Habib Rahman
-Shivam Bisen | 22AR10028
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University Grants Commission (UGC) Building, New Delhi
Project Name: University Grants Commission (UGC) Building
Year Completed: 1974
Location: New Delhi, India
Period: Post-Independence Modernism
Principal Architect: Habib Rahman
Project Aim:
Provide dedicated office space for the University Grants Commission (UGC).
Create a central hub for efficient and modern administrative functions.
Concept & Ideological Inspiration:
Bauhaus Ideology:
source:Jon Lang, 1997. Architecture and Independence: The Search for Identity - India 1880 to
Habib Rahman's design reflects Bauhaus principles of simplicity,
1980.1 Edition. Oxford University Press, USA.
functionality, and rational use of space, evident in the clean, "box-like"
structure.
Modernist Functionalism:
Designed for pure functionality, with a rational and efficient layout optimized
for its intended use.
Adaptability & Future-Proofing:
Designed for future adaptability, allowing integration of modern amenities
(like air conditioning) despite initial budget constraints.
Site-Responsive Design:
The two-block structure efficiently utilizes the available plot and spatial
constraints.
Structure: R.C.C. framed structure for strength and a linear,
geometric grid design.
Layout: Divided into two blocks to maximize site use and source:https://sukanyarahman.com/2011/12/11/habib-rahman-remembered-in-history-of-delhi-
architecture/
create dynamic interplay.
Columns: Integrated "ribs" or free-standing supports with
semi-circular ends for a slender appearance.
Ground Floor: Projected slabs and void spaces create a
"floating" effect.
Interior: Open floor plans for flexibility, central service cores for
elevators, staircases, and utilities.
Zoning: Rational zoning based on specific use.
Design Philosophy: Minimal ornamentation, focus on modern
aesthetics and economic viability.
source:https://www.ugc.gov.in/Content/images/KeyInitiatives/KeyInitiatives.jpg
Façade Articulation:
The building's facade incorporates:
Horizontal chajjas
source:https://caravanmagazine.in/lede/modern-or-modernist
Vertical louvers
These elements create a protective skin that defines its aesthetics and
functional role.
The interplay of solid mass and open void enhances the building's
aesthetic appeal and thermal performance.
The horizontal chajjas and vertical louvers act as sunshades,
minimizing sun exposure and reducing cooling loads.
The facade treatment is inspired by the design language of Oscar
Niemeyer while adapting to local climatic conditions.
Dak Tar Bhavan
Project Name: Dak Tar Bhavan (Post & Telegraph Office Building)
Year Completed: 1955
Location: Bangalore, India
Period: Early Post-Independence Modernism
Principal Architect: Habib ur Rahman
Project Purpose & Context:
The Dak Bhawan, built in 1954, was designed to house the General Post
Office (GPO) and the Posts and Telegraphs Directorate. It was a crucial
public service building in post-independence New Delhi, symbolizing the
government's push for modern administrative services.
Key Functional and Spatial Features:
Public Lobby & Service Zone: The main lobby is the public post office
area, with a curved counter as the focal point for customer service.
Dynamic Relationship with the Urban Context: The façade mirrors the
curve of the surrounding roundabout, integrating the building into the
urban landscape.
Inner Courtyard Design: A central open courtyard provides natural light and
ventilation to all offices, enhancing comfort and openness.
source:https://encrypted-tbn0.gstatic.com/images?
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Plan & Spatial Organization:
Functional Zoning
1. Public lobby with curved service counter for efficient interaction
2. Admin offices around central courtyard for natural light & ventilation
Central Courtyard
Core of the building ensuring daylight and airflow to interior spaces
Architectural & Structural Features
1. Curved façade blends with urban roundabout
source:https://encrypted-tbn0.gstatic.com/images?
2. R.C.C. frame with linear grid ensures stability q=tbn:ANd9GcSCCDVCq7j7pImtV6WzjqXyoRbdf-kBuQPeQw&s
3. Exposed ribbed columns enhance modernist form
Climatic & Future Adaptations
1. Integrated sun-shading and passive ventilation
2. Designed for long-term adaptability
source:https://architexturez.net/data/styles/large/public/media/dak-tar-1.png?itok=RuPnBGXE
Maulana Azad Memorial
Project Name: Maulana Azad Memorial
Year Completed: 1959
Location: Mehrauli, New Delhi, India
Period: Post-Independence Modernism
Principal Architect: Habib Rahman
Location & Context
Setting
Located in Old Delhi, near key landmarks: Jama Masjid, Chandni Chowk, Red
Fort, and Yamuna River
Cultural Significance
Honors Maulana Azad, India’s first Education Minister
Site reflects a bridge between historical legacy and modern aspirations
source:https://encrypted-tbn0.gstatic.com/images?
Design Concept & Inspiration q=tbn:ANd9GcSTscmFXsBfcAKwc8Dyfsn0dw8-gAJQMVwIAA&s
Enclosed Garden
Memorial set in a 67m x 67m walled garden for reflection and serenity
Modernism Meets Tradition
Blends simplicity of modernist design with Islamic elements
Inspired by arches of Jama Masjid, linking past and present
Architectural Features
Chhatri Structure
Delicate, cross-vaulted white canopy over the grave
Thin walls (7.5 cm) evoke lightness and elegance
Support System
Four slender L-shaped columns
Structural stability with minimal visual weight
Material & Craftsmanship
White cement + crushed marble blend
Hand-polished for soft, luminous finish
Echoes Mughal masonry traditions
Symbolism & Context
Arches inspired by Jama Masjid – linking past and present
Modernist minimalism: clean lines, uncluttered space
source:https://encrypted-tbn0.gstatic.com/images?
q=tbn:ANd9GcTHCDNYh_alkFGCnW6mA4z4z64uLOqWkDR_aA&s
source:https://encrypted-tbn0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcQuHzfFmk5WSuC4JTXrVPhrWyziT78Rg2uNZw&s
Vikas Minar Project Name: Maulana Azad Vikas Minar
Year Completed: 1976
Location: ITO, New Delhi, India
Period: Post-Independence Modernism
Principal Architect: Habib Rahman
Name & Function
• Vikas Minar ("Tower of Progress")
◦ 23-storey office tower
◦ Houses Delhi Development Authority offices
Historical Context
• Built in 1976
◦ First Delhi building to surpass Qutb Minar
Architectural Vision
• Designed by Habib Rahman
◦ Modernist icon of post-independence progress
◦ Vertical, grid-like structure symbolizes growth
Conceptual & Cultural Significance
• Symbol of Progress
◦ Among Delhi’s earliest high-rises
◦ Represents urban transformation
• Modernist Ideals
◦ Emphasizes functionality and geometric clarity
• Urban Integration
◦ Key landmark in Delhi’s evolving skyline
references
University Grants Commission (UGC) Building, New Delhi
1. Singh, R. (2019, November 12). University Grants Commission Building: A Modernist Icon.
Architectural Digest India. Link
2. Verma, P. (2021, March 05). University Grants Commission Building: Evolution of Public
Architecture in New Delhi. ArchDaily. Link
3. Wikipedia contributors. (2024, April 15). University Grants Commission Building. Wikipedia. Link
Maulana Azad Memorial
1. Kumar, V. (2020, August 10). Maulana Azad Memorial: Preserving a Vision. Heritage and
Culture Journal. Link
2. Sharma, A. (2021, February 20). The Legacy of Maulana Azad in New Delhi: An
Architectural Insight. Cultural Architecture Review. Link
3. Wikipedia contributors. (2024, April 15). Maulana Azad Memorial. Wikipedia. Link
references
Vikas Minar
1. Jain, S. (2021, June 15). Vikas Minar: The Tower of Progress in Delhi. Urban Design Review.
https://www.urbandesignreview.com/vikas-minar
2. Singh, A. (2019, March 10). Vikas Minar: Redefining the Skyline of New Delhi. Modern
Architecture Today. https://www.modernarchitecturetoday.com/vikas-minar
3. Wikipedia contributors. (2024, April 15). Vikas Minar. Wikipedia.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vikas_Minar
Dak Bhawan
1. Reddy, P. (2018, January 20). Dak Bhawan: Institutional Architecture in New Delhi.
Design Perspective. https://www.designperspective.com/dak-bhawan
2. Kumar, V. (2022, October 8). Dak Bhawan: An Icon of Government Architecture.
Government Architecture Review. https://www.govarchreview.com/dak-bhawan
3. Wikipedia contributors. (2024, April 15). Dak Bhawan. Wikipedia.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dak_Bhawan
Thank You
