ISKCON Temple
Client : ISKCON
Status : In progress
Size : 5,00000 sq.ft
Location : ECR, Chennai
Description :
The temple bears much importance in the society, so the design had to have significance and personality against its surroundings. Amer&Ani architects was sure to make a statement with the powerful expression and unique form of the ISKCON.
Concept of the temple derived from, Sudarshana Chakra in the hand of lord Krishna , which is used for the ultimate destruction of an enemy. The depiction of Vishnu with Sudarshana Chakra also means that Vishnu is the keeper-owner of the celestial bodies and heavens.
Based on the abstract form of sudharsana chakra, entire site was mapped with abstract form of chakra; all the lines converge in the centre of the temple tower. Around the temple we highlighted five paths to experience five elements of nature.
Experience of Earth and sky
First approach of visitors are struck with the view of elevated green and tower raises from it, one can experience earth and sky.
Experience of Wind
Access to the sanctuary is not immediate: once again, basic geometrical elements oblige the visitor to take a route which wide opens and narrows down by the refined blank wall of concrete, creates funnel effect to experience wind.
Experience of Heat
The approach towards the design is towards a more journey process in the temple. The strategy of gradual climax and suspense begins; one arrives after free standing concrete wall with a doorway cut through and suddenly opens up to the large open air theatre and centrally located temple in the water body. Temple tower will be reached through Open space by experiencing Heat of the sun. This is the first introduction to the temple.
Experience of Water
Five pedestals forms the temple tower each pedestals represents five elements of nature, the twist temples tower raises from the centrally located water body which symbolize the lotus flower emerging from the water body. Everyone will experience water touching their feet before reaching temple .Entire design is worked out through the unexpected admission of light, However, the spirit of the building being a temple is very much attached with its mysterious journeys and the interiors as well.
