Gandhi Smarak Sangrahalaya (1958–1963)

Location: Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India

The Gandhi Smarak Sangrahalaya, or Gandhi Memorial Museum, is one of Correa’s early and most significant works. Located within the Sabarmati Ashram where Mahatma Gandhi lived, the museum serves as a tribute to Gandhi’s life and philosophy.

Concept and Inspiration
Correa was inspired by Gandhi’s principles of simplicity, truth, and harmony with nature. He aimed to create a space that reflected these values, providing a serene environment for contemplation and learning. The museum’s design was intended to blend seamlessly with the ashram’s existing structures and natural surroundings.

Design Approach
The museum is organized around a grid of modular units measuring 6 meters by 6 meters, creating a series of interconnected pavilions and courtyards. This modularity allows for flexibility and expansion while maintaining coherence in the overall design.

Open courtyards and covered walkways facilitate natural ventilation and daylight, reducing the need for artificial lighting and cooling. The use of local materials such as brick and wood not only reduces costs but also ensures that the building ages gracefully within its context.

The architecture is understated, reflecting Gandhi’s emphasis on simplicity. The spaces are designed to encourage introspection, with minimal ornamentation and a focus on spatial quality.

Outcomes
The Gandhi Smarak Sangrahalaya is celebrated for its sensitive approach to site and context. It embodies Correa’s philosophy of creating architecture that is rooted in place, culture, and climate. The museum has become an iconic example of modern Indian architecture that respects tradition while embracing innovation.

Kanchanjunga Apartments (1970–1983)
Location: Mumbai, Maharashtra, India

The Kanchanjunga Apartments in Mumbai represent Correa’s exploration of high-rise residential design in a tropical context. This 32-story building stands as a testament to his ability to adapt traditional living concepts to modern urban environments.

Concept and Inspiration
Correa was inspired by the traditional Indian bungalow and sought to translate its spatial qualities into a vertical form suitable for the densely populated city of Mumbai. He aimed to provide residents with the amenities of a standalone house within a high-rise structure.

Design Approach
The apartments feature large, double-height terraces that are strategically recessed into the building’s façade. These terraces act as extensions of the living spaces, providing outdoor areas that are protected from the elements and offer panoramic views of the city.

The interlocking arrangement of duplex apartments creates varied interior spaces and allows for cross-ventilation, essential in Mumbai’s humid climate. The design minimizes exposure to direct sunlight while maximizing natural light and airflow.

Structural innovation was also a key aspect of the project. Correa employed a shear wall system that provides structural stability while allowing for open floor plans free of interior columns.

Outcomes
The Kanchanjunga Apartments are recognized as a landmark in residential architecture. They demonstrate how high-density living can be achieved without sacrificing comfort, privacy, or connection to the outdoors. The building’s design has influenced subsequent high-rise developments in tropical regions, showcasing the potential of integrating climatic considerations into modern architecture.