ICP Brunton Central: Adaptive Reuse and Sustainable Commercial Architecture in Bengaluru

By Mathew and Ghosh Architects

Location: Bengaluru, India Typology: Commercial Office Building, Mixed-Use Development Project Area: 20,846 ft² Completion Year: 2023 Architects: Mathew and Ghosh Architects Photographers: Suryan//Dang, Soumitro Ghosh

Contextual Transformation in the Heart of Bengaluru

ICP Brunton Central is a forward-thinking architectural renovation project situated in a rapidly transforming district of Bengaluru. Originally a quiet residential villa zone with mid-20th century homes, the area evolved into a vibrant commercial corridor with the rise of India’s IT sector. Its proximity to the city’s Central Business District (CBD) and the new metro connectivity catalyzed the shift, making it ideal for commercial redevelopment.

Sustainable Adaptive Reuse as a Design Ethos

In response to the client’s desire to reposition the property for the rental market, Mathew and Ghosh Architects approached the project through the lens of adaptive reuse. The existing structure—nearly four decades old—was retained and reimagined with minimal demolition, in line with the philosophy that “the most sustainable building is the one that is already built” (Carl Elefante).

Rather than a complete teardown, the design strategy revolved around restoring and upgrading the old RCC (reinforced concrete cement) frame with targeted interventions. This sustainable architecture approach not only conserved resources but also honored the legacy of the site.

Reimagining Circulation and Light

A significant design challenge was transforming the outdated, constrained vertical circulation core. Originally equipped with a small elevator and narrow staircase, the circulation zone was expanded by adding a new structural bay. The redesigned lobby now functions as a light-filled communal space that fosters informal interaction and connection with the outdoors—well-suited to Bengaluru’s pleasant climate.

Spatial Strategy: Division and Integration

The intervention split the existing volume into a front and rear zone, united by a new vertical core that acts as both hinge and bridge. This new structural link integrates the old basement and above-ground RCC components into a cohesive whole.

The front section of the ground floor, designed for retail or café use, features a dramatic double-height space created by removing a slab bay—offering direct visibility and interaction with the street. The rest of the building maintains the original RCC slabs, preserving structural continuity while updating usability.

Structural Reinforcements and Basement Waterproofing

Basement spaces were also upgraded to suit modern demands. Water ingress had previously compromised the usability of the lower level. To resolve this, the original granite stone masonry walls were reinforced with a concrete waterproofing layer, making the basement resilient to groundwater pressure. Additionally, the retaining wall adjoining a neighboring elevated plot was structurally stabilized using a new steel cross-frame system.

Modernized Façade with Energy Efficiency in Focus

The outdated masonry façade was replaced with a dynamic combination of fixed and openable glazing systems, while old RCC balconies were substituted with aluminum slat balconies supported by mild steel frames. A striking new façade of perforated, folded aluminum-coated metal sheets was added—serving multiple functions:

• Structural Strength via folding geometry
• Solar Shading for internal climate regulation
• Visual Transparency allowing filtered views of trees and sky
• Energy Savings by reducing cooling loads

This modern architectural skin connects directly to the building’s steel-framed balconies and railings, enhancing stability and offering a unified aesthetic.

Environmentally Responsible Design Outcomes

The project exemplifies circular construction and frugal innovation. By preserving the core structural elements and focusing on intelligent upgrades, ICP Brunton Central minimizes new construction and environmental impact. Key sustainable features include:

• Material reuse of existing RCC structures
• Reduced construction waste and debris
• Shaded glazing for thermal comfort
• Rainwater reuse systems
• Minimal tree removal on site

These thoughtful interventions align the project with long-term urban sustainability goals in dense commercial districts.

Project Credits

  Electrical Contractor: Minchu Landscape Contractor: Sai Landscapes Material Partners: Saint-Gobain, Green Facade Solutions, Hybec, Kajaria, Kohler

All photographs are works of  Suryan//Dang, Soumitro Ghosh