The Serenity Trust Library & Botanical Garden in Ahmedabad
2009-2011
Located on the outskirts of Ahmedabad and surrounded by nature, this library is made up of a modular structure and serves as a place to teach children about nature.
A WORD OF INTRODUCTION
In response to the landscape drawing Kamal sent me, I'm going to try, through sketches and words, to explain what the original intention of the Serenity project was.
I hope these comments will be taken in the "spirit of exchange" with which I write them, i.e. in an attempt to communicate, and not at all as criticism.
THE ORIGINAL IDEA
Serenity's design is based on three central concepts, which embrace the entire site.
- The first is linked to a potential building plot.
- The second defines four "lines of force" that originate in the patio.
- The third concerns water.
THE TRAME
A hypothetical rectangular grid is superimposed on the site. The intersections of this grid are like a potential forest of columns.
The building's columns "rise" on this grid and, at their "full height", they receive beams that form an open lattice network:
- sometimes they may be absent,
- sometimes they are "open to the sky",
- sometimes they are covered but "open" on the sides,
- sometimes they are both covered and closed, creating interior rooms.
This idea of a "grid" does not mean that it cannot be adapted to specific needs, elements or existing situations.
But, in general, it will be the applicable rule rather than the exception.
We could have chosen a less formal design approach, one in which each decision responds or adapts to a specific site location or function.
Obviously, both approaches are valid: the more formal and the more informal. But they coexist with difficulty.
LINES OF FORCE
Converging or, if you prefer, emerging from the patio, four lines of force exist.
They consist of two axes, longitudinally, linking the entrance parking area to the small lake.
And transversally, in both directions outwards.
These axes are accompanied by paths and water features.
WATER
The "fountain" in the central patio feeds three water channels:
- one towards the lake,
- and two laterally.
Plans by Mr. Kamal Mangaldas
Plans
Landscape plans
Ground plan
Drawings
Site photos
Inauguration information
First design stage
The image shows a critique and an alternative proposal for the Serenity project. Diagram A illustrates a landscape plan considered too busy, with numerous "events" lacking overall coherence. The alternative proposal(B) suggests a more structured approach with four lines of force (north/south and east/west) converging on the patio and central fountain, defining a simple, coherent geometric grid. This grid serves as the basis for a more harmonious and balanced landscape design.
Second design stage
The image develops the idea of lines of force and water in the Serenity project. The main lines converge on a central fountain, from which water channels and paths emerge. A grid is used to structure key spaces, defined by slightly raised paths in brick or stone. These elements aim to create a harmonious and functional organization of the landscape.
Third design stage
The image illustrates a landscape organization where plantings are contained within rectangles defined by a grid. However, plantings can also extend from one rectangle to another, creating visual and organic continuity. Paths and green spaces are structured to guide visitors while incorporating natural elements such as trees. This approach combines geometric structure with natural fluidity.
Video of the library, produced in 2024
Context
This library is located on the northern outskirts of Ahmedabad, surrounded only by nature.
Project
Firdos Cambatta, an entrepreneur whom Bernard Kohn met in India in the 1960s, was a close friend. In 2000, he entrusted the library project to Kamal Mangaldas, but due to financial and land problems, construction remained at a standstill for several years. In 2008-2009, during a visit to Ahmedabad for the Sabarmati Riverside Workshop, Kohn suggested that Mangaldas resume the project. From 2009 to 2011, Kohn designs and develops the project.
Program
Library
Technical Data Sheet
Client: The serenity trust
Surface: 2500 m²
Design: 2009
Delivery: 2011
Architect: Bernard Kohn and Kamal Mangaldas
Engineer: Devendra Shah
Site manager: Devesh S.AMIN
Donor: Yasmin and Fridos Cambatta
