ayurvedic hospital case study architecture

Pallak: An Ayurvedic Resort Paying Ode To Ancient Heritage of Kerala | Uru Consulting

The word Pallak in Malayalam means Palanquin, a covered litter carried by an even number of bearers. Team Uru’s (Uru Consulting is a design and project management consulting firm based in Calicut, Kerala) journey with their project “Pallak” started where the youngest son of a family in Kottakkal, Kerala, got a 2 acres plot along with the ancestral house in his name after partition.

As he approached Team Uru, the client’s lack of interest in living in a 12000 square feet house of antiquity was inter-twined with the nuclear family’s perception of an urban lifestyle.  Nevertheless, he did not want to let go of the property. The conundrum was to be solved by a wonderful idea: Considering the value of medical tourism in Kottakkal, a place renowned for its Ayurvedic heritage, transform the property into an Ayurvedic resort. Thus, with a stringent budget, the project was to be materialized in two phases: 1 acre for each phase.

Visit: Uru Consulting

A “Nalukettu”: Home to Hospitality

During the first phase, it was decided to work on the adaptive reuse of the house, and transforming the 1 acre plot around it into a recreational space. One thing the client was particular about was being able to give the customers the true essence of Kerala. Team Uru envisioned the transformation of the plot and the traditional “Naalukettu” Kerala house, chiefly keeping in mind the foreign customers who found a sanctuary in the calming greenery and rich heritage of Kerala. The idea of an amphitheatre came in order to give the customers an experience of the visual and aural marvel of Kerala’s unique art forms like Kathakali.

The multipurpose amphitheater was intended not only to thrill the visitors with enthralling performances of Kerala art forms but also to calm them with Yoga training. The treatment area and related amenities were conceived inside the “Nalukettu”. 

It was an arduous process turning the traditional house that basked in its antiquity and rooms that did not welcome even light in, into a hospitable space for patients and other guests. Safder (Principal Designer, Uru) talks about the challenges and how Team Uru tackled them working on the interior of the “Nalukettu”.

“One of the main constraints was the narrow rooms without either proper ventilation or bathrooms. We provided attached bathrooms for every room. When we found defects in the timber structure, we solved them by using girders. With the advanced technology of waterproofing, the dampness issue was covered. Sometimes, we also merged two adjacent rooms to make a spacious and well-lighted room.

Small doors and steps also were challenges considering the function of the Ayurvedic treatment. Ramps were created in order to make the movement of wheelchairs possible. During the renovation and landscaping, we were specific about keeping the contours unchanged and gave pathways of laterite stones connecting different levels. The amphitheater is the only exception where we enabled steps as part of the design.”

Even the unused, eerie attic was worked out into a fairy-tale-like space by giving it proper access through stairs. The plumbing was another hard work that found fulfillment and so was replacing all the interlock tiles with laterite ones with the only exception of tandoor stones as stepping stones. One can sense how Team Uru envisaged Pallak as a home to hospitality.

Villas: Mirroring the Earthen Past

Kerala’s traditional architecture is a blend of Dravidian and Vedic structures, greatly influenced by its maritime partners- Chinese, Arabs, Europeans. It is deeply rooted in the elements of earth. The villas constructed in the plot, outside the treatment area mirrors this ancient structure of the ancestral house. The walls of laterite stones with unplastered, exposed finish, the clay tiles of terracotta from Chalakkudy for the floors and roofs, and a colour palette that embodies rusticity and earthiness, have contributed a great deal in mirroring the poetic beauty and the earthen past of Kerala Architecture.

Landscaping: A Faunal Narrative

As Team Uru visited the plot for the first time, the area was covered with only some coconut trees. Ever-committed to their green initiatives, Team Uru changed Pallak’s faunal narrative into a green lush of tropical plants and trees, especially the ones with medicinal qualities according to Ayurveda. It is also carefully landscaped in such a way that it requires less maintenance.

Phase II: Pallak’s Journey Continues

One thing Pallak can boast of is its budget-friendliness. In terms of opulence, it has completely done away with luxurious embellishments. Team Uru has maintained the place just as it used to be, old ancestral home and its orchard, with quite an unassuming air, while still making it functional and recreational in so many ways. They are currently working on the second phase of the project, in which a restaurant is included. Pallak’s journey continues. What else can offer a more royal journey than a Palanquin?

Architecture Firm:  Uru Consulting

Project Type:  Adaptive Reuse – Heritage Resort

Project Name:  Pallak Heritage Resort

Location: Kottakkal, Malappuram

Year built: 2020

Size: sq feet : 20000

Principal Designer:  Safder Machilakath

Photograph courtesy:   Prasath Mohan ( Running studio)

Website:   http://uruconsulting.in/

Facebook:   https://www.facebook.com/uruconsulting

Instagram:   https://www.instagram.com/uruconsulting/

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Ayurvedic hospital, related posts.

Ayurvedic Therapy and Training Institute

Kerala,a tropical paradise in India is known for its rich traditions of Ayurveda,one of India`s traditional systems of medicine.Ayurveda provides an integrated approach to preventing and treating illness through lifestyle interventions and natural therapies. The program was a center for practicing Ayurvedic therapy on patients from all over India and abroad.Students interested in learning this system of medicine train under the practitioners as apprentices,much like a `gurukulam`.The project required spaces for therapy,teaching and accommodation for practitioners,students and patients. The site chosen was a spectacular back water stretch in north Kerala.It was the tip of a peninsular land formation girdled on three sides by water. The Institute was conceptualized as a linear form hugging the coast-line resting on stilts.The boundary between land and water becomes the place where therapy and training of students takes place.The accommodation sits inland among rice-fields with the `bund walls/retaining walls` forming the approaches.Being made of laterite stone it gives a sense of rest and of being solidly rooted to the ground as opposed the floating institute. The existing vernacular traditions in Kerala architecture were taken as the base upon which the project evolved.

Ayurvedic Therapy and Training Institute by Vigneswar V.S. in India won the WA Award Cycle 2. Please find below the WA Award poster for this project.

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CCIM GUIDELINES FOR AYURVEDA HOSPITAL DESIGN

Best ayurveda hospital plan and design firm.

In this article, Hospaccx Healthcare Consultancy has mentioned CCIM guidelines for Ayurvedic Hospitals. If you need any further assistance in designing Hospitals, or a refined market and financial feasibility or any other study related to healthcare you can Contact Hospaccx Healthcare Consultancy Business on   [email protected]    

INTRODUCTION  

A hospital is an integral part of a social and medical organization, the function of which to provide for the complete health care, both curative and preventive and whose outpatient services reach out to the family and its home environment; the hospital is also a center for training of health workers and biosocial research.  

Ayurveda is a system of medicine with historical roots in the Indian subcontinent. Globalized and modernized practices derived from Ayurveda traditions are a type of alternative medicine. The Ayurvedic Hospital is duty-bound to organize all activities related to Ayurvedic treatment. There should be sufficient space in the hospital for running OPD & IPD wards in addition to Panchkarma, Ksharsutra Section, Operation Theatre, Labour Room, Storerooms, Rooms for officer and staff of the hospital and all other requirements. The minimum space required for a 100 bedded hospital should be a minimum of 20,000 Sq. ft. (covered).  

Following are the Guidelines as per the Central Council of Indian Medicine (CCIM):  

The hospital shall be suitably spacious to accommodate Out Patient Department and In-Patient Department and wards in addition to the reception, patients’ waiting area, dispensing room, dressing room, clinical laboratory, radiology section, side pharmacy, kitchen, service rooms, medical record-room, Panchakarma therapy section, Ksharsutra therapy section, Operation Theatre, Labour Room, Store Rooms, separate wards for male and female, Duty rooms for Doctors, Nurses and other staff, etc. required for a fully functional hospital.  

Outpatient Department:  

The hospital shall have a minimum eight following Outpatient Departments:  

• Kayachikitsa
• Panchakarma   
• Shalya Tantra   
• Shalakya Tantra (two rooms for Out-Patient Departments)   

(a) Netra Roga Vibhaga   

(b) Karna-Nasa-Mukha evam Danta Roga Vibhaga   

• Prasooti evum Striroga   
• Kaumara Bhritya (Balaroga)   
• Swasthavritta evum Yoga   
• Aatyayika (Emergency)  

In-Patient Department:   

The indoor department of the hospital shall have separate male and female wards and distribution of beds shall be as under:  

  Rog Nidan avum Prayogshaliya Parikshan Prayogshala (Clinical Laboratory for clinical diagnosis and investigations): There shall be a clinical laboratory in the hospital complex with proper infrastructure and manpower.  

The minimum bed strength for Kayachikitsa should be 40% and for the rest of the Department, it should be 10% each. The remaining bed strength is adjusted according to the requirement of the particular hospital.     

Space Requirement for Ayurvedic Hospital  

Following things needs to be taken into consideration while designing every department:  

• The total structured area of the hospital needs to be around 2000sq. m. – 3500sq. m.   
• The Hospital Administration Block must include the following departments:  
•  Superintendent room   
• Deputy Superintendent room   
• Medical officers’ room ( for two Resident Medical Officer or Resident Surgical Officer)   
• Matron room   
• Assistant Matron room (for two)   
• Reception and Registration   
• For a 100 bed hospital the space required for OPD and IPD are as follows:  

Space requirement – OPD – 2500 Sq. ft   

                                        IPD – 7500 Sq. ft  

• OPD must have the following while design:  
• Kayachikitsa Out-Patient Department with toilet and washbasin   
• Shalya Out-Patient Department with toilet, washbasin and Examination Room   
• Shalakya Tantra Out-Patient Department with toilet and washbasin   
• Stri Roga evum Prasooti Tantra Out-Patient Department with toilet and Examination Room   
•  Kaumar Bhritya(Balarog) Out-Patient Department with toilet and washbasin   
• Swasthavritta evum Yoga Out-Patient Department with demonstration area, toilet, and washbasin   
• Atyayika (Casualty) section with toilet and washbasin   
• Dressing and First Aid Room, Kshar Sutra Room   
• Dispensary   
• Waiting Space for patients   
• Male and Female Toilets for patients  
• IPD (Inpatient Department):  
• Kayachikitsa Male Ward with attached toilet and bathroom   
• Kayachikitsa Female Ward with attached toilet and bathroom   
• Panchakarma Male Ward with attached toilet and bathroom   
• Panchakarma Female Ward with attached toilet and bathroom   
• Shalya Male Ward with attached toilet and bathroom   
• Shalya Female Ward with attached toilet and bathroom    
• Shalakya Tantra Ward with attached toilet and bathroom   
• Prasooti evum Stri Roga Ward with attached toilet and bath   
• Kaumar Bhritya (Balaroga) Ward with attached toilet and bathroom   
• Doctors’ duty room one for each department with attached toilet and bath   
• Nursing staff duty rooms, one in each ward with attached toilet-bath.   
• Storeroom for linen, etc.  
• Operation Theaters Block for male & female must be different they are as follows:  
• Snehana Kaksha (Separate for male & female)  
• Swedana Kaksha (Separate for male & female)  
• Shirodhara Kaksha (Separate for male & female)    
• Vamana Kaksha (Separate for male & female)    
• Virechana Kaksha (Separate for male & female)    
• Basti Kaksha (Separate for male & female)  
• Rakta Mokshana, Jalaukavacharana, Agnikarma, Pracchanna etc Kaksha   
• Panchakarma therapist/Physician’s room   
• Panchakarma storeroom   
• Four attached toilet-baths for males and four for females with washbasin and geyser facility in each. These will be in addition to the toilets of wards.   
• Biomedical waste:  

Category no. 1 – human anatomical waste such as human tissue, organs, body parts.   

Category no. 2 – animal waste   

Category no.3 – microbiology & biotechnology waste such as waste from lab cultures, stocks or specimens   

Category no. 4 – waste sharps such as needles, syringe, blades, glass, etc.   

Category no. 5 – discarded medicines   

Category no. 6 – items contaminated with blood and body fluids including cotton, dressing, beddings.   

Biomedical waste must be segregated, disposed, and transported through color-coded plastic containers and send to the near biomedical disposal unit.  

The area per bed must be 50 sq. ft. per bed with the minimum distance between two beds is 3.5 ft. and the minimum distance between two rows of bed must be 5 ft. one nursing station in between two wards with a minimum of 100 sq. ft dimensions with one nurse for every 10 beds. As a general guideline, in the case of Ayurveda specialty hospitals, the facilities available should be commensurate and appropriate with the nature of services provided. The services provided at the hospital shall be consistent with the principles of classical Ayurveda. In particular, diet lifestyle and basic treatment of diseases. Options offered to the patients shall be consistent with that expected from an Ayurvedic medical care facility. Circulation area at least 200 sq. ft. per 25 beds. The doctors’ duty room must have a minimum of 100 sq. ft dimension.  

Other things that need to be followed during the designing the hospital are Display the name of the doctor with the degree, Registration number of the doctor Fee (both OPD & IPD – daily IPD charges) Timing of the clinic Experience of the doctor, Facilities provided, Signage in IPD Separate toilets & bathroom for male & females both in OPD & IPD sections.    

CONCLUSION  

To conclude, it is desirable to build an eco-friendly Ayurvedic Hospital. To design an Ayurvedic Hospital the Central Council of Indian Medicine (CCIM) norms must be followed. If we follow the above-mentioned guidelines given by the Central Council of Indian Medicine while designing Ayurvedic Hospital, Patients can be treated in a more natural environment.   

If you need any support regarding the planning of Hospital, kindly contact Hospaccx Healthcare business consulting Pvt. ltd on   [email protected]  

Related Team Members

Dr. Tarun Katiyar

Pooja Jain Katiyar

Mr. Jobin Joy

Mr Raj K. Ahuja

Mr Mohammad Arshad

Mr Mohammad Afzal

Amarish Padgaonkar

Mr L.N. Gupta

Mr Moloy Chakravarti

Mr Tushar Ratanghayra

Mr. Makarand Kulkarni

Mr Vaibhav Sutar

Mr Kartik Dubey

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Kerala: An Ayurveda retreat in the heart of God’s own country

By Rathina Sankari

I stand with my eyes closed. The wind blows gently, I can hear the calls of the pond, a stream gurgling when a butterfly caresses me. I am at Kairali—The Ayurvedic Healing Village in Palakkad, Kerala. The 50-acres resort with 30 villas is built on the fundamental principles of vastu and harmony amidst a thick foliage of native trees like the coconut, neem, mango and teak far away from the city life. The wellness retreat is set amidst the natural surroundings of a tropical world of flora and fauna and is about 17 km from Palakkad train station and 72 km from Coimbatore airport.

Photo caption: Kairali - The Ayurvedic Village in Kerala has 30 villas and is built on the fundamental principles of vastu

Ayurvedic Retreat, Kerala: Vastu-Inspired Spaces

Guests reside in villas that are assigned to them as per their zodiac signs. Each villa houses the rare valambari conch, which induces positive vibrations in the body. Extensive use of red oxide in the flooring helps create cool interiors. Each villa is unique and designed as per the age-old tradition of vastu. Heavy usage of the locally available laterite stones, red tiled sloping roofs and less usage of cement in the villas, dining area and treatment centres are noticeable. A stream flows through the 50-acre resort with a 15-acre built-up area, thus bringing harmony to the surroundings rich with birds and about 48 species of butterflies.

Photo caption: Inside one of the royal villas in Kairali - The Ayurvedic Village, Kerala

Ayurvedic Retreat, Kerala: Holistic Treatments

The retreat offers guests various Ayurvedic treatments like abhyangam, shirodhara, panchakarma and more after having consulted with the in-house team of experienced Ayurvedic doctors. The treatments focus on weight loss, eye care, bronchial issues, preventive and regenerative treatments, rejuvenation and detoxification, hypertension, arthritis and many other conditions. Daily classes of yoga and meditation help balance and heal the body. My days at the retreat started at 6:30 with an hour's session of yoga followed by breakfast, ayurvedic treatment and lunch. Most evenings I would sit curled up in the veranda of my villa with a book in hand, watching the stream flow and the 48 odd species of butterflies fluttering around. Soon it would be time for pranayam and meditation around sunset.

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Photo caption: Kairali - The Ayurvedic Village, Kerala offers its guests various Ayurvedic treatments like abhyangam, shirodhara, panchakarma and more

Ayurvedic Retreat, Kerala: Healthy Menu

The guests at the retreat are served traditional sattvic food that is vegetarian and prepared with organic fruits and vegetables cultivated in its organic farm. The nutritious food helps bring about a balance in the doshas (vatta, pitta and kapha) of the body. At the restaurant, I would sip umpteen glasses of water boiled with the wonder antioxidant pathimugam or sappan wood with numerous health benefits. My meals comprised light and clear vegetable soups with lentil curry, seasonal vegetable stir fries, phulkas, green gram dosas, finger millet dosas and lip-smacking desserts made with seasonal fruits and palm jaggery. Food was light and wholesome and tasted just like a home-made meal. The caffeine, tea and sugar detox ensured good sleep and better energy levels through the day.

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Case Study Ayurveda Hospital and College,Udaipur

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The Global Phenomenon of Multifaith Worship Spaces

Table of Contents

• Introduction

What is a Multifaith Worship Space?

The rubric of success, case studies.

The Class of 1959 Chapel at the Harvard Business School

Allston, ma, 1992 architect: moshe safdie.

Though this chapel does not completely provide the programmatic robustness necessary for a truly successful multifaith worship space, its stark beauty and use of light provide a serene atmosphere for meditation or personal prayer. The circular plan and movable chairs allow for various prayer orientations and worship types, although the space does not seem to have been intended for this purpose. It lacks a dedicated chaplain and functions more as a site for event rentals and private worship. The nondenominational design still evokes a strong sense of spirituality, with the large prisms under the lightwells refracting light in beautiful ways, often even producing rainbows. The adjacent water garden provides a calming connection to nature while also creating an auditory experience: the sound of running water travels throughout the chapel, enhancing the sacred quality of the space.

The MIT Chapel

Cambridge, ma, 1956 architect: eero saarinen.

Probably the most well-known nondenominational worship space among architects, the MIT Chapel by Eero Saarinen is ultimately a Christian-centric space, with a mode of prayer facing a fixed altar. However, the flexible seating and lack of symbols show early design thinking about multifaith space. The design is unparalleled, with an oculus above the altar and a hanging metal mobile sculpture designed by Harry Bertoia. A moat surrounding the exterior reflects dappled natural light along the curved brick interior walls by way of acrylic panels that span the underside of the brick wall and a low, wooden knee wall. Underneath the chapel is a rotunda with six evenly apportioned storage areas, one for each designated faith, showing how Saarinen understood the need for support spaces for various faith groups.

The Sacred Space at Northeastern University

Boston, ma, 1998 architect: office da.

An excellent and successful example of the Multifaith Chamber model where all faith groups share one common space, this prayer room works because of its flexibility. It is also one of the earliest examples in the U.S. to consider accommodations for Muslim worship. Unlike multifaith worship spaces in airports and hospitals, the Sacred Space at Northeastern University has a robust scheduling calendar for worship and a very active chaplaincy who go in and reset the room after each use. The building features auxiliary spaces for individual Muslim prayer, as worshipers need to be able to come and go throughout the course of the day. This flexibility and control limits tensions around shared use and encourages interaction with the chaplaincy. The Sacred Space is also a great example of how the abstraction of religious symbols need not completely strip a project of all color and character. Too often, chaplains fear that any aesthetic interpretation could lead to claims of religious favoritism, which results in a reaction towards extremely bland spaces. Here, however, neutrality and vibrancy are not mutually exclusive.

The Chapel at the Erich Lindemann Mental Health Center

Boston, ma, 1972 architect: paul rudolph.

Most hospital chapels are unremarkable but, in the hands of Paul Rudolph, the Erich Lindemann Mental Health Center Chapel employs the language of Brutalism, particularly its oculus and the curved, rigid forms, to uplift. While not a true multifaith worship space due to its Christian-centric layout, its design is unparalleled among hospital chapels. Unfortunately, it has been closed for years as a result of deferred maintenance, extensive water damage, budget cuts, unforeseen security requirements, and changes to mental health treatment since the 1970s. Rudolph’s stylistic rigidity is the Chapel’s downfall. The architect had an unprecedented vision to create a highly stylized facility, at its time considered the future of mental health services. However, his use of cast-in-place concrete for everything down to the seating has made it nearly impossible to adapt this building to changing needs. Lacking government investment, the Chapel’s poor accessibility and pending repairs will render it closed for the foreseeable future.

The Brandeis Chapels

Waltham, ma, 1952 architect: max abramovitz.

These three chapels—Catholic, Protestant, and Jewish—organized around a calming lily pond, express a message of multifaith camaraderie through their architectural massing and materiality: each chapel is a variation on a form, just as each  religion ultimately shares a similar message. Here, the interiors share similar layouts, finishes, and furnishings, but each is unique. While a beautiful message, and certainly forward-thinking for 1952, religious demographics on the Brandeis campus have changed dramatically in the past 70 years, and these transformations are not reflected in the layout of the sister chapels. While the Catholic and Jewish chapels are still active, the mainline Protestant demographic on campus has faded and the corresponding chapel remains mostly unused. Furthermore, while the Muslim, Buddhist, and Hindu campus populations have grown, they are not represented on this site. The Muslim prayer room, for instance, is currently located in a converted room in the basement of the student center next to the cafeteria. Although the Abramovitz-designed spaces are beautiful and were certainly ahead of their time in terms of promoting interfaith relations, this example shows the difficulty of creating bespoke chapels that are flexible and can adapt to changing demographics.

The Multifaith Prayer Rooms at Heathrow and Gatwick Airports

Most airport chapels highlight the many challenges of creating multifaith worship spaces. Seen as service amenities, found near the restrooms and breast pumping areas, and most likely allocated the lowest priority of resources, chaplains (when there are any) are forced to work with tiny budgets to create hospitable space for travelers of all faiths. As they struggle to accommodate heavy usage and provide for the immediate needs of travelers, aesthetics often fall to the wayside. Heathrow is a good example of this, as it has dozens of multifaith worship spaces on-site, possibly the largest number of chapels in any airport in the world, both before and after security and also in employee-only areas. However, these are not places to sit in prayer or contemplation; these are places to say your prayers and be on your way, just as one would expect in a busy airport environment. Gatwick, on the other hand, faces the same challenges as Heathrow, but maintains a thoughtful multifaith space whose cozy design is a welcome respite from the stress of flying. It’s unique layout encourages informal interactions as worshipers pass each other to get to their prayer spaces.

The House of Religions

Bern, switzerland, 2014 architect: urbanoffice.

The House of Religions is a community-led project to establish a place for religious dialogue, immigrant services, and community activities, all while providing sanctuaries for immigrant religious communities who do not have their own worship facilities. The building was initially designed with five empty sanctuaries that individual communities lease and outfit to encourage self-sufficiency. Because of this, the sanctuaries are hyper-specific to their respective communities. Currently, the sanctuaries are home to a Sri Lankan Hindu temple, an Ethiopian Coptic church, an Albanian mosque, a Thai Buddhist temple, and an Alevi Dargah. Each sanctuary has a private entrance and a second alternative entrance that opens to the public areas, allowing each faith to maintain its own autonomy within the building. The public areas feature classrooms, community facilities, a daycare center, and a cafeteria that is both kosher and ayurvedic. This unique financial model of renting out sanctuaries to each faith group is an interesting solution to the challenges of building bespoke sanctuaries within the Multifaith Complex model. These sanctuaries are likely to change as the immigrant groups establish themselves enough to build their own, more permanent religious facilities elsewhere, subsequently opening up the sanctuary space for a new immigrant group to join.

Additional examples around the world

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Federation Tower / Tchoban Voss Architekten + SPEECH + SCHWEGER ARCHITEKTEN

• Curated by María Francisca González
• Architects: SCHWEGER ARCHITEKTEN , SPEECH , Tchoban Voss Architekten
• Area Area of this architecture project Area:  442915 m²
• Year Completion year of this architecture project Year:  2017
• Photographs Photographs: Dmitry Chistoprudov
• Manufacturers Brands with products used in this architecture project Manufacturers:   Atlas Schindler , Boon Edam , Cox , GEZE , RDK , Yuanda , thyssenkrupp
• Lead Architects: Peter P. Schweger, Sergei Tchoban
• General Contractor : Renaissance Construction
• Interiors : SPEECH
• Construction Management : Turner Construction
• Project Documentation:  Tchoban Voss Architekten, SPEECH
• Structural Engineering:  Thornton Tomasetti
• Owner/Developer:  ZAO Bashnya Federatsiya
• City:  Moskva
• Country:  Russia
• Did you collaborate on this project?

Text description provided by the architects. Federation Tower is a complex consisting of two skyscrapers – the 63-storey Tower West and the 97-storey Tower East – on lot 13 of the Moscow International Business Centre in Moscow. The two towers stand on the same mixed-use plinth. The most recognizable high-rise landmark in Moscow, Federation Tower has a memorable silhouette in the form of two glass sails which face one another.

The Federation Tower complex ascends to 374 meters (in 2017 the Council on Tall Buildings and Urban Habitat – CTBUH – recognized it as the tallest skyscraper in Europe). The design is based on the concept of the vertical city, which was realized here for the first time in the history of modern Russia. Each of the towers has a combination of office and residential floors, interspersed with sports and entertainment functions. The six-storey plinth likewise has offices and a shopping gallery. There are more public facilities on the upper floors of the both towers: a restaurant, an observation deck and a multifunctional public space for events.

The basis of the foundations of the Federation Tower complex is a massive concrete slab. Both buildings rely for their stability on a mighty concrete core whose walls are 1.4 meters thick at its base, as well as on 25 perimeter columns extending all the way through the towers from the foundations to the top storeys. Each column has a base measuring 2 x 1.4 meters. Every 25-30 storeys there are outrigger storeys made from high-strength steel structures. The façades have been glazed using the very latest glazing systems: the surface of the glass reflects the sun’s rays while preserving the optimum temperature in the building. In terms of density, the glass comes close to the thermal performance of a brick wall. At the time when use of the latter technology began at Federation Tower, it was being used in no other skyscraper in the world.

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Materials and Tags

• Sustainability

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联邦大厦 / Tchoban Voss Architekten + SPEECH + SCHWEGER ARCHITEKTEN

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The spiraling 246m high Evolution Tower is located on plots 2-3 of Moscow-City high-rise business district on Presnenskaya Embankment of Moscow river. New multi-function center occupies the territory of 2.5ha in area, 2ha of which is a landscaped terraced civic plaza, the integral part of the new city piazza, the central open public space of Moscow-City business downtown.

ivic plaza includes 10m high ceremonial stairs (leading from embankment and pedestrian Bagration Bridge to the higher terraced levels) as well as landscaped areas with green lawns, trees, water features, travellators and feature lightboxes.

Evolution Tower

Location: Moscow, Russia

Typology: High-Rise, Office, Mixed-Use

Years: Construction 2011-2014

Status: Built

Height: 246m

Design team: GORPROJECT  (2011-2015), 

RMJM Scotland Ltd 

(original concept 2005-2007)

Under the piazza levels the 2-storey retail mall connects the Evolution Tower with metro station and pedestrian bridge over Moscow river, thus integrating the new development into the large Moscow-City district, the Europe's newest and most ambitious high-rise cluster (7 of 10 highest European skyscrapers ae located here), housing over 4 million square meters of office and retail areas with associated transport and engineering infrastructure.   

The Evolution Gallery mall houses food court and 6,000m2 family entertainment and educational center for various children activities (the first center of that kind in Moscow). 

The 82,000m2 office tower has 52 levels rotated 3 degrees each floor with overall twist reaching 156 degrees clockwise. With world’s largest innovative cold-bent glazing the tower façade provides seamless floating reflection that rotates the panoramas of Moscow skyline vertically, where the reflected clouds moving up enhance the dynamic visual impact of the twisted tower, an unprecedented optical effect in the world architecture.  The Crown with supporting steel structure made of two twisted arches provides the helipad at the very top as well as the open observation roof decks at Levels 51-52 featuring the best panoramas of Moscow riverside with views towards the historical center. 

From the very beginning the developer and architects have set an ambitious task to create a recognizable and symbolic tower, the new icon of contemporary Moscow.  The sculptural DNA-shaped twisting tower symbolizes the evolution spiral with the white façade ribbon wrapping over the roof in a form of 90-degree twisted infinity symbol, which speaks of philosophical concept of evolution and celebrates the development of human civilization. From spiraling onion domes of St. Basil to the iconic Tatlin Tower concept the Russian architecture was obsessed with idea of spiral. The simple and innovative design was based on principles of twisting square-shaped floor plates with vertical structural RC frame supported by a central core and 8 columns with continuous beams and 4 spiraling columns at the corners. 

The proposed structural scheme with cantilevered continuous RC beams and cantilevered floor slabs  picking up the overhangs from the twisted floor plates appeared to be simple, efficient and economical. The complex sculptural tower façade envelope was built using the innovative cold-bent glazing with flat double glazed units cold-formed in 3D within the aluminum frame under its own weight to avoid stepping in geometry. This approach appeared to be both more energy-efficient and more cost-efficient solution in comparison to the stepped curtain wall units previously applied in some twisted unitized facades. 

The multifunctional architectural glass by Guardian significantly reduces the solar gain whilst providing the double glazed unit thermal performance equal to standard triple glazed unit normally used in Moscow to withstand harsh winter conditions. The use of innovative TWIN elevators by ThyssenKrupp saved 2 shafts within the core (10 TWINs instead of 12 double-deckers in the original concept) and contributed to the overall project sustainability with lesser power consumption per passenger. Other sustainable design features include green roofs over the retail mall and integrated coil floor heating under landscaped civic piazza levels using the return water in winter to melt the snow and ice for the safety of pedestrians. The reinforced concrete formwork by PERI, including self-climbing ACS formwork specially designed for the twisting corner columns, allowed to achieve the impressive speed of RC frame construction of 6 days per floor due to perfect site logistics by Renaissance Construction as main contractor. 

All innovative design solutions and optimizations secured the delivery of this fairly unique skyscraper within the project plan and almost within the budget of the standard ‘benchmark’ high-rise building. This turned out to be a major achievement of the design and construction teams. 

The organic twisting silhouette dominates on its background of extruded glass towers greatly contributing into the overall composition of the high-rise Moscow-City cluster. The development delivered a significant open public space on the landscaped roof of the retail mall, thus providing the perfect mix of business uses with public and social activities of the civic plaza and the mall with its food court and core family entertainment function. The synergy of that mix with large underground car-park complemented by the direct link to the metro station and pedestrian bridge as means of main public transportation secured the successful project completion with the recent entire tower acquisition. Bold shape and timeless aesthetics as added values brought by its unique architecture materialized in a commercial success of this project with the tower being fully acquired for corporate headquarters even in the context of oversupply in the Moscow office market. The outstanding quality of architecture and its fine detailing, state of the art building services and communications of Class A office Tower together with the highest level of transport accessibility  (direct access to metro station from the lobby, large car-parking, proximity to boat pier and helipads) make this property very attractive for tenants and visitors. The beautiful riverside panoramas from offices are complemented by green roof and water features of the large 2ha terraced civic piazza as the main recreational outdoor space with direct link from the office tower lobby. 

The highest quality of façade cladding, glazing, vertical transportation and MEP equipment from leading European and international suppliers provided the truly Class-A office environment with the luxury of minimalist spirit in the architecture of the new landmark on the Moscow skyline. Even before its completion the sculptural spiral of Evolution Tower, more often appearing in commercials, posters and magazines, became a new icon for modern Moscow as the symbol of its business ambitions and fast development. The Evolution Tower also became the monument to the courage of its developer (Snegiri Group) and investors, who built the great deal of trust with architects, engineers and contractors by investing their efforts and funds in a challenging adventure of designing and building the unique and innovative skyscraper for the capital of Russia. 

Evolution Reflections

Philipp nikandrov.

Moscow, Russia – Architectural Splendor at the Heart of Eurasia

Moscow, Russia – Most Populated Cities in the World

Moscow, the capital city of Russia, stands as an architectural testament to the country’s rich history and cultural legacy. This article explores the architectural landscape of Moscow, uncovering its unique blend of historical monuments, Soviet-era structures, and contemporary designs that define this vibrant metropolis.

Population Dynamics of Moscow

From medieval roots to megacity.

Moscow, with a population exceeding 12 million, has evolved from its medieval roots into a bustling megacity. The city’s demographic dynamism reflects its historical significance as a political, economic, and cultural center. Moscow’s urban growth presents challenges and opportunities for architects and urban planners, requiring a delicate balance between preservation and modernization.

Architectural Diversity in Moscow

Kremlin, red square, and the modern skyline.

Moscow’s architectural diversity is a harmonious blend of historical landmarks and contemporary structures. The iconic Kremlin, with its cathedrals and palaces, dominates the cityscape, while the neighboring Red Square provides a historical focal point. Beyond the historical core, Moscow’s skyline is adorned with modern skyscrapers like the Moscow International Business Center, symbolizing the city’s economic and architectural evolution.

Sustainable Architecture Initiatives

Green innovations amidst urban density.

As Moscow confronts environmental challenges and urban density, architects have championed sustainable solutions. Green building practices, energy-efficient designs, and eco-friendly materials are integral to Moscow’s architectural discourse. The city’s commitment to sustainability is evident in projects like Zaryadye Park, a green oasis in the heart of the city.

Urban Planning and Zoning Strategies

Preserving heritage amidst modernization.

Moscow’s urban planning endeavors to preserve its historical heritage while accommodating modern developments. The preservation of architectural gems like St. Basil’s Cathedral and the Pushkin Museum coexists with contemporary urban projects such as the Moscow City residential complexes. Urban planners in Moscow face the challenge of balancing the demands of a growing population with the need to protect the city’s cultural legacy.

Resilience in the Face of Urban Challenges

Adaptable architecture for harsh climates.

Moscow’s architectural resilience is tested by the city’s harsh climate and urban challenges. Architects prioritize designs that can withstand extreme temperatures and adapt to the evolving urban landscape. The use of durable materials and innovative construction techniques showcases Moscow’s commitment to architectural adaptability.

Technological Integration in Moscow’s Architecture

Smart city initiatives and futuristic designs.

Moscow’s architectural landscape seamlessly integrates cutting-edge technology for enhanced urban living. Smart city initiatives, digital infrastructure, and futuristic designs like the Moscow Central Diameters (MCD) showcase the city’s commitment to technological innovation. Moscow positions itself as a global hub for modern architectural practices, leveraging technology to improve efficiency and sustainability.

Architectural Icons of Moscow

Kremlin and red square.

The Kremlin and Red Square, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, symbolize Moscow’s historical and political significance. The architectural ensemble, including the iconic St. Basil’s Cathedral and the State Historical Museum, reflects Russia’s cultural and religious heritage.

Moscow International Business Center (Moscow City)

Moscow City, with its futuristic skyscrapers, represents the city’s economic prowess and modern aesthetic. The complex includes iconic structures like the Federation Tower and Mercury City Tower, showcasing Moscow’s status as a global financial and architectural hub.

Moscow’s Future Architectural Landscape

As Moscow continues to evolve, the city’s architectural landscape is poised for further transformation. Urban planners and architects are exploring innovative solutions to accommodate the growing population while preserving the city’s unique identity. Moscow’s commitment to sustainable practices, technological integration, and resilient design will shape its architectural future.

In conclusion, Moscow, Russia, stands as a city where architectural marvels narrate the story of a nation’s history and progress. From medieval fortifications to contemporary skyscrapers, Moscow’s architectural landscape is a testament to its resilience and adaptability. As the city looks toward the future, its architectural canvas promises to be a captivating blend of tradition, modernity, and technological innovation at the heart of Eurasia.

Rethinking The Future (RTF) is a Global Platform for Architecture and Design. RTF through more than 100 countries around the world provides an interactive platform of highest standard acknowledging the projects among creative and influential industry professionals.

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