Nestled in the historic precincts of Fort Kochi, the Fine Arts Society Building stands as a testament to the architectural heritage of the region.
Restoration and Revitalization: The Fine Arts Society Building
This three-storeyed structure, with its ageing façade and dilapidated interiors, was in dire need of rejuvenation. Enter KJASons®, a renowned name in the realm of construction and renovation, whose dedicated efforts not only breathed new life into this old edifice but also ensured that the project was completed well ahead of schedule.
Structural Reinforcement and Expansion
The first order of business was to reinforce the building’s structural integrity. To accomplish this, KJASons® strategically installed ISMB 200 beams at 3.30-meter intervals along three sides of the building, further bracing them with ISMC 150 & 100 beams on the 1st and 2nd-floor levels.
This meticulous work commenced on February 21, 2014, and was successfully completed on April 20, 2014, a remarkable 2 1/2 months ahead of the agreed-upon completion date.
The steel columns (ISMB 200) were anchored to RCC 1:1.5 3 foundations using 12mm thick MS plates and secured with 20mm diameter bolts and nuts, ensuring a robust foundation for the building’s rejuvenation.
Expansion and Transformation
The front portion of the building underwent a dramatic transformation, with an expansion of 2.1 meters in width and 9.6 meters in length. This expansion was meticulously executed using 150mm and 100mm steel channels as frames, creating a foundation for the new vision of the structure.
The flooring was carefully laid with cement concrete (1:2:4) incorporating 20mm broken stone over 5cm thick Aircon panels. A finishing touch of plaster with CM 1:4, 15mm thick, and a cement flushing coat with Red oxide was applied, ensuring durability and aesthetic appeal.
The existing RCC staircase, once confined to the interior, was removed, and this space was artfully converted into office space on the 1st and 2nd floors, mirroring the design applied to the front side.
A new spiral Mild Steel Staircase emerged as a focal point, featuring a central column constructed with 150mm GI Pipes and framed with 50*50mm Angle Iron. The treads were clad with 3mm thick chequered plates, finished with two coats of black enamel paint and an anti-corrosive metal primer.
Roofing, Ceilings, and Utility Upgrades
The building’s roofing received a contemporary facelift with aluminium powder-coated sheets, complemented by 150mm aluminium gutters and 110mm PVC rainwater pipes.
The interior enhancements extended to the installation of Aerolite sheets on aluminium angles and tees, creating an exquisite false ceiling. To meet modern demands, new water and septic tanks were also installed.
In the realm of utilities, KJASons® adhered to the highest standards, with Cera water supply fittings and Hindware sanitary fittings ensuring functionality and aesthetics.
Aesthetic Flourish
The grand finale came in the form of meticulous painting. The building’s interiors received two coats of interior emulsion over a coat of interior primer, with two coats of wall putty for a polished finish. The exterior walls were adorned with two coats of exterior emulsion over a coat of exterior primer, restoring the building’s visual appeal.
In conclusion, KJASons®’s meticulous work on the Fine Arts Society Building stands as a shining example of their commitment to excellence in restoration and renovation. Their unwavering dedication and expertise have breathed new life into a historical landmark while preserving its architectural heritage.
The Fine Arts Society Building now stands as a testament to the seamless fusion of the old and the new, a rejuvenated masterpiece in the heart of Fort Kochi.
A citation was awarded to us for the completion of the Building in record time and to the entire satisfaction of the Fine Arts Society and the Architect.