Project Description
This Iconic building rises majestically along the NH17 in a Portuguese character and has a strong feel of belonging as it is in keeping with the architectural heritage of Goa. It houses the offices of the Collector, Land Revenue, Rent Controller, Land Acquisition, Panchayat, Mamlatdars, SDM’s, Revenue, Finance as well as Minister’s chambers with state-of-the-art facilities in a computerised, paper-less government office.
Architecturally, the imposing dome, porches, grand steps and coloured vertical glazing is representative of expressive architecture.
Aligned on the true North-South axis, the access points into the building have been sited on the four cardinal points through the grand porches. The north end of the site has a large Parade ground for formal functions.
The four corners, like the four ‘stambhas’ or the cosmic columns, are the vertical circulation cores of the building, depicting the bond between earth and heaven. The coloured glazing which is contemporary in design yet vernacular in appeal is an emulation of the stained glass windows which can be seen all over Goa .
The stately dome or the chhatra is the embodiment of kingship and is symbolic of a blessing. It is the most important area of the building and in this case it encases the V.I.P. lobby and opens onto a grand porch terrace having the flag hoist.
The landscaped courtyards are the breathing zones which infuse fresh life into the building.
Form follows Function is an old paradigm and this building stands testimony to this principle. The desired function of segregation of public movement and staff circulation at the horizontal plane yet have vertical connectivity has been beautifully achieved in the created form yet essaying the Iconic identity of the building.
The building looks breathtakingly beautiful in the evening when the facade is lit up.
The Honorable CM calls it an ICON of Goa.
Special features
Climatically suited building with deep overhangs & corridors, cross ventilation, large openings for natural light, etc
Energy efficient lighting, well ventilated spaces, central landscaped courtyards for air circulation, usage of local laterite stone for compound walls and sub soil structure.
Functionally suited building where Public and Staff movement & access to all departments is defined yet independent.
Public areas and those exposed to weather have non skid flooring.
Particular thought has been given to the differently abled. Provision of tactile on the floor, handicapped-user-friendly restrooms, ramps with handrails etc. has been made.
Signage in English and local language and Braille for public convenience.
Floor Maps at vital locations for guidance of public
Elevators and staircases conveniently located for vertical movement.
Wide corridors for public circulation.
Facility distribution and circulation within the building has been done keeping public ease and convenience in mind.
Public dealing counters for active interaction and facilities such as Citizens Facilitation Centre and Senior Citizens room have also been provided.
Dining facility and support infrastructure at the Ground level.
Materials of construction
RCC frame structure with brick infill walls in the superstructure is supplemented with local Laterite stone in the sub soil structure and boundary wall.
Plastered finish in the typical Goan colours & character along with cast iron railings, Mangalore tile roofing and stained glass glazing completes the Portuguese character.
Easy to maintain stone and tile floorings indoors, non skid floorings in weather-exposed areas and marble flooring in VIP areas have been used. Grass pavers in parking, landscaped areas and concrete road owing to heavy rains in the region have been laid.
Sliding UPVC windows, best suited for the humid and windy climate, have been used so that no open, hinged shutter can hurt anyone in this public building.
21000 cu.m. of concrete , 3000 tons of steel and 250000 bags of cement was consumed during the construction of this building.