Exclusive Interview with Architect Sanath Kumar Shetty by Alfie-Team Mangalorean
Pics by Violet Pereira
Mangaluru: The last time that I had been on top of one of the the tallest building in the world with 108 floors was ‘Sears Tower” (now called ‘Willis Tower’) in Chicago-USA few years ago, during my stay in US. And just few days ago I had the opportunity to get on top of one of the tallest building in the state -“Planet SKS”, which is 125 meters tall with 36 floors (plus three basements). Looking up I felt like I was very close to the skies and looking down from the helipad, people looked like midgets. Observing the surroundings from the top, the scenic and picturesque beauty of the city looked awesome- I could even see UPCL Power Plant in Padubidri/Udupi. I only wish that I could book a flat in this magnificent residential structure once fully completed.
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No doubt that India has become one of the hot spot in Asia for big construction companies such L&T, Tata Projects, Gammon India and Hindustan Construction. Indian cities are undergoing a massive construction boom, with hundreds of high-rises and more than 100 super tall skyscrapers under construction. Most of the major Indian cities have at least one skyscraper and several under construction.These skyscrapers are the new land marks of India as well as the achievements of the green cities. And Mangaluru should be proud to boast about ‘Planet SKS’-one of the tallest building in the state with construction undertaken by Larsen & Toubro (L&T).
The professionally managed construction company Larson & Toubro, with proven quality and safety standards, have been employed in the construction. The walls of the building form the structural shell made of concrete using state-of-the-art aluminium formwork technology. All the windows are either recessed into the building or covered with extended balconies and shades keeping rain and sun at bay. Expertise in every aspect of construction is being used to produce a high quality and high value asset.
Even though Sanath Kumar Shetty and I had run into each other many a times at Kanara Club or Eden Club, it was only ‘Hi & Bye”, but it was just a few days ago, when I had the opportunity to discuss the progress of ‘Planet SKS’. A friendly and down-to-earth person, Sanath was free and open to discuss anything pertaining to his mega project- the ‘Planet SKS’, and he was beaming with pride and joy for receiving the “Best Residential Project in TIER II city under Ultra Luxury Segment category by CNBC AWAAZ. Being proud of his achievement, with vision and enthusiasm to go beyond frontiers, Sanath Kumar Shetty said that he adopts the best concepts, expertise and technology to lead by example. Congrats and best of luck to Mr SKS in his endeavours.
To reward the excellent performances in the industry, CNBC AWAAZ and RR Kabel will present the 9th Real Estate Awards 2014 – India’s Biggest and most credible real estate awards on the 22nd of December at The? Shahjahan, Taj Palace Hotel- New Delhi. The awards ceremony will be presided over by Shri. M. Venkaiah Naidu, Minister of Parliamentary Affairs, Urban Development, Housing and Urban Poverty Alleviation.With these awards, CNBC aims to salute the projects that have been creating a mark for themselves, thereby bringing forth the work done across more than 12 cities in the country. It has put the spotlight on the builders, architects and contractors working tirelessly to bring these projects to fruition. These awards are today perhaps the most credible and objective awards of the industry. Driven by stringent criteria and a robust methodology along with a comprehensive multi city survey and a two phased jury process, these awards will identify India?s best most preferred projects and the winning teams behind them. Chosen from over 12000 projects, the winners of these awards are selected by an esteemed jury.
Planet SKS? project was conceived with the objective to provide luxurious housing in Mangaluru to many successful and accomplished Mangaloreans who lead a similar life style away from Mangaluru. The lavishness of floor area per room the optimal ventilation and emerging for a healthy life style, the impeccable amenities and facilities are all perfectly blended in the design of this project. The quality construction is achieved by the Global acclaimed technology using the aluminum system form work- the first of its kind in Mangaluru that also helped in meeting schedules. The top most brands of building materials are only used in the project with a focus on quality deliverance.
The buildings of the past that fascinate us are those which were built beyond the ability of their times. They are symbols of celebration of the human spirit that pushed potential beyond the limit. In like manner, our endeavor is not to erect buildings but ecosystems that celebrate the concepts, wisdom and competence? of today, for a better tomorrow. Environment friendly concepts make a significant impact only when an entire community subscribes and adopts them. Community housing is an opportunity to implement such concepts for the larger good of? both? the users and the city at large. Mangaluru has embraced novel concepts which have improved the quality of life, especially those which have resulted in the common good. The intelligent citizens have been exposed to international lifestyles and are? comfortable? with? it.
‘Planet SKS’ – nearly a 175 crore mega eco-housing project, will surely change the skyline of Mangaluru, Built on a 4.55-acre expanse of green environs off NH 17 near Kadri Park/KPT in the beautiful coastal city.
The 125 meters tall distinctive three-wing designer structure, with 36 floors comprises as many as 169 units with 400 covered car parks for the residents and 30 for the visitors. In a refreshing approach, ?planet sks? has devoted nearly 38,000 sq ft toward clubhouse, health club, gymnasium and spa.?Planet SKS? was launched in December 2010, and completion of the project will be done most probably by June 2015.
In conclusion, the dream of SKS Netgate LLP is to implement self-sustaining greenery to restore the habitats of plant, bird and animal life in the 4.55 acres of land. 90% of open space is promoters proud contribution to conservation at ?planet sks ?. The elevated location of? the plot almost on the hill top ensures a spectacular view of the surroundings all the way to the horizon. Maintenance-friendly components and maintenance-free exteriors ensure an evergreen edifice and everlasting joy of living.The building will be self-sufficient in every way possible without straining the infrastructure of the city. Reducing, reusing and recycling of waste will be implemented as a routine feature. When completed ‘Planet SKS’ will be a landmark of this beautiful city and education hub-Mangaluru – No doubt about it!
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Author: Alfie DSouza- Illinois
