Foster+Partners unveils plans for a new sustainable city in India

Images courtesy of Foster + Partners

Currently, Sir Norman Foster visited Andhra Pradesh to oversee the next stage of design development of the governmental complex and met Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu to discuss details of the project.

Foster's Amaravati complex will be a central focus of the 217km² city, including the design of two key buildings: Legislature Assembly and High Court Complex, along with several secretariat buildings.

"We are delighted to be working with the chief minister and the Government of Andhra Pradesh to help them realise their ideas for the People’s Capital and to build a clear and inspiring vision for the governmental complex at Amaravati," said Norman Foster, founder and executive chairman, Foster+Partners.

Images courtesy of Foster + Partners

"The design brings together our decades-long research into sustainable cities, incorporating the latest technologies that are currently being developed in India," he added.

"The new administrative capital of the Indian state of Andhra Pradesh, Amaravati was born following the redefinition of state boundaries between Andhra Pradesh and the newly created state of Telangana, added the firm.

The new complex is situated on the banks of the River Krishna, and it is strategically positioned to benefit from an abundant supply of fresh water, and will be one of the most sustainable in the world.

Images courtesy of Foster + Partners

Measuring 5.5x1km, the governmental complex occupies the heart of the city, defined by the strong urban grid that structures it. A clearly defined green spine runs through its length, providing the foundation of the masterplan’s environmental strategy, where at least 60% of the area is occupied by greenery or water.

Aiming to follow the highest standards of sustainability, the complex will include the widespread use of solar energy. The plans will also feature a specific transportation strategy, including electric vehicles, water taxis, and dedicated cycle routes, along with shaded streets and squares that will encourage people to walk through the city.

"Travelling south from the river’s edge, there is a mixed-use quarter structured around 13 urban plazas, signifying the 13 state districts in Andhra Pradesh," explained the firm.

The Legislative Assembly building, situated at the centre of the green spine, will be a democratic and cultural symbol for the people of Andhra Pradesh. It sits within a large freshwater lake, and is framed by the secretariat and cultural buildings, while the High Court Complex is located off the central axis, with a stepped roof form inspired by India’s ancient stupas.

Article originally published on World Architecture Community.