Forum Rex Walk – Brigade Road, Bengaluru

Forum Rex Walk stands as a testament to the harmonious blend of heritage and contemporary design. Located on Brigade Road, one of Bengaluru’s most iconic streets, it seamlessly integrates a new architectural narrative with the existing legacy of the Rex Theatre, a popular cultural landmark that has been part of the city’s fabric for over seven decades.

The design concept revolves around creating a space that fosters diversity, inclusivity, and a sense of community by establishing pockets of happiness. The project features two new buildings while retaining the original structure of the iconic Nilgiris store. These structures are connected by bridges. The core design philosophy centres around an innovative street walk, which forms the spine of the development. This pathway cuts through the volume of the building, establishing an interactive connection between users and the built form. It is excluded from the enveloped extents, creating naturally ventilated and well-lit areas that save energy otherwise used for illumination and air-conditioning. The walkway, designed in a zigzag form, incorporates mirrors to guide pedestrians and create a sense of movement, drawing them in from both Brigade Road and Resthouse Road. This pathway is further enhanced with alfresco seating, which extends the indoor environment into the open air, making the space feel larger and more fluid. The minimal and rustic design approach avoids the typical, often tacky, retail aesthetics.

The façade of Forum Rex Walk is a strategic fusion of materials and form, designed to ensure a cohesive visual identity that seamlessly integrates the new structures with the retained heritage structure of the Nilgiris store.

Key Materials Used In The Façade Include:

• StyroNext (EPS material): Lightweight, durable, and malleable, StyroNext was used for molding and white brickwork. Its quick installation, ease of maintenance, and energy efficiency made it ideal for the project.
• Concrete Finish Paint: Durable and weather-resistant, this finish provides a robust surface while maintaining aesthetic cohesion.
• Granite Cladding: The use of granite enhances the building’s texture and durability, grounding the modern design with a timeless material.
• Custom Bricks: The client’s preference for a unique brick design was fulfilled with a set of four bricks mounted on T-strips attached to vertical panels sourced from China.
• Top-Hung Jumbo Glass Panels: Imported from China, these large glass panels provide a seamless, transparent look, enhancing natural light flow.

Fenestration plays a key role in breaking the façade’s monotony and ensuring natural light and ventilation. The corridors have punched openings with chajjas for natural ventilation and protection from rain and sun. On the upper floors, the openings are glazed. The design prioritises the use of natural elements such as light and air, creating a comfortable environment for users while minimising reliance on artificial energy sources.

Forum Rex Walk is a prime example of how thoughtful architectural design can preserve the essence of a city’s history while simultaneously introducing modern and inclusive spaces. The façade, with its strategic use of materials and fenestration, enhances the building’s visual appeal and efficiency.