The assembly hall of Indore Nagar Parishad demonstrates how natural materials can create a stunning and functional space for modern governance. Clad in Western hemlock, the hall in the city’s civic administrative building is both visually impressive and environmentally conscious.

Its new design illustrates a thoughtful approach to modern civic interior design using Western hemlock – blending aesthetics, functionality and environmental consciousness.

The assembly hall serves as a central hub for local governance activities, where elected officials convene to discuss critical issues such as water and electricity management, infrastructure planning and community development.

The design prioritises functionality, ensuring a space that addresses the local government meeting needs while also using wood as the featured design element.

Biophilic design

Recognising the various benefits of wood and its aesthetic appeal, architect Puneet Pandey of VIMA sought a material that could contribute to the intended atmosphere of the space, particularly by incorporating natural elements to reduce stress and improve cognitive performance through biophilic design principles.

The hall needed to be more than just a meeting space; it needed to be aesthetically appealing and contribute to the overall environment, maintaining the sanctity of its purpose.

Having established a prior relationship with Forestry Innovation Consulting India (FII) – better known as Canadian Wood – through trade events and educational seminars, the architect sought the expertise of the FII India team to assist with material selection and project implementation.

Through collaborative efforts, including technical consultations, site visits, and detailed discussions, Western hemlock was identified as the ideal material for the project and was readily available through a local importer/ distributor Jagat Décor.

Western hemlock’s light weight, strength and durability allow for easy handling and long-lasting structural integrity. The wood’s aesthetic appeal, with its uniform grain and warm tone, adds a touch of sophistication expected in a civic hall.

Model architecture

The civic assembly hall serves as a model for civic architecture while showing the versatility of wood from British Columbia, Canada.

The hall is used on a regular basis by state officials, party leaders, and members of the Madhya Pradesh Legislative Assembly for government meetings, discussions and strategic planning. It also serves as a key venue during major elections in Indore city and the state.

This high-profile usage space provides significant exposure for Western hemlock, demonstrating its suitability for high-traffic, high-visibility public buildings to a broad audience within the state and potentially attracting interest from other regions.

Canadian Wood is a crown corporation of the government of British Columbia, the western-most province of Canada. Its mandate is to promote wood products from that province in the offshore markets and to position it as a global supplier of quality, environmentally responsible wood products from sustainably managed forests.

Canadian Wood also spreads awareness and education through information and technical support on the wide variety of timber products available from British Columbia. To learn more about Canadian Wood and its services, visit: www.canadianwood.in.

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