The Building of a Modern India
How India forged a modern identity with its architects staying true to the country's ethos and values of an ancient civilisation
Curated By: Madhu Kapparath, Jasodhara Banerjee
High Court and Palace of Justice
Chandigarh
Designed by Swiss-French architect Le Corbusier, the structure is defined by its parasol-like roof and the three giant 60-feet tall columns in bright colours that form the entrance. It has an abbreviated L-shaped plan, with eight law courts and a high court on the ground floor, and offices on the first floor. The long facade of the building that faces the capital plaza contains courtrooms.
The parasol double-roof has an upper roof that is cantilevered out, over the office blocks, providing them shade against the harsh sun, and providing a trough to collect rainwater and transfer it to the reflecting pools. The two layers of the roof provide ventilation by air current movements. The brise-soleil, that deflects sunlight, covers the entire front facade and has narrow vertical spaces with shutters to provide ventilation.
