Spread across 110,220 sq ft in Rajkot, Gujarat, Aarya Club is an architectural marvel designed by Ishwar Gehi Architect. Conceptualised in an ‘L’ shape, the club features seven multi-level pyramids composed of glass and steel, creating an iconic structure that blends modern engineering with timeless design philosophies. The project embodies the architect’s deep-rooted emotions and inspiration from India’s traditional living concepts, seamlessly integrating spiritual and psychological elements into its design.
Design Philosophy
The pyramidal design was chosen for its universal symbolism of harmony and integration, seen across various ancient civilisations, including the Egyptians, Hindus, and Mayans. Each pyramid in the Aarya Club is assigned a unique function, making the structure both aesthetically striking and functionally efficient.
The architect describes the project as an emotional journey inspired by his travels through the villages of western and northern India. His vision was to create a space that resonates with the principles of traditional Indian architecture while embracing futuristic elements.
Fabricator Hashmukhbhai Kargathra of Radius Technologies reflects on the challenges and intricacies involved in bringing this vision to life, navigating the complexities of design and execution.
Structural & Design Details
The design follows a modular pyramidal geometry, ensuring symmetry and uniformity. Originally planned with 13 pyramids, the final outcome includes seven pyramids at various levels. The structure, overseen by structural engineer Manish Doshi from Rajkot, is entirely composed of equilateral triangles, maintaining a consistent 60o angle. Identically sized glass panels facilitate seamless installation without requiring customisation.
Fabrication & Construction Challenges
To support the modular design, structural pipes were made of 300 grade steel instead of the conventional 240 grade. Joints were created using investment casting, a high-precision manufacturing technique, while concealed mechanical joints with nut and bolt connections ensured a seamless aesthetic. A fully modular fabrication approach was adopted, eliminating the need for welding. The entire structure was manually assembled without cranes, relying initially on temporary supports that became redundant once the structure became self-sustaining.
Manufacturing & Execution
Mechanical engineering principles were integrated to ensure zero distortion or deflection under tension and compression. High-dimensional accuracy was maintained through investment-cast joints. Structural pipes measuring 132 x 132 x 6 mm were procured from Tata Steel via Devam Enterprises, Gujarat. Investment-cast steel joints were initially highly priced, while high-strength bolts were sourced from Unbrako, India.
Human Harmony
Aarya Club incorporates sustainable design elements to reduce its environmental impact. Several sections, including corridors and select pyramidal spaces, have been left open to allow natural ventilation, eliminating the need for artificial cooling systems. Game zones and cafeterias feature large openings that merge indoor spaces with the surrounding landscapes and swimming pools.
The club also features expansive open spaces and recreational zones, including vast terraces and partition-free corridors. One of the pyramids, located centrally, serves as an ultra-luxury honeymoon suite, further enhancing the uniqueness of the project.
Quote
“Bringing the Aarya Club to life was a journey of precision and perseverance. The challenge lay in transforming a bold architectural vision into a structurally sound reality, without welding, using only modular mechanical joints. Every element had to align with absolute accuracy, and assembling it manually without cranes added another layer of complexity. Yet, overcoming these challenges made the final structure even more rewarding.”
– Hassu Gajjar, Radius Technologies
Fact File
Project: Aarya Club, Gujarat
Client: Aaryaraj club and resorts LLP
Architect: Ishwar Gehi Architect,
Structural Consultant: Manish Doshi
Fabricator: Radius Technologies
Tonnage: 126 tonnes
