Creating a stellar atrium lobby (almost three storey high) for an iconic institution like BARC was a challenge we couldn't refuse. The instructions were clear: no major structural changes were allowed and we had to retain the existing 15-feet-long granite reception. Located in in a hilly area in trombay, the atrium came with certain acoustical challenges too. In its new avatar, the atrium streams a steady flow of natural light from its new glass ceiling while the existing granite reception was dramatically morphed into a seating area.
The periphery of the "C" shape floor is covered with acoustical wooden material and grey back painted glass that act as railing. In the reception area of the atrium, wooden flooring and decorative lights results in a striking new ambience with the bust of Dr Homi Bhabha holding the pride of place in the centre. The atrium is designed to help visitor navigate the space with ease with features such as video wall, glass information panel, and specially designed information kiosks. It was an added joy to see the newly-designed atrium being inaugurated by our former president Dr. Abdul Kalam.
