Rahul Kadri’s blueprint for democracy—designing inclusive public spaces on Republic Day

In the crucible of post-independence India, architectural projects like the Nehru Centre and Auric Hall emerge as powerful reminders of  democratic ideals. Partner and Principal Architect of IMK Architects – Rahul Kadri’s architectural philosophy transforms government spaces from institutional monuments to inclusive public realms, where design serves as a bridge between authority and citizenship.

By integrating cultural heritage, universal accessibility, and adaptive design principles, these projects reimagine public infrastructure as dynamic spaces that reflect India’s constitutional promise of equality and collective identity. As India celebrates its Republic Day, Rahul’s approach reveals how public spaces can be powerful narratives of national identity, read on to find out how:

How does your design approach change when working on government projects versus private commissions, particularly in terms of representing democratic values and accessibility?

We believe in creating spaces that are not only aesthetically compelling and functionally efficient but also universally accessible and compliant with relevant regulations. Our commitment to quality, sustainability, and design integrity is unwavering and stands true irrespective of our client – the government, the public or a private entity. Our design philosophy of people-centric design remains consistent across all projects. Collaboration with stakeholders is integral throughout the entire process—from concept to completion. We strive to balance performance, cost, and durability, ensuring that the design supports users’ immediate needs and long-term sustainability. We focus on designing efficient and enduring environments that enhance the daily experiences of those interacting with them.

What specific design elements do you incorporate to ensure your public buildings are accessible to all citizens, regardless of physical ability or socioeconomic status?

We aim to design socially responsive environments where people can thrive. We prioritise creating public buildings that are accessible and inclusive for all citizens. For example, Auric Hall’s design emphasises universal accessibility, ensuring that all individuals can easily experience the space regardless of ability. We achieved this by incorporating universal design principles, ensuring that people with physical disabilities can easily navigate and use the spaces. This includes ramps with gentle slopes, elevators accessible to all floors, restrooms with appropriate accommodations, proper signage, etc.

The architecture of Auric Hall reflects the historic and cultural essence of Aurangabad. We have carefully incorporated respect for the local history and culture, ensuring that our buildings resonate with the community and reflect the area’s values and heritage. The design features a perforated screen or “jali” facade derived from heritage structures of the vicinity. This screen, made of aluminium, not only adds visual interest but also provides shade and controls airflow, contributing to the building’s energy efficiency. By integrating these cultural and energy-efficient elements, we ensure that the buildings are functional and meaningful—creating spaces that people can connect with on a deeper level. This holistic approach ensures that public buildings are accessible, welcoming, and seamlessly integrated into the broader social and cultural fabric.

Beyond physical accessibility, we strive to create open and welcoming environments for everyone. We utilise design elements such as open floor plans and ample natural light to minimise feelings of isolation and promote a sense of inclusivity. At the core of our approach is a conscious effort to ensure that each building is accessible to all while being both contextual and sustainable.

How do you address the challenge of creating spaces that are both monumental (befitting government institutions) yet welcoming to ordinary citizens? Can you share an example quoting feedback or stories from users of the space?

The Nehru Centre in Mumbai demonstrates how monumental spaces can also serve the needs of all citizens. Designed as a living memorial to India’s first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, the centre blends grand architecture with accessibility. The sloping garden, which acts as the roof of the auditorium, softens the transition between the monumental cylindrical tower and the public realm. It was conceived as a reference to Mughal courtyard traditions and a symbol of India’s agricultural heritage. The three tectonic plates at the base of the tower, these angular forms represent the geological and symbolic tensions inherent in the birth of a new nation, visually articulating the struggle and dynamism that define a transformative moment in history. This gesture enhances the experiential quality of space and invites visitors into a contemplative, open space. Integrating natural elements with the building’s scale ensures the space remains welcoming, allowing citizens to engage with the cultural and historical significance in an approachable setting.

Our design philosophy centres around making buildings adaptable and flexible to meet the diverse needs of the people they serve. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the Nehru Centre showcased its adaptability by being repurposed into an isolation facility with 100 beds for slum dwellers. This shift from a cultural and educational hub to a healthcare facility reflects the building’s flexibility in responding to the needs of people and time.

How do you see the role of architecture evolving in shaping India’s public and urban spaces?

The role of architecture in shaping India’s public and urban spaces is increasingly about creating environments that are deeply interconnected with the broader urban, social, and ecological context. It goes beyond just the physical design of buildings, focusing on how structures interact with their built and natural surroundings. Understanding the intricate relationship between man and the environment is relevant to large-scale master planning and housing projects. Every design decision should be driven by the desire to make spaces truly for the people—whether through interactive public areas, accessible pathways, or community gathering spots. Sustainability should be deeply intertwined with protecting the environment and ensuring spaces remain livable and adaptable for future generations.

In your experience, how has the design of public spaces evolved since India’s independence, and what key lessons have influenced your work?

Since India’s independence, the design of public spaces has evolved dramatically, influenced by the country’s rapid urbanisation, technological advancements, and changing social dynamics. Today, the focus is on creating spaces prioritising accessibility, inclusivity, and social interaction and allowing people to flourish and thrive. One key factor that has shaped our approach to designing public spaces is understanding the importance of community engagement, where local voices shape designs that truly serve their needs. While it’s essential to integrate technology and contemporary design solutions, ensuring that the space resonates with its cultural, social, and environmental context is equally important. We aim to design spaces that empower people, reflect their identity, and support a vibrant, equitable urban life.

Photographs by Mr. Rajesh Vora, IMK Architects and Aaran Patel.