How GPM Architects & Planners Are Shaping Sustainable Urban Spaces

GPM has redefined the architectural landscape in India. Join us as we delve into their visionary approach, collaborative ethos, and legacy of design excellence that continues to shape the built environment for generations to come.

Since its establishment in 1980, GPM Architects & Planners has emerged as a leading architectural and design firm in India, with over four decades of experience. Supported by a dedicated team of more than 175 professionals, the firm offers comprehensive services encompassing architecture, urban development, engineering, and project management. Catering to private and government clients, GPM prioritizes a client￾centric approach, leveraging a deep understanding of local markets and a commitment to design excellence. Director Mitu Mathur elaborates, “Embracing a global perspective, we collaborate with international design firms on large-scale ventures, combining multi-disciplinary expertise and cross-collaborative strategies. This fusion of local insight and global vision allows us to craft distinctive solutions that are contextually relevant, meeting stakeholders’ needs while harmonizing with the surrounding culture and climate.”

Here’s a glimpse of some of their projects:

The Amaryllis – Delhi

The Amaryllis project in Delhi sets a new standard for redevelopment in dense urban areas, focusing on maximizing floor area ratio (FAR) while preserving green spaces. This 46-floor tower, featuring a futuristic curvilinear design and Versace-branded residences, redefines the city skyline. The design integrates a large, vehicle-free lush landscape zone surrounded by high-end high-rise towers, enhancing the community’s social platform and acting as urban lungs in a congested area.

The T-shaped tower formulation provides panoramic views of the urban landscape, while the Sky Garden on the 20th floor offers a recreational space with amenities such as a jogging track, gym, infinity pool, and open restaurants. Designed to GRIHA 4-star standards, the project prioritises quality of life with ample amenities for all age groups. A meticulously designed clubhouse and special safety features, including dedicated fire towers and advanced utility systems, ensure functionality and appeal. Additional facilities include VRV air conditioning, FTTH systems for connectivity, and dual water supply systems.

ICP Sabroom

To commemorate 50 years of diplomatic ties between India and Bangladesh and enhance regional connectivity, the Indian Government has proposed an Integrated Check Post (ICP) linking Sabroom in India to Ramgarh in Bangladesh. This project aims to streamline border crossings for passengers and cargo, alleviate traffic congestion, and boost monitoring capabilities. It provides access to the Chittagong port for Northeastern states, fostering trade and connectivity with global shipping lanes.

Spanning 38 acres, the ICP integrates the site’s dense vegetation and natural undulations into the master plan. Key structures include the Passenger Terminal Building, Inspection cum Warehouse facility, and Cargo building, strategically positioned on flat land. Green spaces atop the main ICP building provide recreational areas and scope for future development. Facilities such as quarantine yards, porter rest areas, and a fire station are included, with provisions for future connectivity to the Sabroom railway station.

Architectural design elements, including crystalline forms and advanced accessibility features, ensure functionality and user comfort. Sustainability is emphasised through renewable energy sources, rainwater harvesting, and retention of existing vegetation. This transformative project is poised to upgrade infrastructure, boost economic activity, and strengthen ties between India and Bangladesh, fostering bilateral cooperation and regional development.

Redevelopment Of Yesvantpur Railway Station – Bengaluru

As India’s primary and most affordable public transport, the Indian Railways caters to 24 million passengers daily. Recognising the need for integrated mass transit systems amid rapid urbanisation, the Indian Government, through the RLDA, is redeveloping the Yesvantpur Junction railway station in Bengaluru. Located in the city’s northwestern part, the project aims to provide world-class facilities while leveraging commercial development potential to minimise costs.

The redevelopment focuses on improving the urban fabric surrounding the station, enhancing accessibility, and boosting marketability. A phased demolition and construction approach ensures uninterrupted railway operations and passenger convenience. New station buildings are planned on both the East and West sides, along with a concourse over the tracks for better connectivity.

Passenger traffic is efficiently segregated, with departure buildings featuring ticketing areas and waiting halls. Enhanced security measures, including metal detectors and baggage scanners, reinforce safety. Modern amenities, strategically located parking areas, and smooth vehicular and pedestrian circulation are prioritised. The redesign also integrates state-of-the-art information and display systems, security, and fire safety measures.

By developing railway stations as multimodal hubs, the project aims to improve urban infrastructure, reduce travel time, and offer maximum comfort to users. The transformation of Yesvantpur into a major junction with airport-like amenities reflects a forward-looking approach to public transport development.

This article has been excerpted from our sister publication ‘Society Interiors & Design’.

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