--- title: "Commercial and Institutional Architecture in Bengaluru and Chennai" description: "Expert commercial and institutional architecture by BETWEENLINES. We specialize in retail facades, school renovations, and office design across Bengaluru and Chennai." canonical: https://mytribe.in/b.e.t.w.e.e.n.l.i.n.e.s/architectural-design/commercial-institutional-spaces last_updated: 2025-12-29 --- # Commercial and Institutional Architectural Design Tribe Verified · Architecting commercial spaces across South India. By [Betweenlines](https://mytribe.in/b.e.t.w.e.e.n.l.i.n.e.s) · Visit Studio in BTM Layout; Projects across Karnataka & Tamil Nadu · ₹225 per sq. ft. (estimate) Part of [Architectural Design](https://mytribe.in/b.e.t.w.e.e.n.l.i.n.e.s/architectural-design). [View full gallery](https://mytribe.in/b.e.t.w.e.e.n.l.i.n.e.s/architectural-design/gallery) We transform commercial and institutional spaces into communicative environments, blending brand identity with functional, context-driven architecture. ## Photos and videos - ![The completed facade of the Nalli flagship store in Anna Nagar, Chennai. The design features deep, ship-hulk-like overhangs that provide shade, create a dynamic visual, and nod to the Art Deco style of the original Nalli store.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/fd522fdf-7271-4449-8cf5-50a4f477139e) - [Video: An aerial video of the Nalli store at dusk, showing how the building acts as a glowing beacon in the busy Anna Nagar junction. The design leverages its prominent location to create a powerful statement for the brand.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/9c3ac005-a8cb-460a-8d96-70b405d20a6c) - [Video: An interior walkthrough of the Nalli store. The design is modern yet classic, bridging intergenerational memories of the brand with a highly functional and easily navigable retail experience.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/d9b8b15a-3890-4a01-ac0c-51ef53d4080f) - ![An undulating mesh curtain was introduced along the glass facade of the Nalli store. This element controls the intense glare of the Chennai sun while adding a layer of translucency and texture to both the interior and exterior.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/bddb95c0-fae3-4de5-a4d4-c355bb043ae7) - ![This drawing explains the three-fold strategy for the Nalli facade design. The goal was to break away from the typical "decorated retail box" and create a self-advertising building that communicates its content floor by floor.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/b2e26744-9071-47ed-9a3e-d5f5f6a3828e) - [Video: Design proposals for the Co-optex facade, a multi-use retail and office complex. The video shows two options: one with a copper finish inspired by a neighboring building, and another inspired by the "weave" of handloom sarees.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/a077d2e9-eed8-4a6b-8c45-90daa166e136) - [Video: A series of facade iterations for the Dwaraka Apartment building in Chennai. Working with fixed constraints like the structural grid and Vastu, we explored different plays on material and perforation using brick, terracotta, and concrete.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/586d9139-4507-413d-aa35-34b473e80769) - ![A design proposal for the Holy Saint High School renovation. The concept includes a clean, modern facade, a scissor staircase to improve circulation, and a rooftop sports area and terrace garden.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/14c52b5a-068b-4812-bd4e-74b0788a6bfe) - ![Interior concepts for the Holy Saint High School, featuring collapsible walls to create multipurpose, flexible learning spaces. The design was guided by a user study to integrate modern pedagogy and learning through play.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/560cedaa-cfb2-4b13-a5de-3dfb47e4dad7) - ![A floor plan and section for the Zara Global School library. The project involved designing modular furniture using Lantana, an invasive weed, to create reading nooks and book storage while empowering local artisans.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/b1136403-3b55-4f98-a501-d0258d400fdc) - ![My competition entry for the Jaipur Rugs flagship store. The concept uses a "Flying Carpet" metaphor, creating a dynamic interior landscape with cave-like spaces, mezzanines, and a central valley for displaying the rugs.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/6f789887-878a-4d1d-9de3-04002c3ea99f) - [Video: A proposal for expanding the SELCO Foundation office onto their terrace. The concept involves floating a new canopy, explored as both a tensile roof and an undulating ferroconcrete structure, over the existing pods.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/908c243f-ab67-455d-ad5a-f88be0c61da6) - [Video: A video presenting our competition entry for the Council of Architecture's Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru. The proposal envisions a "living building" that is sustainable, inclusive, and innovative.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/b029b8f1-5f68-4df6-8f40-9f986b08a6f1) - ![The existing Holy Saint High School building, which has a legacy of over 50 years. Our task was to consolidate three blocks built over different time periods and give the institution a modern facelift.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/e5d3fbdb-84c1-45d7-bfbf-a95cbd9c1706) - ![Further design explorations for the Holy Saint High School, showing concepts for the facade and classroom interiors. The aim was to create tactile, engaging spaces that support learning through play.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/cdd399d0-57ae-45a3-bb56-d019d34fd2f0) - ![A diagram illustrating the pedagogical research that informed our design for the Holy Saint High School renovation. We focused on the developmental phases of a child to create age-appropriate and engaging learning environments.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/e857c8b1-33f8-454f-8190-6df487049739) - ![Sectional drawings for the Zara Global School library. The design incorporates reading nooks within the shelving units, creating cozy, intimate spaces for students to engage with books.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/2acc6afe-c213-47e9-b5f4-057bc099e5b0) - ![A design option for a commercial rental space at Illuri Farms. This scheme crescents around the existing trees, creating an internal poche space and demonstrating how to build in harmony with nature.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/d2066503-9bbb-4366-9071-82b2b689255a) - ![A second option for the Illuri Farms project. This design encapsulates the trees within smaller courtyards along the building's length, using CSEB interlocking bricks and reclaimed wood for an earthy aesthetic.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/a1b927ea-a62e-4f95-b15d-178d9e4ad6ae) - ![An axonometric drawing showing the fourth floor of the Nalli store, which houses the readymade collections.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/5fc58df1-259c-4f41-9a0e-cd24e8e152dd) - ![A detailed drawing of the third and fourth floors of the Nalli store. The fixtures were designed with flexible, adjustable shelving to allow for a mix of hanging, stacking, and mannequin displays.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/cc8f41ed-c920-4cea-b7f7-089cb626cd6f) - ![An axonometric drawing indicating the third floor of the Nalli store, dedicated to unstitched materials.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/33edf532-8a0a-473e-937d-5ed174754a4c) - ![A drawing of the second floor of the Nalli store, designed for wedding couture. The material palette shifts to pastel tones and copper accents, with Nalli's "Chintz" print adapted as a wallpaper pattern.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/afcb1b55-b683-483d-ab23-ba4b1fd49b27) - ![An axonometric drawing showing the first floor for silk sarees and the second floor for lehengas in the Nalli store.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/d55bba5c-dbb5-47ba-8a2b-164f5baecef5) - ![A detailed drawing of the first and second floors of the Nalli store, showcasing the layout designed for an enhanced customer experience.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/12b1bd64-2c21-463c-8f17-3448c45998dc) - ![An axonometric drawing indicating the ground floor of the Nalli store, which features dhotis and other traditional wear.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/08cac23f-ffa4-4b72-a7ab-48d002130012) - ![A drawing of the first floor of the Nalli store, dedicated to wedding silks. The layout includes a hybrid central unit for impulse buys and a more traditional setup of wall-to-wall shelves.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/1402b196-05aa-4701-a7fe-a3fd02a24083) - ![An aerial view of the Nalli store's urban context in Anna Nagar, Chennai, showing the heavy traffic and dense surroundings.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/6bdfb2be-54f3-4925-b167-e12f25441bd0) - ![A drone shot of the Nalli store at the Anna Nagar roundabout, highlighting its strategic location and visibility.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/602ed3a0-aa5b-4d39-ad14-5ce4b99f3844) - ![A duplicate of image 69, showing the Nalli store's prominence in its urban setting.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/0c5c3cbc-5adb-41e2-97c0-3a50ef7c223c) - ![An exploded axonometric drawing of the Nalli facade, showing the different layers: the main curtain wall, the undulating mesh screen, and the projecting overhang elements.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/00f55be9-b7ce-4dd9-8819-e106c19aed9d) - ![A duplicate of image 72, showing the striking presence of the Nalli store facade at night.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/5afedf2b-a76c-4e72-af6f-311034cf113b) - ![A plan drawing showing the detailed construction of the curved corner of the Nalli facade, integrating the glass, mesh, and ACP extension.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/9fb9139f-bc27-478c-a755-e800a6d77bb0) - ![A worm's-eye view of the stacked overhangs on the Nalli facade. This functional element is designed to manage wind, rain, and sun while creating a strong visual identity.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/487ae24c-3ab3-4906-9275-3e79b49ead71) - ![A detailed section drawing of the Nalli facade's overhang. This shows the MS truss structure used to attach the "ship hulk" profile to the existing building slab.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/47329d0b-8cfd-4980-94b2-d73d7a594fb4) - ![An early render of the Nalli facade, exploring the concept and its Art Deco inspirations. The design aims to maximize the visual merchandising area on a prominent corner property.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/2f65d94b-71ed-40b8-90f6-61c6d34bf925) - ![A conceptual image from our proposal for the Centre of Excellence (COE), with a quote emphasizing how incorporating art encourages self-expression and ownership of a space.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/de68916c-f00b-49a2-a964-91826721bbf2) - ![Another view of the COE proposal, showing the dynamic interplay of different facade treatments, including a textured skin and cantilevered balconies.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/ca38affc-65df-47c2-b664-86c8a06e8569) - ![A sustainability diagram for the COE project, illustrating the rainwater harvesting system that collects water from the roof for storage and reuse in bioswales.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/62d0c5a6-c663-4293-a982-a5863c2d4f68) - ![This diagram explains the passive ventilation strategy for the COE building. Smaller programs are placed for natural ventilation, while the HVAC-dependent core is concentrated, reducing overall energy consumption.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/df1237b5-e181-4474-acbc-0dcab82aa72f) - [Video: An animated diagram showing the passive airflow strategy for the COE building, a key component of its sustainable design.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/46b116c2-72f8-4803-98f9-a6ee07126b07) - ![A render showing the ground level of the COE, where a bamboo grove provides a shaded, inclusive space for people to gather, accessible to all.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/685bdb27-870c-4aef-907b-d5b9a251b96f) - [Video: An animated diagram explaining the innovative building techniques and materials for the COE facade, such as using Lantana stems for formwork to create fluted concrete panels.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/40ca383b-eb7b-41cb-9928-5c24b1dcb0d2) - ![This diagram illustrates the focus on inclusivity and self-expression in the COE design, with various accessible spaces for art, conversation, and community gathering.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/6f5afd1c-2ae6-4cc8-99d2-86b780b7ad97) - ![A detail from the COE proposal highlighting the massive ramps that support universal accessibility, allowing users to choose their mode of travel.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/ae5f1a70-cfd9-46bf-8eaa-ceb7aefe8857) - ![A render of an open plaza within the COE, designed as a flexible space for informal gatherings, performances, and community interaction.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/7b37e299-4207-4d0d-b1d9-fcd2362a9f03) - ![A diagram showing the process of creating a facade skin from Lantana camara, an invasive weed. This material innovation provides a nesting surface for birds and a livelihood for artisans.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/38099bbe-46cf-4def-9f66-15f98943d7c9) - ![A detailed section of the Lantana facade for the COE, showing how the woven skin is attached to the main building structure, creating a beautiful and sustainable building envelope.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/6925959f-0d0f-4087-aef7-40fcb7e67304) - ![A diagram explaining the "Active Mobility" concept for the COE. It shows how ramps and stairs are designed to encourage human-powered circulation, reducing reliance on elevators.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/6dc63913-fe5b-4b2d-ad2b-4d04dcc9a517) - ![A plan diagram comparing the number of strides needed to cover a vertical distance via ramp, staircase, and elevator, illustrating the active mobility strategy.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/23182a8f-b397-4dee-82f8-59340b487d19) - ![A render showing people walking and cycling along the external ramps of the COE, which are designed as pleasant, landscaped pathways rather than just functional circulation.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/34d995a0-0e89-4e54-a7de-137d4834579a) - [Video: An animated graphic comparing the time and energy expenditure for different modes of vertical circulation in the COE building, reinforcing the benefits of active mobility.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/3159d318-7589-4258-a792-3c71db202d01) - ![A sectional diagram illustrating the program organization of the COE. Public spaces like the library and cafe are at the entry level, with more private functions arranged vertically.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/c55a3891-edc8-47c6-93bc-505449054f06) - ![A detailed section and plan of the COE, showing the distribution of programs like the auditorium, labs, offices, and residences across different levels.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/9aff2d80-25c6-445e-b653-0c5b22ff7204) - ![A render of the COE's cantilevered balconies, which feature colorful, translucent panels. These spaces are designed to be points of self-expression and social interaction.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/d499a959-d130-4e1f-872c-ecfb5b71dbe1) - ![A diagram explaining the function of bioswales in the COE's landscape design. They are designed to remove silt and pollution from stormwater runoff, recharging groundwater and creating habitat.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/5ea12080-9a79-470b-a294-4f0eabde50ec) - ![This diagram outlines the core concept for the COE's landscape: creating a "living sponge" that restores the urban landscape as an active system to manage water and create a thriving ecosystem.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/ba1c332b-5393-42da-bb3e-fcac46038866) - ![The ground floor plan of the COE, showing the integration of the building with the landscape, including a butterfly park, compost garden, and bioswales.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/359ef0c5-739c-4045-94cb-94767621cc0b) - ![A render of the COE's outdoor amphitheater and garden spaces. The building is designed to be a backdrop for a rich, biodiverse ecosystem that it helps to facilitate.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/96c5d766-ba62-46a2-8093-65356009bc51) - ![The cover image for the COE proposal, summarizing the vision of a built habitat where land and building contribute equally to the spatial and ecological experience.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/a1cbdeca-8b82-4802-b26a-1a7e9fbda1cc) ## About Commercial & Institutional Spaces For commercial and institutional projects, we prioritize communicative architecture over mere ornamentation. Whether it is a flagship retail store or a school renovation, we ensure the facade and layout serve the client’s operational needs and identity, turning the structure itself into a strategic asset for the business or institution. Our approach to commercial and institutional architecture moves away from the 'decorated box' model. Instead, we view each project as a site-specific dialogue between the brand's history and the physical context. ### The Communicative Facade In retail, we design facades that function as beacons. For projects like the Nalli flagship store in Chennai, the architecture negotiates between the city’s harsh sun and the need for retail transparency, resulting in a design that is both a protective shell and a visual statement. We analyze site constraints—sun path, pedestrian flow, and neighborhood character—to determine how a building speaks to its surroundings. ### Pedagogy-Informed Design Institutional work requires a deeper empathy for the end-user. When renovating spaces like the Holy Saint High School in Jayanagar, our process involves a user study to understand how modern pedagogy, such as learning-through-play, can be integrated into the built form. We focus on flexible interior organization, structural consolidation, and the creation of spill-over spaces that foster interaction. ### Materiality and Process Our design philosophy extends to the details. From prototyping modular library furniture using upcycled Lantana wood for Zara Global School to conceptualizing 'flying carpet' interiors for retail competitions, we utilize raw, honest materials. We believe that by integrating smart spatial planning—such as split levels for offices or undulating canopy structures for campus expansions—we can create environments that are sustainable, inclusive, and fundamentally innovative. ## About Betweenlines At BETWEENLINES, we treat architecture as a conversation between a brand's vision and its site. We don't just design structures; we create environments that tell a story, whether it’s a bustling retail space in Anna Nagar or a school campus rooted in local history. [See all of Betweenlines's services](https://mytribe.in/b.e.t.w.e.e.n.l.i.n.e.s) ## More from Architectural Design by Betweenlines - [Featured](https://mytribe.in/b.e.t.w.e.e.n.l.i.n.e.s/architectural-design/featured) - [Sustainable Residences: Earth, Brick & Nature](https://mytribe.in/b.e.t.w.e.e.n.l.i.n.e.s/architectural-design/sustainable-residences-earth-brick-nature) - [Heritage Restoration & Adaptive Reuse](https://mytribe.in/b.e.t.w.e.e.n.l.i.n.e.s/architectural-design/heritage-restoration-adaptive-reuse) - [Urban & Compact Living](https://mytribe.in/b.e.t.w.e.e.n.l.i.n.e.s/architectural-design/urban-compact-living) - [Interior Details & Materiality](https://mytribe.in/b.e.t.w.e.e.n.l.i.n.e.s/architectural-design/interior-details-materiality) - [Awards & Recognition](https://mytribe.in/b.e.t.w.e.e.n.l.i.n.e.s/architectural-design/awards-recognition) ## More services by Betweenlines - [Interior Design](https://mytribe.in/b.e.t.w.e.e.n.l.i.n.e.s/interior-design) - [Landscape Architecture](https://mytribe.in/b.e.t.w.e.e.n.l.i.n.e.s/landscape-architecture) - [Sustainable Furniture & Product Design](https://mytribe.in/b.e.t.w.e.e.n.l.i.n.e.s/sustainable-furniture-product-design) ## Similar work from other experts - [Commercial & Institutional Architectural Design](https://mytribe.in/vjarchitects/architectural-design/commercial-institutional-projects) by VJ Architects · Architectural Design · Studio in Hubballi; Projects across Bengaluru & Karnataka - [Functional Commercial & Institutional Design for Your Business](https://mytribe.in/sila.architects/architectural-design-consultation/commercial-institutional-projects) by SILA Architects · Architectural Design & Consultation · Office in Banashankari; Projects across Bengaluru, Chennai, Hyderabad & Pan-India - [Innovative Commercial & Public Spaces](https://mytribe.in/cube_architects_/architectural-design/innovative-commercial-public-spaces) by Cube Architects · Architectural Design · Studio in Shanti Nagar; Projects across South India - [Commercial and Institutional Architecture in Bengaluru](https://mytribe.in/idas.architects/architectural-design/commercial-institutional-architecture) by ID+AS Architects · Architectural Design · Takes projects across Bengaluru; Visit office in JP Nagar 7th Phase - [Commercial and Public Space Architecture and Design](https://mytribe.in/ak_architects.in/design-build-turnkey-projects/commercial-public-spaces) by Anusha Kanchapler · Design & Build (Turnkey Projects) · Turnkey construction projects across Karnataka - [Commercial & Retail Architecture in Bangalore](https://mytribe.in/kabirhira.architects/architectural-design/commercial-retail-architecture) by Kabir Hira Architects · Architectural Design · Takes projects across Bengaluru ## Book To book Betweenlines, message mytribe on WhatsApp: [Chat on WhatsApp](https://wa.me/916360004054?text=Hi%2C%20I'd%20like%20to%20discuss%20a%20commercial%20or%20institutional%20design%20project.%20I%20saw%20your%20work%20on%20the%20Commercial%20%26%20Institutional%20cluster%20on%20mytribe.) 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