<h5-red>CLIENT:<h5-red> DLF I <h5-red>AREA:<h5-red> 4,52,084SQ FT I <h5-red>STATUS:<h5-red> COMPLETED IN 2022 I <h5-red>TEAM:<h5-red> SIDHARTHA TALWAR, PANKHURI GOEL, ANUSHA BAJPAI, SHOAIB MOHAMMAD KAMLI, LEENU JINDAL, YASHIKA BAGGA, VARUN SACHDEV I <h5-red>PHOTOGRAPHER:<h5-red> AVESH GAUR
Block 12 has been conceptualized as the central hub for DLF Cybercity–Grade A office space in Chennai's most prominent IT SEZ–aiming to create a lively and appealing destination for office-goers and visitors alike. The new development rises from a pre-existing substructure and service grid; the project’s zoning resulted in two large masses—the larger, southern block designated as the office building, and the northern block as an amenity hub.
<rt-red>Visually united through the use of a concrete plinth that serves as an anchor at the ground level, these blocks are further linked by a light and airy Market Street—a boulevard that features casual and intimate seating pockets. Aligned with the axis of the broader master plan, it channels pedestrian movement in a way that fosters sociability and activates the space.<rt-red>
The Office Block showcases varying dark tones of curtain-wall glazing and dramatic filleted corners—the softness of the curved facade and its dark-coloured mass intentionally standing in stark contrast to the sharp white facades of the surrounding IT office buildings. The Amenity Block adopts a contrasting industrial aesthetic with container-box cladding and polycarbonate sheet roofs, with several open terraces breaking up the solid mass.
A social staircase originating in the Market Street visually and spatially connects the street with the mezzanine floor terraces. A large TV screen across from it allows for the staircase to be used as seating for when sporting and cultural events are telecast.
While the external material palette is muted and restrained, internal spaces feature lively pops of colour and patterns and wall art featuring local iconography. In the food court, the industrial aesthetic of concrete and aluminium extends to the wall surfaces, with service ducts and structural elements rendered in vibrant colours.
Through focused design strategies that celebrate the spirit of urban living and provide a seamless user experience, The Hub at DLF Cybercity, Chennai, demonstrates how existing commercial districts can be invigorated through localized interventions, abuzz with activity and life.
