Aurora: The North Star of East Bangalore

Project Specifications:
Service
Architecture
Sector
Office
Location
Bangalore, India
Area
Site Area: 0.4 Ha
Total GFA: 62.225 m2
Client
Bagmane Group
Project Status
Detail Design
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Team

Ricard Gonzalvo
Gonzalo Costa
Sean Feng
Weng Shern Poon
Ian Khoo
Mel Alog
Paul Queblatin
Pier Paulo

Aurora is a recognisable landmark in Bagmane’s growing business district. It aims to be more than just a commercial address.

As a key entrance point of Bangalore Bagmane’s Cosmos techpark masterplan, it is envisioned as the North Star of East. A visually striking icon that is strong, purposeful, and unmistakable in presence. The project rises as a sculptural “crown jewel,” sparkling above Kaggadasapura Lake, redefining the skyline with clarity and intent.

Sculpting the Jewel

Aurora - day view from main road

Aurora’s architectural identity is rooted in a disciplined yet expressive massing strategy. The process began by maximising the site’s footprint to achieve efficient floor plates and integrated parking. From this rational base, the volume was carefully fragmented into smaller articulated components, faced like a gemstone.

These “jewels” are then carved and cantilevered from the primary mass, generating depth, shadow, and drama. The final form is neither monolithic nor arbitrary. It is a calibrated composition of interlocking volumes that create a dynamic silhouette while maintaining structural and spatial efficiency.

The façade continues this narrative.

Inspired by celestial geometry, Aurora’s skin is shaped like a constellation. Modular yet distinct, luminous yet controlled. The building announces itself as a “star arrival,” where architectural rhythm and light interplay create a refined but memorable identity.

Orienting Towards the Lake

Aurora - view from the lake

One of the client’s aspirations was to position the primary drop-off facing Kaggadasapura Lake. Rather than treating this as a simple frontage decision, we transformed it into a defining architectural gesture.

The eastern drop-off becomes a ceremonial arrival sequence. A moment of pause framed by open views and reflective water. The building addresses the lake with confidence, allowing the natural context to elevate the entry experience.

This strategic orientation also strengthens Aurora’s role as a visual anchor within the district, turning it outward towards its most powerful edge condition.

Placemaking as Performance

Aurora is an activated workplace ecosystem.

The ground floor establishes a porous and vibrant public realm. Retail frontages, F&B outlets, a food court, and the main lobby converge to form a dynamic interface between building and city. The architecture encourages movement, gathering, and interaction – transforming the base into an urban living room rather than a transitional threshold.

Above, the mezzanine level extends this vitality through lifestyle programming, integrating a yoga studio and gym that reinforces a balanced work culture. At rooftop level, a sports terrace with a padel court introduces recreation into the skyline, dissolving traditional boundaries between productivity and leisure.

Each layer of the building contributes to a vertically stacked community. Structured yet fluid, efficient yet experiential.

Designing for the Human Spectrum

Aurora’s spatial planning is underpinned by a human-centric philosophy.

By leveraging smart data to understand behavioural patterns and workplace dynamics, the design addresses a full spectrum of needs — focus, collaboration, retreat, and social exchange.

Biophilic strategies soften the architecture, introducing natural elements that enhance comfort and psychological well-being. The interplay of light, open views, and layered public spaces creates a creative environment where innovation and relaxation coexist.

The result is a workplace that simply accommodates business.

Aurora axo gif