar. Ponni M. Concessao says “The concept of the courtyard in the urban sky was that of an urban edifice designed with traditional elements, natural materials, and clear integration of the outdoor space of the courtyard with the indoor architectural spaces. The clients are firm believers of nature and Vaastu and the design brief emphasised the need for integrating nature with every part of the living spaces.”
As per worldarchitecture.org the concept of landscape design is simplicity, tranquillity and grace. The importance of religious beliefs is highly considered majorly to all the clients in the south, thus showcasing the presence of the aura of divinity is manifested in the artifact located in the passageway that overlooks the courtyard.
This luxury home design caters to sustainable measures too, which makes it more likable! Promoting the awareness of saving the environment through their design ideology, the design is low maintenance, cost-effective and energy-efficient.
The building plan is based on an efficient structural system in the form of a modular grid, which helps in quick construction and is earthquake-proof. Bagging a couple of the most prestigious awards for their innovation in this design, including the “Indian Creative Architectural Award 2015 – Award for Best Private Residence of the year” and “Winner of World Architecture Award 20+10+X18th Cycle”,2015.
To brief and impart knowledge on such symphony of a contemporary architectural design, Ar. Ponni and the owners kindly let us; (I and the other interns) visit this elegant home during our training period. Some of the other residential & mixed-use buildings designed by OCI Architects in Tamil Nadu include;
Victoria Towers – 400 Apartments, Chennai
Sare Township -120 Acres Development, Chennai
Sherin John Residence, Chennai
Mr. & Mrs Bishnoi Residence, Chennai
Residence for Anto George, Chennai
V.I.P Housing, Navallur
Project/Typology 2 – Institutional
GRT School at Tiruttani, Tamil Nadu.
Concept
Here I would like to portray certain elements of design in the GRT School, Tiruttani through my architectural photographs taken at the site, during one of our site meetings with the client, construction & design team. A classic example of a vibrant modern institution for the current generation that is filled with creativity provided by the designer that gives an excitement to the users.
Features
Below, are perspective photographs of the main school block’s well-lit atrium showcasing the above floors of the school’s corridors, complimenting the architecture at its best! Forming a perfect balance of lines and usage of colours that pop both on the pillars & flooring patterns, which appreciates the architect’s, intend for this thoughtful creation.
The amusing & exciting angles that bring out the beauty of the architectural aspect of this building show how it can stand out majorly for the appreciation and for “thinking out of the box” – for the numerous considerations and the characteristics added in the design respectively.
OCI Architects built an institution that functionally works and created a design with complete aesthetics, hence achieving the correct balance of both, plus symmetric/asymmetric balance. The composition of that balance speaks in the architectural photograph taken below, for incorporating enough principles & elements involved in its architectural design like the lines & shapes.
For example – Below, this atrium photograph of GRT School @ Tiruttani speaks of its geometry, lines, and shapes. Portrayed as a basic ground-level shot & bird’s eye view, respectively, of ceiling & flooring, showing its minimalistic style in the usage of colours & unique pattern detailing. A sheer beauty shot!
Speaking of details below is an architectural photograph with attention given to the detail that comes to life! As I captured this ground-level shot of a simple yet unique circle cut-out detail on the ceiling’s exterior portion of the GRT School block @ Tiruttani. Making a detail as a strong element of focus that speaks boldly enough for its architecture showing the deep philosophical connection of OCI Architect’s design approach.
Some of the famous institutional buildings and campuses designed by OCI Architects in Tamil Nadu include;
GRT Institute of Engineering and Technology, Tiruttani. (2008)
St. Aloysius Anglo Indian Higher Secondary School, Chennai.
St. Bede’s CBSE School & 4000 Seated Auditorium, Chennai. (2014)
PGP Engineering College & Technology, Namakal. (1997)
Rajalakshmi Engineering College, Thandalam. (1998)
Arunai Engineering College, Thiruvannaamalai. (1998)
Shanmugha Arts, Science, Technology & Sastra University, Thanjavur. (2004)
Tamil Nadu Dr. M.G.R. Medical University, Chennai. (1998)
Bharath Institute of Higher Education and Research, Chennai. (2003)
Project/Typology 3 – Luxury hotel
Accord Metropolitan luxury hotel at Puducheery, Tamil Nadu.
Concept
OCI Architects have also been known for their luxurious recreational hotel and resort projects. One of their prestigious projects in Tamil Nadu is the Accord Metropolitan hotel in Puducherry.
Accord Puducherry Hotel has turned to be a proud symbol of a luxurious asset in a city filled with a nostalgic past and an exciting future. OCI Architects designed an elegant oasis of space and calm that offers spectacular views of the city from all around the complex. It is conveniently located in the heart of Puducherry’s vibrant business and entertainment area that welcomes any traveler to the city.
Features
With a grand lobby, plush carpets, a regal yet landscape-oriented coffee shop, a classy bar, and an esteem guest corridor, OCI Architects seem to have made a bold & massive statement with their outstanding choice of well-designed architectural elements in this project.
Speaking of the sheer magnificence of the space the hotel emphasizes grandness a pure A-class luxury to visitors. Here the architectural style is neo-classical that is reflective of the colonial-style prevalent in Puducherry.
The incorporation of marble cladding, glass doors that open into a breathtaking double-height lobby, and a huge golden oval gold left ceiling are topped. Maintaining the importance in geometry like in their other project, Accord Puducherry too compliments the interior with Italian marble flooring as an exercise of Florentine marble design that is positioned geometrically opposite to the oval ceiling.
Materials
Ar. Ponni masters the practice of her unique, posh interiors designing that stands as a clear testimony of finesse in design and execution. Whether it’s the massive marble columns or the purest white Indian Macrana marble, architectural materials utilized for these projects deliver absolute wonder and speak of timeless beauty! Ar. Ponni draws inspiration from Nature, site conditions as well as contextual factors and combining it with elements of our Indian heritage, sustainability, and contextual factors while designing.
In terms of material usage, this design also stands as a great example of the Raghavan building. A stunning & elegant elevation that has a mixture of Indian Dholpur stone, toughened glass, textured paint, and wood. The neatness & simplicity of horizontal-vertical lines work in perfect harmony with the proportions of the building and even in the standard guest room designs.
OCI Architect’s recent recreational project that continues to hit the headlines is the completely ethnic style-based beach resort – Sandy Waves Resort in Havelock Island, Andaman.
Other famous recreational & Hotel projects in Tamil Nadu include;
GRT Radisson Temple Bay Resort, Chennai
Le meridian Luxury Hotel, Coimbatore,
Accord Luxury Hotel, Chennai.
OCI Architects clinched some great laurels for these building typologies too, to name a few;
In 2012, OCI Architects won 6 national awards for their Hotel interior projects, Institutional, Cultural, and Township projects awarded by ‘Artists in Concrete awards’ at Pune.
In the year 2012 Oscar & Ponni Architects had won 13 reputable awards, which are unprecedented in India. In the year 2013, they also received 3 Indian Buildings Congress Awards for Excellence in Architecture and two awards for Artists in Concrete Awards Asia -2012
Project/Typology 4 – Gold Rated Green Building (SEZ)
ETL BPO Park, Perungudi, Chennai
Concept
OCI Architects don’t just cater to contemporary architecture, but also sustainable architecture. Playing their part dedicatedly of responsible architects, there some famous projects are high-end green buildings too, which have been certified as gold rated buildings.
So switching the gear to the details of this project, Chennai ONE is amongst the largest Gold Rated Green buildings in the world today, offering a floor plate efficiency of 84% thanks to the intelligent floor plate design which also offers a flexible module layout for customers. The ETL BPO Park is conceived as a Cutting Edge Technology Park. It is located in a Master Plan a site area of 25 acres.
Features
As per worldarchitecture.org, ETL BPO Park achieves sustainability with features like;
Building orientation – The building with its longer axis facing the N-S directions to admit glare-free lighting and the EW axis of the building is protected from the harsh sun by placing the service’s core.
Native landscaping designs – Minimizing water, reducing irrigation requirements, and implementation of greenhouse-keeping techniques that help reduce the impact of non-eco-friendly chemicals and solutions are adopted.
Re-cycling water – Keeping their sustainability priorities straight and keep in minding water is a precious commodity in Chennai, a serious water management plan was devised to re-use the available resource and harvest the rainwater.
Energy Conservation – Energy-saving is one of the main criteria of a green building and OCI Architects seemed to have achieved that by the excellent method of control and monitoring of a world-class chilling plant system comprising of Water Chillers, Brine Chillers, and Thermal Storage Tanks. Also, considering and based on the load, the BMS controls the chiller system.
Sastra University Campus
The other Green building designed by OCI Architects include: LEED silver-rated Tecpo Towers Building, Chennai
Project/Typology 5 – Research Educational building
Sastra University Biotech Park, Tanjore, Tamilnadu
One of OCI Architect’s most prestigious projects which achieved lots of recognition and laurels is this unique Biotech Park in the serene Sastra University Campus in Tanjore.
Concept
Overall, this technical research building in Tanjore has a good blend of the interactive environment of Research lab design as well as well-integrated design classrooms which make this a very unique Bio-Tech Park. This project bagged many awards too, including the Indian Institute of Architects, IIA National Award 2008 for the Sastra Biotech Park for Sastra University at Tanjore.
Features
Sastra Biotech Park is an exquisite and high-tech expressionist building blending technology and innovative design with adequate planning. Facilities like several laboratories, gallery-type classrooms, a 500 seated auditorium, and the animal house are included within this 2, 00,000 square feet building. This building has been designed with special foundations and mechanical systems tailored for sensitive laboratory experiments, thus delivering state-of-the-art engineering & design.
The grand building consists of a grand rotunda atrium lobby, which has a 90 feet diameter shallow dome on the top which has a beautifully designed skylight of fiber-reinforced plastic.
A grand staircase then leads the visitors to the floors above. The building consists of two wings on the side of the rotunda atrium house the research labs. Some of the project highlights include the large 500 seated auditorium is acoustically designed for the several research and technical seminars being hosted at the Sastra University Campus.
Materials
The front elevation is a suitable example of traditional craft combined with computer technology using imported glass mosaic tiles from Dubai. The Mosaic Mural design of a DNA module is at the elevation of the Biotech building. The structure of the DNA is a double helix, much like a ladder that is twisted into a spiral shape with different hues of the DNA model.
Awards Special Mentions:
OCI Architect’s vast contribution mainly in building many institutions and campuses, thus raising the educational scope for the upcoming generations with their easy access to so many colleges been designed across the country & state. These institutional projects have won several awards, to highlight a few;
Haven won the Indian Buildings Congress Award seven times, OCI Architects has won them for their many information technology parks, campuses, and townships.
In 2009, they won the Archi Design ‘Best Institutional Building’ Award.
In the same year, OCI Architects won the Best Institutional/ Corporate building award for the Sastra University project Sastra Arts and Science, Tanjore.
In 2004, Oscar & Ponni Architects won their all-time most distinguished award for ‘Excellence in Built Environment, awarded by the His Excellency, the former President of India, Dr. A.P.J Abdul Kalam facilitated them for the project by Satyam Technology Information Technology Park in Bhubaneswar, Orissa.
Projects Honourable Mentions:
OCI Architects also offered their services for a charitable cause like being involved in the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana project, also to have built noon-meal centers, toilets for underprivileged girl students, schools for leprosy-afflicted patient’s children, and the Rising Star Outreach School in Chennai. This school helps leprosy colonies of India become thriving, self-sufficient communities via Medical Care, Colony Development, and Education.
OCI Architects also provided their design services for designing a completely environmentally friendly mosque at Ramanad, The Alagankulam Muslim Jamaat Haji. S. Mohamed Ishack Mahal, with its innovative rainwater harvesting system. The religious building makes complete use of natural elements by providing maximum utilization of natural ventilation and lighting. Such is the experience & functionality-driven passion of OCI Architects.
Conclusion:
Architect Oscar & Ponni truly manage to foresee the future of the state with their versatile designs, whether it’s a modern-sustainable home or minimalistic school design or luxurious hotel or a gold-rated office building or even an innovative biotech park. They surely have come a long way in terms of diversification in designs matching Tamil Nadu’s Architectural needs.
OCI Architects were also featured in the February 2020 issue of Surfaces Reporter Magazine for their unique Tropical fusion design of Indian & Malaysian architecture for Dr. Ameen’s Residence in Malaysia. This project incorporates Chettinad style that speaks for their notion to carry forward Indian Architecture even to the international part of the world thus creating an impact.
Their design guidelines are the outcome of investigative & analytic work for the project, which includes studies in demography, transportation, traffic patterns, economics, relocation, education, recreation, community services, housing, health care & environmental issues. OCI Architects provides broad-based services that address all aspects of architectural design including planning, project management, space programming, and interior design that makes it so much easier for me to express my points on why I like OCI Architects.
Since 1996, a leading integrated architecture, urban design & interior design practice has earned its name by all means. Hoping this essay does justice to the firm that offers award-winning works across a wide range of disciplines. This practice is known for its high level of services to clients and professional skills.
Therefore, to have stated my experience during my time there, their history, projects, highlights, laurels, and diverse typologies, I state “The Architect I like” is OCI Architects – Oscar & Ponni Architects, the practice which stands by their motto of;
“When innovation, sustainability and creativity marry diligence and dedication, magic happens.”