The design proposal looks at highlighting the environment that the architecture is nested in, rather than creating architecture that overpowers the surroundings. The project site is located in Lutyens Delhi, at the epicenter of the capital of India. The genesis of the architecture of Lutyens Delhi is based on Indo-Saracenic architecture, this was an amalgamation of traditional Indian architecture along with contemporary architectural styles.

The same theme of amalgamating the past and present to create the future, has been embedded in the design proposal. Traditional Indian architectural elements, such as a “veranda” (Outdoor semi covered space) and “courtyard” have been integrated with the Hexagon (the defining element of Lutyens Delhi Master planning), to create contemporary spaces.

As an evolutionary process the design integrates, program requirements along with site opportunities. The design takes its inspiration from the immediate planning of Lutyens Delhi. Hexagon is a prominent architectural element that is embodied in the planning of Lutyens Delhi. A hexagonal component has been taken as the generative module for the design that adapts and morphs based on the requirement of the space. The grandeur of the surrounding landmark buildings is inculcated in the design in terms of material and height. A delicate relationship between nature, urban context, traditional Indian architecture and engaging the visitors has been instilled in the design.

Green breathing courtyards have been provided in the proposal at various moments in the design. Polluted and recirculation air passes through these green courtyards and is enriched with oxygen and cleaned by plants. These green lungs of the design also provide a visual break and brings nature within the built.

The traditional veranda has been transformed into the urban outdoor lobby for the people of the city, where the exhibits and the visitors create an interactive space. Designed as a floating cantilever with a perforated pattern, the roof of the building extends out and creates a shaded urban plaza to protect the visitors from the harsh climatic conditions of Delhi and acts as a pleasant urban space and a point of interaction.

Shallow water bodies are provided in the space that facilitate evaporative cooling and maintain an ambient temperature in this outdoor space.

The existing trees on the site, have been taken into account during the design process. The outline of the design volume and the placement of courtyards have been done, to ensure that we can retain the maximum amount of trees on site, and rest of trees with be grafted on a different location of site.

Materials have been proposed for the design that would attain a patina over time. The building should age gracefully over time and embed in the surroundings. Red sand stone, concrete and glass are the materials that articulate the architecture.

The component used for the roof adapts in response to the space ensuring best use of natural light. In gallery spaces skylights facing north have been provided to get diffused light into the gallery spaces and at the same time providing an inclined surface facing south for photovoltaic panels. Net Zero was a key element for the design proposal as an environmentally friendly building which also showcases the sensitivity of the museum to the society.