The Camac Residential Tower is a proposal for a residential tower located in the heart of Calcutta. The existing heritage structure previously owned by Sir RN Mookerjee, will be renovated. The narrow footprint that is left between the boundaries and the bungalow, results in an elegant and slender volume for the apartment tower. While the parking is placed in a seven floor volume on top of the double height lobby floor, 17 residential floors contain a total of 4 duplexes and 26 apartments.

Flexibility

While generally the availability of high end apartments is limited to standard 3 to 4 bedroom apartments which don’t allow modifications in the layout, the wide diversity of family types and sizes in India would suggest a different requirement. Therefore the structural system is designed such that the supporting columns and walls are only taken on the exterior and the internal walls are flexible. This allows for various permutations and modifications to happen over time and makes the structure more durable. This flexibility is expressed in the façade. Within the continuous column beam framework the deep recessed windows which form semi verandah’s are positioned differently on every floor, generating an abstract irregular pattern on the elevation.

Even though the purist exposed column beam structure responds to the rationality of the surrounding tropical modernist towers, the variety in the verandah and glass elements mark a vibrant city on the move. Topped by a common pool, fitness centre and lounge on the roof, the terrace becomes a place to relax and enjoy the historical panorama of the city.

Residential Tower Under Construction

Panorama of Heritage Manor and Residential Tower

Kolkata Map 1893- Once home of sprawling bungalows for Kolkata’s nouveau riche, the area between Park Street and the esplanade has a diverse mix of seventies office towers and fragments of nineteenth century Kolkata.

Esplanade 1859

While the city densifies. Kolkata’s heritage fades away. Many bungalows fall in disrepair and ultimately give way for commercial high-rises.

The Heritage Manor was built by Sir Rajen Mookherjee, who with his construction company built the famous Hooghly Bridge and the Victoria Memorial, in a typical British Colonial style. It was restored as part of the residential development

Remnant of the days of Ranu Mookerjee

The deep incisions in the façade emphasise its verticality and allow light and ventilation to pass through the center of the floor plans.

Night View

model – view from heritage bungalow

model – view from camac street

Site plan

Ground Floor Plan

Section + Elevations