Studio Lotus' design of the new party HQ for Biju Janata Dal pays homage to Odisha's vibrant history and culture
Studio Lotus designed the new Biju Janata Dal (BJD) headquarters in Bhubaneswar, drawing inspiration from Odisha’s rich heritage and culture to reflect the party’s values of inclusivity, regionalism, and civic pride. The design honors the state’s history while promoting a connection to the people. Instead of the original five-storey brief, the studio proposed a three-storey building to maintain the connection with the street and minimize redundant construction. The ground floor is elevated, creating a plinth for public functions and community events. This design fosters transparency by visually connecting with passersby, integrating public and private spaces. It also houses a cafeteria, library, and a 360° audio-visual gallery. A double-height auditorium on the upper floors hosts official events and local cultural performances, highlighting Odisha’s traditions. The upper levels feature open-plan offices designed for collaboration, with the first floor dedicated to workspaces and the second to leadership cabins and video conference rooms. Ribbon windows provide expansive views of the landscape. The interior palette incorporates terracotta tiles, exposed concrete, and local stone like Odisha grey granite and khondalite, reflecting the regional context. The façade, designed with Siddhartha Das Studio, features sculptural reliefs in laterite and terracotta, inspired by handloom weaving patterns, agrarian customs, and indigenous art. These materials promote natural ventilation and thermal comfort. The design also engages local crafts, including Dhokra-inspired metalwork and sculpted khondalite benches. Sustainability is central, with measures like passive climate-responsive design, rainwater harvesting, and provisions for solar panels. This headquarters challenges the conventional government building, promoting inclusivity, transparency, and the well-being of the people through its thoughtful integration with local crafts and the surrounding environment.
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