Punjab State Council for Science & Technology

The Council as set up by the State Government had a threefold purpose — to generate an awareness of science and technology; offer consultancy in scientific projects; and compile data on ongoing scientific work in the State. The offices, located on two floors, would be used primarily by scientists and a supporting secretarial staff. As visualized by the designer such a work space should express the unstratified openness of an ideal academic environment — serene, yet appreciative of debate and discussion.

The clients had no specific image in mind. The only physical constraint was Chandigarh's rigid planning module of 5.2m — 0.9m, with exposed columns and very limited light source determined by the facade controls and linear development requiring common walls. The open office plan thus emerged quite naturally from the unified space. The effort was to maintain the status quo without delineating a clearly defined hierarchy. This was achieved by the use of different modules and their strategic locations for different levels of staff.

There are 3 types of work stations woven into clusters. Top executives, and directors, are paired in a cluster of two work stations with enough room for current filing, a personal computer, p. —up surface and personal stationery. Scientists are seated in clusters of three, designed around the pillars. Support staff of personal assistants and stenographers are organized in two clusters of four work stations and located centrally for convenient interaction. For discussions, meetings and brain-storming sessions there are special spaces in the form of coffee lounges and mini-conference rooms.