The topic of my undergrad thesis was "Designing a Chinese Cultural Center in Kolkata, India". There is no Chinese Cultural Center anywhere in India despite a huge Chinese population, especially in Kolkata.
The design concept was based on several Chinese beliefs and theories. The site plan has a central axis, with a symmetrical design about it. In the center of the site lies the temple building, which is also the tallest building on campus. The other buildings decrease in height hierarchically as one moves farther from it.
The design concept was based on several Chinese beliefs and theories. The site plan has a central axis, with a symmetrical design about it. In the center of the site lies the temple building, which is also the tallest building on campus. The other buildings decrease in height hierarchically as one moves farther from it.
The design of the whole complex also follows the yin and yang theory. The forms on one side of the axis are negatively mirrored on the other side, such as a building on one side has an open space of the same size on the other.
There are two main parts to the complex- the entertainment center and the medicine center. The entertainment center has a walkway the shape of two huge dragons to guide the visitors through it. The medicine center's plan is designed like the yin and yang symbol.
Other facilities include a viewing gallery, a restaurant, craft workshops and shops, library and a museum.
I have now converted this thesis into a book called "Designing a Chinese Cultural Center in India". You can buy it on Amazon.com here.
I have now converted this thesis into a book called "Designing a Chinese Cultural Center in India". You can buy it on Amazon.com here.
