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Images courtesy of the India Art & Architecture Facebook page and the IIM-A-RFP Photography Department The restoration of the Louis Kahn Institute of Management in the 20th century was awarded to Somaya & Kalappa Consultants, a firm based in Mumbai, who won the competition for conservation architects. At India’s most prestigious Indian Institute of Management, Ahmedabad (IIM-A), the atmosphere is one of intellectual curiosity. The structure is stunning, and it is designed in the characteristic Louis Kahn style, which is evocative of architecture from the 20th century. Completed in 1963 by chief architect, Louis Kahn and Indian architects B. V. Doshi and Anant Raje, the majestic building in exposed bricks is known for its institutional and residential complexes, open courtyards, imposing flights of steps, hexagonal classrooms, high windows, and acclimatized layout among several other features. The Louis Kahn Campus Complex is characterized by its use of exposed brick work, with exposed concrete being used for the construction of slabs, lintels, and beams. A significant portion of the Louis Kahn Complex’s splendor may be attributed to the enormous brick arches and wide brick façade they feature. As a result of the fact that these structures did not sustain significant structural damage during the earthquake that occurred in Gujarat in 2001, it is possible to evaluate the structural strength and stability of the buildings. On the other hand, IIMA is now confronted with the problem of protecting and improving this campus complex, since it has been severely damaged by the effects of age and the nature of the environment. Issues have arisen as a result of the original specification, the quality of the craftsmanship, the postponement of maintenance, and the age of the product. It is important to note that the local brick that Kahn used is very porous, mortars are more durable than bricks, and reinforcing has been installed without sufficient protection. The brick walls and brick arches with vertical and horizontal mild steel reinforcements have deteriorated, which has resulted in fractures that are causing structural issues. These fissures are causing difficulties for the structure. The failure of rainfall pipes (many of which were hidden in chases inside the walls) and blocked roof outlets have all contributed to the worsening of this situation. Seepage from faulty water services and drainage has also contributed to the problem. There is an increasing amount of wetness in many different regions. A significant amount of efflorescence, the loss of the face of bricks, and corrosion of MS electrical conduits have all been brought about as a consequence of the faults (also buried within the brickwork). IIM-A has, after all these years, finally made the decision to conserve and restore its magnificent annals. In order to accomplish this, the institution has appointed Mr. Stephen Gee of Peter Inskip + Peter Jenkins Architects, UK, and Mrs. Brinda Somaya of Somaya & Kalappa Consultants, Mumbai, as the Conservation Consultants and Conservation Architects, respectively. The conservation, restoration, and repair management of the following Louis Kahn Buildings will be taken into consideration during the proposed exercise, which is estimated to cost approximately 15 crores per year and may take up to five years or more to complete. The following Louis Kahn Buildings are the Faculty Block, the Library, the Classroom Complex, and the Condominiums. Ar. Brinda Somaya is of the opinion that the Indian Institute of Management (IIM)-A and its Director, Dr. Ashish Nanda, have brought to the forefront the significance of preserving and safeguarding the rich legacy of buildings that date back to the 20th century and are still in existence in India today through the implementation of this project. Visit the website inditerrain.indiaartndesign.com in order to see the photographs.
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